Ancient History

Warring States Period

During the Warring States period, the area of (玉龙纳西族自治县) Yulong Naxi Autonomous County was part of the borderlands of the Qin state. When (楚庄蹻) King Zhuang of Chu established the (滇国) Dian Kingdom, this region belonged to Dian.

Western Han to Eastern Han Dynasties

It was part of (益州越嶲郡) Yizhou Yuexi Commandery, specifically (遂久县) Suijiu County.

Shu Han Period

During the Shu Han period, the area was transferred to (云南郡) Yunnan Commandery.

Eastern Jin to Northern and Southern Dynasties

It was under (宁州云南郡西姑复县) Ningzhou Yunnan Commandery, Xigu County.

Tang Dynasty

Both (吐蕃) Tibet and (南诏) Nanzhao set up (铁桥城) Tieqiao City (now (塔城乡) Ta’er Town) as the administrative center of (神川都督府) Shenchuan Dudu’s government.

Song Dynasty and the Dali Kingdom

In the early Song period, it was under the jurisdiction of (剑川节度) Jianchuan Military District, later changing to (成纪镇善巨郡) Chengji Town, Shanju Prefecture.

Southern Song Dynasty

In 1253, (忽必烈) Kublai Khan invaded the Dali Kingdom and established (茶罕章管民官) the administration of Chahanzhang to govern the region.

Yuan Dynasty

In the 8th year of the (至元) Zhi Yuan reign (1271), it was renamed (茶罕章宣慰司) Chahanzhang Xuanwei Office. In the 13th year of the reign (1276), the (丽江路军民总管府) Lijiang Military and Civilian General Administration Office was established, and the name “Lijiang” began to be used.

Ming Dynasty

In the 15th year of (洪武) Hongwu reign (1382), the Ming Dynasty established (丽江府) Lijiang Prefecture.

Qing Dynasty

In the 17th year of (顺治) Shunzhi reign (1660), (丽江府) Lijiang Prefecture was maintained. In the 1st year of (雍正) Yongzheng reign (1723), the land was returned to central administration, ending the rule of the (木氏土司) Mu Clan. In the 35th year of (乾隆) Qianlong reign (1770), (丽江县) Lijiang County was established.

Modern History

Republic of China Period

In 1913, (丽江府) Lijiang Prefecture was abolished, and (丽江县) Lijiang County was placed under (腾越道) Tengyue Dao. In 1929, (腾越道) Tengyue Dao was abolished and directly administered by Yunnan Province.

1949

On July 1, it became part of the (滇西北人民行政专员公署丽江政务委员会) Northwest Yunnan People’s Administrative Commissioner’s Office, Lijiang Affairs Committee.

1950

It became part of (丽江专区) Lijiang Special Region, Lijiang County.

1961

On April 10, (丽江纳西族自治县) Lijiang Naxi Autonomous County was established, under (丽江专区) Lijiang Special Region (renamed Lijiang District in 1971).

2002

On December 26, the State Council approved the establishment of (玉龙纳西族自治县) Yulong Naxi Autonomous County.

2003

On April 1, (丽江纳西族自治县) Lijiang Naxi Autonomous County was officially abolished and divided into (古城区) Gucheng District and (玉龙纳西族自治县) Yulong Naxi Autonomous County.

Historical and Cultural Significance

(玉龙纳西族自治县) Yulong Naxi Autonomous County is one of the main settlements of the Naxi ethnic group, with a rich cultural heritage, including (东巴文化) Dongba culture, (白沙壁画) Baisha murals, and (纳西古乐) Naxi ancient music. These cultural forms not only showcase the history and traditions of the Naxi people but also attract a large number of visitors to experience them.

The history of (玉龙纳西族自治县) Yulong Naxi Autonomous County is a history of ethnic integration, cultural exchange, and development. From the ancient (滇国) Dian Kingdom to the modern autonomous county, this land has witnessed countless historical changes and cultural inheritances.

