Lijiang Old Town (丽江古城), a small town brimming with historical charm and unique character, is not only home to ancient architecture and winding cobblestone streets but also hides a wealth of colorful entertainment activities waiting to be explored. Whether you’re passionate about immersive traditional cultural experiences or eager to snap photos at popular attractions, Lijiang Old Town has something for everyone.

Unique Cultural Experiences

Tie-Dyeing: Create Your Own Unique Fabric

Among the many tie-dyeing workshops in Lijiang Old Town, Jingzhe (惊蛰) is a great choice. The shop displays a dazzling array of tie-dyed products—aprons, shirts, scarves, handkerchiefs—each radiating the charm of traditional craftsmanship. Visitors can purchase these directly or try their hand at creating their own unique piece.

The entire experience takes about an hour, starting with a detailed introduction to the history of tie-dyeing and basic techniques. After the explanation, you can choose your favorite pattern and, under the guidance of the staff, begin your creative journey, ultimately taking home a one-of-a-kind souvenir. Additionally, the shop offers woodblock printing (版画) experiences, another intangible cultural heritage worth exploring.

Dongba Script (东巴文): Writing Ancient Pictographs

Dongba script, the world’s only surviving pictographic writing system, is even more primitive than oracle bone script. It can be seen everywhere in Lijiang Old Town—on restaurant signs, shop fronts, and buildings. At the Naxi Pictographic Script Experience Hall (纳西象形文字体验馆), you can delve into the charm of this ancient script.

The process is simple: tell the staff which Chinese character you’d like to write, and a teacher will translate it into Dongba script. You’ll then practice with pen and paper before transcribing it onto durable Dongba paper, creating a lasting keepsake.

Dongba Paper-Making: Discover a Millennia-Old Craft

Though the author didn’t have time to try Dongba paper-making, this activity is equally fascinating. According to online sources, the craft embodies the ancient wisdom of the Naxi people. Participating in this traditional handmade art offers a profound cultural experience—hopefully, those who’ve tried it can share their insights!

Thangka Painting: A Treasure of Tibetan Art

In Lijiang and Dukezong Old Town (独克宗古城), Thangka painting opens a window into Tibetan culture. The intricate, vibrant process is rich in cultural and religious significance. Participating in a Thangka workshop not only teaches painting techniques but also deepens your understanding of the stories and meanings behind this art form—stay tuned for the author’s follow-up details.

Must-Visit Nighttime Photo Spots

Zhongyi Market (忠义市场): Bustling Day and Night

By day, it’s a lively fresh produce market; by night, it transforms into a vibrant night market with dazzling lights, food stalls, and souvenir vendors. The lively atmosphere makes it a perfect spot to experience local life.

The Big Waterwheel (大水车): Lijiang’s Iconic Landmark

A symbol of Lijiang, the Big Waterwheel has witnessed the town’s changes over time. After three years of quiet, it’s bustling once again. A photo here, with the flowing water and ancient architecture in the background, is a must for every visitor.

Lijiang Eye Observation Deck (丽江之眼观景台): A Panoramic Night View

Located at the entrance of Dayan Flower Lane (大研花巷), the Lijiang Eye offers a stunning vantage point to admire the old town’s glittering nightscape. From here, you can see the Lion Mountain (狮子山), Wangu Pavilion (万古楼), and the entire illuminated town.

Sifang Street (四方街): A Gathering Place for Bonfire Dances

The heart of the old town, Sifang Street hosts nightly bonfire parties and traditional dances. Visitors join hands, singing and dancing around the fire, immersing themselves in the Naxi people’s warmth and energy.

Mufu (木府): A Historical Night Tour

Since opening for night tours, Mufu has revealed a new charm. Lit by lanterns at night, the ancient mansion feels even more solemn, as if echoing with history, transporting you back in time.

East Street (东大街): The Town’s Liveliest Lane

One of the busiest streets in the old town, East Street is lined with shops and bustling with tourists. Here, you can buy souvenirs, sample local snacks, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere.

