Hongqiao Town of Ninglang County in Lijiang

Geographic Location

Ningli Township (宁利乡) is located in the western part of Ninglang County (宁蒗县), approximately 25 kilometers from the county seat, covering a total area of 335.81 square kilometers. Situated in a mountainous area, the terrain is complex, with rivers, valleys, and steep slopes.

Ethnic Groups and Traditional Crafts

Ningli Township (宁利乡) is home to several ethnic groups, including the Yi (彝族), Lisu (傈僳族), Pumi (普米族), Han (汉族), and Mosuo (摩梭族). The traditional crafts of these ethnic groups are diverse and vibrant:

  • Yi (彝族): The Yi people are skilled in making traditional Yi clothing, known for its bright colors, intricate patterns, and strong ethnic characteristics.

  • Mosuo (摩梭族): The Mosuo people’s hand-weaving skills are part of Yunnan’s intangible cultural heritage. They produce handcrafted textiles such as shawls, tablecloths, belts, and handbags, which are sold both domestically and internationally.

  • Pumi (普米族): The traditional crafts of the Pumi people include hand-weaving and leatherwork.

Customs and Festivals

The ethnic groups in Ningli Township (宁利乡) celebrate various rich traditional customs and festivals:

  • Yi Torch Festival (彝族火把节): Held on the 24th day of the 6th lunar month each year, people light torches, sing, and dance to pray for good weather and a bountiful harvest.

  • Yi New Year (彝族年): A celebration of the harvest and an ancestral worship festival, typically held in the 10th lunar month.

  • Mosuo (摩梭族) Mount Pilgrimage Festival (转山节): An important festival for the Mosuo people, where they dress in traditional attire and circle Mount Gemu (格姆女神山) in a pilgrimage to pray for blessings.

Ancient Architecture

The ancient architecture of Ningli Township (宁利乡) is mainly represented by traditional dwellings of various ethnic groups, such as the Yi people’s mud-brick houses and the Mosuo people’s wooden houses. These ancient buildings showcase unique ethnic styles and historical value.

Tourist Resources

  • Natural Scenery: Ningli Township (宁利乡) offers rich natural landscapes, such as rice paddy fish farming bases and Litchi River (荔枝河), where visitors can experience agricultural culture and enjoy the joy of fishing during harvest season.

  • Cultural Experiences: Visitors can immerse themselves in the culture and lifestyle of local ethnic communities, such as the Yi (彝族) and Mosuo (摩梭族), by visiting their villages.

Transportation

  • External Transportation: To reach Ningli Township (宁利乡), first travel to Lijiang City (丽江市), then take a bus or other transport to Ninglang County (宁蒗县). From Ninglang County (宁蒗县) to Ningli Township (宁利乡), there are buses available, about 25 kilometers away.

  • Internal Transportation: Within the township, road transportation is primarily used. Some villages are connected by rural roads, although the road conditions may be poor. It is recommended to travel by self-drive or chartered vehicle.

Ningli Township (宁利乡) is a unique destination known for its stunning natural landscapes and rich ethnic culture, making it a worthwhile place to explore. Here, visitors can deeply experience the lifestyle of the ethnic minorities and immerse themselves in the vibrant local traditions.