Lashi Lake (拉市海), located in Yulong Naxi Autonomous County (丽江市玉龙纳西族自治县), is a beautiful alpine wetland surrounded by villages with unique cultural and natural landscapes. The area offers not only stunning scenery but also diverse entertainment activities suitable for visitors of all ages and interests. Here are some recommended activities:

1. Horseback Riding Experience

Horseback riding is a signature activity at Lashi Lake. Visitors can choose from different riding routes that pass through ancient Naxi villages (纳西古村落) and wetland meadows while enjoying lakeside scenery and distant snow-capped mountains. Routes are typically divided into:

Level 1 Route:

Shuiyi Fang Riding Field (在水一方骑马场) → Ancient Naxi Village (纳西古村) → Huaguo Mountain (花果山) → Primeval Forest (原始森林) → Lovers’ Tree (情人树) → Snow Mountain Viewing Platform (雪山眺望台) → Sacred Spring (圣泉源) → Wanghai Slope (望海坡) → Shuiyi Fang Riding Field

Level 2 Route:

Suitable for riders with some experience, offering longer distances and more beautiful scenery

Level 3 Route:

Designed for experienced riders with more challenging terrain

2. Boat Tours

The tranquil lake surface offers perfect conditions for boating. Visitors can depart from different docks including:

• Shuiyi Fang Club Dock (在水一方会所码头)
• Yunduan Bi’an Club Dock (云端彼岸会所码头)
• Wetland Park Dock (湿地公园码头)

Tip: Bring biscuits to feed the seagulls during your boat ride for an interactive experience.

3. Wetland Park Exploration

As Yunnan Province’s first nature reserve named after “wetland,” Lashi Lake Wetland Park (拉市海湿地公园) boasts beautiful landscapes and rich biodiversity. Visitors can stroll through the park to appreciate the alpine wetland ecosystem.

4. Bonfire Parties

Evening bonfire parties allow visitors to dance and sing with local residents, experiencing authentic Naxi folk culture (纳西族民俗文化).

5. Fruit Picking

Numerous orchards around Lashi Lake offer fruit-picking activities, allowing visitors to enjoy fresh produce while connecting with nature.

6. Flower Fields Viewing

Villages like Junliang (均良村) feature vast fields of edible and ornamental roses that bloom spectacularly each spring. Seasonal flowers like rapeseed blossoms and tulips also create beautiful displays.

7. Outdoor Adventures

The natural environment is ideal for:

• Hiking
• Camping
• Off-road adventures
• Tea Horse Ancient Road (茶马古道) day trips

8. Cultural Experiences

Activities include:

• Visiting ancient Naxi villages
• Dongba culture (东巴文化) exhibitions
• Naxi ancient music (纳西古乐) performances

Transportation Guide

• Self-drive: From Lijiang city center (丽江市区), take relevant roads to Lashi Lake (30-minute drive)
• Public transportation: First reach Lashi Town (拉市镇), then transfer to local transport to villages

Important Notes

1. Sun protection & warmth: Strong UV radiation requires sunscreen, hats and sunglasses. Large temperature variations necessitate warm clothing.
2. Safety first: Follow staff instructions during horseback riding and boating activities.
3. Environmental awareness: Please protect the environment and avoid littering.

The diverse entertainment activities around Lashi Lake offer something for everyone – whether experiencing Naxi Dongba culture or Yi ethnic customs (彝族民俗风情), visitors can find their own peaceful retreat. May these activities make your trip truly unforgettable.

Baoshan Stone City (宝山石头城) is located in Baoshan Township (宝山乡), Yulong Naxi Autonomous County (丽江市玉龙纳西族自治县), Yunnan Province. This ancient Naxi village built on a massive rock formation boasts not only unique natural scenery but also profound cultural heritage, preserving many traditional Naxi customs and cultural characteristics.

I. Naxi Culture

As a typical Naxi settlement, Baoshan Stone City has well preserved and developed Naxi cultural traditions.

