Rockin’ It in Yangbi: Where Nature and Adventure Collide!
Picture this: the majestic Cangshan Mountain, rippling water rushing by, and a little gem called Yangbi Yi Autonomous County gleaming like a pearl. Yes, we’re talking about Dali, Yunnan – and guess what? The 2024 China Rock Climbing Natural Rock Wall Series is about to kick off here at Shimenguan. You’ll want to hold onto your climbing gear because this thrill fest is set for November 22-23, 2024, and it promises more drama than your grandma’s family reunion!
Now, this isn’t just any rock climbing competition. No, this is China’s only national series dedicated to natural rock walls. It’s bringing rock climbing experts from across the country together for a showdown that promises to blend difficulty with speed – like trying to watch two episodes of your favourite show in one sitting!
With Shimenguan located right at the foot of Cangshan Mountain, it’s an essential gateway to the Dali Cangshan Global Geopark, showcasing a spectacular landscape that would make even Mother Nature sit up and take notice. It’s not just rocks and trees, folks; they call it a “natural geological history book!” And while I’m jealous of the rocks for getting such flattering reviews, you’ll be too busy marveling at the fog-locked stone gates and cliff stream orchids to care about my petty jealousy!
Shimenguan: A Rockstar Venue for Climbing!
Shimenguan boasts the largest metamorphic rock wall resources in the world – a mecca for climbers if you will. And let’s not forget the other attractions here! Outdoor sports infrastructure? Check. Bird watching? Check. More climbing opportunities than you can shake a stick at? Triple check! Yangbi has hosted plenty of large-scale events already, proving it’s got experience brewing like a fine pot of tea, including the China Marble Gate International Aerial Belt Challenge. What’s next, a rock climbing octagon? Now that would be fun!
The China Climbing Natural Rock Wall Series, launched in 2017, has been bringing thrill-seekers together while boosting local tourism. It’s like a visit to the theme park, minus the rollercoasters and questionable fried food—well, depending on your climbing skills!
Discovering Yangbi Beyond the Rocks
But wait, there’s more! Yangbi isn’t just a pretty face; it’s got history too! With legends of Xiuling Lianyun whispering through the valleys and rich cultural heritage, you could say this place has seen its fair share of drama. Xu Xiake, the famous explorer, documented these wonders back in the day. Let’s just say, if rocks could talk, they’d have more gossip than the cast of EastEnders!
The Yangbi River, the second-largest tributary of the Lancang River, is like a rather intrusive yet quiet historian that’s been witnessing the highs and lows of the local people. It flows nonstop, akin to a relative who insists on sharing not-so-sweet stories from your past every time you attend a family gathering. But oh, it gets better—the Walnut Sacred Tree, at a staggering 1,169 years old, is practically ancient history with bark!
Tourism Meets Sport – A Smart Move!
In recent years, Yangbi decided to put its cards on the table by intertwining culture, ecology, sports, and tourism. By hosting massive events like the 2024 series, they’re not just flexing muscles (and I’m not talking about the athletes!). They’re paving the way for economic development and rural revitalization. It’s like hitting two birds with one stone, but let’s not talk about that around the locals—might hurt their feelings!
So mark your calendars, folks! The 2024 China Rock Climbing Natural Rock Wall Series promises to be both action-packed and picturesque! It’s not just about watching athletes scale walls; it’s about soaking in the wonders of Yangbi, from rock walls to walnut forests. Let’s rally together to see these athletes shine, while we indulge in the natural charm of Yunnan—where every rock has a story, and every climb has its own glory!
The majestic Cangshan Mountain towers above, while the invigorating waters rush below, creating a breathtaking backdrop in the enchanting land of Dali, Yunnan. Yangbi Yi Autonomous County emerges like a radiant jewel, showcasing its unique character and allure. Anticipation is building for the grand kickoff of the 2024 China Rock Climbing Natural Rock Wall Series at Shimenguan in Yangbi, promising an exhilarating and dynamic competition ahead.
As the sole national rock climbing series in China centered around the concept of “natural rock wall,” the 2024 China Rock Climbing Natural Rock Wall Series, hosted at the Yangbi Station in Dali, Yunnan, has garnered significant interest. Scheduled to take place from November 22 to 23, 2024, at Shimenguan in Yangbi Yi Autonomous County, this prestigious event will attract top climbers from across the nation, ready to engage in intense competitions of skill and speed.
Shimenguan, located in the heart of Yangbi County within the Dali Bai Autonomous Prefecture, serves as a vital entry point to the Dali Cangshan Global Geopark. It represents a harmonious blend of stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage, prominently featured along the Southern Silk Road. This area is often referred to as a “natural geological history book,” thanks to its world-class landscapes at Cangshan Mountain’s base, alongside its notable geological treasures including the fog-locked stone gate, Fuguo Evening Bell, and the scenic Chengmingxu Valley. Locally, Shimenguan is affectionately dubbed “The Gate of Cangshan Mountain.”
Shimenguan
Boasting the world’s largest metamorphic rock wall resources, Shimenguan presents an ideal setting for rock climbing enthusiasts. Capitalizing on these natural advantages, Yangbi has developed extensive outdoor sports infrastructure, including specialized venues for natural rock climbing, via ferrata climbing routes, and bird watching facilities. In recent years, it has successfully hosted numerous prominent sporting events, such as the “China Marble Gate International Aerial Belt Challenge” and the “National Youth Orienteering Championships,” establishing a solid reputation in competitive event management. Additionally, Shimenguan has been recognized as a key destination for outdoor sports, as evidenced by its inclusion in the “2024 Mountaineering Outdoor Sports Destination” promotion list presented at the 2024 China Outdoor Sports Industry Conference.
