Lijiang City is located in the northwest part of Yunnan Province, at the junction of the Yunnan-Guizhou Plateau and the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau. The city center is situated at 100°25′ E longitude and 26°86′ N latitude, covering a total area of 20,600 square kilometers. It borders Diqing Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture to the north, Dali Bai Autonomous Prefecture to the south, Nujiang Lisu Autonomous Prefecture to the west, and Liangshan Yi Autonomous Prefecture and Panzhihua City in Sichuan to the east. Lijiang is 527 kilometers away from Kunming City.
Lijiang City’s terrain is high in the northwest and low in the southeast. The highest point is the main peak of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain at an altitude of 5,596 meters, while the lowest point is in Tangba River Mouth, Shilongba Township, Huaping County, at an altitude of 1,015 meters, creating a maximum elevation difference of 4,581 meters. To the west of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain lies the Hengduan Mountain Range, characterized by deep gorges and steep mountains. To the east, the terrain consists of the Yunnan-Guizhou Plateau with higher and broader mountains. The region features complex landforms with numerous valleys, creating a diverse landscape. There are 111 small and large basins scattered among the mountains, most of which are above 2,000 meters in elevation, with the largest being Lijiang Basin, covering about 200 square kilometers and an average altitude of 2,466 meters.
The Jinsha River, flowing through Lijiang, along with the three major mountain ranges of Laojun Mountain, Jade Dragon Mountain, and Mianmian Mountain, forms the backbone of Lijiang’s topography. Laojun Mountain runs from north to south like a barrier on the western side, with its main peak at 4,247.4 meters. Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, located 15 kilometers from Lijiang’s city center, features alpine glacier landforms and is snow-covered year-round with 13 peaks connected from end to end. The eastern side is dominated by Mianmian Mountain. Lijiang has 12 high mountains with altitudes ranging from 3,500 to 5,000 meters, and numerous mid-elevation mountains (2,500-3,500 meters) spread across all counties, particularly in Ninglang and Yongsheng. Mountains below 2,500 meters are predominantly found in the southeast and south.
Lijiang’s highest elevation is 5,596 meters, and its lowest is 1,015 meters, with the city center at 2,418 meters. It is a low-latitude, high-altitude area with distinct seasonal climatic variations and diverse climate types. The region exhibits vertical climate characteristics with the saying “four seasons in one mountain, different weather in ten miles.” The annual average temperature ranges from 12.6°C to 19.9°C.
Lijiang’s rivers belong to two major watersheds and three major water systems: the Jinsha River system and the Yalong River system of the Yangtze River basin, and the Heihe River system of the Lancang River basin. The Yangtze River basin covers an area of 20,799 square kilometers, accounting for 98% of the total area, while the Lancang River basin covers 420 square kilometers, accounting for 2%. Lijiang has 93 tributaries of the Jinsha, Yalong, and Lancang rivers, with 21 rivers having a basin area of over 200 square kilometers.
Apart from Lugu Lake, Lijiang has two larger natural lakes: Chenghai and Lashihai. Chenghai, located in Yongsheng County, is one of the world’s three natural sources of spirulina and the only one in China, covering 77.2 square kilometers with a storage capacity of 1.987 billion cubic meters and an average depth of 25.74 meters, making it the fourth-largest lake in Yunnan. Lashihai, located in Lashi Town, Yulong County, is 8 kilometers from Lijiang’s city center, with an oval-shaped lake area at an altitude of 2,450 meters, a depth of 2.5-4.5 meters, a water area of 241 square kilometers, and a lake surface area of 8.5 square kilometers. It was established as Yunnan’s first highland wetland reserve and migratory bird habitat in 1998 and was listed as an internationally important wetland in 2005.
As of 2022, Lijiang has 185,745.95 hectares (2,786,189 acres) of arable land, including 29,283.03 hectares (439,245 acres) of paddy fields (15.77%), 5,857.66 hectares (87,865 acres) of irrigated land (3.15%), and 150,605.26 hectares (2,259,079 acres) of dry land (81.08%). Yongsheng and Ninglang Yi Autonomous County have the largest arable land areas, accounting for 64.28% of Lijiang’s total arable land. All arable land is located in areas with a double-cropping system and annual rainfall between 800 and 1,200 millimeters.
Lijiang boasts diverse flora and fauna, with over 13,000 species, making it one of China’s notable plant and animal protection bases and a key forest area in Yunnan. It has been identified by the World Conservation Union (IUCN) as one of the 25 global biodiversity hotspots in China’s Hengduan Mountains. The region is home to several nationally protected species, including the Yunnan golden monkey, clouded leopard, and musk deer, as well as rare plants like the Himalayan yew, Isoetes hypsophila, and Yulong fern. Lijiang has a forest coverage rate of 72.14%, making it a crucial area for natural forest protection in China.