1. Dongba Culture (东巴文化)

Dongba culture represents the ancient and unique cultural system of the Naxi people, including:

• Dongba script (东巴文字)
• Dongba paintings (东巴绘画)
• Dongba music (东巴音乐)
• Dongba dance (东巴舞蹈)

The Dongba script is the world’s only still-used pictographic writing system, renowned as “living hieroglyphs.” Visitors can explore Dongba cultural exhibitions to understand Naxi history and religious beliefs.

2. Naxi Ancient Music (纳西古乐)

This traditional music is famous for its long history and distinctive style, blending elements from Han (汉族), Tibetan (藏族), Bai (白族) and other ethnic musical traditions. Main instruments include:

• Flute (笛子)
• Erhu (二胡)
• Pipa (琵琶)

Visitors can enjoy live performances of this captivating music.

3. Naxi Traditional Architecture

The architecture combines characteristics from Han, Tibetan and other ethnic styles. Most buildings feature:

• Earth-wood structures
• Terraced construction following mountain contours
• High artistic value alongside practical functionality

II. Traditional Festivals

The Naxi people in Baoshan Stone City maintain many traditional festivals that serve as important cultural vehicles and visitor experiences.

1. Naxi “Sanduo Festival” (纳西族”三多节”)

Held annually from the 15th to 20th day of the third lunar month, this important festival features:

• Cultural exchanges
• Entertainment activities
• Ethnic cultural displays including Naxi ancient music, Dongba dance and Leba dance (勒巴舞) performances

2. Torch Festival (火把节)

Celebrated on the 24th day of the sixth lunar month, this festival involves:

• Torch lighting ceremonies (symbolizing dispelling evil and praying for happiness)
• Cultural activities including Naxi song/dance performances
• Wrestling competitions

III. Folk Customs

Unique folk traditions preserved here showcase Naxi cultural characteristics while attracting visitors.

1. Naxi Wedding Customs (纳西族婚俗)

The elaborate wedding rituals include multiple stages:

• Marriage proposal
• Engagement
• Wedding procession

Visitors can observe displays explaining these unique traditions.

2. Naxi Traditional Handicrafts

Traditional crafts include:

• Embroidery (刺绣)
• Wood carving (木雕)
• Silverware production

Visitors can watch demonstrations and even create their own souvenirs.

IV. Cultural Preservation

Baoshan Stone City prioritizes cultural heritage protection through multiple approaches.

1. Intangible Cultural Heritage Protection

Protected items include:

• Naxi Dongba culture
• Naxi ancient music

Preservation methods:

• Establishing cultural protection zones
• Conducting inheritor training programs

2. Cultural Tourism

Cultural resources are showcased through:

• Dongba cultural exhibitions
• Naxi ancient music performances
• Traditional lifestyle experiences

V. Cultural-Tourism Integration

The city combines rich cultural resources with tourism to create unique products, allowing visitors to experience ethnic culture while enjoying natural scenery.

1. Cultural Experience Activities

Visitors can participate in:

• Dongba cultural experiences
• Naxi ancient music performances
• Traditional handicraft workshops

2. Cultural Exhibition Spaces

Key venues include:

• Dongba Culture Museum (东巴文化博物馆)
• Naxi Ancient Dwelling Exhibition Hall (纳西族古民居展示馆)

These spaces display cultural heritage while offering immersive experiences.

VI. Culture and Society

Cultural development enriches local life and promotes social harmony.

1. Cultural Activities

Regular events include:

• Dongba cultural exhibitions
• Naxi ancient music performances

These activities showcase heritage while enriching community life.

2. Cultural Inheritance

Preservation methods ensure continuity of:

• Dongba culture
• Naxi ancient music
  Through:
• Protection zones
• Inheritor training

Baoshan Stone City is an ancient village brimming with Naxi cultural characteristics – from unique natural landscapes to rich cultural heritage.

Fire Dance and Muosuo Songs

The only nighttime activity in town is the traditional fire dance, where the people of the town, wearing their traditional costumes, dance around a fire and sing Muosuo songs. It’s fun to watch and worth the 10 RMB entry fee.

