Laowalong Village of Nasa Town in Guangnan County, Wenshan

Geographic Location

Laowalong Village is located in the Longwangdong Village Committee (龙汪洞村委会) of Nasa Town (那洒镇), Guangnan County (广南县), Wenshan Zhuang and Miao Autonomous Prefecture (文山壮族苗族自治州), Yunnan Province (云南省), China. Situated in the southwestern part of Guangnan County, it lies approximately 65 kilometers from the county seat. The terrain of Longwangdong Village Committee is characterized by a high northern region and a low southern region, with the highest point at an elevation of 2,029 meters and the lowest point at Laowalong Village itself, at an elevation of 1,050 meters.

Cultural and Historical Background

Nasa Town (那洒镇) is situated in the historic region of the ancient Jutian Kingdom (句町), which flourished for approximately 400 years from 111 BC to 316 AD. Laowalong Village, once a deeply impoverished area, has undergone significant transformation through poverty alleviation efforts and the “Beautiful Countryside” initiative. These developments have led to substantial improvements in infrastructure and the living conditions of its residents.​

Customs and Traditions

The village is predominantly inhabited by the Yi ethnic group, specifically the Huoluo sub-group (彝族花倮支系), known for their unique and rich cultural heritage. Traditional festivals such as the “Dragon Worship Festival” (祭龙节) are celebrated with profound ethnic rituals and music, reflecting the valor of ancient heroes. Local handicrafts, native products, traditional attire, and customs are distinctive and integral to the community’s identity.​

Climate and Best Time to Visit

Nasa Town (那洒镇) experiences a subtropical monsoon climate with distinct seasons, characterized by abundant rainfall and sunshine. The average annual temperature is approximately 16.1°C, with a frost-free period averaging around 300 days per year. The optimal time to visit is from May to October, offering cool weather suitable for outdoor activities.​

Recommended Attractions, Visiting Time, and Admission Fees

• Laowalong Village: Experience the Yi (Huoluo) ethnic customs and traditional handicrafts. Recommended visiting time: half a day. Admission: free.​
• Nearby Attractions: Explore Guima Village in Nasa Town to learn about local ethnic cultures, such as the bronze drum handkerchief dance.​

Transportation

• Public Transport: From Guangnan County seat, take a bus to Nasa Town (那洒镇), approximately 1.5 hours, then transfer to local transportation or walk to Laowalong Village.​
• Self-Driving: Drive from Guangnan County seat along local roads to Nasa Town, then proceed to Laowalong Village, covering a total distance of about 65 kilometers.​

Cuisine

• Yi (Huoluo) Ethnic Cuisine: Taste traditional Yi dishes such as Baha Chicken (岜夯鸡) and Dragon Worship Rice Cake (祭龙粑).​
• Farmhouse Cuisine: Local eateries offer fresh vegetables and poultry.​

Shopping

• Ethnic Handicrafts: Purchase traditional Yi attire, embroidery, and other distinctive handicrafts.​
• Local Specialties: Consider buying oil tea (油茶) and Babao Tribute Rice (八宝贡米) as souvenirs.​

Accommodation

• Homestays: Experience ethnic customs by staying in local Yi villages.​
• County Hotels: Guangnan County seat offers various hotel options.​

Travel Tips

• Respect Local Customs: When visiting and participating in cultural activities, please respect the local customs and traditions.​
• Environmental Protection: While exploring natural attractions, ensure to protect the environment and avoid littering.​

Sample Itinerary

• Day 1: Arrive in Guangnan County seat, check into a hotel, visit Laowalong Village in Longwangdong Village Committee, Nasa Town, explore the Yi village, and experience local customs.​
• Day 2: Head to Guima Village or other nearby villages in Nasa Town to further explore local ethnic cultures.​

Laowalong Village is a place rich in ethnic charm and cultural heritage. Here, you can experience the warmth and hospitality of the Yi people, appreciate unique natural landscapes, and delve into diverse ethnic cultures. May your journey be filled with joy and unforgettable memories.