Yisa Old Town (迤萨古镇) is located in Honghe County (红河县), Honghe Hani and Yi Autonomous Prefecture (红河哈尼族彝族自治州), Yunnan Province (云南省), China. The streets here are paved with cobblestones, and it’s common for a single street to have many twists and turns, with steep slopes making it feel like a maze. The town is situated on a mountain top and is famous for its quaint traditional architecture.

Historical Background

Yisa’s development into a town of overseas Chinese can be traced back to the prosperous industry and commerce during the Qing Dynasty (1644-1912) and the Republic of China (1912-1949). It is said that as copper mines were exploited, the people of Yisa began to organize horse caravans for trade, leading to its transformation into a town of overseas Chinese.

The Yisa caravans used to trade various goods, including gold, silver, local specialties, herbs, salt, household items, and even opium. Wealthy businessmen invested in building large private houses. Exploring Nanmenjie Street (南门街), Dazhaijie Street (大寨街), and Dongmenjie Street (东门街) reveals well-preserved folk residences, characterized by two-story tile-roofed buildings with stone foundations, brick walls, and hip and gable roofs.

Town Characteristics

Yisa Town embodies a rich history of the Yunnan people. The narrow streets, steep paths, and the abundance of old houses reflect the unique character and faded glory of the past. Ming (1368-1644) and Qing (1644-1912) architectural styles are prominent, with intricately carved courtyards, floral decorations, and Western-style arches and round windows.

The architecture features a blend of Chinese and Western styles, including intricately decorated courtyards with elegant eaves, colorful glass windows, and even unusual features like crosses atop some buildings. The buildings evoke a sense of nostalgia and grandeur, suggesting that immense wealth was required to construct them in this remote mountain region.

Historically, Yisa was a hub for the horse caravan trade, especially during the late Qing Dynasty, which flourished until the decline of the copper industry. The town became renowned for its trading routes connecting to Southeast Asia, and Yisa’s caravan culture is considered a priceless treasure of Honghe.

Notable Sites

Yao Zhaozong Residence (姚肇宗宅): Built between 1937 and 1944, this residence showcases a mix of Chinese and Western architectural styles, with a grand entrance and an intricate layout. It now serves as the Honghe County Museum (红河县博物馆), focusing on the caravan culture.
Honghe County Museum (红河县博物馆): Divided into two sections, the museum primarily displays the caravan culture, showcasing artifacts and historical materials related to Yisa’s trading history.

Historical Evolution

Yisa was part of the Yuanyang Military and Civilian Government during the Ming Dynasty. Over the centuries, it transitioned through various administrative changes until it was designated as a town in 1984. Today, Yisa serves as the county seat of Honghe and is known for its historical significance.

The name “Yisa” in the Yi language means “dry and waterless place,” reflecting the town’s geographical conditions. Despite its arid environment, the perseverance of the Yisa people has created a vibrant culture of trade and resilience.

Getting There

To reach Yisa Old Town, visitors can take a bus or drive from the nearby cities of Kunming (昆明) or Jianshui (建水). The closest major airport is in Kunming, which offers domestic and international flights.

Travel Tips

Best Time to Visit: The ideal time to explore Yisa is during spring and autumn when the weather is mild and pleasant.
Local Cuisine: Don’t miss out on trying local dishes and street food. Ask locals for recommendations on where to eat.
Walking Shoes: Wear comfortable shoes as the streets are uneven and can be steep.
Photography: Bring a camera to capture the unique architecture and scenic views of the town.
Cultural Respect: Be mindful of local customs and practices, especially in residential areas.

Overview

Dongmen Tower and Yisa Folk House 红河县东门楼及迤萨民居 are located on Dongmen Street (东门街) in Honghe County (红河县), Honghe Hani and Yi Autonomous Prefecture (红河哈尼族彝族自治州), Yunnan Province (云南省). These historical buildings are a reflection of the rich cultural heritage of the mule caravan trade, featuring 11 ancient structures that include the East Gate Tower, mule caravan inns, and courtyard houses.

Dongmen Tower is the only remaining city gate tower in Honghe County. The complex includes nearly a hundred ancient houses, combining both Chinese and Western architectural styles, with a total area of approximately 7,850 square meters. The structures have a fortress-like appearance and have remained solid and stable for nearly a century. The main components of Dongmen Tower and Yisa Folk House include the Dongmen Tower, Yao Chu Residence (姚初民居), and Qian Erguan Residence (钱二官住宅).