Organized Party in Traditional Mosuo Style

Every night, there is an organized party in the traditional Mosuo manner, specifically arranged for tourists. The cost of entry is about 10 yuan, and if you wish to wear a traditional costume, there is an additional 10 yuan fee. These parties are filled with dancing and music, making them the only nighttime activity in Lugu Lake.

Daytime Activities

Take a Walk

One must take a stroll around the lake and through the villages, as you’ll meet great people who are likely to invite you into their homes for food, drink, and conversation. This is an essential way to understand the daily lives of the Mosuo people.

Tibetan Monastery Visit

A great Tibetan monastery sits atop a hill. It is small and only has about five monks living there. The walk to the peak can be a bit strenuous, so it’s not a regular tourist destination. However, once you reach the temple, one of the monks may play a special instrument (like a drum) and sing loudly, making it a memorable experience.

Village Visit

Later that day, you may be invited into a local’s home in one of the nearby villages. The minority people here are isolated from the outside world and are very curious about foreigners, as they may have seen only a few white people in their entire lives. They are great hosts, offering you tea and potatoes.

Entrance Ticket

Lugu Lake Tourism Zone

The entrance ticket for Lugu Lake Tourism Zone costs 100 yuan per person.

Boating Lines

• Luoshui Village – Xiwa’e Island

• Luoshui Village – Liwubi Island

• Luoshui Village – Caohai Lake

• Luoshui Village – Circle around the lake

• Luoshui Village – Zhaojiawan Lake

• Luoshui Village – Xiwa’e Island – Liwubi Island

Entertainment at Lugu Lake

Horse Ride Around the Lake

A horse ride around the lake costs 200-300 yuan.

Goddess Mountain Cableway

The cableway to Goddess Mountain is 90 yuan per person for a round trip.

Bonfire Evening Party

• Ticket: 30 yuan per person

• Time: 8:30 pm every evening

• Location: Daluoshui Village, Xiaoluoshui Village, Nisai Village, Lige Village

Ethnic Performance

• Theme: Memory of Love – Step into the Mosuo Matriarchal Big Family

• Location: Lige Mosuo Culture Exhibition Center

A Xia KTV

• Location: Luoshui Village

Hot Spring

• Location: Yongning Hot Spring Village

Reservation Information

For the above activities, any visitor can call 0888-5881280 for reservations.

Lijiang Old Town (丽江古城), a small town brimming with historical charm and unique character, is not only home to ancient architecture and winding cobblestone streets but also hides a wealth of colorful entertainment activities waiting to be explored. Whether you’re passionate about immersive traditional cultural experiences or eager to snap photos at popular attractions, Lijiang Old Town has something for everyone.

Unique Cultural Experiences

Tie-Dyeing: Create Your Own Unique Fabric

Among the many tie-dyeing workshops in Lijiang Old Town, Jingzhe (惊蛰) is a great choice. The shop displays a dazzling array of tie-dyed products—aprons, shirts, scarves, handkerchiefs—each radiating the charm of traditional craftsmanship. Visitors can purchase these directly or try their hand at creating their own unique piece.

The entire experience takes about an hour, starting with a detailed introduction to the history of tie-dyeing and basic techniques. After the explanation, you can choose your favorite pattern and, under the guidance of the staff, begin your creative journey, ultimately taking home a one-of-a-kind souvenir. Additionally, the shop offers woodblock printing (版画) experiences, another intangible cultural heritage worth exploring.

Dongba Script (东巴文): Writing Ancient Pictographs

Dongba script, the world’s only surviving pictographic writing system, is even more primitive than oracle bone script. It can be seen everywhere in Lijiang Old Town—on restaurant signs, shop fronts, and buildings. At the Naxi Pictographic Script Experience Hall (纳西象形文字体验馆), you can delve into the charm of this ancient script.