Big Stone Bridge (大石桥): A Photographer’s Paradise

With flowers beneath the bridge and a gently flowing stream, the Big Stone Bridge offers a picturesque scene. Photographers love capturing the trees on the bridge from below, creating poetic compositions.

Oil-Paper Umbrella Alley (油纸伞巷): A Romantic Traditional Chinese Spot

Next to Sifang Street, Xianwen Alley (现文巷) dazzles by day with colorful umbrellas embodying Yunnan’s vibrant culture. At night, under warm lights, it exudes a nostalgic charm. Walking beneath the dense canopy of umbrellas feels like stepping into a romantic Jiangnan water town—every shot is postcard-worthy.

Yichi Lane (忆持巷): An Immersive Cultural Experience

Yichi Lane isn’t just about performances—you can also join in traditional dances. Here, you’ll immerse yourself in Lijiang’s culture, mingling with locals and fellow travelers in a lively celebration.

Creative Team-Building Activities in the Old Town

Lijiang Old Town is also perfect for themed team-building, such as the “Old Town Treasure Hunt Challenge.” The activity kicks off with fun icebreakers before participants receive exploration tasks.

Through “mission card challenges,” teams search for clues around the town, uncovering its charm and earning gold coins for each completed task. Side missions encourage photo ops at popular spots, capturing memorable moments. Finally, teams use their collective coins in a blind auction for fun prizes, blending cultural exploration, teamwork, and excitement.

Lijiang Old Town offers a diverse range of entertainment—whether cultural immersion, nighttime exploration, or creative team-building. Each experience deepens your connection to this ancient town, leaving you with unforgettable memories.

Lijiang Ancient Town, this shining pearl located in the Gucheng District of Lijiang City, Yunnan Province (云南省丽江市古城区), is also known as Dayan Town (大研镇). Situated in the middle of the Lijiang Basin (丽江坝) at an altitude of approximately 2,416 meters, it was built in the late Song and early Yuan dynasties (late 13th century). After centuries of weathering storms, it was successfully inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1997, becoming one of only two ancient towns in China to achieve this status as an entire ancient city.

Unique Architectural Culture

The architecture of Lijiang Ancient Town blends the essence of multiple ethnic groups, including the Han, Bai (白族), Yi (彝族), Tibetan (藏族), and Naxi (纳西族), forming a distinctive style. The town lacks imposing city walls, reportedly because the hereditary rulers of Lijiang bore the surname Mu (木), and building walls around “Mu” would form the character “Kun” (困, meaning “trapped”).

The town’s layout features three mountains as a natural screen and a river connecting the area. Its water system consists of three rivers flowing through the town, with nearly every household having access to flowing water. The streets are arranged in a winding, secluded, narrow, and well-connected style, oriented northwest to southeast. The residential buildings are distinctive, often following layouts such as “three rooms with a screen wall” (三坊一照壁) and “four courtyards with five skylights” (四合五天井), as well as front and rear courtyards or multi-courtyard designs. These structures are vital heritage for studying Chinese architectural and cultural history.

The town’s alleys crisscross, with streets mostly paved in stone slabs and houses primarily built with wooden structures, preserving the ancient town’s rustic charm.

Dynamic Water System Culture

Water is the core and soul of Lijiang Ancient Town, shaping its unique canal-based spatial layout. The town is renowned for its dense concentration of bridges, with over 340 stone and wooden bridges of various designs. The Yu River (玉河), Dong River (东河), and Zhong River (中河) flow through the town, providing water for daily use, firefighting, and environmental beautification, creating a distinctive waterscape that imbues the town with a lively beauty.

