Yunnan Travel experiencing the beauty of Nujiang River

Selected as a provincial-level intangible cultural heritage in Yunnan Province in 2022, Pipa Meat (琵琶肉) is a traditional delicacy of the Nu (怒族), Pumi (普米族), Naxi (纳西族), and Mosuo (摩梭族) ethnic groups. Named for its resemblance to the traditional Chinese musical instrument pipa, this cured pork is made using techniques derived from Tibetan-style cured meat. The process is intricate, resulting in a product that is fresh, flavorful, and tender without being greasy.

Included in the third batch of intangible cultural heritage in Nujiang Prefecture in 2021, Laowo Ham (老窝火腿) is produced in Laowo Township (老窝乡) of Lushui City (泸水市). Made from local black pigs from the Gaoligong Mountains (高黎贡山), the ham is cured using a unique process, resulting in a rosy-pink color, tender texture, and rich aroma without a salty or bitter aftertaste.

Selected as a provincial-level intangible cultural heritage in Yunnan Province in 2022, Lacquer Oil (漆油) is extracted from the seeds of the lacquer tree. Traditional methods produce purer lacquer oil, which is essential in Lisu (傈僳族) cuisine, often used in cooking dishes like Lacquer Oil Chicken (漆油鸡).

Included in the second batch of intangible cultural heritage in Nujiang Prefecture in 2018, Stone Plate Cake (石板粑粑) is a traditional food of the Nu (怒族) and Dulong (独龙族) ethnic groups in Gongshan County (贡山县). Made using black slate from Qiongtong Village (秋那桶村) in Bingzhongluo Township (丙中洛乡), the cakes are baked on stone slabs without oil, resulting in a sweet and unique flavor.

Included in the second batch of intangible cultural heritage in Nujiang Prefecture in 2018, Xia La (吓拉) is a traditional Nu dish of wine-cooked lacquer oil chicken. Typically prepared during festivals, guest arrivals, or significant events like weddings and funerals, this dish uses wine instead of water, resulting in a rich, fragrant flavor with tender chicken. It is known for its health benefits, including nourishment, cold prevention, and rheumatism treatment.

Included in the second batch of intangible cultural heritage in Nujiang Prefecture in 2018, Gudu Rice (咕嘟饭) is a traditional Nu staple also known as corn porridge. Named for the “gurgling” sound made during cooking, this dish is made by pounding dried corn into granules and stewing them with pork trotters and beans. It is flavorful, nutritious, and a favorite among locals.

Included in the second batch of intangible cultural heritage in Nujiang Prefecture in 2018, Lacquer Oil Tea (漆油茶) is a beloved Nu beverage and a popular treat for guests. Similar to butter tea or pork fat tea, it has a rich, savory flavor with health benefits such as aiding digestion and promoting blood circulation.

Time: From the 15th to 17th of the third lunar month (held from May 1 to May 15 in 2023)

Origin: The festival commemorates the story of the wise girl Arong (阿茸姑娘), who was burned to death while fleeing a forced marriage. People celebrate to honor her memory.

Activities: During the festival, hundreds of people dress in their finest attire, bringing food, wine, and flowers to join the procession. They worship the “Fairy” with music and drums, receive “holy water” from a cave, and pray for a peaceful year and bountiful harvests. After the ceremony, families hold feasts, gather with friends and relatives to eat, drink, sing, and dance. The festival also features traditional sports like crossbow shooting and tug-of-war, Nu textile displays, sales of ethnic products and snacks, ethnic performances, and evening bonfire parties. In 2023, the festival included twelve activities such as selecting the “Most Beautiful Arong Girl,” intangible cultural heritage performances, a fairy market, crossbow competitions, forest camping, cultural exhibitions, fire-pit culture experiences, online live streams, and tourism promotions.

By Air: Fly first to Kunming Changshui International Airport, then transfer to Nujiang Lancang Airport in Lushui City (泸水市), Nujiang Prefecture. Nujiang Lancang Airport currently offers flights to Kunming, Chongqing, Chengdu, Guangzhou, and other cities.

By Train: Take a train to Dali Station or Lijiang Station, then transfer to a long-distance bus at the local bus station to Nujiang Prefecture. The journey from Dali to Liuku (泸水市) takes about 4-5 hours, while from Lijiang, it takes about 6-7 hours.

Long-Distance Buses: Regular bus services connect various counties within Nujiang Prefecture and are a primary mode of transportation. For example, buses run regularly between Lushui City and Fugong County (福贡县) or Gongshan County (贡山县).

Chartered Vehicles: For larger groups or more flexible itineraries, chartered vehicles are available at bus stations or tourism service points in Lushui City, Fugong County, and Gongshan County. Prices vary based on the route and type of vehicle.

Scenic Area Shuttles: During peak tourist seasons, some scenic areas offer direct shuttles between attractions. For example, shuttles run from Bingzhongluo Town (丙中洛镇) to nearby sites. Information can be obtained in advance through travel platforms or local tourism information centers.

Liuku Town (六库镇): As the seat of Nujiang Prefecture, Liuku offers a variety of accommodation options. High-end hotels like Nujiang Hotel provide complete facilities and attentive service. Mid-range business hotels such as Jinmeng Hotel offer clean, comfortable rooms at reasonable prices, conveniently located near the city’s commercial center. There are also numerous budget guesthouses and homestays along the river, offering views of the Nujiang River with prices ranging from CNY 100 to 300.

Shangpa Town (上帕镇): Recommended is Laomudeng Guesthouse, located in the famous Laomudeng Village (老姆登村), an ideal spot for viewing the Nujiang Grand Canyon. Operated by local Nu residents, the guesthouse is rich in ethnic characteristics and offers a deep dive into Nu culture. Rooms are cozy, with some offering direct views of the Huangguan Mountain and the canyon. Prices range from CNY 200 to 500. The town also has several ordinary hotels with more affordable prices, around CNY 100 to 200.

Bingzhongluo Town (丙中洛镇): Bingzhongluo is a popular tourist destination in Nujiang Prefecture with a wide range of accommodation options. Qiongtong Hotel, for example, offers various room types to meet different needs. There are also many unique homestays in villages like Wuli (雾里村), known for their distinctive architecture and beautiful surroundings. Prices generally range from CNY 150 to 400. During peak seasons, it is advisable to book accommodations in advance to avoid delays.

Nujiang attracts numerous visitors with its magnificent canyon landscapes, unique ethnic cultures, and rich culinary offerings. Recommended attractions include the Nujiang Grand Canyon, Bingzhongluo Scenic Area, Dulong River Valley, Laomudeng Village, and Zhiziluoro Village. The best travel seasons are summer (to experience the rushing river) and winter (ideal for hiking and photography). Transportation can be arranged from Kunming via Baoshan and Liuku. Local specialties such as Stone Plate Cakes, Pipa Meat, and Lacquer Oil Chicken should not be missed.