Meizi Village of Lashi Town in Yulong County, Lijiang

Introduction

Meizi Village (梅子村) is part of Haidong Village Committee (海东村委会) in Lashi Township (拉市乡), YuLong NaXi Autonomous County (玉龙纳西族自治县), Lijiang City (丽江市). It is located in the dam area on the southeast side of Lashi Township, just 1 kilometer from Haidong Village Committee and only 1 kilometer from Lashi Township, making transportation extremely convenient. The village covers a total land area of 6,866 mu, at an elevation of 2,450 meters, with an annual average temperature of 11.5°C and abundant annual rainfall reaching up to 11,000 millimeters. These pleasant climatic conditions enable crops such as corn and wheat to grow vigorously, painting a vibrant pastoral scene. The village is divided into 4 villagers’ groups, consisting of 188 households, with a total rural population of 778 and 260 laborers; the majority of villagers (240 people) are engaged in primary industries, mainly relying on agriculture for their income.

Special Attractions

Pastoral Scenery

The village is surrounded by 2,120 mu of arable land, where vast stretches of dry land are neatly arranged. In different seasons, the landscape transforms distinctly:

  • Spring: Tender wheat and corn seedlings break through the soil, laying down a lush green carpet.

  • Summer: Crops flourish under the nourishment of sunshine and rain, appearing luxuriant and vibrant.

  • Autumn: Golden waves of wheat and plump corn cobs display the joy of harvest.

  • Winter: Although the fields appear somewhat desolate, they exude a unique, tranquil beauty.
    Visitors can stroll along the country paths, savor the fragrance of the earth, and experience the simplicity and peace of rural life.

Orchard Fruit-Picking

Meizi Village boasts 4,446 mu of forest land, including 544.6 mu of economic fruit orchards, with an average of 0.7 mu of economic fruit orchards per capita. The main fruits grown here include apples, red pears, and peaches. When the fruits ripen, the orchards are filled with the aroma of fresh fruit. Visitors can participate in fruit-picking activities, pluck fresh fruits by hand, taste the natural sweetness offered by nature, and enjoy the joy of harvest. The bright red apples, golden pears, and rosy peaches hanging from the branches are truly mouthwatering.

Folk Culture

A. NaXi Ethnic Customs

The majority of the residents in the village are from the NaXi ethnic group (纳西族), who have preserved their unique ethnic culture and traditional customs. Traditional NaXi architectural styles are evident throughout the village, with timber-framed houses that are both simple and warm, and the curved eaves and decorative dougong reveal rich ethnic characteristics. Visitors can enter NaXi homes to learn about their way of life, sample traditional NaXi cuisine, and enjoy NaXi song and dance performances, experiencing the warm hospitality of the NaXi people.

B. Cultural Activity Center

The village has established a cultural activity center, an important venue for local cultural events. Here, visitors can learn about the historical changes and folk customs of Meizi Village, and appreciate traditional NaXi handicrafts such as Dongba paper (东巴纸) and wood carvings. During special festivals or events, the cultural activity center also hosts a variety of activities, including traditional NaXi sacrificial ceremonies and song and dance competitions, allowing visitors to deeply experience local folk culture.

Surrounding Attractions

Lashi Lake (拉市海)

Lashi Lake (拉市海) is not far from Meizi Village and is one of the core attractions of Lijiang tourism. With its advantageous geographical location on the ancient Tea Horse Road (茶马古道), it was once a must-pass route for caravan trade. At Lashi Lake, visitors can experience horseback riding along the ancient road and feel the hardship and grandeur of the old caravan trade. Currently popular horseback riding routes include:

  • Tama Xunhua Route (踏马寻花线路): A ride around a sea of flowers offering a broad view of the floral expanse, taking approximately 40 minutes, and very popular among female riders.

  • Zhi Ma Yuntu Route (指马云途线路): A horseback pilgrimage route to Zhi Yun Temple (指云寺) with free incense burning and prayer, usually taking about 2 hours, and well-liked by visitors.

