Location
Pianjiao Township (片角乡) is located at the southernmost tip of Yongsheng County (永胜县), bordering Binchuan County (宾川县) to the southeast, Heqing County (鹤庆县) to the west, and Tao Yuan (涛源) and Dongfeng (东风) Townships across the river to the north. It is often referred to as the “Southern Gateway” of Yongsheng County (永胜县). The township includes eight village committees: Pianjiao (片角), Bujia (卜甲), Rehe (热河), Xia Liu (下六), Donghua (东华), Hongguang (红光), Shuichong (水冲), and Sijiaoshan (四角山), with a total of 98 village groups, covering an area of 381.20 square kilometers, and an average altitude of 1,430 meters.
Ethnic Groups and Traditional Crafts
Pianjiao Township (片角乡) is home to 16 ethnic groups, including Han (汉), Yi (彝), Lisu (傈僳), Hui (回), and Zhuang (壮).
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Yi Ethnic Group (彝族): Traditional crafts include embroidery, with Yi embroidery known for its vibrant colors and intricate patterns, holding high artistic value.
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Lisu Ethnic Group (傈僳族): Traditional crafts include Lisu clothing, which is primarily made from hemp fabric and decorated with various colorful embellishments.
Customs and Festivals
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Yi Ethnic Group (彝族): The Torch Festival (火把节) is one of the most important Yi festivals, usually held on the 24th day of the 6th lunar month. People light torches to drive away evil spirits, avoid disasters, and pray for happiness.
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Lisu Ethnic Group (傈僳族): The Knife Pole Festival (刀杆节) is celebrated on the 8th day of the 2nd lunar month. The festival features thrilling activities such as pole climbing and fire-walking.
Tourist Attractions
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Hot Springs Resources (温泉资源): Pianjiao Township (片角乡) is named after a corner of the southern bank of the Jinsha River (金沙江) and is one of the regions with abundant hot spring resources in Lijiang City (丽江市). The hot springs are primarily distributed along the Dadan River Valley (达旦河谷) in Bujia Village (卜甲村), Rehe Village (热河村), and Xia Liu Village (下六村). These hot springs are characterized by natural flow, wide distribution, high volume, and excellent water quality. The water temperature exceeds 50°C and is rich in trace elements like calcium, zinc, iron, potassium, and fluoride, meeting medical mineral water standards. Currently, 16 hot springs have been developed, including Xingxin Hot Springs (兴鑫温泉), Yongxing Hot Springs (永兴温泉), Rehe Red Hot Springs (热河红温泉), and Shiduju Hot Springs (适度居温泉).
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Rehe Red Hot Springs (热河红温泉): Rehe Red Hot Springs Resort (热河红温泉山庄) includes 60 rooms and 40 hot spring pools, each offering a unique scenic view. Some pools are hidden under longan trees, palm trees, or banana groves. Carefully designed pavilions complement the surrounding scenery.
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Shiduju Hot Springs Resort (适度居温泉庄园): The largest hot spring resort in Pianjiao Township (片角乡), Shiduju Hot Springs Resort (适度居温泉庄园) sources natural sulfur water from over 1,000 meters underground. It is rich in trace elements and minerals, featuring 106 luxurious rooms, over 50 hot spring pools, and 3 swimming pools, with a capacity of up to 1,000 people.
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Jinsha River Grand Canyon (金沙江大峡谷): The Jinsha River Grand Canyon (金沙江大峡谷) in Yongsheng County (永胜县) is one of the deepest canyons in the world. The steep mountains on both sides and the raging river create a spectacular landscape. Visitors can view the entire canyon from observation decks or choose to hike or take a boat tour for a closer experience of the grandeur and beauty of the Jinsha River.
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Agricultural Tourism (农业观光): Pianjiao Township (片角乡) enjoys a favorable climate with abundant sunlight, making it an ideal location to taste various seasonal fruits, such as sweet and juicy grapes, loquats, and longans.
Transportation
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By Road: Pianjiao Township (片角乡) is 106 kilometers from the county seat of Yongsheng County (永胜县). From Lijiang (丽江), take the Hulie Expressway (华丽高速, Rongli Expressway) and exit at Tao Yuan Toll Station (涛源收费站), then follow the signs to Pianjiao Township (片角乡).
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Public Transportation: Long-distance buses from Lijiang (丽江) or Yongsheng (永胜) can take passengers to Pianjiao Township (片角乡).
Location
Taoyuan Township (涛源乡) is located in the southwest of Yongsheng County (永胜县), Lijiang City (丽江市), Yunnan Province, 76 kilometers from the county seat and 55 kilometers in a straight line. To the east, it borders Qina Town (期纳镇) and Dongfeng Township (东风乡), to the south it adjoins Pianjiao Township (片角乡), to the west it faces Heqing County (鹤庆县) across the river, and to the north it borders Shunzhou Township (顺州乡). The total area of Taoyuan Township (涛源乡) is 442.4 square kilometers. The township lies in the Jinsha River (金沙江) dry-hot valley region, characterized by a dry climate with little rainfall, and is often referred to as the “natural greenhouse.”
