Badi Town of Weixi County, Diqing

Badixiang （巴迪乡）is located in the northernmost part of Weixi Lisu Autonomous County, Diqing Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan Province. It is bordered by Deqin County and Yezhi Town to the east, Baijixun Township to the south, and Puladixiang Township of Gongshan Derung and Nu Autonomous County to the west along the Biluoshan Mountain Range. To the north, it connects with Yezhi Town. The township covers an area of 565.67 square kilometers. The terrain is characterized by high mountains and deep valleys, with the Lancang River running through the township from northwest to southeast. The highest point in the township is Majiwa with an altitude of 4880 meters, and the lowest point is at the Lancang River with an altitude of 1620 meters.

History

Badixiang has a long history. During the Qing Dynasty, the northern part of the township was part of the garrison area of Adunzi. In the Republic of China period, it was briefly under the jurisdiction of Yezhi District. In 1947, it was established as Pudi Township. After the founding of the People’s Republic of China, it was set up as a district, commonly known as the Fourth District. In 1958, it was renamed Badixiang. In 1984, it was changed to Badixiang. In 2022, Badixiang was transferred from Weixi County to Deqin County. In 2024, the transfer was officially approved by the central government and the State Council.

Folklore

Badixiang is a multi-ethnic settlement, home to various ethnic groups including Lisu, Naxi, Bai, Yi, Nu, and Han. The township is known for its rich ethnic cultures and traditional customs. For example, the Naxi ethnic group has its own traditional costumes, while the Lisu ethnic group is known for its Azhi Muge singing and dancing. The township also hosts various festivals such as the Kuoshe Festival and Harvest Festival.

Weather and Best Time to Visit

Badixiang has a subtropical and temperate monsoon plateau mountain climate. The climate is cool and moist, with an average annual temperature of around 16.9℃. The best time to visit is in spring and autumn when the weather is pleasant and the scenery is at its most beautiful.

Recommended Attractions

  • Lancang River: The main river of Badixiang, with beautiful scenery along the river, suitable for hiking and photography.
  • Antilopelake: A famous alpine lake in Badixiang, known for its beautiful natural scenery.
  • Surrounding Natural Scenery: Including continuous mountains, streams, springs, and ancient walnut trees.

Suggested Duration of Stay

  • Lancang River: Suggested stay of 1 hour.
  • Antilopelake: Suggested stay of 2 hours.
  • Surrounding Natural Scenery: Suggested stay of half a day to one day.

Transportation

  • By Car: From Weixi County, the drive to Badixiang is approximately 116 kilometers.
  • By Public Transport: Buses are available from Weixi County Passenger Station to Badixiang.

Cuisine

  • Lisu Traditional Food: Such as Pise Meat and Zamba.
  • Steam Rice Cake: A local specialty.
  • Roast Suckling Pig: A local specialty.

Shopping

  • Ethnic Handicrafts: Items such as wooden bowls and Zamba boxes, which are rich in ethnic characteristics.
  • Local Agricultural Products: Including Yunnan Golden Snub-nosed Monkey honey and walnuts.

Accommodation

There are several Tibetan-style guesthouses in and around Badixiang, offering a good experience of Tibetan culture and lifestyle.

Travel Tips

  • Respect Local Customs: When visiting, respect the religious beliefs and traditional customs of the local ethnic groups.
  • Protect the Environment: Badixiang has a good ecological environment. Pay attention to environmental protection during your visit.
  • Safety First: The roads to Badixiang are relatively rugged. Drive carefully if you are traveling by car.

Itinerary

  • Day 1: Arrive in Badixiang, visit the Lancang River to experience local culture, and taste local specialties.
  • Day 2: Head to Antilopelake to explore the cultural and natural attractions.
  • Day 3: Visit the surrounding natural scenery, such as mountains and streams. Return to Weixi County or continue to other attractions.
Badixiang is a place full of ethnic characteristics and cultural heritage, suitable for tourists who love folk culture and natural scenery. Here, you can feel the warm hospitality of the local people and appreciate the unique charm of ancient ethnic cultures. We hope that your trip to Badixiang will be fruitful and leave you with unforgettable memories.