Kangpu Town of Weixi County, Diqing

Kangpu Township （康普乡）is located in the northern part of Weixi Lisu Autonomous County, Diqing Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan Province. It is bordered by Deqin County and Tacheng Town to the east, Baijixun Township to the south, and Pula Di Township of Gongshan Derung and Nu Autonomous County to the west along the Biluoshan Mountain Range. To the north, it connects with Yezhi Town. The township covers an area of 493 square kilometers. The terrain is characterized by high mountains and deep valleys, with the Lancang River running through the township from south to north. The highest point in the township is Mount Aqie Lie with an altitude of 4189 meters, and the lowest point is at the confluence of Yanwa River and the Lancang River, with an altitude of 1700 meters.

History

Kangpu Township has a long history. During the Qing Dynasty, Kangpu and Yezhi were often collectively referred to as "Kangye," which was one of the five major stocks of Weixi Hall. In 1912, during the Republic of China period, Kangpu District was established. In 1935, Kangpu and Yezhi were merged into a district, known as Kangye District. In 1946, it was renamed Wunü Township. On October 1, 1949, Kangpu and Yezhi were merged into the Fourth District. In 1958, it was renamed Shangyou Commune. In 1959, it was incorporated into Yezhi District. From 1960 to 1961, Kangpu Commune was once again established. In 1988, the district was abolished, and Kangpu Township was established.

Folklore

Kangpu Township is a multi-ethnic settlement, home to various ethnic groups including Lisu, Naxi, Bai, Yi, Nu, and Han. The township is known for its rich ethnic cultures and traditional customs. For example, the Naxi ethnic group has its own traditional costumes, while the Lisu ethnic group is known for its Azhi Muge singing and dancing. The township also hosts various festivals such as the Kuoshe Festival and Harvest Festival.

Weather and Best Time to Visit

Kangpu Township has a subtropical and temperate monsoon plateau mountain climate. The climate is cool and moist, with an average annual temperature of around 14℃. The best time to visit is in spring and autumn when the weather is pleasant and the scenery is at its most beautiful.

Recommended Attractions

• Lancang River: The main river of Kangpu Township, with beautiful scenery along the river, suitable for hiking and photography.
• Shuguosì Temple: A well-preserved temple that integrates three religions and is located in the Lancang River basin.
• Surrounding Natural Scenery: Including continuous mountains, streams, springs, and ancient walnut trees.

Suggested Duration of Stay

• Lancang River: Suggested stay of 1 hour.
• Shuguosì Temple: Suggested stay of 2 hours.
• Surrounding Natural Scenery: Suggested stay of half a day to one day.

Transportation

• By Car: From Weixi County, the drive to Kangpu Township is approximately 70 kilometers.
• By Public Transport: Buses are available from Weixi County Passenger Station to Kangpu Township.

Cuisine

• Lisu Traditional Food: Such as Pise Meat and Zamba.
• Steam Rice Cake: A local specialty.
• Roast Suckling Pig: A local specialty.

Shopping

• Ethnic Handicrafts: Items such as wooden bowls and Zamba boxes, which are rich in ethnic characteristics.
• Local Agricultural Products: Including Yunnan Golden Snub-nosed Monkey honey and walnuts.

Accommodation

There are several Tibetan-style guesthouses in and around Kangpu Township, offering a good experience of Tibetan culture and lifestyle.

Travel Tips

• Respect Local Customs: When visiting, respect the religious beliefs and traditional customs of the local ethnic groups.
• Protect the Environment: Kangpu Township has a good ecological environment. Pay attention to environmental protection during your visit.
• Safety First: The roads to Kangpu Township are relatively rugged. Drive carefully if you are traveling by car.

Itinerary

• Day 1: Arrive in Kangpu Township, visit the Lancang River to experience local culture, and taste local specialties.
• Day 2: Head to Shuguosì Temple to explore the cultural and natural attractions.
• Day 3: Visit the surrounding natural scenery, such as mountains and streams. Return to Weixi County or continue to other attractions.

Kangpu Township is a place full of ethnic characteristics and cultural heritage, suitable for tourists who love folk culture and natural scenery. Here, you can feel the warm hospitality of the local people and appreciate the unique charm of ancient ethnic cultures. We hope that your trip to Kangpu Township will be fruitful and leave you with unforgettable memories.