Baishuitai Entertainment in Shangri-La
Nestled on the northern slopes of Haba Snow Mountain (哈巴雪山) in Shangri-La (香格里拉), Baishuitai (白水台) is a breathtakingly beautiful destination. Beyond its stunning natural landscapes, it serves as the cradle of Dongba culture, hosting spectacular cultural festivities that attract countless visitors eager to explore its wonders.
“Chaobaishui” Dongba Culture Tourism Festival
Every March, Baishuitai becomes the vibrant stage for the grand “Chaobaishui” （朝白水）Dongba Culture Tourism Festival.
Folk Art Invitational Competition: A Global Gathering of Talent
On March 6, the Folk Art Invitational Competition kicks off. Artistic groups and individuals from around the world flock to this cultural rendezvous, showcasing their talents centered around Dongba culture. The stage comes alive with dazzling ethnic costumes, mesmerizing ancient Dongba music, and diverse performances, including dance, instrumental music, and drama. It feels like an impromptu artistic battle, where performers vividly interpret the essence of Dongba culture. The competition awards first, second, and third prizes, with the winning performances showcased on March 7. Exceptional works will also be featured on various platforms, potentially leading to commercial collaborations.
As night falls, the bustling long-table banquet begins, where visitors savor local delicacies while soaking in the rich ethnic ambiance. Post-dinner, storytelling sessions around the fire set the mood for the grand bonfire party, where people join hands, dance, and sing around the flames, leaving behind all worries.
Cultural and Creative Design Competition: Unleash Creativity and Win Big
From March to September, the Shangri-La Cultural and Creative Product Design Competition is in full swing. With a theme centered on Shangri-La culture, the competition spans multiple categories. The launch event takes place at Baishuitai, where designers infuse inspiration from technology, intangible cultural heritage, and Tibetan aesthetics. Exquisite creations such as Meili Snow Mountain (梅里雪山)-themed silver jewelry, unique Nixi black pottery (尼西黑陶) coffee cups, and specialty gifts made from matsutake mushroom paste and highland roses captivate visitors. The competition adopts a combination of online voting and expert evaluation to determine the gold, silver, and bronze prizes. The winners are honored in September at the Cultural Tourism Festival, gaining significant recognition and exposure.
Immersive Intangible Cultural Heritage Experiences: A Journey Through Time
Intangible Heritage Workshop: Crafting Dongba-Inspired Artifacts
At 10:00 AM, the Intangible Heritage Workshop begins! Here, visitors can participate in block printing of Dongba scriptures, experiencing the mystical power of ancient writing. Veteran Dongba masters guide participants in painting sacred totems on leather drums, and some even receive handwritten blessings from the master himself. Witnessing the century-old technique of Dongba paper-making is another highlight. Visitors can try their hand at crafting a sheet of Dongba paper to take home as a memorable souvenir. Writing pictographs on Dongba paper transports one through time, forging a connection with the ancient Naxi (纳西族) ancestors.
Chaobaishui Blessing Ritual: Making Heartfelt Wishes
From 11:00 AM to 11:30 AM, the Chaobaishui Blessing Ritual takes place. Led by Dongba priests, participants light juniper incense, sending wisps of fragrant smoke skyward as prayers echo through the valley, creating a mystical ambiance. With deep reverence, people gather by the sacred spring to make wishes. It is said that prayers made here are particularly effective, bringing peace and fortune to oneself and loved ones. This ritual profoundly conveys the Dongba culture’s respect for nature and spirituality.
Agricultural Heritage Experience: Journey Through the “Fields of the Immortals”
At 2:00 PM, under the guidance of Naxi elders, visitors embark on a journey through the “Fields of the Immortals.” Baishuitai’s unique geological formations create a cascade of terraces resembling a sacred farming landscape. Here, one can use ancient farming tools to experience plowing, sowing, and other traditional agricultural activities, embracing the simplicity and charm of rural life. Surrounding exhibits showcase local farming customs and agricultural products, providing a deeper understanding of the region’s rich heritage.
Cultural and Creative Market: Discover Unique Treasures
After an immersive heritage experience, take a stroll through the cultural and creative market, a true treasure trove. Handcrafted Tibetan goods and highland specialty products fill the stalls. Whether choosing a unique souvenir for a friend or a keepsake for oneself, there’s something for everyone. The market’s setup exudes an Instagram-worthy aesthetic, making every snapshot a masterpiece. Bring ample storage space because every corner is worth capturing. Some stalls even allow bargaining—who knows, you might snag a fantastic deal on your favorite items!
The Grand Dongba Cultural Performance: A Spectacular Audio-Visual Feast
On the afternoon of March 7, an unmissable grand performance awaits. The “Chaobaishui” cultural performance takes center stage, electrifying the atmosphere. Following opening speeches, the official unveiling of Baishuitai as a 4A Scenic Area marks a significant milestone in its development. The micro-film production launch ceremony introduces mystery guests, heightening anticipation.
The highlight is the mesmerizing ethnic dance and music showcase, vividly portraying Dongba culture. The reenactment of “The Sacred Path of Dongba” (东巴神路图) by the dance troupe is particularly breathtaking, transporting the audience into the ancient Dongba world. The winners of the competition also get their moment in the spotlight, with performances rivaling professional productions like “Dynamic Yunnan” (云南映象). The skill and passion of the performers earn waves of applause from the audience.
Travel Tips
- Clothing Preparation: Baishuitai experiences significant temperature fluctuations between day and night. Be sure to bring a down vest or warm clothing to stay comfortable, especially during chilly mornings and evenings.
- Payment Methods: While most market stalls accept electronic payments, carrying some cash is advisable. Certain areas may have weak network signals, making cash transactions more convenient.
- Footwear Selection: The calcium-rich pools at Baishuitai can be slippery, so wear non-slip shoes to ensure safe exploration.
- Transportation Guide: If driving, plan your route in advance. Alternatively, take a direct bus from Lijiang, which takes approximately three hours. Since no public transportation reaches Baishuitai directly, these two options are the most convenient. If time permits, consider exploring nearby attractions, such as the world-renowned hiking destination, Tiger Leaping Gorge (虎跳峡), to witness nature’s awe-inspiring power.
As the prayer flags flutter in the spring breeze and the sacred drums awaken the sleeping snow mountains, this March, embark on a journey to Baishuitai in Shangri-La. Immerse yourself in a cultural adventure spanning centuries, find peace and inspiration in Dongba traditions and intangible heritage, and create unforgettable travel memories.