On March 5, 2013, Dongmen Tower and Yisa Folk House were designated by the State Council of the People’s Republic of China (中华人民共和国国务院) as a seventh batch of national key cultural relics protection units.

Historical Background

Construction: Dongmen Tower was first built in the 33rd year of the Republic of China (民国三十三年, 1944).
Yao Chu Residence: Constructed in the early years of the Republic of China.
Protection Planning: In 2022, the Housing and Urban-Rural Development Bureau of Honghe Prefecture (红河州住房和城乡建设局) planned for the preservation of Dongmen Tower and Yisa Folk House.

Architectural Features

The ancient buildings, including the East Gate Tower, mule caravan inns, and courtyard houses, serve as a microcosm of the history and culture of the mule caravan trade. Dongmen Tower is the only remaining city gate tower in Honghe County, and the structures exhibit a blend of architectural styles.

Main Buildings

Dongmen Tower: Covers an area of 56 square meters, with a total building area of 168 square meters. It features a three-story brick structure with a double-sloped roof. The tower is rectangular, with an arched entrance inscribed with the characters “普天同庆,” serving as the sole entrance into the county from the east.
Yao Chu Residence: This courtyard-style building connects to Dongmen Tower, covering 528 square meters with a construction area of 980 square meters. It features a three-story, three-entry courtyard design, with a fortified square appearance. The design incorporates shooting holes for defense, blending seamlessly into the sloped terrain.
Qian Erguan Residence: Located at No. 33 Dongmen Street in Honghe County, this residence has a building area of 2,300 square meters. It features a two-story mixed brick and wood structure with a double-sloped roof. The layout is irregular, with various sizes of courtyards, creating an atmosphere of depth and intrigue.

Cultural Significance

Related Figures

Qian Wanxing, also known as Qian Erguan, was the 24th generation of the Gajian Wazha chieftain family. He built a residence for his concubine in the southeastern part of Yisa Town, which was later confiscated by the state for use as a detention center. The structure has been preserved intact.

Preservation Status

1992: Designated as a second batch of county-level cultural relic protection units by the Honghe County People’s Government (红河县人民政府).
2003: Recognized as a fourth batch of state-level cultural relic protection units by the Honghe Hani and Yi Autonomous Prefecture People’s Government (红河哈尼族彝族自治州人民政府).
2013: Announced as a seventh batch of national key cultural relic protection units by the State Council of the People’s Republic of China.

Travel Information

Location

Dongmen Tower and Yisa Folk House are located on Dongmen Street in Honghe County, Honghe Hani and Yi Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan Province.

How to Get There

Visitors can take public buses No. 2, No. 3, or No. 5 to the Baohuodagong Station (百货大楼站) and then walk to the site.

Travel Tips

Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn are ideal for pleasant weather and scenic views.
Nearby Attractions: Explore other historical sites in the region for a deeper cultural experience.
Photography: The unique architecture provides excellent opportunities for photos.
Local Cuisine: Enjoy local delicacies in nearby restaurants to enhance your visit.

Location:

Overview

Laihe Pavilion, originally named Haishan Pavilion (海山亭), is located in Xiaoruicheng Village (小瑞城村), Yilong Town (异龙镇), Shiping County (石屏县), Honghe Hani and Yi Autonomous Prefecture (红河哈尼族彝族自治州), Yunnan Province (云南省). It was built in the sixth year of the Chongzhen era during the Ming Dynasty (明崇祯六年, 1633).

Laihe Pavilion faces east and covers an area of 104.4 square meters. It is constructed in a unique octagonal wooden structure with a single eave and a spire roof. The pavilion’s architectural design cleverly connects it to the back wall of the Wenchang Pavilion (文昌阁), eliminating the need for two corners on the west side, making it a rare and uniquely styled structure. In front of the pavilion is Yuhua Terrace (雨花台), with side rooms connected to Wenchang Pavilion. The inscriptions, plaques, and statues on Laihe Pavilion reflect deep historical and cultural significance, along with artistic value.

On March 5, 2013, Laihe Pavilion was announced by the State Council of the People’s Republic of China (中华人民共和国国务院) as one of the seventh batch of national key cultural relics protection units.

