Wumulong Yi Ethnic Town in Yongde County, Lincang

Wumulong Yi Ethnic Town (乌木龙彝族乡) is a picturesque town located in the northeastern part of Yongde County (永德县), Lincang (临沧市), Yunnan Province (云南省). This area is a rich cultural region, home to the Yi ethnic group (彝族), and it offers visitors an immersive experience into the customs, traditions, and breathtaking natural beauty of the region.

Geographic Location and Administrative Overview

Wumulong Yi Ethnic Town is situated in the northeast of Yongde County, bordering Yun County (云县) to the southeast, Daxueshan Township (大雪山乡) and Yalian Township (亚练乡) to the south and southwest, and Fengqing County (凤庆县) to the north and northeast. It covers an administrative area of 206.06 square kilometers.

Historically, this area was part of Shunning Qiongying Township (顺宁琼英乡) during the Ming (明) and Qing (清) dynasties, and later belonged to Fengqing County’s Guodazhai District (凤庆县郭大寨区) after the 1950s. In 1988, it was officially renamed Wumulong Yi Ethnic Township. As of the end of 2019, the town has a population of 28,593 people, and its administrative setup includes 10 villages under its jurisdiction.

Natural Environment and Climate

Topography and Landscape

Wumulong Yi Ethnic Town is located in the northeastern part of Daxueshan Mountain (大雪山) and is characterized by rugged mountain terrain. The area features steep slopes, cliffs, and dense forests. The highest point in the town is Dayao Mountain (大药山), standing at an elevation of 3483 meters, while the lowest point is at the confluence of Dabangui Stream (大帮贵小河) and Yanglang River (秧琅河), which lies at an elevation of 1524 meters.

Climate

The town has a mild subtropical climate, with an average annual temperature of 14.2°C. Winters are cool, with January temperatures averaging 8.3°C, and the lowest recorded temperature reaching -1.9°C. Summers are moderate, with July temperatures averaging 17.2°C and a maximum of 26.9°C. The region receives a considerable amount of rainfall, averaging 1439.7 mm annually, with the heaviest rains occurring between June and September, peaking in July.

Natural Resources

Wumulong Yi Ethnic Town is rich in natural resources. The area is known to have significant deposits of gold, silver, copper, aluminum, zinc, and coal. The copper mine located in Landui Mountain (懒兑山) has an area of 15 square kilometers and an estimated geological reserve of 890 million tons, with an annual production capacity of 25,000 tons.

Population and Demographics

As of the end of 2019, Wumulong Yi Ethnic Town has a registered population of 28,593 people. The population is predominantly composed of the Yi ethnic group (65.3%), with the Han Chinese making up 30.7%. The town also has a relatively young population, with approximately 23.3% under the age of 14, and 69.6% of the population aged between 15 and 64.

Economy

Agriculture

Agriculture plays a significant role in Wumulong Yi Ethnic Town's economy. The main agricultural products include rice, corn, tea, and walnuts. The town has 40,000 acres of tea plantations, producing approximately 1,800 tons annually. Livestock farming is also a key component of the economy, with cattle, pigs, and poultry being raised. In 2011, the town produced 2,182 tons of meat and 14.1 tons of eggs.

Industry and Commerce

The town has developed a number of industrial enterprises, including 21 industrial enterprises as of 2019. There are also 44 stores and supermarkets with a business area exceeding 50 square meters. In 2011, the town's total industrial output reached 22 million yuan (approx. 3.4 million USD), and the total agricultural output was valued at 110 million yuan (approx. 17 million USD).

Financial Services

The financial sector has also developed, with a total deposit balance of 55.5 million yuan (approx. 8.5 million USD) in 2011. The town's savings per capita stand at 2,006 yuan (approx. 310 USD), and the total loan balance is 31.6 million yuan (approx. 4.8 million USD).

Cultural Heritage and Tourism

Core Cultural Experiences

Sangzhuali Festival (桑沼哩节) - Yi Lovers' Festival

One of the most significant cultural events in Wumulong is the Sangzhuali Festival (桑沼哩节), celebrated on the 15th day of the 2nd lunar month. This festival, celebrated by the Lijiu (俐侎) people of the Yi ethnic group, features several traditional activities, such as:

• Traditional Bathing Ceremony (believed to bring blessings and health)

• Lusheng Dance and Weaving Demonstrations (recognized as a provincial intangible cultural heritage)

• Crossbow and Top-Spinning Competitions

• Fireworks Shows and Night Performances including the popular "Thousands Dancing Together" event.

Cultural Heritage Sites

Visitors can explore traditional Yi sacrificial sites, such as the Ancestor Altar and the Wax Figurines, offering insight into the spiritual life of the Yi people. Additionally, visitors can experience the "Papa Wo" (俐侎语 "好好说") fire pit mediation room, where locals practice traditional conflict resolution.

Natural and Scenic Attractions

Manghai Lake Scenic Area (忙海湖景区)

Located just 45 kilometers from the county seat, this scenic area offers a range of activities such as boat tours, cave sightseeing, and archery.

Daxueshan National Nature Reserve (大雪山国家级自然保护区)

This area features Yunnan's highest peak, 3504 meters above sea level, and is covered with pristine forests. It is an excellent destination for hiking and eco-tourism.

Transportation and Accommodation

Travel Tips

During the Sangzhuali Festival in 2025, some sections of Provincial Road S235 will implement one-way traffic control. Travelers should park their vehicles as instructed. Additionally, there are construction works on Yunqing Line K64+692M, so it is recommended to take a detour via Yongde → Daqiaodun → Gengma Hukeng → Lincang.

Accommodation Suggestions

While Wumulong Yi Ethnic Town does not have high-rated hotels, it is recommended that visitors stay in Yongde County (永德县) or Lincang City (临沧市) for better options.

Local Cuisine and Shopping

Festival Trade Fair

During the Sangzhuali Festival (桑沼哩节), local specialties such as Yongde walnuts (永德核桃) and mangoes (芒果) will be available at the festival trade fair. Visitors can also experience and purchase traditional Lijiu clothing (俐侎服饰), which are intricately crafted black garments worn during cultural ceremonies.

Important Reminders

• The festival period may see heavy traffic, so it is advisable to plan routes in advance to avoid congestion.

• Due to the mountainous terrain, travelers should drive with caution, especially on winding roads.