Dadong Town of Gucheng District in Lijiang

Dadong Township (大东乡), located in the northeastern part of Lijiang Ancient City District (丽江古城区), Lijiang City, Yunnan Province, is a picturesque area renowned for its abundant natural landscapes and unique ethnic culture. It is a multi-ethnic region primarily inhabited by the Naxi people, with significant populations of Han, Yi, and Tibetan ethnic groups as well.

Cultural Significance

Dadong Township is particularly famous for its “Re Me Suo” (热美蹉) folk songs and dances, a pure form of musical expression that reflects the Naxi people’s psychological state. It is a remnant of the Naxi concept of “Re Me” preserved in folk customs and is one of the best-preserved and most widely promoted traditional Naxi folk song and dance arts. The township has been honored as the “Home of Chinese Folk Culture and Art” due to its distinctive Re Me Suo performances.

Administrative Division and Demographics

Dadong Township governs three village committees: Dadong, Baishui (白水), and Jianxin (建新), comprising 39 village groups with a population of over 6,700 people. Among them, there are 67 poor households and 217 impoverished individuals, making it a key area for poverty alleviation efforts in the Ancient City District. The region is situated at an altitude of 2,500 meters, with an average annual temperature of 13℃ and an annual precipitation of 500 millimeters, suitable for growing crops like corn. In 2006, the total economic income of the village was 3.75 million yuan, with a per capita net income of 1,338 yuan, classifying it as an impoverished village where income is mainly derived from agriculture.

Tourist Attractions

Dadong Township boasts a wealth of tourism resources, including pristine forests, meadows, and traditional wooden houses, creating an enchanting fairy tale-like world. Herds of cattle graze on the natural pastures, adding vitality to the mysterious primeval forests. The township is also known for its “Traditional Chinese Villages,” which not only showcase the traditional architectural style of the Naxi people but also carry rich historical and cultural values.

Recommended Scenic Spots

  • Traditional Chinese Villages: Dadong Village was listed in the first batch of Traditional Chinese Villages with significant protection value in 2012. It not only displays the traditional architectural style of the Naxi people but also bears abundant historical and cultural significance.
  • National Intangible Cultural Heritage “Re Me Suo”: As the birthplace of the national intangible cultural heritage “Re Me Suo,” Dadong Township offers visitors the opportunity to enjoy this unique folk cultural performance art.
  • Dadong Hot Springs: The natural hot springs in Dadong are a unique resource providing a relaxing retreat for visitors.
  • Black Dragon Pond Park: Located at the foot of Xiangshan Mountain, the park is elongated and consists of several connected lakes with water sourced from Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, offering excellent quality. The Naxi people have utilized this water resource to construct irrigation channels that direct water into Dayan Ancient Town.
  • Primeval Forests and Meadows: Dadong Township also has abundant primeval forests and meadows, offering visitors a great opportunity to explore nature.
In summary, Dadong Township is a township in Lijiang Ancient City District with rich tourism resources and natural scenery, making it a place worth visiting for those interested in exploring the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the region.