Chenghai Town of Yongsheng County in Lijiang

Location

Chenghai Town is located in the southern part of (永胜县) Yongsheng County, (丽江市) Lijiang City, Yunnan Province. It is 41 kilometers away from Yongsheng County and borders (东山乡) Dongshan Township to the east, (期纳镇) Qina Town to the south, (顺州板桥乡) Shunzhou Banqiao Township to the west, and (梁官镇) Liangguan Town to the north. The town covers an area of 473.6 square kilometers and administers 12 village committees and 77 village groups. Except for the two villages of (吉福) Jifu and (莨峨) Lang’e, which are located in mountainous and semi-mountainous areas, the remaining 10 village committees are situated in the Chenghai Basin.

Ethnic Groups and Traditional Skills

Chenghai Town is home to multiple ethnic minorities, including the (彝族) Yi and (傈僳族) Lisu. The traditional skills of the area include:

  • Chenghai Fish Cooking Techniques: A Han Chinese traditional cooking technique in Chenghai, famous for its unique way of preparing local fish.

  • Enamel Silverware Making: A national heritage skill listed in the national protection catalog of Yongsheng County, which is also inherited in Chenghai.

  • Fire Grass Weaving: A provincial-level protected skill that showcases the traditional textile techniques of the local Yi and other minority groups.

Customs and Festivals

  • Chenghai Sea Festival: A unique local folk event held on the second day of the second month of the lunar calendar.

  • Torch Festival: An important Yi festival, typically held on the 24th of the sixth lunar month, where people light torches to drive away evil spirits and pray for happiness.

  • Knife Stick Festival: Traditional events such as the Knife Stick Sacred Ceremony are held in villages like (金兰村) Jinlan Village in Chenghai.

Ancient Architecture

Chenghai Town has relatively few ancient buildings, but nearby areas like (他留山) Taliu Mountain preserve historical sites, including the (他留山古墓群) Taliu Mountain Ancient Tombs.

Tourist Resources

  • Chenghai Lake: One of the nine highland lakes of Yunnan and one of the world’s three natural spirulina-growing lakes. The lake is clear and beautiful, perfect for boat tours and sunset viewing. Nearby attractions include Chenghai Park, Moon Bay, and Chenghai Lake Park, all great spots for admiring the lake and mountain scenery.

  • Maojia Bay Scenic Area: Located on the southern side of Chenghai, this area includes the Bian Tun Museum and the Great Ancestors Memorial Hall, both of which are currently free to visit.

  • Qingshui Ancient Town: A charming old town that retains traditional architectural styles and way of life.

  • Chenghai Lake Cycling: A popular cycling activity around Chenghai Lake, offering a scenic view of the lake’s clear blue waters.

Transportation

  • By Road: From Lijiang, drive along the Liyong Line for approximately 2 hours to reach Chenghai Town. It is about 80 kilometers from Lijiang Ancient City.

  • Public Transport: Take a long-distance bus from Lijiang Passenger Station to Yongsheng County. From there, transfer to a minibus to Chenghai Town.

Accommodation and Cuisine

  • Accommodation: There are many hotels and guesthouses around Chenghai, offering various options depending on your preferences.

  • Cuisine: You can taste local specialties such as Chenghai fish, butter tea, and local chicken soup.

Hope this guide helps you plan your trip to Chenghai Town.