The China Climbing Natural Rock Wall Series debuted in 2017, initiated by the Mountaineering Management Center of the State Sports General Administration and the China Mountaineering Association. This event aims to spotlight some of the nation’s most unique natural rock climbing locations, pairing each competition with local festivities to enhance the sports tourism economy. The Yangbi Station competition will feature challenging professional natural rock wall races for both men and women, alongside open division events. Competitions will unfold in two phases: the preliminaries and the finals, with the top eight climbers in each category advancing to compete for a total prize pot of 100,000 yuan, further incentivizing elite athletes to showcase their skills and expertise.
There are 1,169-year-old “Walnut Sacred Tree”
Beyond its magnificent Shimen Pass, Yangbi invites exploration of its many captivating sites. Visitors can marvel at the imposing Tiankai Stone Gate, with Shimenguan forming a striking natural barrier that stands sentinel between the stunning peaks of Cangshan Mountain and the expansive skies above, eliciting awe at the sculptural artistry of nature.
Additionally, you can immerse yourself in the tale of Xiuling Lianyun. This historical context is beautifully encapsulated in the writings of Xu Xiake, who referred to this region as a glimpse into the Southern Silk Road. His remark, “There are villages on the ridge of the ridge for another two miles, which is the Hengling pavilion,” enriches Yangbi’s cultural narrative with a vivid historical reference.
The Yangbi River flows gracefully through the landscape, ranking as the second largest tributary of the Lancang River. This river serves as a silent witness to the community’s transformations over the ages, holding the joys and sorrows of generations of Yangbi residents within its currents. It flows eternally, narrating the enduring saga of this remarkable land.
Moreover, the village of Guangming, nestled among the expansive “10,000 acres of walnut forest,” boasts ancient walnut trees that have stood for centuries, with the oldest named the “walnut sacred tree,” a staggering 1,169 years old! These venerable trees serve as the living embodiments of Yangbi’s rich history and ecological charm, showcasing a golden legacy that contributes to the allure of this enchanting region.
In recent years, Yangbi has strategically leveraged its unique local assets to foster a synergistic growth of cultural tourism combined with wellness, sports, ecology, and health. The upcoming 2024 China Climbing Natural Rock Wall Series (Yangbi Station in Dali, Yunnan) marks a pivotal moment for Yangbi as it continues to champion the integration of “sports + tourism,” spurring economic development and facilitating rural revitalization. Such large-scale events not only enhance Yangbi’s stature and visibility but also attract a growing number of tourists, boosting the local economy and generating new employment opportunities that invigorate this vibrant community.
This competition is brought to life through the collaborative efforts of the Mountaineering Management Center of the State Sports General Administration, the China Mountaineering Association, the Yunnan Provincial Sports Bureau, and the local government, alongside several esteemed sponsors and organizations, including the Dali Yangbi Cangshan Shimenguan Tourism Development Group Co., Ltd. and Fujian Tantuo Technology Co., Ltd.
Together, let us eagerly anticipate the thrilling rock climbing experience that awaits us, as we witness the exceptional performances of athletes at Shimenguan, all while soaking in the captivating allure of Yangbi.
How will the 2024 China Rock Climbing Natural Rock Wall Series contribute to local tourism in Yangbi?
R, Yangbi proudly boasts the extraordinary **Walnut Sacred Tree**, standing tall at 1,169 years old. This ancient tree not only serves as a living monument to the region’s rich history but also symbolizes the deep connection between the community and its natural surroundings. Imagine reflecting on a millennium of stories, growth, and resilience, all encapsulated in the gnarled bark and sprawling branches of this majestic tree!
### Sports Meets Culture: A Vision for the Future
Yangbi Yi Autonomous County is not just about adrenaline-pumping sports and natural wonders; it is a community rich in culture and tradition. By integrating sports events like the **2024 China Rock Climbing Natural Rock Wall Series** into their tourism strategy, Yangbi is setting a new precedent for rural revitalization. This fusion of culture, sports, and ecology indicates a bright horizon for sustainable tourism and local economy growth. It’s like they’ve mastered the art of juggling while riding a unicycle on a tightrope – a truly impressive feat!
### Get Ready for the Adventure!
So, are you ready to rock and roll on this unique adventure? Make sure to pack your climbing gear and your sense of wonder because Yangbi is ready to welcome you. The **2024 China Rock Climbing Natural Rock Wall Series** will not only be a spectacle for climbing enthusiasts but also a fantastic opportunity to explore the amazing landscapes, rich stories, and delightful communities of Yunnan. Every climb will be a journey, every view a memory, and every encounter a potential friendship waiting to blossom.
Join the excitement in November 2024—witness top climbers compete amid the scenic splendor of Shimenguan, and experience the charm of Yangbi Yi Autonomous County, where history, adventure, and nature collide! Don’t miss out; you might just find yourself whispering the secrets of the rocks as you conquer the walls of the magnificent Cangshan Mountain. Let’s embrace the adventure and create memories that will last a lifetime!