  • Lao Ma Shitu Route (老马识途线路): The longest and most time-consuming route, reaching the Shangri-La Viewing Platform (香格里观景台) near Shangri-La, taking 6 hours in total and more suitable for avid trekkers.

In addition, boating on Lashi Lake is a must-try activity. Glide on the lake, admire the reflections of the snow-capped mountains, and watch migratory birds play. Boating prices and durations are as follows:

  • Kayak: 20 CNY, unlimited time.

  • Tin Boat: 30 CNY, 30 minutes.

  • Bamboo Raft: 50 CNY, 50 minutes.

Lashi Lake Flower Sea

At Lashi Lake, there is a 500-mu flower sea, one of the largest in Lijiang and even in Yunnan Province. Flowers bloom in every season, with each season offering different floral displays to create a visual feast:

  • Spring: Colorful tulips bloom in profusion.

  • Summer: A vast, romantic lavender field stretches out endlessly.

  • Autumn: Golden sunflowers smile towards the sun.

  • Winter: Camellias bloom defiantly against the snow.
    No matter when you visit, the beauty of this flower sea will leave you spellbound.

 Lashi Lake Bird Watching

Every winter, Lashi Lake becomes a “bird paradise,” attracting tens of thousands of migratory birds each year, with up to 57 species, including 9 rare and endangered species. These include the Baotou Goose (斑头雁) unique to the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, as well as nationally protected species like the Chinese Merganser (中华秋沙鸭), Black-necked Crane (黑颈鹤), and Black Crane (黑鹤). Visitors can go to Lashi Lake Wetland Park (拉市海湿地公园) and Lashi Lake Sunshine Coast Natural Scenic Area (拉市海阳光海岸自然风景区) to observe these birds. The Sunshine Coast Natural Scenic Area, located on the southern side of Lashi Lake, with its abundant aquatic vegetation and plentiful fish and shrimp, is one of the best spots for bird feeding and photography. The southern area of Lashi Lake, with its vast lawns, is the best habitat for birds and an excellent location for bird watching.

Zhi Yun Temple (指云寺)

Zhi Yun Temple (指云寺) is the only ecologically developed temple in Lijiang that has not been commercially developed, and the only temple that operates as a school. It is also an essential stop on the Tea Horse Road. In the past, caravans would stop here to pray for the safety and smooth journey of their families. The temple’s architecture is simple and elegant, and its serene environment, with solemn Buddha statues and fluttering prayer flags, creates a profound religious atmosphere. Visitors can feel the deep spiritual aura, listen to the chanting of sutras, and find a moment of tranquility for the soul.

Transportation Guide

A. External Transportation

  • By Plane: Arrive at Lijiang Sanyi International Airport (丽江三义国际机场). The airport is a certain distance from Lashi Township (拉市乡). From the airport, take an airport shuttle bus to the city center, then transfer to a rural bus to Lashi Township. Get off at Haidong Village Committee (海东村委会) and either walk or transfer to local transportation to reach Meizi Village.

  • By Train: Take a train to Lijiang Station (丽江站). There are various transportation options from Lijiang Station to Lashi Township, such as taxis or dedicated shuttle buses. From Lashi Township, proceed to Meizi Village.

Internal Transportation

  • Self-Drive: If you choose to drive, use GPS navigation to go directly to Meizi Village. Depart from Lijiang City and follow the road leading to Lashi Township. The road conditions are good, and once you arrive in Lashi Township, follow the signs to Meizi Village.

  • Public Transportation: Lijiang City has a bus line (Line 31) that reaches near Meizi Village. This bus departs from Zhongyi Market (忠义市场), passing by YuLong County Hospital (玉龙县医院), Jinkai Square (金凯广场), and Jiahe Building Material City (嘉和建材城), finally arriving at Zhi Yun Temple (指云寺) before returning along the same route. Get off at Haidong Wanxiao (海东完小) or Lashi Town Government Station (拉市镇政府站); from there, Meizi Village is within walking distance. Note the operating times and intervals of the bus service.