Vibrant Ethnic and Folk Culture

Dongba Culture (东巴文化)

An essential part of ancient Naxi culture, Dongba Culture is named after the Dongba religion and has a history of over 1,000 years. It encompasses Dongba script (东巴文字), Dongba scriptures (东巴经), Dongba paintings (东巴绘画), Dongba music (东巴音乐), Dongba dance (东巴舞蹈), Dongba ritual objects (东巴法器), and various sacrificial ceremonies. Dongba script is the world’s only surviving pictographic writing system, even more primitive than oracle bone script (甲骨文). Traces of it can be seen throughout Lijiang Ancient Town, adding a mysterious and ancient charm.

Dongba Music

The chants and instrumental accompaniments performed by Dongba (Naxi priests) during religious rituals are a key component of Dongba Culture. Its unique melodies carry the Naxi people’s beliefs and emotions, conveying reverence for deities and prayers for life.

Lijiang Ancient Music (纳西古乐)

A legacy of ancient music from Dayan Ancient Town and surrounding Naxi settlements, Lijiang Ancient Music consists of three parts: Benshi Xili (白沙细乐, “Baisha Fine Music”), Lijiang Dongjing Music (丽江洞经音乐), and ritual music. Primarily instrumental ensemble music, it also includes songs and dance tunes, some incorporating lyrics from the Tang, Song, and Yuan dynasties. Its unique melodies have earned it the title of a “living fossil of music,” as its soothing tunes seem to recount the Naxi people’s long history and legends.

Lijiang Murals (白沙壁画)

A product of the Naxi society’s openness during the Ming Dynasty, these murals are mainly found in Dabaoji Palace (大宝积宫) and Liuli Hall (琉璃殿). During the Ming Dynasty, the Mu chieftains (木氏土司) of Lijiang flourished, with stable politics and a prosperous economy. To display their wealth, they constructed grand palaces, and mural painting continued for over 300 years. These murals blend elements of multiple religious cultures, showcasing the era’s multicultural integration and possessing immense artistic value.

Famous Attractions Carrying Historical Memories

Mu Residence (木府)

Some say, “If you haven’t visited Mu Residence, you haven’t truly been to Lijiang,” highlighting its cultural significance. The Mu chieftains ruled across the Yuan, Ming, and Qing dynasties, and Mu Residence features magnificent and intricate architecture, with grand halls like the Assembly Hall (议事厅), Wanxuan Tower (万卷楼), Guardian Hall (护法殿), and Guangbi Tower (光碧楼) arranged along a central axis.

It was a filming location for Mu Residence: The Storm (木府风云) and bears witness to the Naxi people’s development. From the first Lijiang chieftain, A Cong A Liang (阿琮阿良), enfeoffed during the Yuan Dynasty, to A Jia A De (阿甲阿得), who submitted to the Ming Dynasty and was granted the surname Mu, to the Qing Dynasty’s policy of replacing native chieftains with state-appointed officials, Mu Residence’s history reflects half of the Naxi people’s ethnic history.

The wooden archway “Tian Yu Liu Fang” (天雨流芳) in the residence is a homophone for the Naxi phrase meaning “go study,” reflecting the Naxi people’s reverence for knowledge. The Loyalty Archway (忠义牌坊) bears the words “Loyalty” (忠义) bestowed by the Wanli Emperor and is a masterpiece of Chinese stone architecture. Wanxuan Tower houses rare books and was where Mu descendants studied. The Jade Sound Tower (玉音楼) was used to receive imperial edicts and host banquets.

Mu Residence also preserves many stories, such as the deep friendship between the Mu chieftains and the traveler Xu Xiake (徐霞客), the scholar Yang Shen (杨升庵) inscribing the plaque “Guardian of the Nation” (为国干城) for the Guardian Hall, and Mu Zeng (木增) overseeing the printing of the Kangyur (甘珠尔) Buddhist scriptures. These stories highlight the Mu chieftains’ promotion of Central Plains culture and their interactions with renowned Central Plains scholars.