Historical Background

Construction: Laihe Pavilion was originally constructed in 1633 during the Ming Dynasty.
Reconstruction: It was rebuilt in the twelfth year of the Kangxi era during the Qing Dynasty (清康熙十二年, 1673).
Further Developments: The Kuixing Pavilion (魁星阁) was established in the fifty-second year of the Kangxi era (清康熙五十二年, 1713).
Renovation: In 2023, the Honghe Cultural and Tourism Bureau (红河州文化和旅游局) repaired Laihe Pavilion.

Architectural Features

Laihe Pavilion is an octagonal wooden structure, measuring 12 meters in width and 6 meters in depth, with a height of 8 meters. The base is made of earth with edges lined with bluestone and brick flooring. It utilizes six short columns with bracket sets that support the eaves. In front of the pavilion is Yuhua Terrace.

Main Buildings

Pavilion: Width of 7.3 meters, depth of 6 meters, and height of 8 meters.
Side Rooms: Symmetrically arranged on the north and south; for example, the southern room measures 3.5 meters in width, 3 meters in depth, and 3.5 meters in height.
Wenchang Pavilion: Located to the west of Laihe Pavilion, it measures 10.7 meters in width, 5 meters in depth, and 13.5 meters in height.
Kuixing Pavilion: Situated along the central axis to the west, measuring 9.4 meters in width, 9 meters in depth, and 12 meters in height.

Cultural Significance

Laihe Pavilion is adorned with a horizontal plaque inscribed with its name, and it features couplets by famous individuals. A statue of Lü Chunyang (吕纯阳) riding a crane and playing the flute is displayed inside. The southern side holds a stele titled “The First Pavilion Under Heaven,” comparing Laihe Pavilion with other renowned scenic spots and expressing a love for the hometown.

Historical Value

The inscriptions, plaques, and sculptures on Laihe Pavilion possess profound historical and cultural connotations and artistic value.

Preservation Status

1991: Designated as a second batch of county-level cultural relic protection units by the Shiping County People’s Government (石屏县人民政府).
1998: Recognized as a fifth batch of provincial-level cultural relic protection units by the Yunnan Provincial People’s Government (云南省人民政府).
2013: Announced as a seventh batch of national key cultural relic protection units by the State Council of the People’s Republic of China.

Travel Information

Location

Laihe Pavilion is located 150 meters south of Xiaoruicheng, Yilong Town, Shiping County, Honghe Prefecture, Yunnan Province.

How to Get There

Laihe Pavilion is approximately 3.7 kilometers from the Shiping County People’s Government. Visitors can reach it by car or on foot.

Travel Tips

Best Time to Visit: The pavilion is best visited in spring or autumn when the weather is pleasant.
Nearby Attractions: Consider exploring other historical sites in Shiping County after visiting Laihe Pavilion.
Photography: The unique architecture and surrounding landscape provide great opportunities for photography.
Local Cuisine: Don’t miss trying local dishes in nearby restaurants for a complete cultural experience.

Overview

Qihe Tower (企鹤楼) is located within Shiping No.1 Middle School (石屏一中) in Yilong Town (异龙镇), Shiping County (石屏县), Honghe Hani and Yi Autonomous Prefecture (红河哈尼族彝族自治州), Yunnan Province (云南省). The site covers an area of approximately 29,805 square meters and is a historic building complex from the Republic of China era.

Architectural Features

The Qihe Tower complex consists of several structures, including the Zhun Ti Pavilion (准提阁), Three Buddhas Hall (三佛殿), a stone arch bridge (石拱桥), a fountain pond (喷珠池), Qihe Tower itself, the main gate (大门), secondary gate (二门), wing rooms (厢房), and a stele pavilion (碑亭). Built upon the Zhun Ti Pavilion, Qihe Tower is flanked by the Zhun Ti Pavilion and Three Buddhas Hall, with additional buildings surrounding it. This layout creates two main courtyards that serve as dormitories and classrooms for students.

The tower was constructed to honor Mr. Chen Heting (陈鹤亭) for his significant contributions to local education. It features both traditional Chinese and Western architectural styles, showcasing remarkable craftsmanship and historical value.

In May 2006, Qihe Tower was recognized as a key cultural heritage site by the State Council of the People’s Republic of China.

Historical Development

In the seventh year of the Tongzhi reign (1868), the Zhun Ti Pavilion was rebuilt.
Qihe Tower was first constructed in the twelfth year of the Republic of China (1923) and completed in the eighteenth year (1929), initially named Shiping County Middle School (石屏县立中学).
It was renamed Yunnan Province Shiping Middle School (云南省石屏中学校) in the twenty-second year (1933) and later became Yunnan Provincial Normal School (云南省立师范学校) in the twenty-eighth year (1939).
In 1952, it was transformed into Shiping County No. 1 Middle School (石屏县第一中学).