Ethnic Groups and Traditional Crafts
Taoyuan Township (涛源乡) is home to several ethnic groups, including Han (汉), Yi (彝), Lisu (傈僳), and Hui (回).
Yi Ethnic Group (彝族): Traditional crafts include embroidery, with Yi embroidery known for its vibrant colors and intricate patterns, holding high artistic value.
Lisu Ethnic Group (傈僳族): Traditional crafts include the making of Lisu clothing, which is primarily made from hemp fabric and decorated with colorful embellishments.
Customs and Festivals
Yi Ethnic Group (彝族): The Torch Festival (火把节) is one of the most important Yi festivals, usually held on the 24th day of the 6th lunar month. People light torches to drive away evil spirits, avoid disasters, and pray for happiness.
Lisu Ethnic Group (傈僳族): The Knife Pole Festival (刀杆节) is celebrated on the 8th day of the 2nd lunar month. The festival features thrilling activities such as pole climbing and fire-walking.
Ancient Architecture
Shangliu Guanyin Temple (上六观音寺): Located in Xiaoguan Village (小官庄) of Taoyuan Township (涛源乡), this temple was originally built in the late Ming Dynasty (明末) or early Qing Dynasty (清初), and rebuilt in 1993. Situated in the Jinsha River (金沙江) dry-hot valley, the climate is hot and dry, with little rainfall. The temple is built along the mountainside, surrounded by scenic views: it is bordered by Sijiaoshan Mountain (四角山) to the east, with a southern view of the Jizu Mountain (鸡足山) golden pagoda, the Lotus Peak (莲花峰) to the north, and Dajian Mountain (大尖山) to the west. The temple is surrounded by mountains and rivers, offering beautiful scenery.
Tourist Attractions
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Jinsha River Grand Canyon (金沙江大峡谷): The Jinsha River Grand Canyon (金沙江大峡谷) in Yongsheng County (永胜县) is one of the deepest canyons in the world. The mountains on both sides are steep, and the river flows rapidly, offering spectacular views. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the canyon from observation decks or opt for hiking or boat tours to experience the beauty and power of the Jinsha River (金沙江) up close.
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Dalongtan (大龙潭): Located between Xiaomidi (小米地) and Xiaochangliangzi (校场梁子), about 2 kilometers northeast of the Taoyuan Township (涛源乡) government. The area is named after a spring that flows from the foot of the mountain. Today, Dalongtan (大龙潭) is a small reservoir surrounded by weeping willows. The hillside behind features a “Beautiful Taoyuan” sign made of bougainvillea. A temple, nestled under large banyan trees, is located at the foot of Dalongtan, with the banyan trees flourishing thanks to the water from the spring.
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Taoyuan “Sea” (涛源“海”): The completion of the Ludila Hydroelectric Station (鲁地拉电站) has transformed Taoyuan from a place with rushing river water into a small town on the tranquil waters of a lake. The Jinsha River (金沙江) forms a lake here, creating a brilliant summer blue water hidden in a peaceful valley.
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Sausage Flower Scenic Area (腊肠花景观): From May to August each year, the sausage flowers (腊肠花) along the roadsides in Taoyuan Township (涛源乡) bloom in bright yellow, creating a beautiful landscape. During the sunniest season, visitors can experience a romantic golden rain, immersing themselves in the vibrant summer flowers.
Transportation
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By Road: Taoyuan Township (涛源乡) is easily accessible via the Xiangning Secondary Road (祥宁二级公路), which runs through the eastern part of the township for over 10 kilometers. From Lijiang (丽江), take the Hulie Expressway (华丽高速, Rongli Expressway), exit at the Taoyuan Toll Station (涛源收费站), and follow the signs to Taoyuan Township (涛源乡).
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Public Transportation: Long-distance buses from Lijiang (丽江) to Yongsheng County (永胜县) are available, with buses running multiple times a day. The journey takes approximately 3 hours.
Tourist Map of Dongchuan Red Land and Jiaozi Mountain in Kunming
Location
Yangping Yi Ethnic Township (羊坪彝族乡) is located in the northeastern part of Yongsheng County (永胜县), Lijiang City (丽江市), Yunnan Province. The coordinates range from 100°45′ to 101°00′ east longitude and 26°10′ to 26°40′ north latitude. To the east, it borders Liude Township (六德乡), to the southwest it connects with Yongbei Town (永北镇), and to the north it adjoins Ninglang County (宁蒗县). The township covers an area of 164.1 square kilometers, and the township government is located in Zhongyangping (中羊坪), which is 16.2 kilometers from the county seat.
Ethnic Groups and Traditional Crafts
Yangping Yi Ethnic Township (羊坪彝族乡) is a predominantly Yi (彝族) ethnic township, with the Yi people here being part of the Xiao Liangshan Yi group (小凉山彝族). They migrated from the Daliangshan region in Sichuan around the early 15th century.
The traditional crafts of the Yi people include:
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Embroidery (刺绣): Known for its bright colors and intricate patterns, Yi embroidery holds high artistic value.
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Felt-making (擀毡制作): This ancient craft is used to create felt items such as blankets, mats, and hats.