Naxi Pictographic Script Painting Experience Hall (纳西象形文字绘画体验馆)

A key cultural courtyard where traditional Naxi art returns to the ancient town, it showcases the UNESCO Memory of the World-registered “Dongba Script” and “Dongba Paintings.” Here, visitors can learn and write pictographic characters under the guidance of instructors, deeply experiencing the unique charm of Dongba Culture.

Dayan Naxi Ancient Music Association (大研纳西古乐会)

An excellent place to listen to Naxi Ancient Music. The music’s unique melodies, performed by elderly musicians, transport listeners through time, allowing them to appreciate the Naxi people’s historical legacy as if hearing echoes of ancient times.

Dongba Culture Museum (东巴文化博物馆)

Comprehensively displays the origins, development, and applications of Dongba Culture, offering deep insights into this unique and mysterious Naxi tradition, as if touching the veins of an ancient civilization.

Hengyu Folk House Museum (恒裕公民居博物馆)

Preserves the traditional residential style of Lijiang, exhibiting local ethnic minority clothing, weapons, tobacco pipes, and various cultural artifacts and handicrafts. Its rich cultural atmosphere immerses visitors in the charm of traditional Lijiang life.

Lijiang Long Street Banquet (云上盛宴丽江长街宴)

As night falls, this event gathers authentic Naxi cuisine, along with ethnic song and dance performances and bonfire parties, allowing visitors to savor delicious food while fully experiencing the Naxi people’s warmth and cultural allure.

Lijiang Ancient Town’s culture is rich and diverse, from its architecture and water systems to its ethnic customs and historical attractions. Every corner exudes unique charm, attracting visitors from around the world to explore and savor its beauty. It is a dazzling gem in the treasury of human civilization.

Historical Significance

The town has a history going back more than 1,000 years and was once a confluence for trade along the “Old Tea Horse Caravan Trail” (茶马古道).

Dayan Old Town’s Water System

The Dayan Old Town (大研古镇) is famous for its orderly system of waterways and bridges. However, this system is fast becoming but a memory as the underground water table drops—likely due to over-building in suburban areas.

Cultural Fusion

Lijiang’s culture combines traditional Nakhi (纳西族) culture with elements learned from Ming dynasty (明朝) Han Chinese traders who settled here centuries ago.

Traditional Nakhi Architecture

• The Nakhi people preserve a timber and mud brick housing style learned from Nanjing (南京) traders.
• Local carpenters construct elaborate timber house frames from memory, without blueprints.
• Houses feature intricate flower and bird carvings on windows, made by Bai (白族) artisans but following traditional Han Chinese seasonal motifs.
• Even impoverished families prioritize carved windows over furniture. (These window panels are now sold as souvenirs.)

Nakhi Classical Music Heritage

• The Nakhi learned Chinese classical music from Ming-era Nanjing visitors and still perform it today—long after it disappeared elsewhere in China.
• Elderly musicians hold regular performances in Dayan Old Town and occasional shows in nearby villages.

Living Traditions

Nakhi Circle Dances

• Nakhi circle dances (打跳) remain vibrant, often led by women in traditional dress.
• Similar dances exist among Tibetan (藏族) and Bai (白族) communities near Lijiang.
• While Tibetan/Bai settlements were relocated from tourist zones, their dances still occur:
  • Sporadically in Dayan
  • Regularly at Tibetan temple festivals (e.g., Wenfeng Temple 文峰寺, Zhiyun Temple 指云寺, Fuguo Temple 富国寺)

Traditional Nakhi Music Today

• Popularized by local singers but remains authentic at funerals and family events.
• Some nongjiale (农家乐) offer tourist-friendly performances with Mandarin explanations.

Cultural Paradoxes

• Nakhi society is patriarchal, yet the government links it to the matriarchal Mosuo (摩梭) culture due to linguistic ties.
• Mosuo music once featured in Lijiang cafés but has been replaced by Han performers in recent years.

