Cizhong A hundred years ago, French missionaries traveled over land to Sichuan into the capital city of Chengdu. Further in front of them was a gateway to the vast heartland of Tibetan Buddhism. Unfazed by the awaiting challenges and eager to spread the gospel, they ventured into landlocked valleys in western Sichuan and Yunnan province, spreading their religion. A century since, the churches in these regions are still thriving. Cizhong catholic church  is probably the most beautiful church, even after many years of disrepair, along the Mekong. The architecture is a mixture of East and West and some of the wall paintings and façades have survived the Cultural Revolution. More surprisingly, services in Tibetans are still held every Sunday!

Cizhong is on the road connecting Meili and Tacheng. The journey down the Mekong River from Meili to Tacheng is simply incredible. Within only 250 kilometers the road winds through hugely differing landscapes; descending from high to low altitude and from colder to warmer climates; taking in Tibetan and Lisu culture; buckwheat crops and rice fields; and different styles of architecture. From Cizhong to Tacheng, the countryside is incredibly beautiful - industry is absent and the area’s natural beauty remains untouched. As passers-by, travelers will see farmers singing in the fading light while working in the fields.