Customs and Festivals
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Torch Festival (火把节): One of the most important Yi festivals, usually celebrated on the 24th day of the 6th lunar month. People light torches to drive away evil spirits, ward off disasters, and pray for happiness.
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Yi New Year (彝族年): A traditional festival of the Yi people, usually held in the 10th lunar month. It is a time to pray for a good harvest and to honor ancestors.
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Skirt Changing Ceremony (换裙仪式): A coming-of-age ceremony for Yi girls, usually held when they reach the age of 12 to 13 years, known as “Shanlar” in the Yi language.
Tourist Attractions
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Yangping Reservoir (羊坪水库): One of Yunnan Province’s key water conservation projects and the first reservoir in Yongsheng County (永胜县). The reservoir has an elevation of 2,520 meters and a total capacity of 41.5 million cubic meters. The surrounding area is a picturesque scene of intersecting mountains and valleys. Visitors can take small wooden boats through the valleys, enjoying the beautiful views of green mountains, clear water, and the sound of pines.
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Ta’erbo Ren Mountain (他尔波忍山): The highest peak in Yongsheng County (永胜县), with an elevation of 3,953.3 meters. Snow often covers the peak in winter and spring, and the mountain is rich in forests. During spring and summer, the mountain slopes are dotted with flowering rhododendrons.
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Yangping Meadow (羊坪草甸): Located to the north of Yangping Reservoir (羊坪水库), this vast meadow transforms into a stunning “grassland” every summer, making it an ideal spot for summer relaxation and enjoying natural scenery.
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Potato Flower Sea (洋芋花海): Every summer, over 300 acres of potato flowers bloom in Shui Ke Le Village (水柯乐村) in Yangping Township (羊坪乡), creating a breathtaking landscape of white and purple flowers across the mountains.
Transportation
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By Road: Yangping Yi Ethnic Township (羊坪彝族乡) is easily accessible from Yongsheng County (永胜县), 16.2 kilometers from the county seat. The Xiangkong Highway (祥空公路) between Yongsheng County (永胜县) and Yangping Township (羊坪乡) has been fully completed. From Lijiang (丽江), you can drive along the appropriate highways to reach Yangping Township (羊坪乡).
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Public Transportation: You can take a local bus or taxi from Yongsheng County (永胜县) to Yangping Yi Ethnic Township (羊坪彝族乡).
Accommodation and Cuisine
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Accommodation: There are a few guesthouses in the township, but it is also possible to stay in the county seat, where the accommodation conditions are relatively better.
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Cuisine: You can try Yi ethnic dishes, such as potatoes, buckwheat, corn, and white kidney beans. Additionally, Yongsheng County (永胜县) is famous for its ham and butter tea, which are unique local specialties.
Shopping and Local Products
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Shopping: The Yi embroidery crafts and felt-made products in Yangping Yi Ethnic Township (羊坪彝族乡) are distinctive local souvenirs.
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Local Products: White kidney beans are one of the leading agricultural products of Yangping Township (羊坪乡), known for their plump, uniform grains and excellent quality.
Location
Sanchuan Town (三川镇) is located in the northwestern part of Yongsheng County (永胜县), Lijiang City (丽江市), Yunnan Province. It was formed by the merger of the former Jinguang (金官) and Liangguan (梁官) towns. The town covers an area of 224.8 square kilometers, with the township government situated in Jinguang Street (金官街) at an altitude of 1,570 meters. It is 28 kilometers from the county seat of Yongsheng (永胜县) and 75 kilometers from Lijiang Ancient City (丽江古城区). The town enjoys convenient transportation and is a major transport hub connecting Yongsheng County (永胜县) and Lijiang City (丽江市).
Ethnic Groups and Traditional Crafts
Sanchuan Town (三川镇) is primarily inhabited by Han Chinese, but there are also Yi (彝族) and other ethnic minorities in the surrounding areas. The town and its surroundings boast a variety of traditional crafts, including:
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Yongsheng Enamel Silverware (永胜珐琅银器制作技艺): This ancient enamel craft has a history of 800 years and is a unique gem of Lijiang’s ethnic culture.
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Sanchuan Ham (三川火腿制作技艺): Known for its meticulous production process, Sanchuan ham undergoes two stages, “up to heaven” and “down to earth,” reflecting the cultural and emotional significance of the region.
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Hemp Seed Salt (麻籽盐制作技艺): A traditional craft of making salt from hemp seeds, unique to Sanchuan Town (三川镇).
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Rice Cake Making (米糕制作技艺): A local traditional craft that involves making rice cakes, a staple in local cuisine.
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Silk Quilt Handicraft (桑蚕丝棉被手工制作技艺): This craft showcases the traditional handicrafts of the area.
Customs and Festivals
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Market Days (赶集日): Sanchuan Town (三川镇) hosts lively market days. On the 4th and 9th days of every month, farmers from the surrounding mountains gather to sell their agricultural products, filling the streets of Sanchuan. Jinguang Street (金官街) has markets on the 4th and 9th, Liangguan Street (梁官街) on the 5th and 10th, and Zhongzhou Street (中洲街) and Zhangfei Street (章斐街) on the 2nd and 7th.
