Luzhang Town of Lushui City, Nujiang

Geographical Location and Administrative Divisions: Luzhang Town is located in the northwest of Lushui City, within the Gaoligong Mountain National Nature Reserve. It is bordered by the Nujiang River to the east, Myanmar to the west, Lukou Town to the south, and Daxingdi Township to the north. The town covers an area of 339.42 square kilometers and is 32 kilometers away from the city of Lukou, the seat of the Nujiang Prefecture government. It administers six villages: Luzhang Village, Luzu Village, Luoma Village, Langbazhai Village, Sanhe Village, and Denggen Village.

Cultural and Historical Background: Luzhang Town is a historically significant area and was once part of the ancient southwestern Silk Road. It is known for its rich ethnic culture and traditional customs, such as the Lisu “Zaotang Hui” (Bathing Festival) and the Lisu “Shang Dao Shan, Xia Huo Hai” (Climbing the Knife Mountain, Descending the Fire Sea) performances. The town is also associated with the WWII “Hump Route” and is the southern gateway to the “Three Parallel Rivers” World Natural Heritage Area.

Economic Development: The economy of Luzhang Town is primarily based on agriculture, with crops such as corn and rice. The town is also known for its rich forest resources and diverse biological species. In recent years, the town has developed specialty agricultural products, such as walnuts and grass fruit, and has seen growth in the livestock industry. Luzhang Town is also a significant border trade town, being close to the provincial-level open border port of Pianma.

Natural Environment: The town is situated in a mountainous area with rugged terrain, characterized by high mountains and deep valleys. The highest altitude is 3,896 meters at Tingming Mountain, while the lowest is 993 meters at Mazhang River. The climate varies vertically, ranging from cold in the high mountains to hot in the river valleys, with an average annual temperature of 18°C and an annual precipitation of 1,250 mm.

Tourist Resources: Luzhang Town features unique natural landscapes and cultural attractions. Notable sites include the Nujiang River Valley, which offers beautiful river views and lush vegetation, and various ethnic cultural sites that showcase the rich traditions of the local communities. The town is also known for its “one mountain, four seasons” climate, where the weather can change dramatically within a short distance.

Infrastructure and Development: Significant progress has been made in infrastructure construction, including the completion of several rural roads and irrigation ditches, which have improved agricultural and living conditions for the residents. The town has also seen improvements in communication, radio, and television networks, enhancing the residents’ access to information and the outside world.

Luzhang Town, with its unique geographical location, rich cultural heritage, and ongoing infrastructure improvements, stands as a distinctive and vibrant town in Lushui City