Longtan Town of Yuanjiang County, Yuxi

Longtan Township (龙潭乡) is located in the northeastern part of Yuanjiang Hani, Yi and Dai Autonomous County (元江哈尼族彝族傣族自治县), situated in the mountainous area between Xiaohedi River (小河底河) and Yuanjiang Basin (元江坝子). The area resembles the profile of a heroic male figure on a map. It borders Wadie Township (洼垤乡) to the southeast, Lijiang Subdistrict (澧江街道) to the southwest, Ganzhuang Subdistrict (甘庄街道) to the northwest, and faces Baoxiu Town (宝秀镇) of Shiping County (石屏县) across the river to the northeast. The township government, located in Longtan Village (龙潭村), is about 54 kilometers from the county seat.

History and Culture

Longtan Township (龙潭乡) has a long and rich history. In 1949, it belonged to Renli Township (仁里乡). It became Denger Commune (邓耳公社) in 1958, and was reorganized into Longtan Township in 1988. Historically, this area served as a military stronghold. In the Ming Dynasty, military posts were established here, followed by “military ponds” (军塘) in the Qing Dynasty, under the administration of Yuanjiang Garrison (元江营).

Local Customs

Longtan Township is home to multiple ethnic groups, primarily the Yi (彝族), Hani (哈尼族), and Dai (傣族) peoples.

• The Yi people celebrate a Mountain Worship Festival, during which digging or plowing the land is forbidden to avoid offending the mountain spirits.
• The Dai people are known for their warm hospitality and uphold traditions of mutual care, such as “comforting the sick and helping those in need.”

Weather and Best Time to Visit

The average annual temperature in Longtan Township is 15.4°C. The average temperature in January is 8°C, and in July it’s 20°C. The average annual rainfall is 1,100 mm, mainly from May to October.
Best seasons to visit are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is pleasant and the scenery is beautiful.

Recommended Attractions and Visiting Times

Longtan Village (龙潭村)
Named after a spring (“Longtan”) beneath the village, it serves as the township center and a great place to experience local customs.
Suggested visit time: 2 hours

Dashao Village (大哨村)
A historical site with relics from Ming military posts and Qing “military ponds.”
Suggested visit time: 2 hours

Shuikemo Village (水可莫村)
“Shuikemo” means “Big Bend” in Yi language. Located at a large bend in the landscape, it’s a great place to explore Yi culture.
Suggested visit time: 1 hour

Transportation

Public Transport:
Take a local bus or minibus from Yuanjiang County (元江县) to Longtan Township. The trip takes about 1.5 hours.

By Car:
Navigate to the Longtan Township Government (龙潭乡政府) in Longtan Village (龙潭村). Driving takes around 1 hour.

Local Cuisine

Dai-style Dried Beef (傣族牛肉干巴):
A flavorful local delicacy often served to guests.

Yi-style Barbecue (彝族烤肉):
Authentic Yi-style barbecue is especially popular during festivals like the Mountain Worship Festival.

Shopping

Ethnic Handicrafts:
You can find Yi embroidery and Dai brocade in local markets and craft stores—perfect souvenirs.

Local Agricultural Products:
Fresh bamboo shoots are a local specialty. Longtan Township has 1,500 mu (approx. 100 hectares) of bamboo shoot plantations.

Accommodation

Hotels:
There are several hotels in Yuanjiang County, just a short drive from Longtan Township.

Guesthouses:
Some unique guesthouses are located in and around Longtan Township where you can experience the local lifestyle.

Travel Tips

• Respect Local Culture: Be mindful of customs when visiting historical sites or participating in cultural activities.
• Environmental Protection: Avoid littering and help preserve the natural beauty.
• Safety First: Follow safety guidelines, especially during outdoor activities.

Suggested Itinerary

Day 1:
Arrive in Yuanjiang County (元江县) and travel to Longtan Township. Explore Longtan Village and experience local culture.

Day 2:
Visit Dashao Village to explore historical relics. In the afternoon, head to Shuikemo Village to experience Yi culture.

Day 3:
Return to Yuanjiang County for shopping and sampling local cuisine, wrapping up your journey.

Longtan Township (龙潭乡) attracts visitors with its deep historical roots, vibrant ethnic traditions, and scenic landscapes. Whether strolling through Longtan Village or immersing yourself in local festivals, you’ll experience the unique charm of this area. We hope you have an unforgettable trip in Longtan Township.