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Longhua Temple Incense Fair (龙华寺香会): Held on the 1st and 15th of each lunar month at Longhua Temple (龙华寺) near Cui Lake (翠湖), attracting many visitors.
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Lotus Festival (荷花节): Every summer, Sanchuan Town (三川镇) hosts a Lotus Festival, featuring cultural performances, local food markets, and opportunities to admire and pick lotus flowers, offering a chance to experience local customs.
Ancient Architecture
Sanchuan Town (三川镇) is a historical cultural town in Yongsheng County (永胜县), with well-preserved ancient buildings that highlight the charm of the old town. In addition, Longhua Temple (龙华寺), an important religious site in Sanchuan Ba (三川坝), is a popular leisure spot for local villagers. The temple is currently undergoing renovations.
Tourist Attractions
Cui Lake (翠湖): Known for its vast lotus garden, Cui Lake (翠湖) is one of the top ten scenic spots in Yongsheng County (永胜县), with lush lotus flowers covering the lake in summer. Additionally, there are vast orchards producing soft-seed pomegranates, Wokan oranges, and olive trees, filling the air with the scents of fruit and flowers.
Surrounding Attractions: Sanchuan Town (三川镇) is also close to several other attractions, including:
Chenghai (澄海), one of the nine major plateau lakes of Yunnan.
Qingshui Ancient Town (清水古镇).
Hongshiya Ancient Earthquake Site (红石崖古地震遗址).
Taliu Mountain Ancient Tombs (他留山古墓群).
Yunnan Border Culture Museum (云南边屯文化博物馆).
Ta’erbo Ren Mountain (他尔波忍山).
Transportation
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By Road: From Lijiang (丽江), you can drive along the relevant highways to Sanchuan Town (三川镇), which takes about 1 hour. Sanchuan Town (三川镇) is approximately 80 kilometers from Lijiang Ancient City (丽江古城区).
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Public Transportation: You can take a bus directly from Lijiang Passenger Station (丽江客运站) to Sanchuan Town (三川镇), with a ticket price of 19 yuan.
Accommodation and Cuisine
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Accommodation: There are a few guesthouses in the town, but for more comfort, you can choose to stay in the county seat, where accommodation is relatively better.
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Cuisine: Local specialties include Sanchuan ham, fried lotus leaf tips, stewed pig trotters with lotus seeds, fried lotus flowers, and other dishes. You can also try Yongsheng oil tea, steamed Chenghai white fish with chicken fungus, spicy fermented bean paste liver, and silverfish from Chenghai.
Shopping and Local Products
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Shopping: You can purchase local souvenirs such as Yongsheng enamel silverware and Sanchuan ham, both of which represent the region’s unique culture.
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Local Products: Sanchuan Town (三川镇) is known for its production of rice, wheat, and corn. It is also famous for specialty fruits like soft-seed pomegranates, Wokan oranges, and olives.
Napa Lake, like many wetlands across China, has undergone a transformation from pristine forests and vast bodies of water to increased agricultural land through drainage, winter pastures, and significant reduction in forested areas. This has led to decreased water retention capacity and triggered flooding disasters. Additionally, scars left on surrounding mountains from sand and gravel extraction serve as reminders of environmental destruction, prompting reflections on conservation efforts.
In the late 1990s, initiatives such as natural forest protection and returning farmland to forests began around Napa Lake, gradually allowing vegetation on surrounding mountains to recover.
The history of Napa Lake is vividly portrayed in the text and photographs of the book “Birds of Napa Lake” by teachers Han Lianxian and Peng Jiansheng. Han Lianxian recalls his first visit in December 1984, describing Zhongdian (before it was renamed Shangri-La) and Napa Lake as desolate, remote, and harsh in climate. By winter 1988, the population of black-necked cranes in China had dwindled to 2,000 individuals, classified as endangered. Over three days, observations were made on the crane population, adult and young ratios, and the slow growth observed due to protection efforts over the years.
In spring 2002, Shangri-La County proposed packaging Napa Lake, Bitahai Lake, and Shudu Lake for a national-level natural reserve, prompting surveys on birds and mammals in these areas. The wintering population of black-necked cranes at Napa Lake had grown to around 250 individuals.
Post-2005, under local government commission, Han Lianxian led scientific research and collaborated with local governments and non-governmental organizations to train local residents in bird conservation, bird-watching, and ecotourism, benefiting from the rapid tourism development in Shangri-La.
However, challenges remain with the aftermath of natural disasters caused by environmental degradation, such as the summer floods of 2002 that submerged National Highway 214. To ensure road access, the transportation department temporarily elevated road embankments. With assistance from local environmental organizations like Shambhala Manor and the county government, Napa Village purchased rubber and metal boats to address transportation issues.
While natural forest protection and reforestation projects initiated in the late 1990s have facilitated the gradual recovery of mountain vegetation around Napa Lake, the process to fully restore the original ecological balance will require considerable time due to its high altitude, long winters, and slow plant growth.
