Luju Town of Jiangchuan District, Yuxi

Luju Town (路居镇) is located in the northeastern part of Jiangchuan District (江川区), Yuxi City (玉溪市), Yunnan Province (云南省), about 15 kilometers from the Jiangchuan urban area. It borders Huanning County (华宁县) to the east, neighbors Dajie Subdistrict (大街街道) and Xiongguan Township (雄关乡) to the south, faces Xingyun Lake (星云湖) to the west, and adjoins Jiangcheng Town (江城镇) to the north, across Fuxian Lake (抚仙湖) from Chengjiang County (澄江县). The town government is located at No. 70-13, Dianxin Resident Group, Xiaojiezi, Zhongba Community (中坝社区小街子甸心居民小组70号附13号).

History and Culture

Luju Town (路居镇) has a long history. The name “Luju” was already in use by the 13th year of Emperor Zhengde’s reign (1518) in the Ming Dynasty. During the Republic of China period, it was part of Luju Township or the Third District Longfeng Township (龙风乡) of Huanning County (华宁县). In 1950, it became Xionglong Township (雄龙乡) under Huanning County. In 1956, it was reassigned to Jiangchuan County (江川县) as the Sixth District. In 1958, it was known as Luju Commune (路居公社), changed to Luju District (路居区) in 1983, then Luju Township (路居乡) in 1987, and finally Luju Town (路居镇) in January 1998. The name “Luju” originates from the Yi (彝族) language: “Lu” means “stone,” and “Ju” means “to take or strike,” referring to a place known for quarrying stones.

Folk Customs

Luju Town is home to several ethnic minority groups, including Yi (彝族), Hani (哈尼族), and Dai (傣族), who make up 5.8% of the total population. Local customs are rich and colorful, with festivals such as the Torch Festival (火把节) celebrated by the Yi people, showcasing the area’s unique ethnic traditions.

Climate and Best Time to Visit

Located on a low-latitude plateau, Luju Town experiences alternating atmospheric currents in winter and summer, with a significant monsoon influence. Thanks to the regulating effects of Fuxian Lake (抚仙湖) and Xingyun Lake (星云湖), the town enjoys a mild year-round climate described as “warm in winter and cool in summer.” The best time to visit is during spring and autumn when the weather is pleasant and the natural scenery is at its finest.

Recommended Attractions and Visiting Time

Xingyun Lake (星云湖): Located on the western edge of Luju Town, the lake offers picturesque views of water and mountains.
Suggested visiting time: 2–3 hours

Fuxian Lake (抚仙湖): Situated to the north, Fuxian Lake is ideal for enjoying lakeside leisure and scenic views.
Suggested visiting time: 2–3 hours

Guanfentou Neolithic Site (官坟头新石器时期古遗址): A site of archaeological importance, offering insights into the region’s ancient culture.
Suggested visiting time: 1 hour

Transportation

Public Transport: Visitors can take the Yuxi intercity bus lines such as [Jiangchuan–Maichong] (江川-麦冲) to reach Luju Town.

Self-Driving: From Yuxi City, drive along the Jianghua Expressway (江华高等级公路) to Luju Town, which takes about 30 minutes.

Local Cuisine

Local cuisine in Luju Town features traditional farmhouse dishes such as smoked pork, bamboo grove chicken, and wild mushrooms. There are also popular local snacks like rice noodles (米线) and rice cakes (饵块).

Shopping

Most shopping venues are located in the town center, offering a variety of local handicrafts and agricultural products, including embroidery, bamboo weaving, and regional specialties.

Accommodation

Local Farm Stays: Provide lodging and the opportunity to experience rural life.

Nearby Hotels: Hotels in Yuxi City offer convenient accommodation and are within close proximity to Luju Town.

Travel Tips

  • Environmental Protection: Please help keep the environment clean and do not litter during your visit.
  • Respect Local Customs: When participating in traditional festivals or activities, respect the local culture and customs.

Itinerary

Day 1:
Morning – Arrive in Luju Town and visit Xingyun Lake to enjoy the beautiful lake and mountain scenery.
Noon – Enjoy local specialties for lunch.
Afternoon – Visit Guanfentou Neolithic Site to learn about ancient local culture.
Evening – Stay overnight at a local farm stay.

Day 2:
Morning – Visit Fuxian Lake and relax by the lake.
Noon – Have lunch at the lakeside.
Afternoon – Return to Yuxi City or Jiangchuan District to end the trip.

Luju Town (路居镇) attracts many visitors with its stunning natural landscapes and rich ethnic culture. Whether you’re strolling along the lakeshore or participating in traditional customs, you will be charmed by the town’s unique appeal. We hope you have an unforgettable journey in Luju Town.