Lijiang records 112 species of mammals from 21 families and 8 orders, 446 species of birds from 46 families and 17 orders, 51 species of amphibians and reptiles from 14 families and 3 orders, and over 70 species of fish from 15 families and 5 orders. The region also has 4,163 species (subspecies) of vascular plants from 1,120 genera in 224 families, including over 3,200 species of seed plants, over 2,000 medicinal plants, 2,266 endemic species to China, and 617 endemic species to Yunnan. Jade Dragon Snow Mountain is a world-renowned botanical specimen type locality. Over a hundred new and variant plant species are named after Lijiang’s mountains and rivers, earning the city the titles “Kingdom of Alpine Plants” and “Home of Medicinal Herbs.”
Lijiang Laojun Mountain National Park Provincial Nature Reserves Lijiang Lashihai Highland Wetland Provincial Nature Reserve Lijiang Yulong Snow Mountain Provincial Nature Reserve Lugu Lake Provincial Nature Reserve
Lijiang is rich in water resources, with its river systems belonging to two major watersheds and three major water systems: the Jinsha River system, the Yalong River system of the Yangtze River basin, and the Heihe River system of the Lancang River basin. The city has 93 tributaries of the Jinsha, Yalong, and Lancang rivers, with 21 rivers having a basin area of over 200 square kilometers. Lijiang’s total water resources amount to 49.985 billion cubic meters, with a theoretical hydroelectric power potential of 114 million kilowatts.
The Jinsha River, flowing through Lijiang for 615 kilometers, has plans for eight large hydropower stations (“one reservoir, eight stages”) including Longpan, Liangjia, Liyuan, Ahai, Jinanqiao, Longkaikou, Ludila, and Guanyinyan. Six of these stations are already connected to the grid, with a total installed capacity of 20.96 million kilowatts and an annual power generation of 88.3 billion kilowatt-hours, making it one of the largest planned hydropower bases in China for transmitting electricity from the west to the east.
In 2021, Lijiang had an average precipitation of 853.8 millimeters, equivalent to a total precipitation of 17.54 billion cubic meters, 7.0% less than the previous year and 14.2% less than the average year. The city’s total water resources were 5.779 billion cubic meters, 10.3% less than the previous year and 28.3% less than the average year, indicating a dry year. The average water production per square kilometer was 281,200 cubic meters, with a per capita water resource volume of 4,600 cubic meters.
By the end of 2021, Lijiang’s water conservancy projects had a total storage volume of 243.3 million cubic meters, 20.01 million cubic meters less than the previous year, representing a 7.6% decrease.
Lijiang has unique geological structures and diverse mineralization conditions, leading to a variety of rich mineral resources with regional characteristics. The city has discovered over 30 types of minerals across more than 350 mineral sites, including one natural gas site and several geothermal sites. It has significant coal reserves and high-quality deposits, making it the leading coal resource area in western Yunnan. Other valuable minerals include copper and granite.
Zhaotong, located in northeastern Yunnan Province, China, has an economy that is primarily driven by agriculture, mining, and forestry, supplemented by tourism and emerging industries. Here’s an overview of the key economic aspects:
In summary, Zhaotong’s economy is diverse, with agriculture, mining, forestry, and emerging industries playing key roles. The prefecture’s natural resources and cultural heritage contribute to its appeal as a tourist destination, while efforts in infrastructure development and sustainability are crucial for long-term economic growth and community well-being.
Yuxi, located in the central part of Yunnan Province, China, has an economy that is shaped by its agriculture, industry, tourism, and strategic location. Here’s an overview of the key aspects of the Yuxi economy:
In summary, Yuxi’s economy is characterized by its strong agricultural base, particularly in tobacco production, diversified industrial sector, growing tourism industry, and strategic location in Yunnan Province. The prefecture’s commitment to sustainable development and infrastructure improvement underscores its efforts to promote economic growth and enhance the quality of life for its residents.
Dehong Dai and Jingpo Autonomous Prefecture, located in southwestern Yunnan Province, China, has an economy that is characterized by agriculture, trade, industry, and cross-border economic activities. Here’s an overview of the key aspects of the Dehong economy:
In summary, Dehong Dai and Jingpo Autonomous Prefecture’s economy is diversified, with agriculture, rubber production, tea cultivation, cross-border trade, and cultural tourism as key economic drivers. Its strategic location along the China-Myanmar border enhances trade opportunities, while efforts in environmental conservation and poverty alleviation contribute to sustainable development in the region.