The process is simple: tell the staff which Chinese character you’d like to write, and a teacher will translate it into Dongba script. You’ll then practice with pen and paper before transcribing it onto durable Dongba paper, creating a lasting keepsake.

Dongba Paper-Making: Discover a Millennia-Old Craft

Though the author didn’t have time to try Dongba paper-making, this activity is equally fascinating. According to online sources, the craft embodies the ancient wisdom of the Naxi people. Participating in this traditional handmade art offers a profound cultural experience—hopefully, those who’ve tried it can share their insights!

Thangka Painting: A Treasure of Tibetan Art

In Lijiang and Dukezong Old Town (独克宗古城), Thangka painting opens a window into Tibetan culture. The intricate, vibrant process is rich in cultural and religious significance. Participating in a Thangka workshop not only teaches painting techniques but also deepens your understanding of the stories and meanings behind this art form—stay tuned for the author’s follow-up details.

Must-Visit Nighttime Photo Spots

Zhongyi Market (忠义市场): Bustling Day and Night

By day, it’s a lively fresh produce market; by night, it transforms into a vibrant night market with dazzling lights, food stalls, and souvenir vendors. The lively atmosphere makes it a perfect spot to experience local life.

The Big Waterwheel (大水车): Lijiang’s Iconic Landmark

A symbol of Lijiang, the Big Waterwheel has witnessed the town’s changes over time. After three years of quiet, it’s bustling once again. A photo here, with the flowing water and ancient architecture in the background, is a must for every visitor.

Lijiang Eye Observation Deck (丽江之眼观景台): A Panoramic Night View

Located at the entrance of Dayan Flower Lane (大研花巷), the Lijiang Eye offers a stunning vantage point to admire the old town’s glittering nightscape. From here, you can see the Lion Mountain (狮子山), Wangu Pavilion (万古楼), and the entire illuminated town.

Sifang Street (四方街): A Gathering Place for Bonfire Dances

The heart of the old town, Sifang Street hosts nightly bonfire parties and traditional dances. Visitors join hands, singing and dancing around the fire, immersing themselves in the Naxi people’s warmth and energy.

Mufu (木府): A Historical Night Tour

Since opening for night tours, Mufu has revealed a new charm. Lit by lanterns at night, the ancient mansion feels even more solemn, as if echoing with history, transporting you back in time.

East Street (东大街): The Town’s Liveliest Lane

One of the busiest streets in the old town, East Street is lined with shops and bustling with tourists. Here, you can buy souvenirs, sample local snacks, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere.

Big Stone Bridge (大石桥): A Photographer’s Paradise

With flowers beneath the bridge and a gently flowing stream, the Big Stone Bridge offers a picturesque scene. Photographers love capturing the trees on the bridge from below, creating poetic compositions.

Oil-Paper Umbrella Alley (油纸伞巷): A Romantic Traditional Chinese Spot

Next to Sifang Street, Xianwen Alley (现文巷) dazzles by day with colorful umbrellas embodying Yunnan’s vibrant culture. At night, under warm lights, it exudes a nostalgic charm. Walking beneath the dense canopy of umbrellas feels like stepping into a romantic Jiangnan water town—every shot is postcard-worthy.

Yichi Lane (忆持巷): An Immersive Cultural Experience

Yichi Lane isn’t just about performances—you can also join in traditional dances. Here, you’ll immerse yourself in Lijiang’s culture, mingling with locals and fellow travelers in a lively celebration.

Creative Team-Building Activities in the Old Town

Lijiang Old Town is also perfect for themed team-building, such as the “Old Town Treasure Hunt Challenge.” The activity kicks off with fun icebreakers before participants receive exploration tasks.

Through “mission card challenges,” teams search for clues around the town, uncovering its charm and earning gold coins for each completed task. Side missions encourage photo ops at popular spots, capturing memorable moments. Finally, teams use their collective coins in a blind auction for fun prizes, blending cultural exploration, teamwork, and excitement.