Bird Situation at Napa Lake in Winter
Napa Lake was designated as a natural reserve for wintering Black-necked Cranes by the Yunnan Provincial Government in 1983, subsequently upgraded to a provincial-level protected area, and approved as an internationally important wetland in 2004.
Napa Lake is a seasonal plateau lake, expansive in summer but rapidly drying in winter. For instance, the winter water area decreased from 1,300 hectares in 2007-2008 to 600 hectares. Research over the past 30 years by scholars like Mr. Han has consistently shown that waterfowl dominate the wintering bird population at Napa Lake. Early winter sees the highest diversity and abundance, with over 50 species and more than 20,000 water birds. As winter progresses and the water body shrinks, both the variety and number of water birds decrease. By late winter, the species count is about half of early winter, and the numbers are about a third. Moreover, thanks to years of conservation efforts, the population of Black-necked Cranes shows a steady and slow increase, with over 300 cranes wintering at Napa Lake annually.
Napa Lake is surrounded on three sides by mountains and opens towards the Zhongdian Basin, with forests, meadows, swamps, lakes, farmland, and villages nestled amidst the backdrop of blue skies, white clouds, and snow-capped mountains. Positioned along the migratory pathway of western Chinese birds, it is an ideal wintering ground for migratory birds. In early December 2016, a national synchronized waterfowl survey coordinator meeting was held at Napa Lake, where representatives conducted a two-day survey around the lake from the 6th to the 7th, recording over 37 species and more than 30,000 water birds. Among them, the Bar-headed Goose accounted for nearly half, and abundant species included the Red-crested Pochard, Bar-headed Goose, and Common Pochard. Notably recorded were over 280 Black-necked Cranes, 230 Black Storks, 40 White-tailed Eagles, and 1 Crested Serpent Eagle.
In addition to synchronized bird counts around the lake, visits to the alpine botanical gardens on the lake’s highlands and serene villages along its shores are essential. Each village around Napa Lake has its sacred mountain, motivating local residents to voluntarily protect the wildlife and plants in these mountains, reflecting the profound folk and religious culture of the Tibetan area.
Key bird species at Napa Lake:
- 黑颈鹤 (Black-necked Crane)
- 白尾海雕 (White-tailed Sea Eagle)
- 斑翅朱雀 (Varied Tit)
- 滇鳾 (Yunnan Nuthatch)
- 棕胸岩鷚 (Rock Bunting)
- 灰头灰雀 (Grey-headed Bullfinch)
- 普通秋莎鸭 (Common Pochard)
- 栗耳鹀 (Chestnut-eared Bunting)
- 渡鸦 (Raven)
- 棕头鸥 (Brown-headed Gull)
- 宝兴鹛雀 (Baoshan Jay)
- 黑鹳 (Black Stork)
- 凤头麦鸡 (Blood Pheasant)
- 煤山雀 (Coal Tit)
- 高山雀鹛 (Alpine Accentor)
- 栗臀䴓 (Chestnut-flanked White-eye)
- 斑头雁 (Bar-headed Goose)
- 赤麻鸭 (Ferruginous Duck)
- 红眉朱雀 (Red-browed Finch)
- 白喉红尾鸲 (White-throated Redstart)
- 白眉雀鹛 (White-browed Laughingthrush)
Bird Watching Guide: Viewing Points, Transportation, Accommodation
Napa Lake is situated at an altitude of approximately 3,200 meters, about 8 kilometers northwest of Zhongdian County (Shangri-La), and approximately 22 kilometers from Shangri-La Airport. The circular route around the lake spans about 40 kilometers, accessible by car or bicycle. Some smaller roads lead to private estates, so it’s advisable to seek permission before driving.
Special Reminder: Avoid venturing onto small paths extending into the lake area to prevent getting stuck. For many years, Xiangbala Manor has been a base for bird experts and enthusiasts, offering convenient lodging, car rentals, and airport transfers by prior appointment.
There are 6 excellent observation points around the circular route of Napa Lake:
- Towards Alpine Botanical Garden: Pass through Chuizongdala and Napa Lake Wetland Park along the road from the county town. This area offers the closest proximity to shallow water for observing and photographing Black Storks.
- Alpine Botanical Garden: Bird activity is best in the morning. Ticket sales start at 8 am; visitors can enter early by opening the iron gate and pay upon departure around noon. There are numerous pheasants inside and around the botanical garden, particularly near the office building, medicinal plant garden, and near the broken wall adjacent to the highway. The large parking lot outside the botanical garden provides a comprehensive view of the northern section of Napa Lake. Next to the parking lot, a small door leads down steps to observe birds in shrub habitats; the Wallcreeper and Baoshan Jay are commonly seen here.
- Towards Xiangbala Manor from Alpine Botanical Garden: Follow the lake route towards the northwest corner near Lalong Village. Take a small path into the village, passing through houses and farmland. The birdwatching along the dirt road is excellent, with highlights including Meadow Buntings, Rufous-vented Tits, Yunnan Nuthatches, Striated Prinias, and White-throated Redstarts. The White-tailed Sea Eagle prefers resting on large trees along steep mountain slopes.