Wenshan Zhuang and Miao Autonomous Prefecture, located in southeastern Yunnan Province, China, has an economy primarily driven by agriculture, mining, and the development of tourism. Here’s an overview of the key economic aspects:
In summary, Wenshan Zhuang and Miao Autonomous Prefecture’s economy is diverse, relying on agriculture, mining, and tourism. Its natural resources and cultural heritage make it an emerging destination for eco-tourism in Yunnan Province, China, while efforts in infrastructure development and sustainability are essential for long-term economic growth and community development.
Baoshan, located in Yunnan Province, China, is known for its diverse economy driven by several key sectors. Here’s an overview of the Baoshan economy:
In summary, Baoshan’s economy is characterized by its agricultural production, mining activities, manufacturing industries, and emerging tourism sector. With ongoing development initiatives and natural resource management efforts, Baoshan continues to play a significant role in the economic landscape of Yunnan Province.
Wenshan Zhuang and Miao Autonomous Prefecture, located in southeastern Yunnan Province, China, features an economy that is influenced by its natural resources, agriculture, mining, and local industries. Here’s an overview of the key aspects of the Wenshan economy:
In summary, Wenshan Zhuang and Miao Autonomous Prefecture’s economy is diverse, with agriculture, mining, manufacturing, and tourism playing crucial roles. Its rich cultural heritage and natural resources contribute to economic development and tourism growth in southeastern Yunnan Province, China.
Puer, or Pu’er, is a prefecture-level city in Yunnan Province, China, renowned for its tea production, diverse ethnic cultures, and unique economic characteristics. Here’s an overview of the Puer economy:
In summary, Puer’s economy is anchored by its tea industry, with Pu’er tea being its most famous product. The city also benefits from agriculture, tourism, and efforts to preserve cultural heritage. With ongoing infrastructure improvements and sustainable development practices, Puer continues to position itself as a key player in Yunnan Province’s economic landscape.
The economy of Nujiang Lisu Autonomous Prefecture, located in northwest Yunnan Province, China, is characterized by its natural resources, agriculture, and tourism industry. Here’s an overview:
In conclusion, Nujiang Lisu Autonomous Prefecture’s economy revolves around agriculture, natural resources (including hydropower and minerals), and tourism. Its rich cultural diversity, coupled with scenic landscapes, positions Nujiang as an emerging destination for sustainable tourism and economic development in Yunnan Province, China.
Strong Agricultural Foundation
Traditionally, the Nujiang region has been primarily an agricultural area. Local farmers cultivate staple grains as well as cash crops (such as tea, fruits, and certain oil crops). The comprehensive agricultural production capacity has steadily improved. In recent years, by adjusting the cropping structure, promoting modern agricultural technologies, and developing specialty agriculture, agricultural income has risen. In some areas, the full industry chain for grass fruit has been developed, creating a competitively advantageous agricultural economic model.
Industry and Energy Development
Although the mountainous location and relatively poor transportation conditions once left Nujiang with a weak industrial base, recent years have seen gradual progress in sectors such as hydropower development, mineral resource utilization, and agro-product processing. The construction of hydropower stations and the energy sector have provided support for local industrial development, which in turn has helped drive related industries such as construction, machinery manufacturing, and other secondary sectors.
Service and Tourism Industries
Nujiang’s unique natural landscapes (such as the “Three Parallel Rivers” World Natural Heritage site) and rich ethnic cultures offer excellent conditions for the development of tourism and related service industries. In recent years, with increased investment in infrastructure (such as roads, bridges, and ongoing airport construction projects), the tourism and cultural industries have grown rapidly, and the share of the service sector in the economy has gradually increased.
Overall Economic Volume and Growth
According to available data, the regional gross domestic product (GDP) of Nujiang has been steadily increasing in recent years. For example, in 2020 the GDP was approximately 21.073 billion RMB, with a per capita GDP of around 38,141 RMB. Although the overall economic scale is relatively modest compared to other regions in Yunnan Province, the growth rate and structural adjustments indicate a positive trend toward high-quality economic transformation.
Poverty Alleviation and Leapfrog Development
The Nujiang region, once burdened with high poverty rates due to challenging geographic conditions and underdeveloped infrastructure, has achieved a historic leap from deep poverty to overall poverty eradication through strong support from national and local policies. Through measures such as relocation for poverty alleviation, employment assistance, and support for agriculture and small enterprises, the number of impoverished people has significantly decreased, and the incomes of urban and rural residents have notably improved.