Lijiang Old Town offers a diverse range of entertainment—whether cultural immersion, nighttime exploration, or creative team-building. Each experience deepens your connection to this ancient town, leaving you with unforgettable memories.

Lijiang Ancient Town, this shining pearl located in the Gucheng District of Lijiang City, Yunnan Province (云南省丽江市古城区), is also known as Dayan Town (大研镇). Situated in the middle of the Lijiang Basin (丽江坝) at an altitude of approximately 2,416 meters, it was built in the late Song and early Yuan dynasties (late 13th century). After centuries of weathering storms, it was successfully inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1997, becoming one of only two ancient towns in China to achieve this status as an entire ancient city.

Unique Architectural Culture

The architecture of Lijiang Ancient Town blends the essence of multiple ethnic groups, including the Han, Bai (白族), Yi (彝族), Tibetan (藏族), and Naxi (纳西族), forming a distinctive style. The town lacks imposing city walls, reportedly because the hereditary rulers of Lijiang bore the surname Mu (木), and building walls around “Mu” would form the character “Kun” (困, meaning “trapped”).

The town’s layout features three mountains as a natural screen and a river connecting the area. Its water system consists of three rivers flowing through the town, with nearly every household having access to flowing water. The streets are arranged in a winding, secluded, narrow, and well-connected style, oriented northwest to southeast. The residential buildings are distinctive, often following layouts such as “three rooms with a screen wall” (三坊一照壁) and “four courtyards with five skylights” (四合五天井), as well as front and rear courtyards or multi-courtyard designs. These structures are vital heritage for studying Chinese architectural and cultural history.

The town’s alleys crisscross, with streets mostly paved in stone slabs and houses primarily built with wooden structures, preserving the ancient town’s rustic charm.

Dynamic Water System Culture

Water is the core and soul of Lijiang Ancient Town, shaping its unique canal-based spatial layout. The town is renowned for its dense concentration of bridges, with over 340 stone and wooden bridges of various designs. The Yu River (玉河), Dong River (东河), and Zhong River (中河) flow through the town, providing water for daily use, firefighting, and environmental beautification, creating a distinctive waterscape that imbues the town with a lively beauty.

Vibrant Ethnic and Folk Culture

Dongba Culture (东巴文化)

An essential part of ancient Naxi culture, Dongba Culture is named after the Dongba religion and has a history of over 1,000 years. It encompasses Dongba script (东巴文字), Dongba scriptures (东巴经), Dongba paintings (东巴绘画), Dongba music (东巴音乐), Dongba dance (东巴舞蹈), Dongba ritual objects (东巴法器), and various sacrificial ceremonies. Dongba script is the world’s only surviving pictographic writing system, even more primitive than oracle bone script (甲骨文). Traces of it can be seen throughout Lijiang Ancient Town, adding a mysterious and ancient charm.

Dongba Music

The chants and instrumental accompaniments performed by Dongba (Naxi priests) during religious rituals are a key component of Dongba Culture. Its unique melodies carry the Naxi people’s beliefs and emotions, conveying reverence for deities and prayers for life.

Lijiang Ancient Music (纳西古乐)

A legacy of ancient music from Dayan Ancient Town and surrounding Naxi settlements, Lijiang Ancient Music consists of three parts: Benshi Xili (白沙细乐, “Baisha Fine Music”), Lijiang Dongjing Music (丽江洞经音乐), and ritual music. Primarily instrumental ensemble music, it also includes songs and dance tunes, some incorporating lyrics from the Tang, Song, and Yuan dynasties. Its unique melodies have earned it the title of a “living fossil of music,” as its soothing tunes seem to recount the Naxi people’s long history and legends.

Lijiang Murals (白沙壁画)

A product of the Naxi society’s openness during the Ming Dynasty, these murals are mainly found in Dabaoji Palace (大宝积宫) and Liuli Hall (琉璃殿). During the Ming Dynasty, the Mu chieftains (木氏土司) of Lijiang flourished, with stable politics and a prosperous economy. To display their wealth, they constructed grand palaces, and mural painting continued for over 300 years. These murals blend elements of multiple religious cultures, showcasing the era’s multicultural integration and possessing immense artistic value.

