Mili Town of Yuanjiang County, Yuxi

Mili Township (咪哩乡) is located in the southwest of Yuanjiang Hani, Yi, and Dai Autonomous County (元江哈尼族彝族傣族自治县), 34 kilometers from the county seat. It borders Honghe Subdistrict (红河街道) to the east, Yinyuan Town (因远镇) to the south, and Manlai Town (曼来镇) to the northwest. Situated on the eastern slope of the main ridge of the Ailao Mountains (哀牢山), the terrain is predominantly mountainous, with higher elevations in the northwest and lower in the southeast.

History and Culture

Mili Township (咪哩乡) is the hometown of patriotic democratic figure Li Hecai (李和才) and boasts rich historical and cultural resources with a strong revolutionary legacy. The Former Residence of Li Hecai (李和才故居), located at No. 3, Mili Street (咪哩街3号), was built in 1933 and served as an important base for revolutionary movements in southern Yunnan. Other notable historical sites include the site of the Xiaobaishu Military and Political Cadre Training Class (小柏木军政干部训练班旧址).

Local Customs

Mili Township (咪哩乡) is predominantly inhabited by the Hani ethnic group (哈尼族), making up 84% of the population. Major subgroups include Duota (堕塔), Budu (布都), and Biyue (碧约). The region celebrates a variety of traditional festivals. One of the most important is the "Api Tu" (阿批突) sacrificial ceremony, a Hani ritual for blessings, held on the first Goat or Monkey day after the sixteenth day of the first lunar month. Other traditional festivals include "Masha Zao" (玛舍早), "Kunu Zao" (苦奴早), and "Laipupu" (唻铺铺).

Weather and Best Time to Visit

Yuanjiang County (元江县) experiences a low-latitude plateau monsoon climate. The mountainous areas are cool with an annual average temperature of 14.4°C, while the basins are warmer with an average of 23.8°C. The best time to visit is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November), when the climate is pleasant and the scenery is at its best.

Recommended Attractions and Visiting Time

• Former Residence of Li Hecai (李和才故居): A key revolutionary site in southern Yunnan.
  Recommended visiting time: 1 hour
• Site of the Xiaobaishu Military and Political Cadre Training Class (小柏木军政干部训练班旧址): Experience the vibrant red culture of Yunnan’s revolutionary past.
  Recommended visiting time: 1 hour
• Mili Community (咪哩社区): Immerse yourself in Hani customs and local culture.
  Recommended visiting time: 2 hours

Transportation

• Public Transport: Take a local bus or minivan from Yuanjiang County to Mili Township (咪哩乡), approximately 1 hour.
• Self-Drive: Navigate to the Mili Township Government (咪哩乡政府) at No. 8, Mili Street (咪哩街8号); the drive takes about 40 minutes.

Local Cuisine

Mili Township (咪哩乡) and its surrounding areas offer a variety of local delicacies, such as:

• Hani-style Smoked Dried Beef (哈尼族烟熏牛肉干巴): Long-lasting and flavorful, a traditional local specialty.
• Smoked Cured Meat and Pig Trotters (烟熏腊肉、猪脚): Unique taste and a regional specialty.

Shopping

• Traditional Handicrafts: Look for Hani embroidery and bamboo weaving products in local markets or craft stores.
• Local Agricultural Products: Fresh mangoes, dragon fruit, and other seasonal fruits are available in farmers' markets.

Accommodation

• Hotels: Several hotels are available in Yuanjiang County, only a short drive from Mili Township (咪哩乡).
• Guesthouses: There are a few local guesthouses around Mili Township, offering an authentic cultural stay.

Travel Tips

• Respect Local Culture: Be mindful of cultural customs when visiting heritage sites or participating in local events.
• Protect the Environment: Do not litter and help preserve the area’s natural beauty.
• Stay Safe: Follow local regulations and ensure personal safety during outdoor activities.

Suggested Itinerary

• Day 1: Arrive in Yuanjiang County, travel to Mili Township, and visit the Former Residence of Li Hecai (李和才故居) to explore red culture.
• Day 2: Visit the Xiaobaishu Training Site (小柏木旧址) in the morning and explore Mili Community (咪哩社区) in the afternoon for an immersive Hani cultural experience.
• Day 3: Return to Yuanjiang County for shopping and dining to conclude the trip.

Mili Township (咪哩乡) attracts visitors with its deep historical roots, vibrant ethnic culture, and beautiful natural scenery. Whether strolling through the Former Residence of Li Hecai (李和才故居) or participating in Hani festivals, you’ll discover the charm and uniqueness of this land. We hope you enjoy a memorable journey in Mili Township.