In December 2014, the cultural bureau of Shiping County completed various assessments and documentation for the site. By March 2015, renovation plans were finalized, and in April 2015, the plans were approved by the National Cultural Heritage Administration.

Architectural Layout

Qihe Tower occupies an area of about 29,805 square meters, with a building area of around 13,982 square meters. The entire complex consists of the Zhun Ti Pavilion, Three Buddhas Hall, stone arch bridge, fountain pond, Qihe Tower, main and secondary gates, wing rooms, and stele pavilion.

Main Structures

Main Gate (大门): Built of brick and stone with a symmetrical design featuring a stone arch and iron gates. It displays the inscription “County Middle School” and a stone plaque reading “Jiahui Shilin” by Governor Tang Jiyao (唐继尧).
Secondary Gate (二门): Similar in structure to the main gate, it features an inscription “Cultivating Talents” and acknowledges donations made for its construction.
Stele Pavilion (碑坊): This entrance structure includes three stone tablets detailing the school’s history and contributions.
Qihe Tower: This central structure features a four-tiered roof, with intricately designed eaves and a circular window pattern.
Fountain Pond (喷珠池): Located north of the tower, it is surrounded by a brick wall and is adorned with a stone bridge.
Three Buddhas Hall (三佛殿): A traditional hall featuring a combination of architectural styles.

Cultural Significance

Qihe Tower showcases a harmonious blend of traditional Chinese and Western architectural styles, holding significant historical, scientific, and artistic value.

How to Get There

Qihe Tower is approximately 107.6 kilometers from the People’s Government of Shiping County. It takes about 1 hour and 25 minutes to drive there.

Travel Tips

Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn are ideal for pleasant weather.
Local Accommodations: Limited options are available; budget hotels range from 100 to 180 RMB, while hostels cost between 10 and 50 RMB.
Transportation: Public buses run frequently within Shiping County, and taxis are available for local transport.

Location:

Overview

The Tomb of Sun Ranweng (孙髯翁墓, Sūn Ránwēng Mù) is located on West Main Street in Mile City (弥勒, Mílè), Honghe Hani and Yi Autonomous Prefecture (红河哈尼族彝族自治州, Hónghé Hānízú Yízú Zìzhìzhōu), Yunnan Province. The tomb is a circular stone structure with a diameter of 6 meters, featuring an inscription that reads “Tomb of the Famous Scholar Sun Ranweng of Ancient Dian” (古滇名士孙髯翁先生之墓, Gǔ Diān Míngshì Sūn Ránwēng Xiānshēng zhī Mù). Sun Ran (孙髯, Sūn Rán), also known as Ranweng (髯翁, Ránwēng) and Yi’an (颐庵, Yí’ān), was a native of Kunming (昆明, Kūnmíng). Renowned for his intelligence and exceptional talent from a young age, he famously declared himself “a commoner among ten thousand plum blossoms” (万树梅花一布衣, Wàn shù méihuā yī bùyī). He gained notoriety during the strict literary censorship of the Yongzheng and Qianlong eras by composing a couplet of 180 characters for the Daguan Pavilion (大观楼, Dàguān Lóu), which became a sensation in the literary circles, establishing itself as a gem within China’s couplet literature. The tomb was designated a protected cultural heritage site in Yunnan Province in 1983.

Historical Significance

In the third year of the Republic of China (民国, Mínguó) in 1914, patriotic figure Yang Jie (杨杰, Yáng Jié) served as the magistrate of Mile County and oversaw the construction of Sun Ranweng’s tomb, erecting a monument in his honor. In 1937, during the 26th year of the Republic of China, Du Xixian (杜希贤, Dù Xīxián) revitalized the tomb and composed an inscription, which described how Sun Ranweng, in his later years, mourned the lack of heirs and frequently visited Mile to teach students, leaving a legacy behind.

During the “Great Leap Forward” in 1958, the tombstone was destroyed and was not restored until the 1980s, when the couplet was replaced with one written by Sun himself during his lifetime.

Tomb Structure

The tomb is situated on West Main Street in Mile City, constructed from stone and circular in shape, with a diameter of 6 meters and a height of 1.70 meters, oriented east to west. The tombstone, erected in 1914, bears the inscription “Tomb of the Famous Scholar Sun Ranweng of Ancient Dian” (古滇名士孙髯翁先生之墓).