- Around Napa Village: There are plenty of field birds around Napa Village, with close proximity to waterfowl along the lake. A stroll after meals can yield significant sightings.
- Towards Bren and Naqu River in the East: Head south from Xiangbala Manor along the circular route towards Bren and Naqu River. This area features extensive marshes and grasslands, favored by large raptors for resting.
- Facing “Darige” Hill Across from Xiangbala Manor: Located in front of Xiangbala Manor, “Darige” Hill offers a higher elevation. Drive from the village road to the foothill and climb to a large platform on the summit. This spot provides a panoramic view of the central section of Napa Lake.
Location
Chenghai Town is located in the southern part of (永胜县) Yongsheng County, (丽江市) Lijiang City, Yunnan Province. It is 41 kilometers away from Yongsheng County and borders (东山乡) Dongshan Township to the east, (期纳镇) Qina Town to the south, (顺州板桥乡) Shunzhou Banqiao Township to the west, and (梁官镇) Liangguan Town to the north. The town covers an area of 473.6 square kilometers and administers 12 village committees and 77 village groups. Except for the two villages of (吉福) Jifu and (莨峨) Lang’e, which are located in mountainous and semi-mountainous areas, the remaining 10 village committees are situated in the Chenghai Basin.
Ethnic Groups and Traditional Skills
Chenghai Town is home to multiple ethnic minorities, including the (彝族) Yi and (傈僳族) Lisu. The traditional skills of the area include:
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Chenghai Fish Cooking Techniques: A Han Chinese traditional cooking technique in Chenghai, famous for its unique way of preparing local fish.
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Enamel Silverware Making: A national heritage skill listed in the national protection catalog of Yongsheng County, which is also inherited in Chenghai.
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Fire Grass Weaving: A provincial-level protected skill that showcases the traditional textile techniques of the local Yi and other minority groups.
Customs and Festivals
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Chenghai Sea Festival: A unique local folk event held on the second day of the second month of the lunar calendar.
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Torch Festival: An important Yi festival, typically held on the 24th of the sixth lunar month, where people light torches to drive away evil spirits and pray for happiness.
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Knife Stick Festival: Traditional events such as the Knife Stick Sacred Ceremony are held in villages like (金兰村) Jinlan Village in Chenghai.
Ancient Architecture
Chenghai Town has relatively few ancient buildings, but nearby areas like (他留山) Taliu Mountain preserve historical sites, including the (他留山古墓群) Taliu Mountain Ancient Tombs.
Tourist Resources
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Chenghai Lake: One of the nine highland lakes of Yunnan and one of the world’s three natural spirulina-growing lakes. The lake is clear and beautiful, perfect for boat tours and sunset viewing. Nearby attractions include Chenghai Park, Moon Bay, and Chenghai Lake Park, all great spots for admiring the lake and mountain scenery.
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Maojia Bay Scenic Area: Located on the southern side of Chenghai, this area includes the Bian Tun Museum and the Great Ancestors Memorial Hall, both of which are currently free to visit.
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Qingshui Ancient Town: A charming old town that retains traditional architectural styles and way of life.
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Chenghai Lake Cycling: A popular cycling activity around Chenghai Lake, offering a scenic view of the lake’s clear blue waters.
Transportation
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By Road: From Lijiang, drive along the Liyong Line for approximately 2 hours to reach Chenghai Town. It is about 80 kilometers from Lijiang Ancient City.
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Public Transport: Take a long-distance bus from Lijiang Passenger Station to Yongsheng County. From there, transfer to a minibus to Chenghai Town.
Accommodation and Cuisine
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Accommodation: There are many hotels and guesthouses around Chenghai, offering various options depending on your preferences.
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Cuisine: You can taste local specialties such as Chenghai fish, butter tea, and local chicken soup.
Hope this guide helps you plan your trip to Chenghai Town.
Location
Qina Town is located in the southwest of (永胜县) Yongsheng County, (丽江市) Lijiang City, Yunnan Province. It is 55 kilometers away from Yongsheng County and 44 kilometers in a straight line. It borders (东风傈僳族乡) Dongfeng Lisu Township to the east, (涛源乡) Taoyuan Township to the southwest, and (程海) Chenghai to the north. The town lies in the central area of the southern three townships and two towns. Both the (宾永高速) Binyong Expressway and (祥宁二级路) Xiangning Secondary Road pass through the area, making transportation convenient.
Ethnic Groups and Traditional Skills
Qina Town is home to more than 10 ethnic minorities, including the (回族) Hui, (彝族) Yi, (傈僳族) Lisu, and (壮族) Zhuang. Traditional skills include:
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Yi Embroidery: Known for its bright colors and rich patterns, it holds significant artistic value.
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Fire Grass Weaving: A provincial-level protected skill that showcases the traditional textile techniques of the local Yi and other minority groups.
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Dai Slow Wheel Pottery: While Qina Town is not predominantly inhabited by the Dai people, visitors can still experience similar traditional skills due to the cultural diversity of the Lijiang area.
