Luoshui Village of Yongning Town in Ninglang County, Lijiang
Luoshui Village (落水村) is located in Yongning Township (永宁乡), Ninglang Yi Autonomous County (宁蒗彝族自治县), Lijiang City (丽江市), Yunnan Province (云南省). Situated in the core area of the 4A-rated scenic spot Lugu Lake (泸沽湖), it boasts stunning lake views, rich Mosuo (摩梭) folk culture, and profound historical heritage, making it an ideal destination to experience the unique ecological and cultural charm of a highland lake. Below is a detailed travel guide to Luoshui Village.
Geographic Location
Luoshui Village lies east of Yongning Township (永宁乡), about 30 km from the township government (accessible via unpaved roads) and 93 km from Ninglang County (宁蒗县). Bordered by Sichuan (四川) to the east, Hongqiao Township (红桥乡) to the south, Mudiqing Village Committee (木底箐村委会) to the west, and Yongning Village Committee (永宁村委会) to the north, the village is nestled against mountains and faces Lugu Lake (泸沽湖), resembling a sandbar extending from this highland gem.
- Total area: 55.6 km²
- Altitude: 2,700 m
- Average annual temperature: 9.3°C
- Annual precipitation: 1,200 mm
The semi-mountainous terrain and mild climate make it suitable for various tourism activities.
Ethnic Groups
Luoshui Village is home to 12 ethnic groups, including the Mosuo (摩梭), Pumi (普米), Han (汉族), and Yi (彝族). The harmonious coexistence of these communities has created a unique multicultural atmosphere. Notably, the Mosuo matrilineal culture is a major draw for visitors.
Traditional Crafts
Handicraft Weaving
A centuries-old tradition passed down among Mosuo women, this craft uses wool and hemp to create fabrics with symbolic patterns, which are then made into clothing, belts, bags, scarves, shawls, and accessories. Aqi Duzhima (阿七独支玛), a inheritor of Yunnan’s intangible cultural heritage, is renowned for her weaving, described as “a dazzling dance of hands from primitive society.” She has copyrighted 12 Mosuo totem designs, standardized textile techniques, innovated patterns, and trained over 900 people to preserve this ancient craft.
Liquor Brewing
Mosuo women excel in brewing Guangdang liquor (咣当酒, a white liquor) and Sulima wine (苏里玛酒). These traditional beverages, integral to daily life and hospitality, reflect the Mosuo people’s wisdom and craftsmanship.
Customs and Festivals
Walking Marriage (走婚)
A unique Mosuo marital practice where men do not marry and women do not wed. Instead, couples form unions through “walking marriages,” and children are raised by the mother’s family. This custom highlights the matrilineal culture.
Goddess Mountain Festival (转山节)
An annual celebration where Mosuo people dress in traditional attire and pilgrimage to Gemu Goddess Mountain (格姆女神山) to pray for peace and harvest. The festival features singing, dancing, horse racing, and other lively activities, showcasing Mosuo traditions.
Ancient Architecture
Mosuo Wooden Houses (木楞房)
A signature architectural style in Luoshui Village, these houses are built with interlocked logs (peeled and notched at the ends) and topped with wooden slabs weighted by stones—no nails or tiles are used. The sturdy, earthquake-resistant design provides warmth in winter and coolness in summer, exemplifying Mosuo ingenuity and adaptability.
Historical Figures
Yang Erche Namu (杨二车娜姆)
Though a Mosuo from Sichuan, this U.S.-based singer, writer, and actress (nicknamed “Red Flower Empress” for her signature floral hair adornments) established the Yang Erche Namu Museum in nearby Xiaoluoshui Village (小落水村). The museum displays her signed books, life photos, and ethnic decorations, and offers lakeside lodging, attracting visitors with its celebrity appeal and stunning views.
Tourism Resources
Natural Landscapes
- Lugu Lake (泸沽湖): The crystal-clear lake, surrounded by mountains and dotted with islands like Lige Peninsula (里格半岛), is perfect for boat tours on traditional pig-trough boats (猪槽船).
- Gemu Goddess Mountain (格姆女神山): A landmark offering panoramic views of Lugu Lake via cable car.
Cultural Attractions
- Mosuo Folk Museum (摩梭民俗博物馆): Exhibits Mosuo history, culture, religion, and customs, including 17 complete textile-making processes.
- Traditional Village: Preserves Mosuo lifestyle and architecture, offering immersive cultural experiences.
Transportation Guide
By Air
- Fly to Ninglang Lugu Lake Airport (宁蒗泸沽湖机场), then take an airport shuttle (Da Luoshui Line) or taxi (1-hour drive).
By Bus
- From Lijiang (丽江):
- Take a bus from Lijiang Bus Station to Ninglang County, then transfer to a minibus (~¥30) to Luoshui Village.
- Direct buses to Yongning (永宁) stop at Da Luoshui Village (~¥50).
- Tourist Shuttles:
- Depart daily from Lijiang’s Yuhui Square Parking Lot (古城口玉河广场) to Da Luoshui Village and Lige Island (¥160 round-trip, ¥100 one-way; 3-hour ride).
- Lijiang Gaokui Bus Station offers two daily departures (8:00 & 8:30; ~¥100; 3 hours).
- Lijiang Bus Station has two daily buses (8:30 & 9:00; ~¥106; 3 hours).
By Car
- Drive from Lijiang or nearby cities (~4 hours). Note: Mountain roads require cautious driving.