Legacy of Sun Ranweng

Sun Ranweng (approximately 1711-1774) is a legendary figure who lived during the Kangxi (康熙, Kāngxī) to Qianlong (乾隆, Qiánlóng) eras. Originally from Sanyuan (三原, Sānyuán) in Shaanxi (陕西, Shǎnxī), his father was appointed a military official in Yunnan, bringing Sun to Kunming.

Outraged by the corruption he witnessed, Sun refused to participate in the imperial examinations, deeming such treatment of scholars disgraceful. He was celebrated for his poetry and frequently entertained himself with literature and wine, earning great respect among Yunnan’s literati.

His works and legacy are memorialized in various collections, including “Collection of Poems and Writings from Yongyantang” (永言堂诗文集, Yǒngyántáng Shīwénjí) and “Dian Poetry” (滇诗, Diān Shī).

How to Get There

To reach the Tomb of Sun Ranweng, you can take a bus or drive to Mile City, which is accessible from Kunming via highway. The tomb is located on West Main Street, easily reachable by foot or local transportation once you arrive in Mile City.

Travel Tips

Visiting Hours: Ensure to check local timings for any restrictions or opening hours.
Respectful Behavior: As it is a historical and cultural site, maintain a respectful demeanor.
Local Cuisine: Consider trying local dishes in Mile City for a full cultural experience.
Weather Preparedness: Yunnan’s weather can be unpredictable; dress appropriately for the season.

Location:

Introduction

The Former Residence of Zhang Chong (张冲故居) is located in Mile City (弥勒市), Honghe Prefecture (红河州), Yunnan Province (云南省). In October 2021, it was included in the public list of educational bases for strengthening the awareness of the Chinese national community.

Historical Significance

Zhang Chong’s residence is situated in Songke Village (松棵村), Shemu Village Committee, Dongshan Town (东山镇), and is one of the most charming symbols of red culture in Mile City. Zhang Chong lived a legendary life, spending his childhood here. His revolutionary achievements are closely tied to this land.

Architectural Features

The residence was originally built in the late Qing Dynasty (清朝) and was rebuilt in 1933. In 2003, it was listed as a provincial-level cultural relic protection unit in Yunnan, and in 2021, it became part of the first batch of immovable revolutionary relics in the province.

The entrance features a traditional scholar’s gate, with a plaque above reading “Old Residence of the Scholar.” Inside, visitors will find three main rooms and three side rooms, encapsulating the environment of Zhang Chong’s childhood. Little did anyone know that the child playing in this courtyard would grow up to be the formidable “Black Tiger General.”

Exhibition Details

The exhibition hall within the residence displays Zhang Chong’s manuscripts, archival materials, and various certificates from his time as a representative in the National People’s Congress and a member of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference. Notably, each exhibition panel includes a QR code that visitors can scan to learn more about Zhang Chong’s life and the revolutionary era he experienced.

Cultural Experience

As a carrier of red culture in Mile City, Zhang Chong’s residence offers an immersive display. It not only showcases his childhood environment but also provides spaces for reflection, allowing visitors to engage with his thoughts and emotions regardless of the weather.

Every visitor can engage with Zhang Chong from different perspectives and levels. The land where he fought bravely is now filled with flowers, and the “Black Tiger General,” who dedicated his life to communism and the people’s happiness, will forever live in the hearts of the people.

Biography of Zhang Chong

Zhang Chong (张冲), born in 1900 and passed away in October 1980, was known by the courtesy name Shaoyu (绍禹) and the pseudonym Yunpeng (云鹏). He was a male member of the Yi ethnic group (彝族), originally from Songke Village (松棵村) in Dongshan Town (东山镇) of Mile County (弥勒县). His father, Yu Ting (玉廷), served as a county assistant in the late Qing Dynasty.

Zhang Chong was the third of four brothers. He became a legendary hero known throughout the Mile-Luxi region. Influenced by revolutionary thoughts during the Xinhai Revolution (辛亥革命) at the age of 12 or 13, he later pursued his studies in Kunming (昆明).

After his father’s death in 1918, 18-year-old Zhang was falsely accused of colluding with the bandit Zhao Guangting (赵光廷) and was approved for arrest by the provincial government. He fled to Pingyi (彝良县) and joined Zhao Shouting (赵寿庭). Soon, he led over 80 supporters, advocating for the poor, and his forces grew to over 600 within two years.

