Xinwalong Village of Nasa Town in Guangnan County, Wenshan

Geographic Location

Lao Wa Long Village (老挖龙村) is located in the Long Wang Dong Village Committee (龙汪洞村委会) of Na Sa Town (那洒镇), Guangnan County (广南县), Yunnan Province (云南省), China. Situated in the southwestern part of Guangnan County (广南县), it is approximately 65 kilometers from the county seat. The terrain of the Long Wang Dong Village Committee (龙汪洞村委会) is characterized by a high northern region and a lower southern region, with the highest point at an elevation of 2,029 meters and the lowest point in Lao Wa Long Village (老挖龙村) at 1,050 meters.

Cultural and Historical Background

Na Sa Town (那洒镇) is historically significant as it lies within the ancient territory of the Jutian Kingdom (句町古国). The Long Wang Dong Village Committee (龙汪洞村委会), where Lao Wa Long Village (老挖龙村) is situated, was once considered a deeply impoverished area. In recent years, through poverty alleviation efforts and the “Beautiful Countryside” construction project, the infrastructure has been significantly improved. Today, Lao Wa Long Village (老挖龙村) boasts access to water, electricity, and roads, greatly enhancing the living conditions of its residents.

Local Customs and Traditions

Lao Wa Long Village (老挖龙村) is home to the Yi (彝族) ethnic group, specifically the Hualuo (花倮) subgroup. The village maintains a rich cultural heritage, with traditional festivals such as the “Dragon Festival” (祭龙节) that embody deep ethnic rituals and music, evoking the heroic spirit of ancient times. Additionally, local handicrafts, indigenous products, traditional clothing, and customs are distinctive and reflect the unique cultural identity of the community.

Climate and Best Time to Visit

Na Sa Town (那洒镇) experiences a subtropical monsoon climate with distinct seasons, ample sunshine, and a combination of rain and heat during the same period. The average annual temperature is 16.1°C, with approximately 300 frost-free days per year. The optimal time to visit is from May to October, when the weather is cool and suitable for outdoor activities.

Recommended Attractions, Visiting Time, and Admission

• Lao Wa Long Village (老挖龙村): Visitors can experience the Yi (彝族) Hualuo (花倮) ethnic culture and traditional handicrafts. Recommended visiting time: half a day. Admission: Free.
• Nearby Attractions: For a deeper understanding of local ethnic culture, visitors can explore nearby villages such as Gui Ma Village (贵马村) in Na Sa Town (那洒镇), known for its bronze drum handkerchief dance.

Transportation

• Public Transportation: From Guangnan County (广南县) city, take a bus to Na Sa Town (那洒镇), approximately a 1.5-hour journey. From Na Sa Town (那洒镇), transfer to local transportation or walk to Lao Wa Long Village (老挖龙村).
• Self-Driving: Depart from Guangnan County (广南县) city, drive along local roads to Na Sa Town (那洒镇), and then proceed to Lao Wa Long Village (老挖龙村), covering a total distance of approximately 65 kilometers.

Local Cuisine

• Yi (彝族) Traditional Cuisine: Sample traditional dishes such as Ba Hang Chicken (岜夯鸡) and Dragon Festival Rice Cake (祭龙粑).
• Farmhouse Cuisine: The village offers farmhouse restaurants serving fresh vegetables and poultry.

Shopping

• Ethnic Handicrafts: Purchase traditional Yi (彝族) clothing, embroidery, and other unique handicrafts.
• Local Specialties: Consider buying local products like oil tea (油茶) and Eight Treasure Tribute Rice (八宝贡米).

Accommodation

• Homestays: Experience ethnic customs by staying in local Yi (彝族) village homestays.
• County Hotels: Guangnan County (广南县) city offers various hotel options for visitors.

Travel Tips

• Respect Local Customs: When visiting and participating in cultural activities, please respect the customs and traditions of the local residents.
• Environmental Protection: While touring natural scenic areas, be mindful of environmental conservation and avoid littering.

Suggested Itinerary

• Day 1: Arrive in Guangnan County (广南县) city, check into a hotel, and travel to Lao Wa Long Village (老挖龙村) in Na Sa Town (那洒镇) to explore the Yi (彝族) village and experience its cultural heritage.
• Day 2: Visit Gui Ma Village (贵马村) or other nearby villages to further immerse in the local ethnic culture.

Lao Wa Long Village (老挖龙村) is a place rich in ethnic charm and cultural heritage. Here, visitors can experience the hospitality of the Yi (彝族) people, enjoy unique natural landscapes, and delve into the diverse ethnic cultures. May your journey be filled with joy and unforgettable memories.