Axia Quiet Valley of Lugu Lake, Lijiang
Overview
Axia Quiet Valley (阿夏幽谷) is a romantic meeting place for the Mosuo (摩梭) people, located at the southwestern corner of Lugu Lake (泸沽湖) in Daluocheng Village (大落水村). The valley is also known as the Lugu Lake Grand Canyon and is referred to by the Mosuo as “A Wang Mo Long” (阿王摩龙), meaning “a place where spirits reside.”
Key Features
- Length: Approximately 1.5 kilometers
- Width: Up to 100 meters at its widest point
Scenic Introduction
Axia Quiet Valley is a unique paradise within the Lugu Lake Scenic Area (泸沽湖风景区). It is highly recommended by the Lijiang Travel Network (丽江旅游网) as a must-visit destination. The valley, stretching about 1.5 kilometers and varying in width, is adorned with towering ancient chestnut trees intertwined with dense evergreen vines. Beneath these trees lies a serene and cool world, where streams trickle through rocky crevices, and a thick layer of moss blankets the decaying wood and stones, resembling a green carpet that feels soft and comfortable underfoot.
The valley holds immense value across various domains—historical, religious, ecological, aesthetic, and cultural. It serves as an excellent spot for sightseeing, relaxation, blessings, healing, and adventure activities.
Natural Beauty
Close to Lugu Lake, most visitors to the area stop by Axia Quiet Valley. The valley features stunning mountain streams, chirping birds, and the rustling of rabbits, as well as rare delicacies such as matsutake mushrooms (松茸) and other natural treasures. Historically, it was a sacred site for the Mosuo to perform rituals and prayers, making it a popular rendezvous for young couples.
The name “Axia” derives from the Mosuo language, where “A” means lover, and “Axia” translates to eternal lover, typically used by men to refer to their partners, while women call their male partners “A Zhu” (阿注). In Axia Quiet Valley, visitors feel a profound connection to nature, which often contrasts with the urban lifestyle that can make one forget the beauty of the natural world.
The valley is dotted with numerous waterfalls, each with its own name, reflecting the imagination of the Mosuo people. Those who live close to nature receive many gifts from it, contrasting with the prideful city dwellers who may labor harder for meager rewards.
Major Landscapes
The fertile mountain pastures of Axia Quiet Valley come alive in spring and summer, blanketed in fragrant wildflowers and lush grass. The area teems with life, including the chirping of birds and the playful leaps of squirrels. Key attractions include:
- Lugu Lake Water Source (泸沽湖水源)
- Heaven Waterfall (天堂水瀑布)
- Axia Waterfall (阿夏瀑布)
- Daughter River (女儿河)
- Old Monk’s Meditative Wall (老僧面壁)
- Bodhisattva Cave (菩萨洞)
- Red Yew Trees (红豆杉), a nationally protected plant
- Wild Peach Blossoms (野桃花) that bloom in March
How to Get There
- From Lijiang City (丽江市): Take a bus or arrange a private vehicle to reach Lugu Lake, then follow local signs or ask locals for directions to Daluocheng Village.
- Local Transport: Once in Daluocheng, hire a local taxi or take a short hike to reach Axia Quiet Valley.
Travel Tips
- Dress Appropriately: Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking on uneven terrain and potential wet surfaces near waterfalls.
- Stay Hydrated: Bring water, especially when hiking.
- Respect Local Customs: Be mindful of the Mosuo culture and their practices, particularly in sacred areas.
- Photography: Capture the beautiful landscapes, but always ask permission before photographing individuals.
- Pack Snacks: There may be limited food options; having snacks can be helpful during your visit.
- Explore Nature: Take time to truly appreciate the natural beauty and serenity of the valley.