UNESCO Recognition & Tourism Impact

• Greater Lijiang (including Dayan, Baisha 白沙, and Shuhe 束河) became a UNESCO World Heritage Site (December 4, 1997).
• Development prioritized Han Chinese tourist preferences, leaving few genuinely old buildings.

Nightlife Transformation

• Evenings grow rowdy in the bar district, where tourist groups compete in singing contests (a commercialized twist on local traditions).
• Authorities are relocating bars to Shuhe Village to preserve Dayan’s ambiance.

Nearby Attractions

• Jade Water Village (玉水寨): A renovated site marketed as a Dongba culture (东巴文化) showcase.
• Dongba shamans (东巴) still lead household rituals and seasonal ceremonies. Young apprentices train under elders to preserve traditions.
• Lugu Lake (泸沽湖): A tourist hotspot due to its matriarchal Mosuo society, where women retain lifelong family authority.

Culture of Lijiang Old Town

Lijiang (丽江) Baisha (白沙) Ancient Town, an integral part of the Old Town of Lijiang (丽江古城), is like a hidden pearl in the long river of time, radiating unique natural and cultural charm. Here, visitors can not only explore rich cultural heritage but also participate in distinctive entertainment activities, immersing themselves in the town’s enchanting ambiance.

Cultural Experience Activities

Appreciation of Baisha (白沙) Murals

The Baisha (白沙) Murals, located in Dabaoji Palace (大宝积宫) and Liuli Hall (琉璃殿), are artistic treasures that blend Han (汉), Tibetan (藏), and Naxi (纳西) painting styles, primarily depicting religious themes.

In-Depth Dongba (东巴) Culture Experience

At the home of Mr. He Xipeng (和锡鹏), the 34th-generation inheritor of Dongba (东巴) culture in Baisha (白沙), you can participate in a unique cultural immersion.

Listening to Naxi (纳西) Ancient Music

Enjoy a performance of Baisha (白沙) Fine Music (白沙细乐), a traditional Naxi (纳西) musical art form.

Trying Intangible Cultural Heritage Embroidery and Tie-Dye

Practice delicate Naxi (纳西) embroidery or create your own tie-dye masterpiece.

Hands-On Copperware Making

At Jishan Copper Art Gallery (积善铜艺馆), you can experience the Naxi (纳西) copper forging technique.

Leisure Strolls and Photo Spots

Strolling Along Baisha (白沙) Ancient Street

The street retains traditional Naxi (纳西) architectural styles.

Visiting Unique Shops:

• Yiwa Tang Café (一瓦堂咖啡)
• The Poet’s Steamed Bun Shop (诗人开的馒头店)
• Self-Service Grocery Store (自助杂货铺)
• 7sea Bar Coffee
• Naxi Princess • Yak Hot Pot (纳西公主・牦牛肉火锅) & Naxi Princess • Yak Milk Tea (纳西公主・牦牛鲜奶茶)

Countryside Cycling and Hiking

Enjoy views of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain (玉龙雪山) in the distance.

Historical and Cultural Activities

Exploring Fuguo Temple (福国寺)

This historic Tibetan Buddhist temple boasts unique architecture.

Visiting Sanduo Pavilion (三多阁)

Dedicated to Sanduo (三多), the Naxi (纳西) people’s guardian deity.

Tracing the Tea Horse Road (茶马古道) History

Baisha (白沙) Ancient Town was once a vital stop on the ancient Tea Horse Road (茶马古道).

Lijiang Baisha (白沙) Ancient Town, as an integral part of the Lijiang Old Town, resembles a dazzling pearl carved by time, radiating a rich and unique cultural charm. It is not only the birthplace of Naxi (纳西) culture but also carries a thousand years of historical changes and profound cultural heritage.