Famous Attractions Carrying Historical Memories

Mu Residence (木府)

Some say, “If you haven’t visited Mu Residence, you haven’t truly been to Lijiang,” highlighting its cultural significance. The Mu chieftains ruled across the Yuan, Ming, and Qing dynasties, and Mu Residence features magnificent and intricate architecture, with grand halls like the Assembly Hall (议事厅), Wanxuan Tower (万卷楼), Guardian Hall (护法殿), and Guangbi Tower (光碧楼) arranged along a central axis.

It was a filming location for Mu Residence: The Storm (木府风云) and bears witness to the Naxi people’s development. From the first Lijiang chieftain, A Cong A Liang (阿琮阿良), enfeoffed during the Yuan Dynasty, to A Jia A De (阿甲阿得), who submitted to the Ming Dynasty and was granted the surname Mu, to the Qing Dynasty’s policy of replacing native chieftains with state-appointed officials, Mu Residence’s history reflects half of the Naxi people’s ethnic history.

The wooden archway “Tian Yu Liu Fang” (天雨流芳) in the residence is a homophone for the Naxi phrase meaning “go study,” reflecting the Naxi people’s reverence for knowledge. The Loyalty Archway (忠义牌坊) bears the words “Loyalty” (忠义) bestowed by the Wanli Emperor and is a masterpiece of Chinese stone architecture. Wanxuan Tower houses rare books and was where Mu descendants studied. The Jade Sound Tower (玉音楼) was used to receive imperial edicts and host banquets.

Mu Residence also preserves many stories, such as the deep friendship between the Mu chieftains and the traveler Xu Xiake (徐霞客), the scholar Yang Shen (杨升庵) inscribing the plaque “Guardian of the Nation” (为国干城) for the Guardian Hall, and Mu Zeng (木增) overseeing the printing of the Kangyur (甘珠尔) Buddhist scriptures. These stories highlight the Mu chieftains’ promotion of Central Plains culture and their interactions with renowned Central Plains scholars.

Naxi Pictographic Script Painting Experience Hall (纳西象形文字绘画体验馆)

A key cultural courtyard where traditional Naxi art returns to the ancient town, it showcases the UNESCO Memory of the World-registered “Dongba Script” and “Dongba Paintings.” Here, visitors can learn and write pictographic characters under the guidance of instructors, deeply experiencing the unique charm of Dongba Culture.

Dayan Naxi Ancient Music Association (大研纳西古乐会)

An excellent place to listen to Naxi Ancient Music. The music’s unique melodies, performed by elderly musicians, transport listeners through time, allowing them to appreciate the Naxi people’s historical legacy as if hearing echoes of ancient times.

Dongba Culture Museum (东巴文化博物馆)

Comprehensively displays the origins, development, and applications of Dongba Culture, offering deep insights into this unique and mysterious Naxi tradition, as if touching the veins of an ancient civilization.

Hengyu Folk House Museum (恒裕公民居博物馆)

Preserves the traditional residential style of Lijiang, exhibiting local ethnic minority clothing, weapons, tobacco pipes, and various cultural artifacts and handicrafts. Its rich cultural atmosphere immerses visitors in the charm of traditional Lijiang life.

Lijiang Long Street Banquet (云上盛宴丽江长街宴)

As night falls, this event gathers authentic Naxi cuisine, along with ethnic song and dance performances and bonfire parties, allowing visitors to savor delicious food while fully experiencing the Naxi people’s warmth and cultural allure.

Lijiang Ancient Town’s culture is rich and diverse, from its architecture and water systems to its ethnic customs and historical attractions. Every corner exudes unique charm, attracting visitors from around the world to explore and savor its beauty. It is a dazzling gem in the treasury of human civilization.

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2018 年

History of Yulong County in Lijiang

Ancient History Warring States Period During the Warring States period, the area of (玉龙纳西族自治县) Yulong Naxi Autonomous County was part of the borderlands of the Qin state. When (楚庄蹻)...

