Xiyi Village and Lancang-Mekong River in Yunxian County, Lincang
Introduction to Xiyi Village
Xiyi Village (昔宜村) is located in the northern part of Lincang City (临沧市), Yunnan Province (云南省). With the construction of the Xianglin Secondary Road (祥临二级公路), it has become a vital passageway to Lincang, earning the title “First Village of Lincang” (临沧第一村). On December 31, 2019, Xiyi Village was selected as part of the second batch of National Forest Villages.
Scenic Highlights
Known as the “First Village of the Northern Gate of Lincang” (临沧北门第一村), Xiyi Village is a shining pearl nestled along the right bank of the Lancang River (澜沧江), serving as the core scenic area of the “Hundred Mile Long Lake” (百里长湖). Xiyi is an ideal destination for health and wellness tourism, self-driving travel, and ecological education.
The Lancang River Bridge (澜沧江跨江大桥) serves as a beautiful “High Gorge Flying Rainbow” (高峡飞虹), connecting Yunxian County (云县) and Nanjiang County (南涧县) in Dali Prefecture (大理州). Before sunrise, the area is tranquil and serene as fishermen begin their daily activities. The morning light casts a golden hue over the Lancang River, reflecting the beauty of the bridge and the scattered fishing boats of local villagers, framed by white clouds and green mountains.
Attractions and Activities
Visitors can take boats upstream to reach the Xiaowan Hydropower Station (小湾电站) or downstream to the Manwan Hydropower Station (漫湾电站). A leisurely boat ride down the river showcases picturesque landscapes, ancient trees, and dense vines along both banks. Notable attractions along the Lancang River include the Lancang River Grand Canyon (澜沧江大峡谷), Yunhai Mountain Villa (云海山庄), the Manghuai Neolithic Site (忙怀新石器遗址), Chaoshan Temple (朝山寺), the Yunnan-Myanmar Railway Ruins (滇缅铁路遗址), ethnic villages, and hydropower station views.
Whether floating downstream or paddling upstream against the current, visitors are treated to dramatic cliffs and unique rock formations. The lake’s surface mirrors the blue sky, white clouds, and green mountains, creating a picturesque scene that captivates all who visit.
Local Lifestyle
In Xiyi, the village is equipped with facilities such as picking gardens, ecological parks, farmhouses, and lakeside corridors. Locals engage in fishing and leisurely activities. Tourists can enjoy boat rides along the Hundred Mile Long Lake, explore the legends of Shenzhou Crossing (神舟渡), or fish by the river while admiring sunflowers and rapeseed flowers. For those seeking adventure, beach buggies are available, while others can relax on the sandy shores, swaying on swings as they soak in the tranquil atmosphere.
Xiyi Village Overview
Xiyi Village is located 38 kilometers from the town government of Manwan (漫湾镇) and comprises 26 villager groups, 43 natural villages, 842 households, and 3,779 residents, predominantly from the Yi (彝族), Blang (布朗族), and Dai (傣族) ethnic groups. It is a key village supported after the relocation from the Manwan Hydropower Station area.
Covering an area of 44.24 square kilometers, the village has 3,450 acres of arable land, with an average of 0.9 acres per person. Key crops include rice and corn, along with specialty crops like citrus, walnut, and tobacco. The ecological environment is well-preserved, and the village’s geographical location provides favorable climatic conditions, with an annual average temperature of 25°C.
Development of Xiyi Village
Over the years, with the growth of these industries, the living standards in Xiyi Village have steadily improved. Out of the 43 natural villages, 21 are now accessible by road, and the electricity supply covers 100% of households. The village has one fully equipped six-year elementary school and six village schools with a total of 455 students and 48 teachers.
Healthcare facilities include a medical clinic with two beds and two village doctors. Housing conditions have also improved, with ongoing renovations to ensure homes harmonize with the natural environment, showcasing local cultural characteristics.
Xiyi Village has convenient transportation, an excellent geographical location, and beautiful landscapes, making it an attractive spot for tourism development. The Xianglin Secondary Road Bridge adds a significant human touch to the breathtaking scenery of the Lancang River and its surrounding rural areas.
How to Get There
To reach Xiyi Village, you can drive via the Xianglin Secondary Road. It is approximately 38 kilometers from the nearest town government of Manwan. Public transport options may include buses or taxis from Lincang City to the village.
Travel Tips
- Best Time to Visit: The ideal time to visit is during spring and autumn when the weather is pleasant.
- Local Cuisine: Don’t miss the chance to try local dishes such as pickled fish and papaya chicken in local restaurants.
- Accommodation: Consider staying in local guesthouses to experience the authentic village lifestyle.
- Activities: Engage in fishing, boating, and exploring the natural beauty; participate in local cultural events if available.
- Respect Nature: Follow guidelines to protect the ecological environment and respect local customs.