Improvements in Transportation and Infrastructure
Located in a mountainous area, Nujiang once suffered from severe transportation challenges. In recent years, the construction of projects such as the Gaoligong Mountain–Dulong River Tunnel, various river-crossing bridges, and the development of airports (including the operational Lanping Fenghua Airport, as well as the planned Gongshan and Liuku airports) have markedly improved transportation conditions. These infrastructure developments now provide robust support for goods transportation, population mobility, and tourism development.
Policy Guidance and Industry Support
The local government has actively implemented “delegation, management, and service” reforms to optimize the business environment and vigorously support the development of private enterprises and small and medium-sized businesses. At the same time, through initiatives such as investment attraction and strengthening economic cooperation with neighboring regions and international border areas, the region is promoting the development of border trade, cross-border tourism, and other distinctive industries.
Geographical and Transportation Limitations
Although transportation and communication infrastructure have significantly improved compared to the past, the overall conditions in the mountainous region still lag behind those of the plains, and some remote areas continue to face developmental challenges.
Economic Structural Transformation and Upgrading
Looking ahead, Nujiang needs to further promote agricultural modernization, develop green energy and industries with higher added value, and leverage its unique natural and cultural resources to enhance tourism services and regional brand competitiveness. This, in turn, will help optimize the overall economic structure.
Overall, the economy of Nujiang in Yunnan is in a critical phase of transitioning from traditional agriculture to a diversified modern economy. With ongoing efforts to boost infrastructure construction, improve policy support, and stimulate market vitality, both the government and various social sectors are laying a solid foundation for the sustained and healthy development of Nujiang’s economy.
Qujing, located in eastern Yunnan Province, China, is an important industrial and agricultural hub. Here’s an overview of the economy of Qujing:
In summary, Qujing’s economy is diverse, driven by agriculture (especially tobacco and tea), mining (coal and nonferrous metals), industry (chemicals), and tourism. The prefecture’s natural and cultural attractions, combined with ongoing infrastructure development, contribute to its economic vibrancy and growth in Yunnan Province.
Honghe Hani and Yi Autonomous Prefecture(红河哈尼族彝族自治州), located in southeastern Yunnan Province, China, has a diverse economy shaped by agriculture, tourism, and mining. Here’s an overview of the economy of Honghe:
Honghe’s economy is multifaceted, driven by agriculture, particularly tobacco and tea production, mining (especially coal), and cultural tourism. The prefecture’s rich ethnic diversity, natural landscapes, and ongoing development initiatives are key factors shaping its economic growth and sustainability.
Lijiang City is located in the northwest part of Yunnan Province, at the junction of the Yunnan-Guizhou Plateau and the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau. The city center is situated at 100°25′...
Zhaotong, located in northeastern Yunnan Province, China, has an economy that is primarily driven by agriculture, mining, and forestry, supplemented by tourism and emerging industries. Here’s an overview of...
Yuxi, located in the central part of Yunnan Province, China, has an economy that is shaped by its agriculture, industry, tourism, and strategic location. Here’s an overview of the...
Dehong Dai and Jingpo Autonomous Prefecture, located in southwestern Yunnan Province, China, has an economy that is characterized by agriculture, trade, industry, and cross-border economic activities. Here’s an overview...
Wenshan Zhuang and Miao Autonomous Prefecture, located in southeastern Yunnan Province, China, has an economy primarily driven by agriculture, mining, and the development of tourism. Here’s an overview of...
Baoshan, located in Yunnan Province, China, is known for its diverse economy driven by several key sectors. Here’s an overview of the Baoshan economy: Agriculture Tobacco Baoshan is a...
Wenshan Zhuang and Miao Autonomous Prefecture, located in southeastern Yunnan Province, China, features an economy that is influenced by its natural resources, agriculture, mining, and local industries. Here’s an...
Puer, or Pu’er, is a prefecture-level city in Yunnan Province, China, renowned for its tea production, diverse ethnic cultures, and unique economic characteristics. Here’s an overview of the Puer...
The economy of Nujiang Lisu Autonomous Prefecture, located in northwest Yunnan Province, China, is characterized by its natural resources, agriculture, and tourism industry. Here’s an overview: Agriculture Rice and...
1. Economic Structure and Main Industries Strong Agricultural FoundationTraditionally, the Nujiang region has been primarily an agricultural area. Local farmers cultivate staple grains as well as cash crops (such...
Qujing, located in eastern Yunnan Province, China, is an important industrial and agricultural hub. Here’s an overview of the economy of Qujing: Agriculture Tobacco Qujing is renowned for its...
Honghe Hani and Yi Autonomous Prefecture(红河哈尼族彝族自治州), located in southeastern Yunnan Province, China, has a diverse economy shaped by agriculture, tourism, and mining. Here’s an overview of the economy of...
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