Guanmenkou Gate Tower in Lijiang Old Town
Introduction
Guanmenkou Gate Tower, built by the Mu family (木氏) in Lijiang (丽江), serves as a central hub for tourism products in the ancient city. In 2009, Lijiang City (丽江) renamed “Guangmenkou” to “Guanmenkou” to enhance tourism development. This gate, known as the main entrance to Lijiang, is filled with a dazzling array of goods and has become a vital distribution center for ancient city tourism products. Lijiang Ancient Town, also known as Dayan Town (大研镇), is located in the central part of Lijiang Basin in Yunnan Province (云南省) and was established in the late Song Dynasty to the early Yuan Dynasty (13th century). It is situated on the Yungui Plateau, covering an area of 7.279 square kilometers.
Chinese Name: 官门口
Geographical Location: Lijiang Ancient Town (丽江古城)
Historical Development
Guanmenkou was constructed by the Mu family, a historical feudal lord of the Naxi ethnic group (纳西族) in Lijiang. The Mu family were the owners of the land, forests, and rivers in the region and held political power as rulers. They maintained their interests mainly through forced labor and substitution labor from ordinary citizens. Historically, Guanmenkou served as a boundary between the wealthy and the poor—inside the gate represented wealth, while outside indicated poverty. This gate symbolizes power, wealth, and might, and it stands as a sign of inviolability.
In 2009, in an effort to promote tourism, Lijiang City officially changed the name from “Guangmenkou” to “Guanmenkou,” making the gate’s meaning more concrete and adding an air of mystery to its significance. Today, Guanmenkou is filled with an array of products and has become a crucial distribution center for tourism goods. Almost every tourist visiting Lijiang Ancient Town will walk through this gate, making it an essential part of the travel experience in Lijiang.
Attractions and Highlights
- Guanmenkou Gate Tower (官门口): A symbol of historical significance and a bustling marketplace.
- Lijiang Ancient Town (丽江古城): A UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its well-preserved ancient architecture and vibrant culture.
- Mu Family Mansion (木府): The historical residence of the Mu family, showcasing traditional Naxi architecture.
- Black Dragon Pool (黑龙潭): A picturesque park located near the ancient town, known for its scenic views and cultural significance.
- Yulong Snow Mountain (玉龙雪山): A stunning snow-capped mountain range located near Lijiang, offering various outdoor activities and breathtaking landscapes.
How to Get There
To reach Guanmenkou Gate Tower in Lijiang Ancient Town, you can take a taxi from Lijiang Airport (丽江机场) or Lijiang Railway Station (丽江火车站). It is also accessible by local buses and can be reached by foot if you are staying in or near the ancient town. The journey from Lijiang Airport takes approximately 30 minutes, while the railway station is about 20 minutes away.
Travel Tips
- Explore the Area: Take your time to explore Lijiang Ancient Town, as there are many shops, restaurants, and cultural sites to discover.
- Photography: Bring a camera to capture the vibrant colors and unique architecture around Guanmenkou.
- Local Cuisine: Don’t miss trying local Naxi dishes and snacks available in the area, especially at the food stalls.
- Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit is during spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is pleasant.
- Respect Local Customs: Be respectful of local traditions and practices, especially when visiting cultural and historical sites.
- Dress Comfortably: Wear comfortable shoes, as you may do a lot of walking while exploring the ancient town.