1. Mysterious and Captivating Historical Legends

The Origin of the Name “Baisha” (白沙)

Tracing back to ancient times, the Mosuo (么些) people and the “Puxi Barbarians” (濮西蛮) engaged in a fierce battle on this land. The intensity of the conflict resulted in heavy casualties on both sides, leaving the ground littered with bones. The Naxi (纳西) people referred to the “Puxi Barbarians” (濮西蛮) as “Beng” (崩), and “stone” (石) meant “death.” Thus, Baisha (白沙) was called “Bengshi” (崩石) in the Naxi (纳西) language. This poignant history has cast a mysterious veil over Baisha (白沙) Ancient Town.

The Legend of Dading Pavilion (大定阁)

As one of the iconic structures of Baisha (白沙) Ancient Town, Dading Pavilion (大定阁) holds a deeply moving story. It was built by the Tusi (土司, chieftain) Mu Zeng (木增). His mother, a kind and wise woman, provided immense support during his upbringing. To express his gratitude, Mu Zeng constructed this pavilion and named it “Dading Pavilion” (大定阁), symbolizing his mother’s peace and happiness. This reflects the Naxi (纳西) people’s traditional culture of filial piety.

The Legend of Naxi Ancient Music

Legend has it that in ancient times, Baisha (白沙) was a serene and beautiful place where people lived simple, happy lives. The Naxi (纳西) leader A Liang (阿良) received divine inspiration in a dream, learning of a distant treasure trove containing the most enchanting music in the world. Upon waking, he embarked on a journey, overcoming countless hardships. At the foot of a mountain, he met an elderly man with white hair who told him that only those with a pure heart and unwavering faith could find the treasure. Undeterred, A Liang (阿良) succeeded in reaching the summit and discovered the treasure. After studying there for a long time, he returned to Baisha (白沙) and taught the music to the locals. Thus, Naxi Ancient Music was passed down, becoming a cultural treasure of the Naxi (纳西) people and a testament to their relentless pursuit of beauty.

2. Profound Historical and Cultural Heritage

A Millennia-Old Historical Development

With a history spanning over a thousand years, Baisha (白沙) Ancient Town saw the Mu (木) family ancestors construct Baisha Street (白沙街) and Beiyue Temple (北岳庙) during the Tang Dynasty. From the Song and Yuan Dynasties to the early Ming Dynasty, it became the settlement of the Mu (木) family and the political, economic, and cultural center of Lijiang (丽江). This long history has endowed the town with a deep cultural foundation.

Precious and Unique Cultural Heritage

Baisha Murals (白沙壁画)

These artistic treasures, painted from the early Ming to early Qing Dynasty over 300 years, are primarily located in Dabaoji Palace (大宝积宫) and Liuli Hall (琉璃殿). The murals skillfully blend Han (汉), Tibetan (藏), and Naxi (纳西) painting styles, focusing on religious themes. They hold immense artistic value and serve as a vital window into Dongba (东巴) culture and the fusion of ancient ethnic cultures.

Baisha Fine Music (白沙细乐)

A traditional Naxi (纳西) musical performance with a long history, its melodious tunes carry the emotions and memories of the Naxi (纳西) people. It is a key pathway to understanding Naxi (纳西) culture, akin to a musical chronicle of their history.

Unique Architectural Art

The town’s buildings, mostly constructed with local stone and wood, exude a rustic charm. The narrow alleys and cobblestone streets bear the marks of time, with many two-story blue-brick and wooden structures. The Baisha (白沙) ancient architectural complex, built during the peak of the Mu (木) Tusi (土司) regime in the Ming Dynasty—including Dabaoji Palace (大宝积宫), Liuli Hall (琉璃殿), and Wenchang Palace (文昌宫)—showcases distinctive layouts and embodies the architectural artistry of the Naxi (纳西) people, reflecting their wisdom and creativity.

