Renhe Town of Yongsheng County in Lijiang

Location

Renhe Town is located in the southeastern part of (永胜县) Yongsheng County, in the (金沙江) Jinsha River dry-hot valley area. It is 58 kilometers away from Yongsheng County, with an area of 455.3 square kilometers. The region is blessed with excellent ecological vegetation, abundant sunlight and heat, fertile land, and abundant water sources. The average annual temperature is 18°C, making it a sunny town and a great place for health and wellness.

Ethnic Groups and Traditional Skills

Renhe Town is home to several ethnic minorities, including the (彝族) Yi and (傈僳族) Lisu. Traditional skills include:

  • Yi Embroidery: Known for its vibrant colors and intricate patterns, it holds significant artistic value.

  • Fire Grass Weaving: This traditional textile craft reflects the techniques of the local Yi and other minority groups.

Customs and Festivals

  • Yi Torch Festival: An important festival for the Yi people, usually held on the 24th of the sixth lunar month. People light torches to drive away evil spirits and pray for happiness.

  • Yi Dance (打跳): A traditional dance of the Yi people, an important part of local Yi culture.

Ancient Architecture

  • Ruan Family Courtyard (冉家大院): Built during the late Qing Dynasty, the preserved section is a two-entry courtyard with a timber and earth structure. The total area is approximately 1,300 square meters, with 12 rooms of various sizes. The courtyard’s structure is exquisite and well-preserved. It has now been transformed into the “Red Flag Memory” village history museum and a party education base in (红旗村) Hongqi Village.

Tourist Resources

  • Hongqi Village (红旗村): It takes only about half an hour by car from Renhe Town to reach Hongqi Village. The village enjoys favorable geographical conditions, with a forest coverage rate of over 80%. It boasts rich red culture and a strong ecological foundation. The village’s terrain features significant elevation changes, preserving the unique landscape of the Sichuan-Yunnan mountainous villages. Fruits such as mangoes, cherries, pomelos, and plums are cultivated at different altitudes.

  • Hongqi Rural Study and Exploration Base (红旗田园农耕研学基地): Covering 60 acres, this base focuses on immersive parent-child study experiences with “fun appreciation, fun travel, fun learning, fun food, and fun living.” It combines rural culture, education, and experiential activities with the rich local environment and agricultural products. The base has attracted many tourists for its close-to-nature farming culture and distinctive educational programs.

  • Hongqi Farm (红旗农场): Covering about 600 acres, Hongqi Farm is an eco-friendly area with widespread forest coverage, making it an ideal spot for health and leisure. Visitors can also engage in agricultural experiences and enjoy the joy of harvesting.

  • “Ten Miles Beyond Dust” Stargazing Campsite (“十里尘外”星空露营地): Deep in Hongqi Village, this stargazing campsite offers a tranquil escape. In the evening, the sunset embraces the mountains and fields. Visitors can sit with friends under the sky, enjoying a relaxing moment.

Transportation

  • By Road: From Lijiang, take the relevant road to Renhe Town, approximately 1.5 hours by car.

  • Public Transport: Take a local bus or taxi from Yongsheng County to Renhe Town.

Accommodation and Cuisine

  • Accommodation: There are a few guesthouses in the town, but you can also opt for accommodations in Yongsheng County, where conditions are relatively better.

  • Cuisine: You can taste local specialties like (永胜火腿) Yongsheng Ham and butter tea.