Amidst the warlord chaos, Zhang Chong played a significant role in the region’s military efforts. He commanded troops and was pivotal in various military campaigns, establishing himself as a key figure in Yunnan’s revolutionary history.

After the establishment of the People’s Republic of China, he held numerous important governmental positions and continued to influence the development of Yunnan Province. He passed away in Beijing in 1980, with his ashes scattered in the Jinsha River (金沙江) at the Tiger Leaping Gorge (虎跳峡).

How to Get There

To reach the Former Residence of Zhang Chong, you can take a bus or taxi from Mile City Center. The residence is located in Dongshan Town, approximately 20 kilometers from the city center. Public transportation is available, and local taxis can provide direct access.

Travel Tips

Timing: Visit early in the day to avoid crowds and enjoy a more personal experience.
QR Codes: Make sure to bring a smartphone to scan the QR codes for detailed information on exhibitions.
Local Cuisine: Explore nearby local restaurants to try traditional Yunnan dishes after your visit.
Respect: Maintain respect for the historical site and its cultural significance while visiting.

Location:

Overview

Tianyuan Bridge (天缘大桥) is located in Zhuangzihe Village (庄子河村), Lin’an Town (临安镇), Jianshui County (建水县), Yunnan Province (云南省). It spans the Lijiang River (泸江河) at the confluence of three rivers. The bridge features three arches made of stone, measuring a total length of 121 meters, with the main arch spanning 43 meters, a southern approach of 36 meters, and a northern approach of 42 meters. The bridge has a width of 7.83 meters and an arch height of 9.5 meters for the central arch and 9 meters for the others.

Location

County: Jianshui County (建水县)
Village: Zhuangzihe Village (庄子河村)
Province: Yunnan Province (云南省)

Historical Significance

Construction of Tianyuan Bridge began in the sixth year of the Yongzheng era (1728). It was renovated in the fourth year of the Jiaqing era (1799). The name “Tianyuan” was given by the local magistrate, Li Erzhang (栗尔璋), who attributed the bridge’s construction to divine intervention, stating, “It could not have been achieved without heavenly assistance.” The bridge is also locally known as “Xianren Bridge” (仙人桥) due to two foot-shaped indentations found on its surface, which are believed to be the footprints of immortals.

Architectural Features

Structure

Tianyuan Bridge is a three-arch stone bridge with a total length of 121 meters. The main span reaches 43 meters, while the southern approach measures 36 meters and the northern approach 42 meters. The bridge arches are built with wedge-shaped stones, with the central arch height reaching 9.5 meters. The bridge’s design cleverly incorporates curves, forming a reverse “S” shape, allowing it to reduce the span and minimize construction material.

Decorative Elements

The bridge is adorned with intricate carvings, including a dragon head at one end and a dragon tail at the other. A pavilion with an octagonal roof sits in the middle of the bridge, showcasing colorful patterns and a unique taiji (太极) diagram at the top. Inscriptions by the local magistrate can also be found on the bridge’s walls.

Cultural Heritage

In 1983, Tianyuan Bridge was recognized as a cultural heritage site at the county level, later upgraded to provincial protection status. It holds significant historical and cultural value for the local community.

How to Get There

To reach Tianyuan Bridge from Kunming (昆明市), you can drive or take a bus to Jianshui County (建水县), which is approximately 200 kilometers away. From Jianshui, continue to Lin’an Town (临安镇) and then to Zhuangzihe Village (庄子河村).

Travel Tips

Although Tianyuan Bridge is not a major tourist destination, it is a beautiful spot for photography and a peaceful visit.
Try to visit during the early morning or late afternoon for the best light and fewer crowds.
Bring snacks and water, as there may be limited amenities in the area.
Respect the local culture and heritage, especially when photographing the bridge and its surroundings.

Location:

Located in southwest corner of Sichuan province, Daocheng is well-known for the 3 holy peaks named by the 5th Dalai Lama, Shiannairi Peak(6032 m high), Xianuoduoji Peak(5898 m high), Yangmaiyong Peak(5898 m high). Every year, there are many people trek around the 3 holy peaks for increasing their merits and virtues. Lugu Lake is located in northwest part of Yunnan province, it covers 58 square kms, the water is very clear. The unique matriarchal Mosuo people live by the lake, which earned this area another name: the Mysterious Queendom. Trekking from Daocheng to Lugu Lake is surely one of the best trekking route in China.

