Pianma Town of Lushui City, Nujiang

Geographical Location and Administrative Divisions: Pianma Town is located in the western part of Lushui City, within the Hengduan Mountains’ longitudinal valley area. It lies on the west slope of Gaoligong Mountain and east of the Enmei River, a tributary of the Nujiang River. The town is bordered by Lujang Town to the east, and Myanmar to the south, west, and north. It covers an area of 153 square kilometers and has a population of approximately 3,100 (as of 2017). The town administers 1 community and 4 administrative villages: Jinglang Community, Pianma Village, Gula Village, Gangfang Village, and Piansihe Village.

Cultural and Historical Background: Pianma Town is a historically significant area, having been part of the ancient southwestern Silk Road. It was also a key battleground for ethnic groups in the 19th century against British colonial aggression. The town’s name, “Pianma,” originates from the Jingpo language, meaning “a place for wooden planks.”

Economic Development: Pianma Town’s economy is primarily based on agriculture, with crops such as corn and rice. The area 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 has seen growth in the livestock industry. Pianma is also a significant border trade town, being the only provincial-level open border port in Nujiang Prefecture.

Natural Environment: The town is situated in a mountainous area with rugged terrain, characterized by high mountains and deep valleys. The climate is temperate, with an average annual temperature of 14-16°C and an annual precipitation of over 1,200 mm.

Tourist Resources: Pianma Town features unique natural landscapes and cultural attractions. Notable sites include the Nujiang Hump Route Memorial Hall, which commemorates the驼峰航线 (Hump Route) during World War II, and Tingming Lake, a high-altitude lake known for its pristine beauty. The town also has the Pianma People’s Victory Monument, which honors the local resistance against British forces.

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.

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