 Accommodation Recommendations

YuLong County Yongqin Homestay (玉龙县勇勤民宿)

This homestay, located in YuLong NaXi Autonomous County (玉龙纳西族自治县) in Lijiang City, was established on January 10, 2022, and is currently in operation. Run by local residents, it exudes a strong NaXi ethnic flavor. The rooms are warmly decorated and fully equipped, allowing you to feel at home during your journey. Here, you can also sample traditional NaXi cuisine prepared by the host and learn about local customs and traditions through friendly conversation. The homestay is conveniently located near Meizi Village.

Nearby Homestays and Hotels

Apart from Yongqin Homestay, there are other homestays and hotels around Lashi Township. Some are located near Lashi Lake (拉市海), offering beautiful views of the lake and mountains right from the room. These hotels generally provide more comprehensive facilities and standardized services to meet various tourists’ needs. When booking accommodations, you can choose based on your budget and preferences through major travel booking platforms.

 Food Recommendations

 Traditional NaXi Cuisine (纳西族传统美食)

  • Chicken Bean Liangfen (鸡豆凉粉): A specialty of the NaXi people, this dish has a smooth texture that is thicker than typical cold noodles. Served with a unique sauce, it is both tangy and spicy—perfect for hot weather.

  • Cured Pork Hot Pot (腊排骨火锅): Made from locally cured pork ribs that are marinated for a long time, resulting in tender, fragrant meat. The hot pot is also served with local vegetables such as potatoes and tofu, offering a rich and memorable flavor.

  • NaXi Grilled Fish (纳西烤鱼): Fresh fish is cleaned and grilled to a golden crisp, with a crispy skin and tender meat. Served with various sides like green peppers, onions, and bean sprouts, and drizzled with a special sauce, it is exceptionally delicious.

Local Farmhouse Cuisine

In Meizi Village, you can also enjoy authentic farmhouse dishes made from fresh ingredients grown or raised by local farmers. For example:

  • Stir-Fried Seasonal Vegetables: Retaining the natural sweetness of the vegetables.

  • Country Chicken Soup (土鸡汤): Rich in flavor and highly nutritious. Although these dishes are simple, they allow you to taste the pure flavors of rural life.

Travel Tips

 Seasonal Choices

  • Spring (March–May): The climate is warm and everything comes back to life. Orchards bloom, and the tulips in Lashi Lake Flower Sea (拉市海花海) burst into color, making it perfect for enjoying nature and flower-viewing activities.

  • Summer (June–August): The weather is cooler, making it a great escape from the heat. Boating on Lashi Lake is especially enjoyable, and the surrounding forests are lush. However, remember to bring rain gear as summer has more rainfall.

  • Autumn (September–November): Harvest season brings an abundance of fruits in the orchards of Meizi Village, offering a wonderful fruit-picking experience. Additionally, migratory birds begin to arrive at Lashi Lake, providing an excellent opportunity for bird watching.

  • Winter (December–February): Although it is cold, Lashi Lake attracts a large number of migratory birds, making it the best season for bird watching. Also, many traditional NaXi festivals are held during this season, offering a rich cultural experience.

 Additional Considerations

  • Respect Local Customs: When visiting the village, respect the religious beliefs and customs of the NaXi people. Follow the guidance of local hosts during visits to NaXi homes or participation in local activities; do not touch or damage their belongings.

  • Protect the Environment: The natural environment of Meizi Village and its surroundings is beautiful. Please take care not to litter and help keep the area clean so that others can enjoy its beauty.

  • Safety Precautions: When participating in activities such as horseback riding or boating, listen to the instructions of the staff and follow all safety regulations. Maintain proper riding posture when on horseback and wear life jackets when boating.

  • Sun Protection and Warmth: Due to the high altitude in the Lijiang area, UV rays are strong regardless of the season. Always apply sunscreen, wear sunglasses and a hat, and carry warm clothing for the significant temperature differences between morning and night to avoid getting cold.