Being regarded as the poorest region of a poorest province in the country, Bama and Leye are nestled in the mountains with zigzagging country roads connecting the outside world. Because of the inaccessibility to the place, the natural resources and traditional lifestyle have been sealed for a long period. A visit here may bring you back to the old days of China. It will never disappoint you, but help to introspect our own way of life.

Highlights of the region:

Bama County - the secret of longevity

Situated 250 km northwest of Nanning, the small relatively unknown town is proud of one of the highest concentration of centenarians in the world: 74 out of 238,000 people (2000 census).  

Bama County is so nestled among the hills that the motorcar has yet to penetrate, a tranquil and undisturbed mountainous area with a crystal clear river flowing through. Take Bapan Village as an example; remote from the care of the modern world, it is regarded as Village of Longevity, which boasts a population of 515, yet has 7 centenarians and more nonagenarians. Although locals live in some extreme poverty, and some kids can't have access to TV, radios until 18, many of them made amazing academic achievements, two are studying abroad; and two obtained doctorates; 63 graduated from institutions of higher learning.

Some scientists found that the diets of locals are the crucial elements to the longevity. Huoma oil made out of hemp seeds serves to help digestion containing rich proteins, unsaturated fats, vitamins, etc. Most of the centenarians in Bama County remain active. Some help on the farm or assist with household chores. A few hardy men hunt or dabble in archery. Those with their wits about them play mahjong and chess and enjoy calligraphy and singing. 

We cannot cover all the characteristics found in Bama, which might be proven the secrets of longevity. Therefore, the best way is to come and utilize your own eyes to look for it. 

Leye Craters (Dolines) Group

Located 460 kilometers northwest of Nanning (the capital city of Guangxi), Leye craters lie in the limestone mountains unknown to the outside world until 1998 after a geological survey launched by Ministry of Land and Resources. So far, scientists have found 20 big ones of different types in the area, the largest group in the world. Hence, Leye obtained the title of "Dolines Museum". And a fossil cave was also discovered nearby. In 2002 a research team assembled by 50 members from 9 countries undertook a full exploration to these craters.

The deepest and most spacious crater is called Dashiwei with a capacity of 80 million cubic meters, 613 m in dept. It is home to more than 1000 varieties of plants and some cave creatures like blindfish, crab, shrimp and flying squirrel. Experts claim that the dolines in Leye are distinguished from all the others in terms of a well-supplied subterranean river and a dense forest underneath. Scientists have also found that the river consists of a hot current and a cold current, the reason is still a mystery.