Longpu Village in Chawalong, Tibet

Introduction to Longpu Village

Traveling north from Qinglatong (青拉桶) in Bingzhongluo (丙中洛), the first village you encounter in the Tibet Autonomous Region is Songta (松塔), followed by Longpu Village (龙普村) in Chawalong Township (察瓦龙乡), Chayu County (察隅县). The area around Bingzhongluo is home to a mix of Tibetan and Nu ethnic groups, while Longpu is predominantly inhabited by the Nu people (怒族). Nestled alongside the flowing Nu River (怒江) and bordered by lush, untouched forests, Longpu shines like a precious gem. Its most enchanting feature is its pottery craftsmanship, which reflects the rich culture of the Nu people.

Tourist Attractions

Upon entering Longpu, visitors are greeted by pottery kilns and workshops where traditional pottery is crafted. Inside local homes, you will find a remarkable array of pottery items, including:

• Grain Jars (粮罐): Capable of holding hundreds of pounds of grain.
• Water Buckets (背水桶) and Water Tanks (水缸): Essential for daily chores.
• Cooking Pots (煮饭锅): Used for preparing meals.
• Smaller Items: Such as tea canisters (茶罐), butter tea pots (酥油茶壶), lamps (灯盏), incense burners (香炉), and small drinking cups (小酒杯).

These pottery items are often part of larger sets that include brewing tools (熬酒用具), fermentation jars (发酵罐), steaming pots (土甑子), straining pots (漏锅), funnels (漏斗), wine jars (酒坛), and wine cups (酒杯). The pottery-making process is simple; local artisans use only a smooth stone and a bamboo stick to shape the clay. They mold the clay on the stone and fire it over an open flame instead of in a specialized kiln. This simplicity is part of what makes Longpu’s pottery unique, given its isolation amidst towering mountains with no other pottery production for hundreds of miles.

Scenic Beauty

The natural beauty surrounding Longpu Village enhances its appeal. The region is characterized by:

• Pristine Forests (原始密林): Rich in biodiversity, these forests provide a serene backdrop.
• Lush Landscapes (茂密的自然环境): Rolling hills and valleys create picturesque views.
• Nu River (怒江): The river's gentle flow adds to the tranquil atmosphere, making it ideal for reflection and relaxation.

Cultural Insights

Conversations with the villagers reveal a strong sense of community and connection to their land. The Nu people lead a simple life focused on subsistence agriculture and gathering:

• Herbal Gathering (挖药材): Locals often venture into the mountains to collect medicinal herbs, a common practice that supplements their diet and income.
• Community Bonds: Villagers cherish their time together, often gathering to share drinks and stories, highlighting the importance of community over material wealth.

The Journey to Longpu

As you travel along the Nu River upstream, you will first reach Songta Village (松塔村). Here, villagers, predominantly Nu, maintain Tibetan-style homes and practice Tibetan Buddhism. Life in Songta is characterized by a laid-back lifestyle, with locals content to engage in simple activities and celebrate their culture.

Continuing further up the river leads to Longpu, where the village, home to approximately 600 residents, faces imminent relocation due to the construction of the Songta Hydropower Station. The community is resilient, with villagers expressing their determination to stay, even if it means moving to higher altitudes.

Local Delicacies and Celebrations

Food and drink play an essential role in the social life of Longpu. Traditional meals often include:

• Local Alcohol (当地酒): Villagers enjoy drinking together, and gatherings often revolve around sharing homemade brews.
• Cultural Celebrations: Festivities involve music and dance, with community members encouraging visitors to join in the celebrations.

How to Get There

To reach Longpu from Bingzhongluo (丙中洛):

1. Travel Route: Follow the road along the Nu River (怒江). The conditions are good while still in Yunnan, thanks to recent repairs due to the Songta Hydropower Station's construction.
2. Road Conditions: After passing Songta, be prepared for narrow, damaged roads. Vehicles with higher clearance can navigate the terrain, but caution is necessary due to steep cliffs along the river.
3. Motorcycle Ride: Riding a motorcycle is particularly thrilling, but ensure your vehicle is well-maintained before embarking on the journey.

Travel Tips

• Safety First: Ensure your motorcycle is in good working condition before the trip, as road conditions can be unpredictable.
• Pack Essentials: Carry enough food, water, and emergency supplies, as services in remote villages are limited.
• Engage with Locals: The Nu people are welcoming; take the opportunity to learn about their culture and traditions.
• Respect Nature: Practice Leave No Trace principles to preserve the pristine environment for future visitors.

Enjoy your adventure in Longpu Village, where culture, nature, and community come together!