3. Solemn and Reverent Religious Culture

Fuguo Temple (福国寺)

Located on Zhishan (芝山) Mountain west of Baisha (白沙), Fuguo Temple (福国寺) is one of the largest Tibetan Buddhist temples in Lijiang (丽江) and the ancestral temple of the Naxi (纳西) Mu (木) Tusi (土司). Its grand and solemn architecture, coupled with thriving incense offerings, makes it a vital symbol of local religious culture. It highlights the Naxi (纳西) people’s reverence for Tibetan Buddhism and the profound influence of religious culture, offering visitors an excellent opportunity to explore local beliefs.

Sanduo Pavilion (三多阁)

This temple venerates “Sanduo” (三多), the protective deity of the Naxi (纳西) people, holding a significant place in local religious culture. During important festivals or rituals, locals gather here to express their reverence and prayers, allowing visitors to deeply feel the Naxi (纳西) people’s religious devotion and traditional beliefs.

4. Rich and Colorful Folk Culture

Traditional Music and Dance

Visitors to Baisha (白沙) Ancient Town can immerse themselves in the charm of Naxi (纳西) traditional music and dance. The unique melodies and rhythmic beats, paired with passionate dance movements, vividly portray the life and spirit of the Naxi (纳西) people, creating an enchanting ethnic cultural atmosphere.

Unique Handicrafts

Dongba Tie-Dye (东巴扎染)

Characterized by blue-and-white hues, Naxi (纳西) tie-dye evokes the imagery of clear skies and white clouds captured on fabric. At Dongba Tie-Dye (东巴扎染) workshops, visitors can try their hand at this traditional craft, creating their own tie-dye pieces and experiencing the wonder of Naxi (纳西) folk art.

Wood Carving

Featuring exquisite patterns and craftsmanship, these carvings come in various shapes and symbolic meanings, suitable for decoration or collection. Each piece embodies the skill and wisdom of Naxi (纳西) artisans, representing a perfect blend of culture and artistry.

Silver Jewelry

With diverse designs combining traditional Naxi (纳西) elements and modern aesthetics, these finely crafted pieces boast distinct ethnic characteristics, making them ideal for wearing or gifting.

Embroidery

Vibrant in color and delicate in stitching, Naxi (纳西) embroidery often depicts mythological tales and natural landscapes. Items like shawls and handkerchiefs are not only beautiful and practical but also rich in cultural significance.

5. The Enchanting Life of the Ancient Town

Sifang Street (四方街)

As the heart of Baisha (白沙) Ancient Town, Sifang Street (四方街) served as the prototype for similar streets in Shuhe (束河) Ancient Town and Lijiang (丽江) Old Town. Once a bustling trade hub, it is now surrounded by historic buildings and traditional shops. Here, visitors can savor local delicacies like jidou liangfen (鸡豆凉粉, chickpea jelly), Naxi (纳西) grilled fish, cured pork ribs, and yak meat hotpot, while shopping for handicrafts and soaking in the lively atmosphere of traditional Naxi (纳西) market culture.

Ancient Streets and Qiben Lane (栖本巷)

Baisha (白沙) Ancient Street retains the traditional Naxi (纳西) architectural style, with rows of old wooden houses lining the roads, offering a perfect setting for strolls and photography. Qiben Lane (栖本巷), less crowded and brimming with local life, allows visitors to experience the authentic daily scenes of the town and feel its tranquility and harmony.

Lijiang Baisha (白沙) Ancient Town, like an ancient pearl embedded in the northwest of Yunnan (云南), radiates a unique and enchanting historical brilliance. Located about 10 kilometers north of Lijiang (丽江) city, it is bordered by the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain (玉龙雪山) to the north, Longquan (龙泉) to the south, and Zhishan (芝山) to the west. Its privileged geographical location carries the profound historical heritage and cultural traditions of the Naxi (纳西族) people.

Early Origins and Initial Development

As early as the Tang Dynasty (唐朝), Baisha Ancient Town began to emerge. When the Nanzhao (南诏) king designated the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain as the “Northern Sacred Peak (北岳),” the ancestors of the Mu (木氏) family (then the rulers of Lijiang) built Baisha Street and the Northern Sacred Peak Temple (北岳庙) here, marking a crucial beginning for the town’s development. At that time, Baisha began to attract settlers, gradually forming a community and laying the foundation for its future prosperity.

