Lazhe Village of Lubuge Town in Luoping County, Qujing

Chinese Name: 曲靖市罗平县鲁布革布依族苗族乡罗斯村委会腊者村
English Name: Lazhe Village of lubuge Town in Luoping County, Qujing

Location:

• Region: Lubuge Township, Luoping County, Qujing City, Yunnan
• Proximity: 36 kilometers from Luoping County
• Area: 3.39 square kilometers
• Population: 120 households, 526 people

Overview:

• Ethnic Groups: Primarily Bouyei, with traditional Bouyei-style architecture and culture.
• Climate: South Asian subtropical humid valley climate, with an average annual temperature of 19°C. The region is characterized by frequent rainfall and fog, with a high vegetation coverage of over 96%.

Cultural and Historical Significance:

• Historical Architecture: The village is renowned for its well-preserved Bouyei traditional dwellings, dating back to the late Qing Dynasty. It has been recognized as a national traditional village and an important cultural and ecological village. The Bouyei architecture, mainly from the late Qing Dynasty to the 1950s-70s, includes distinctive features such as elevated wooden houses with thatched roofs.
• Cultural Heritage: La Zhe Village is noted for its rich Bouyei culture, including traditional crafts like bamboo weaving, textile production, embroidery, and wax dyeing. The village has been recognized as a key site for preserving Bouyei cultural heritage and traditional skills.

Tourism Development:

• Infrastructure: The village has been developed with a focus on integrating culture, tourism, and industry. Key developments include:
  • Bouyei-style Family Inns: Traditional stilt houses with ethnic exterior designs and modern interiors.
  • Cultural Plaza: A plaza featuring Bouyei traditional customs, including a water-splashing area and cultural performance spaces.
  • Visitor Center: Provides tourist information and services.
  • Local Cuisine: Features traditional dishes such as fire-roasted beef jerky, pickled bamboo fish, smoked bacon, and five-color flower rice.
  • Cultural Performances: Regular folk performances showcasing ethnic customs, dance, and local culture.

Natural Features:

• Landscape: The village is nestled in the Douyi River Valley, surrounded by lush mountains and ancient banyan trees. The river winds through the village, creating a scenic and serene environment.
• Geography: La Zhe Village is surrounded by high mountains, including “Bogen Ding” to the west, “Bo Zai” to the east, “Bo Gun” to the south, and “Shen Shan” to the north. The Douyi River flows from west to east through the village.

Tourist Experience:

• Activities: Visitors can explore traditional Bouyei architecture, enjoy scenic views of the Douyi River and surrounding mountains, and engage in cultural activities and performances.
• Unique Features: The village offers a glimpse into traditional Bouyei life, with opportunities to experience local craftsmanship and participate in cultural events.

Recognition:

• Awards and Designations: La Zhe Village has been recognized as a national traditional village, a national ecological village, a model village for ethnic unity and progress, a Bouyei cultural protection zone, and one of Yunnan's most charming villages. It was also listed as a key village for rural tourism in 2019.

La Zhe Village represents a harmonious blend of traditional culture, natural beauty, and modern tourism development, making it a unique destination for those interested in ethnic culture and rural tourism.