Wubali Village of Jinan Town in Gucheng District, Lijiang

Wuba Li Village (五坝里村) is located in Yixin Village Committee (义新村委会), Jin’an Town (金安镇), Gucheng District (古城区), Lijiang City (丽江市), Yunnan Province. It is approximately 10 kilometers away from the town government of Jin’an and about 30 kilometers from Lijiang City. Situated at the eastern gateway of Lijiang, it is an important passage of the ancient Tea Horse Road that connects Sichuan, Yunnan, and Tibet. The village is characterized by its picturesque natural scenery and rich cultural landscapes, making it an ideal destination to experience the traditional culture of the Naxi ethnic group and the heritage of the Tea Horse Road.

The primary inhabitants of Wuba Li Village are the Naxi people. The Naxi ethnic group is one of the indigenous ethnic groups in Yunnan with a long history and brilliant culture. Known for their hospitality, love for singing, and dancing, the Naxi people offer visitors a rich and authentic ethnic experience.

Dongba Culture: The Dongba culture of the Naxi people is recognized as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage. Dongba script, an ancient pictographic writing system of the Naxi people, is known as a “living pictograph.” In Wuba Li Village, visitors can observe the writing and transmission of Dongba script and learn about the history and significance of Dongba culture.

Traditional Architectural Skills: Naxi traditional architecture is characterized by the “three rooms with one screen wall” and “four courtyards with five sky wells” layout. Wuba Li Village preserves many traditional Naxi residential buildings that showcase the exquisite craftsmanship of Naxi architecture and reflect the charm of Naxi architectural art.

Naxi Embroidery: Naxi embroidery is renowned for its exquisite craftsmanship, vibrant colors, and diverse patterns, holding high artistic value. In the village, visitors can watch the embroidery process by Naxi women and purchase exquisite embroidered handicrafts as souvenirs.

Sky Worship: The Naxi people have a unique custom of sky worship, with an annual ceremony held on the fifth day of the first lunar month. Sky worship is one of the most important rituals of the Naxi people, where villagers gather at the sky worship site in the village to conduct grand ceremonies, praying for favorable weather, abundant harvests, and prosperity.

Festival Dancing: Festival dancing is a traditional group dance activity of the Naxi people, usually held during festivals or important occasions. Villagers form a large circle and dance to the rhythm of music, creating a lively and joyful atmosphere. Visitors are also welcome to join in and experience the Naxi dance culture.

Fire Pit Culture: The fire pit culture is an essential part of Naxi family life. In Naxi households, the fire pit serves as the center of the family, symbolizing warmth and unity. Visitors can visit Naxi families to learn about the significance and role of the fire pit culture.

Three Flowers Festival: The Three Flowers Festival is one of the most important festivals of the Naxi people, usually held on the eighth day of the second lunar month. Three Flowers is the protective deity of the Naxi people, and on this day, grand sacrificial activities are held to seek blessings from the deity. The festival features song and dance performances, traditional sports competitions, and other activities, making it a vibrant and festive occasion.

Torch Festival: The Torch Festival is a traditional festival of the Naxi people, usually held on the twenty-fifth day of the sixth lunar month. On this day, people light torches, symbolizing the expulsion of evil and the pursuit of peace. The festival includes bonfire parties, song and dance performances, and other activities, attracting many visitors to enjoy the festivities.

Located in Wuba Li Village, Yongjian Bridge was built in 1882. It is a stone arch bridge about 3 meters wide and 10 meters long, constructed on the natural stone cliffs on both sides of the Shengjie River (圣洁河). As an important relic of the ancient Tea Horse Road, Yongjian Bridge has witnessed the long history of Wuba Li Village and the prosperity of the Tea Horse Road, holding great historical and cultural value. Visitors can walk on the bridge, enjoy the beautiful scenery of the Shengjie River, and feel the weight of history.