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• Lijiang
• Yulong County

Culture of Yulong County in Lijiang

Yulong County (玉龙县) is located in Lijiang City (丽江市), Yunnan Province (云南省). As a multi-ethnic region, it is primarily inhabited by several minority groups including the Naxi (纳西族), Yi...

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• Lijiang
• Yulong County

Villages around Lashihai Lake in Lijiang

Lashi Lake (拉市海), located in Yulong Naxi Autonomous County (丽江市玉龙纳西族自治县), is a picturesque alpine wetland surrounded by several villages boasting unique cultural and natural landscapes. Here are some noteworthy...

Ethnic Villages    Veiw

• Ancient Villages
• Lashihai Lake
• Lijiang
• Yulong County

Entertainment around Lashihai Lake in Lijiang

Lashi Lake (拉市海), located in Yulong Naxi Autonomous County (丽江市玉龙纳西族自治县), is a beautiful alpine wetland surrounded by villages with unique cultural and natural landscapes. The area offers not only...

Festivals and Events    Veiw

• Lashihai Lake
• Lijiang
• Nightlife and Entertainment in Lijiang
• Yulong County

Entertainment in Baoshan Stone Town, Lijiang

Baoshan Stone City (宝山石头城) is located in Yulong Naxi Autonomous County (丽江市玉龙纳西族自治县), Yunnan Province. This ancient Naxi village boasts both a long history and stunning natural scenery, offering visitors...

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• Baoshan Stone Town
• Lijiang
• Nightlife and Entertainment in Lijiang
• Yulong County

Culture of Baoshan Stone Town in Lijiang

Baoshan Stone City (宝山石头城) is located in Baoshan Township (宝山乡), Yulong Naxi Autonomous County (丽江市玉龙纳西族自治县), Yunnan Province. This ancient Naxi village built on a massive rock formation boasts not...

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• Baoshan Stone Town
• Lijiang
• Yulong County

History of Baoshan Stone Town in Lijiang

Baoshan Stone City (宝山石头城), located in Baoshan Township (宝山乡) of Yulong Naxi Autonomous County (丽江市玉龙纳西族自治县), Yunnan Province, is an ancient Naxi village built upon a massive rock formation. This...

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• Baoshan Stone Town
• Lijiang
• Yulong County

Entertainment around Lugu Lake in Lijiang

Fire Dance and Muosuo Songs The only nighttime activity in town is the traditional fire dance, where the people of the town, wearing their traditional costumes, dance around a...

Festivals and Events    Veiw

• Lijiang
• Lugu Lake
• Nightlife and Entertainment in Lijiang
• Ninglang County

Lugu Lake History in Lijiang

Kublai Khan’s Influence Kublai Khan, with his Mongolian army, established his army headquarters south of Lugu Lake. A feudal government ensued as officers and troops were stationed here. Kublai...

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• Lijiang
• Lugu Lake
• Ninglang County

Lugu Lake Culture in Lijiang

The Fascination with Mosuo Culture Mosuo culture has garnered significant attention in recent years. Books, documentaries, and numerous anthropological studies have focused on this intriguing culture. However, much of...

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• Lijiang
• Lugu Lake
• Ninglang County

Entertainment in Lijiang Old Town

Lijiang Old Town (丽江古城), a small town brimming with historical charm and unique character, is not only home to ancient architecture and winding cobblestone streets but also hides a...

Festivals and Events    Veiw

• Ancient Towns
• Lijiang
• Lijiang Ancient Town
• Nightlife and Entertainment in Lijiang Ancient Town

Culture of Lijiang Old Town

Lijiang Ancient Town, this shining pearl located in the Gucheng District of Lijiang City, Yunnan Province (云南省丽江市古城区), is also known as Dayan Town (大研镇). Situated in the middle of...

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• Ancient Towns
• Lijiang
• Lijiang Ancient Town