Highlights

With the most wonderful arrival and departure destinations – Lijiang and Shangrila.
Visit charming Lijiang Old Town, Yangtze Canon, Yi villages, Snake Islet of Lugu Lake.
Trekking the river, village, farm, Monastery and grassland.

Breif Itinerary

Day 1 Arrive in Lijiang
Day 2 Lijiang
Day 3 Lijiang – Lugu lake
Day 4 Lugu Lake – Yak Farm-Grassland
Day 5 Grassland-Tongtian River
Day 6 Tongtian River-Kawa Village
Day 7 KawaVillage-Lusi Grassland
Day 8 Lusi grassland – Kasi Village
Day 9 Kasi Village-Kasi Yak Farm
Day 10 Kasi Yak Farm-Chonggu Monastery
Day 11 Chonggu Monastery-Daocheng
Day 12 Daocheng-Shangri-La
Day 13 Shangri-La
Day 14 Departure from Shangri-La

Google Map

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1 Arrive in Lijiang

Sightseeing and Activities:Arrive in Lijiang
Accommodation: Lijiang
Meals: Lunch

Pick you up from the airport and transfer to the hotel in the old town. The rest of the day is free for you to explore the old town and buy something necessary for the trip. In the evening, our tour leader will meet you in the hotel to give you the briefing of itinerary.

–Lijiang Old Town has a history more than 800 years, which was listed as the World Cultural Heritage by the UNESCO 1997. Here you will see the wonderful wooden architecture of Naxi ethnic people.

Day 2 Lijiang

Sightseeing and Activities:Lijiang Old Town, Mu Palace, Black Dragon Pool, Baisha Old Town, Baisha Murals
Accommodation: Lijiang
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

This morning, visit Lijiang Old Town, a well-preserved old city of ethnic minorities with brilliant culture, is a central town of the Lijiang Autonomous County of the Naxi Ethnic Minority in Yunnan Province. Afterwards, visit Mufu Palace, situated in the southwest of the Old Town of Lijiang. It is the Tusi Mu’s Yamen of the Naxi Ethnic Group in Yunnan. Tusi Mu was the ruler of Naxi during the Yuan (1271-1368), Ming (1368-1644), and Qing (1644-1911).

Then transfer to visit Black Dragon Pool. Black Dragon Pool (also Heilongtan), or Jade Spring(Yuquan) Park is the main headwater of the Yushui River which goes through the Old Town. In the late afternoon, pay a visit to Baisha Old Town. It was the cradle-land of the Tusi Dynasty evolved from the Mu Clan. It was also the earliest settlement of the Naxi people. Then visit Baisha Murals. It is about 600 years old, which is one part of the World Cultural Heritage by the UNESCO 1997.

Day 3 Lijiang – Lugu lake

Sightseeing and Activities:Yangtze Canon, Yi villages, Liwubi Island, Snake Islet of Lugu Lake
Accommodation: Lugu
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

In the morning, dive about 4 hrs on the mountain road to visit the mysterious Lugu Lake. On the way, enjoy the beautiful view among the huge mountains and rivers. You plan to start your walking from Jin’anqiao Bridge to Shudi along the road at the bank of Yangtze River. See the beautiful canon and Yi ethnic people’s villages in the steep mountains. After 1 hour walking in the canon, continue the driving and you can stop in many Yi villages.

In the late afternoon, take the canoes to visit Liwubi Island and Snake Islet in Lugu Lake.

(Optional)In the evening, take part in the night party and performance which is named the Soul of Mosuo. There are a lot of Mosuo young people dancing and singing around the fire in the outdoors theatre.

Day 4 Lugu Lake – Yak Farm(45km/1.5hs drive) – unknown Grassland(17km/7hs trekking)

Sightseeing and Activities:Yak Farm, Yeji Mountain Pass, Lion Mountain, trekking
Accommodation: Lijiang
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Early in the morning we will drive directly to Yak Farm, which is our trekking start point and meet our horse-men team. Have our luggage packed on the horses. It takes 4 hours or so to walk up to the Yeji Mountain Pass(3,600m), passing by the Yi People village on the way.

The colorful prayer cloth on the trees reminds us of arriving at the mountain pass, from there we may have a nice view of the Lion Mountain near Lugu Lake. And we will trek down among the virgin forests for 3 hours directly to our camping site, an unknown grassland near the river.