Customs and Festivals
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Yi Torch Festival: An important festival for the Yi people, typically held on the 24th of the sixth lunar month. People light torches to drive away evil spirits and pray for happiness.
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Lantern Festival Performance: During the Lantern Festival, (期纳村委会) Qina Village Committee and (新蕊艺术培训学校) Xinrui Art Training School hold performances, with a variety of exciting activities.
Ancient Architecture
Qina Town boasts a wealth of ancient architectural resources, including:
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Dongyue Temple: Built during the Qing Dynasty under Emperor Qianlong, it gradually formed a Taoist temple complex by the time of Emperor Daoguang. It is now a provincial-level key cultural heritage site.
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Ruiguang Temple: Preserves large areas of intact murals from the Ming and Qing Dynasties.
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Qingshui Ancient Town: Featuring numerous ancient buildings from the Ming and Qing periods, such as academies, temples, and ancestral halls. It is known as the “Museum of Ming and Qing Architecture.”
Tourist Resources
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Chenghai: Located to the north of Qina Town, Chenghai is a famous scenic spot in Yongsheng County, known for its beautiful lakes and mountains.
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Qingshui Ancient Town: Situated in (清水村) Qingshui Village in Qina Town, this quaint scenic area is renowned for its scholarly atmosphere and is called the “Land of Cultural Winds.”
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Guyu Village: A traditional Chinese village full of historical charm, with several ancient buildings from the Ming and Qing periods. Among them, the (魁星阁) Kuixing Pavilion, built during the Qing Dynasty, is a symbolic structure.
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Qina Ancient Architecture Complex: Comprising nine cultural heritage sites, including (瑞光寺) Ruiguang Temple, (黄家宗祠) Huang Family Ancestral Hall, and (阮家大院) Ruan Family Courtyard. The total building area is about 4,600 square meters.
Transportation
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By Road: From Lijiang, drive along the (宾永高速) Binyong Expressway or (祥宁二级路) Xiangning Secondary Road for approximately 1 hour to reach Qina Town.
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Public Transport: Take a local bus or taxi from Yongsheng County to Qina Town.
Accommodation and Cuisine
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Accommodation: There are a few guesthouses available in the town. Alternatively, you can choose to stay in Yongsheng County, where accommodation conditions are relatively better.
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Cuisine: Local specialties include (永胜火腿) Yongsheng Ham, butter tea, and chicken soup.
Hope this guide helps you plan your trip to Qina Town.
Location
Renhe Town is located in the southeastern part of (永胜县) Yongsheng County, in the (金沙江) Jinsha River dry-hot valley area. It is 58 kilometers away from Yongsheng County, with an area of 455.3 square kilometers. The region is blessed with excellent ecological vegetation, abundant sunlight and heat, fertile land, and abundant water sources. The average annual temperature is 18°C, making it a sunny town and a great place for health and wellness.
Ethnic Groups and Traditional Skills
Renhe Town is home to several ethnic minorities, including the (彝族) Yi and (傈僳族) Lisu. Traditional skills include:
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Yi Embroidery: Known for its vibrant colors and intricate patterns, it holds significant artistic value.
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Fire Grass Weaving: This traditional textile craft reflects the techniques of the local Yi and other minority groups.
Customs and Festivals
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Yi Torch Festival: An important festival for the Yi people, usually held on the 24th of the sixth lunar month. People light torches to drive away evil spirits and pray for happiness.
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Yi Dance (打跳): A traditional dance of the Yi people, an important part of local Yi culture.
Ancient Architecture
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Ruan Family Courtyard (冉家大院): Built during the late Qing Dynasty, the preserved section is a two-entry courtyard with a timber and earth structure. The total area is approximately 1,300 square meters, with 12 rooms of various sizes. The courtyard’s structure is exquisite and well-preserved. It has now been transformed into the “Red Flag Memory” village history museum and a party education base in (红旗村) Hongqi Village.
Tourist Resources
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Hongqi Village (红旗村): It takes only about half an hour by car from Renhe Town to reach Hongqi Village. The village enjoys favorable geographical conditions, with a forest coverage rate of over 80%. It boasts rich red culture and a strong ecological foundation. The village’s terrain features significant elevation changes, preserving the unique landscape of the Sichuan-Yunnan mountainous villages. Fruits such as mangoes, cherries, pomelos, and plums are cultivated at different altitudes.
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Hongqi Rural Study and Exploration Base (红旗田园农耕研学基地): Covering 60 acres, this base focuses on immersive parent-child study experiences with “fun appreciation, fun travel, fun learning, fun food, and fun living.” It combines rural culture, education, and experiential activities with the rich local environment and agricultural products. The base has attracted many tourists for its close-to-nature farming culture and distinctive educational programs.
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Hongqi Farm (红旗农场): Covering about 600 acres, Hongqi Farm is an eco-friendly area with widespread forest coverage, making it an ideal spot for health and leisure. Visitors can also engage in agricultural experiences and enjoy the joy of harvesting.
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“Ten Miles Beyond Dust” Stargazing Campsite (“十里尘外”星空露营地): Deep in Hongqi Village, this stargazing campsite offers a tranquil escape. In the evening, the sunset embraces the mountains and fields. Visitors can sit with friends under the sky, enjoying a relaxing moment.