The Glorious Era from the Song-Yuan to Early Ming Dynasties

From the Song (宋) and Yuan (元) dynasties until the early Ming Dynasty (明初) in 1383, the Mu family resided in Baisha Ancient Town. During this long period, the town entered its golden age, becoming the political, economic, commercial, and cultural hub of Lijiang.

Political Center

The Mu family established governance here, effectively administering the Lijiang region. Their political influence extended to surrounding areas, making Baisha a crucial site for regional political decision-making.

Economic and Commercial Prosperity

The town’s commerce and handicraft industries flourished, making it a center for bronze casting, textiles, and embroidery. Skilled bronze craftsmen produced exquisite copperware that not only met local needs but was also sold afar, bringing substantial economic gains. The textile and embroidery industries thrived as well, with Naxi women weaving vibrant fabrics and stitching intricate patterns. These products became highly sought-after trade goods, attracting merchants and boosting the town’s commercial prosperity.

Cultural Flourishing

The Mu family’s emphasis on culture fostered its vigorous development in Baisha. Traditional Naxi culture was preserved and promoted here while blending with other ethnic cultures, laying the groundwork for the region’s unique cultural landscape.

Cultural Imprints in Historical Legends

The Legend of Baisha’s Name

According to legend, the ancient Mosuo (么些) people clashed violently with the “Puxi Barbarians (濮西蛮)” in Baisha, resulting in heavy casualties. The Naxi referred to the Puxi as “Beng (崩),” and “shi (石)” meant “death”—thus, the site was called “Bengshi (崩石)” (the place where the Puxi died). This legend not only records a fierce historical conflict but also reflects the Naxi people’s primal memory and unique understanding of this land, becoming part of Baisha’s historical culture.

The Legend of Dading Pavilion (大定阁)

Dading Pavilion was built by Tusi (土司, chieftain) Mu Zeng (木增) in gratitude for his mother’s kindness and wisdom, which greatly aided his upbringing. Named “Dading” to symbolize his mother’s peace and happiness, this legend embodies the Naxi culture of filial piety and imbues the pavilion with deep emotional significance, making it a symbolic landmark of the town.

The Legend of Naxi Ancient Music

Long ago, Baisha was a beautiful and peaceful place where people lived simple, happy lives. Naxi leader A Liang (阿良) dreamed of a divine revelation about a mystical musical treasury hidden in distant mountains. After a arduous journey, he met an elderly man who told him only those with pure hearts and unwavering faith could find it. A Liang persevered, reached the summit, and studied the music before returning to teach it to the locals. Thus, Naxi ancient music was passed down. This legend reflects the Naxi people’s yearning for beautiful music and highlights the art’s importance in their cultural heritage.

Cultural Legacy During the Ming and Qing Dynasties

In the Ming Dynasty (明朝), Baisha Ancient Town became home to the famous “Baisha Murals (白沙壁画).” These religious murals, created from the early Ming to early Qing (清初) dynasties over 300 years, blend Han (汉), Tibetan (藏), and Naxi artistic styles. Renowned for their exquisite craftsmanship, rich religious themes, and multicultural fusion, they hold immense artistic and historical value. Serving as vital artifacts for studying ethnic cultural exchange and religious dissemination, they also testify to Baisha’s cultural and artistic prosperity during the Ming and Qing periods.

After a millennium of history, Baisha Ancient Town stands like a heavy tome, each page inscribed with the wisdom, courage, and creativity of the Naxi people. From its origins to its zenith as a political, economic, and cultural center, and through its artistic and cultural legacy, Baisha’s unique historical narrative has made it a vital cradle of Naxi culture and a core bearer of Lijiang’s historical heritage, endlessly drawing visitors to explore its ancient charm.

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