The residential buildings in Wuba Li Village are characterized by the traditional Naxi style, preserving the layout of “three rooms with one screen wall” and “four courtyards with five sky wells.” These buildings are simple yet elegant, exuding a strong ethnic charm. Visitors can tour these traditional residences to learn about Naxi architectural art and lifestyle. Some of these residences have been converted into guesthouses, offering visitors the opportunity to experience traditional Naxi living.

There are no specific historical figures recorded in Wuba Li Village. However, as an important stop on the Tea Horse Road, the village has witnessed the comings and goings of countless caravans, leaving behind many stories of the muleteers. Visitors can listen to local elders recount the history of the muleteers and appreciate the charm of the Tea Horse Road culture.

Shengjie River: The Shengjie River, originating from Jinzu Lake (金足湖), flows through Wuba Li Village. The river is crystal clear, with lush green trees on both banks, creating a picturesque landscape. Visitors can take a leisurely walk along the riverbank to enjoy the beautiful natural scenery.

Ten Thousand Mu Rhododendron Garden: Surrounding Wuba Li Village are vast rhododendron forests. Every spring, rhododendrons bloom in full splendor, covering the mountainsides in a sea of flowers. Visitors can admire the breathtaking beauty of the rhododendrons and experience the charm of nature.

Shengjie Lake: Located near Wuba Li Village, Shengjie Lake features emerald green waters surrounded by mountains, offering a serene and beautiful scenery. Visitors can take a boat tour on the lake to enjoy the lake views, or camp and have a picnic by the lake, savoring the tranquil natural moments.

Wuba Li Village was an important stop on the Tea Horse Road, preserving many relics of the mule tracks and caravan inns. Visitors can experience the fun of hiking the Tea Horse Road and feel the historical charm of the ancient route. Along the way, they can also visit old mule inns, tea shops, and other buildings to learn about the commercial culture and muleteer life of the Tea Horse Road.

Starting from Lijiang City, follow the Huali Expressway, G353 National Road, or Longyang Road to Jin’an Town, and then navigate to Wuba Li Village. The total distance is about 30 kilometers, with a driving time of about half an hour. The route is scenic and well-maintained, making it the best choice for traveling to Wuba Li Village.

Bus: Take a bus from the passenger station in Lijiang City to Jin’an Town. The journey takes about one hour. Upon arrival in Jin’an Town, transfer to a local rural bus or taxi to Wuba Li Village, with a travel time of about 15 minutes.

Taxi/Online Ride-Hailing: Directly take a taxi or online ride-hailing service from Lijiang City to Wuba Li Village. The journey takes about half an hour, with a fare of approximately 60-80 yuan. This option is more convenient for time-sensitive travelers or those unfamiliar with the route.

Wuba Li Village offers several traditional Naxi-style guesthouses that provide an authentic ethnic accommodation experience. These guesthouses are beautifully decorated, well-equipped, and reasonably priced. Additionally, Jin’an Town has a selection of hotels and inns with better facilities but slightly higher prices.

Naxi Specialties: Wuba Li Village is home to a variety of Naxi specialties, such as Naxi barbecue, chickpea jelly, and Naxi hot pot. Visitors can enjoy these authentic Naxi dishes at local farmhouses to experience the rich Naxi culinary culture.

Local Snacks: The village also has many snack stalls offering traditional Naxi snacks, such as rice cakes, rice intestines, and flower cakes. These snacks are unique in flavor and reasonably priced, making them worth trying.

Best Travel Time: Wuba Li Village is suitable for travel all year round. Spring (March to May) is the season when rhododendrons bloom; summer (June to August) is cool and refreshing; autumn (September to November) offers pleasant scenery; and winter (December to February) is the time to experience traditional Naxi festivals.

Cultural Experience: Respect local customs and actively participate in folk activities. Engage in friendly exchanges with local residents to gain a deeper understanding of the Naxi culture and lifestyle.

Environmental Protection: Wuba Li Village boasts beautiful natural scenery. Visitors are encouraged to protect the environment by not littering, cherishing plants and trees, and preserving natural resources.

Safety Tips: When hiking the Tea Horse Road, pay attention to safety and choose appropriate routes and gear. If necessary, hire a local guide to ensure a safe and smooth journey.