Transportation
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By Road: From Lijiang, take the relevant road to Renhe Town, approximately 1.5 hours by car.
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Public Transport: Take a local bus or taxi from Yongsheng County to Renhe Town.
Accommodation and Cuisine
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Accommodation: There are a few guesthouses in the town, but you can also opt for accommodations in Yongsheng County, where conditions are relatively better.
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Cuisine: You can taste local specialties like (永胜火腿) Yongsheng Ham and butter tea.
Location
Yongbei Town is located in the northeastern part of (永胜县) Yongsheng County, making it the political, economic, and cultural center of the county. It borders (羊坪乡) Yangping Township and (六德乡) Liude Township to the east, (程海镇) Chenghai Town to the south, (三川镇) Sanchuan Town to the west, and (宁蒗县战河乡) Zhanhe Township of Ninglang County to the north. The town stretches 18.73 kilometers from north to south and 6 kilometers from east to west, covering an area of 247.2 square kilometers. The town government is located at an altitude of 2,140 meters, and the climate is characterized by a low-latitude mountain monsoon climate with a cold temperate zone.
Ethnic Groups and Traditional Skills
Yongbei Town is home to several ethnic groups, including the (汉族) Han, (彝族) Yi, (纳西族) Naxi, and (傈僳族) Lisu. Traditional skills in the area are diverse, including:
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Yongsheng Enamel Silverware Making: This craft is mainly found in the Han ethnic areas of Yongbei Town and (三川镇) Sanchuan Town. It has been sold to Myanmar, India, and other places since the Ming and Qing dynasties.
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Qingxiangzhai Water Crisp Cake Making: Made from fine flour and fresh pig lard, these cakes come in large, medium, and small round shapes. The texture is soft, crispy, and layered.
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Traditional Woodcarving Craft: (Yongbei Town) has a long history of woodcarving, with finely crafted products that have gradually shifted from practical items to ornamental pieces.
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Porcelain Making: The (永胜瓷器文化展示体验空间) Yongsheng Porcelain Cultural Display and Experience Space in (大厂村) Dachang Village offers a 155-year history of porcelain production.
Customs and Festivals
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Yongsheng Han Wedding Feast: A unique folk custom in (Yongbei Town) where traditional Han wedding feasts are held.
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Yi Torch Festival: An important festival for the Yi people, usually held on the 24th of the sixth lunar month. It involves lighting torches to drive away evil spirits and pray for happiness.
Ancient Architecture
As the political, economic, and cultural center of Yongsheng County, (Yongbei Town) is rich in ancient architecture, including:
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Yongsheng Confucian Temple (永胜文庙): Located in (永胜古城) the ancient city of Yongsheng, this well-preserved Confucian temple is an important example of local architecture.
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Ancient City Wall: The ancient city wall of (永胜古城) Yongsheng Ancient City is a key window for researching the history and culture of the (纳西族) Naxi people.
Tourist Resources
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Yongsheng Ancient City (永胜古城): This ancient city preserves many buildings from the Ming and Qing dynasties and serves as an important site for studying Naxi history and culture.
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Shizishan Scenic Area (狮子山风景区): Shizishan is a famous scenic spot in Yongsheng County, offering beautiful views and a viewing platform where visitors can overlook the town and surrounding natural landscape.
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Guanyinqing (观音箐): One of the famous historical sites in (Yongbei Town).
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Qingxiangzhai Water Crisp Cake Making Experience Space: Visitors can sample various traditional cakes and learn about the unique process of making water crisp cakes.
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Traditional Woodcarving Experience Space: This space allows visitors to view woodcarvings from different periods of Yongsheng’s history and experience the process of woodcarving.
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Yongsheng Porcelain Cultural Display and Experience Space: This space not only showcases the processes of porcelain shaping, throwing, and painting, but also presents the production equipment, techniques, and works from different periods of porcelain making.
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Earthenware Making Experience Space (土陶制作体验空间): Visitors can try their hand at making earthenware and appreciate the unique art form.
Transportation
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By Road: (Yongbei Town) is easily accessible, with the (祥宁公路) Xiangning Road and (白石公路) Baishi Road intersecting the town. From Lijiang, it takes about 1 hour by car to reach (Yongbei Town).
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Public Transport: Take a long-distance bus from (丽江客运站) Lijiang Bus Station to Yongsheng County, and then transfer to (Yongbei Town).
Accommodation and Cuisine
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Accommodation: As the central area of Yongsheng County, (Yongbei Town) offers several hotels and guesthouses, including (永胜万恋主题酒店) Yongsheng Wanlian Theme Hotel, (永胜沧阳丰月商务酒店) Yongsheng Cangyang Fengyue Business Hotel, and (永胜红宇酒店) Yongsheng Hongyu Hotel.
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Cuisine: Local specialties include (永胜火腿) Yongsheng Ham, butter tea, and water crisp cakes.
Hope this guide helps you plan your trip to (Yongbei Town).
Entertainment in Xundian County, Kunming
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