Xiahe Village and Xiashuhe Village of Huangshan Town in Yulong County, Lijiang

Geographical Location

Xiahe Village (夏禾村)

Xiahe Village (夏禾村) is part of the Wutai Village Committee (五台村委会) in Huangshan Town (黄山镇), Yulong County (玉龙县). It is located to the south of Huangshan Town (黄山镇), in a basin area with an altitude of 2,395 meters. The village is about 2 kilometers from the Wutai Residential Committee (五台居委会) and 7 kilometers from the Huangshan Town Government (黄山镇政府). Its location is advantageous, with relatively convenient transportation. Whether traveling by car or public transport from Lijiang City (丽江市), it is easy to reach. Surrounded by mountains, the village enjoys a broad terrain and favorable climate conditions, with an average annual temperature of 12.6°C and an annual precipitation of 953.9 mm, which supports its agricultural and overall development.

Xiashuhe Village (下束河村)

Xiashuhe Village (下束河村) is closely connected to the famous Shuhe Ancient Town (束河古镇) and is a key part of the village system around Shuhe Ancient Town (束河古镇). It is situated on the northwest side of the Lijiang Basin (丽江坝子) and at the southern foot of the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain (玉龙雪山). The village is traversed by clear streams such as the Jiuding River (九鼎河) and Qinglong River (青龙河), giving it a unique natural environment. It is about 10 kilometers from Lijiang City (丽江市) and just a stone’s throw away from the core area of Shuhe Ancient Town (束河古镇), placing it in the golden area of Lijiang tourism. The village benefits from the tourism resources of the ancient town while retaining its own tranquility and simplicity.

Ethnic Groups and Traditional Crafts

Xiahe Village (夏禾村)

The main ethnic group in Xiahe Village (夏禾村) is the Naxi people (纳西族), who have preserved rich traditional crafts. The traditional Naxi (纳西族) architectural techniques are particularly distinctive and are fully displayed in the village’s residential buildings. The houses are mostly made of wood and earth, combining the “chuandou” (穿斗式) and “jinggan” (井干式) structural methods. Craftsmen pay great attention to the selection and processing of wood, with wooden pillars and beams carved with exquisite patterns such as flowers, birds, fish, insects, and mythological stories. The woodcarving craftsmanship is superb, with smooth lines and vivid shapes. Additionally, Naxi (纳西族) embroidery is also inherited here. Naxi women use colorful silk threads to embroider various patterns on fabrics, which are often used for clothing decorations and household items. The embroidery is bright in color and delicate in technique, embodying the Naxi people’s (纳西族) aspirations for a beautiful life.

Xiashuhe Village (下束河村)

Xiashuhe Village (下束河村) is also predominantly inhabited by the Naxi people (纳西族). Dongba papermaking (东巴造纸) is a highly representative traditional craft in the village. The paper is made from the local Daphne plant (瑞香科丽江荛花), which undergoes a complex process including collection, drying, soaking, boiling, washing, pounding, paper casting, pasting, and drying. Dongba paper (东巴纸) is strong, insect-resistant, and an important carrier of Dongba culture (东巴文化), often used for writing Dongba scriptures (东巴经文) and painting Dongba art (东巴绘画). Naxi (纳西族) woodcarving is also prevalent here, used not only for architectural decoration but also for making various woodcarving crafts such as ornaments and pendants. The carving style is both rough and delicate, with a strong ethnic flavor.

Customs and Festivals

Xiahe Village (夏禾村)

The traditional customs of the Naxi people (纳西族) are well preserved in Xiahe Village (夏禾村). In daily etiquette, there is a strong atmosphere of respecting the elderly and caring for the young, with strict norms for how juniors should greet their elders. In terms of dietary customs, in addition to the previously mentioned Naxi Baba (纳西粑粑) and Shuimen Baba (水焖粑粑), villagers also prepare traditional dishes during major festivals, such as “Sandieshui” (三叠水), a high-standard banquet for entertaining distinguished guests. The banquet is named for its use of large bowls, small bowls, and plates arranged in three layers, offering a rich variety of dishes including meat, vegetables, and pastries, reflecting the Naxi people’s (纳西族) hospitality.

An important festival is the Sanduo Festival (三朵节), held on the eighth day of the second lunar month. Villagers dress in traditional attire and visit the nearby Sanduo Temple (三朵庙) to worship the Naxi (纳西族) protector god “Sanduo” (三朵). The ceremony is solemn, with offerings made to pray for good weather, abundant harvests, and prosperity. After the ceremony, the entire village gathers for grand singing and dancing activities, performing traditional Naxi (纳西族) dances such as “Alili” (阿哩哩) and “Datiao” (打跳), creating a lively atmosphere.

Xiashuhe Village (下束河村)

In terms of customs, the Naxi (纳西族) hearth culture is particularly prominent in Xiashuhe Village (下束河村). The hearth is the core of a Naxi (纳西族) family, used not only for heating and cooking but also as an important place for family gatherings and emotional exchanges. Important family discussions and guest receptions are conducted around the hearth.

Festivals are rich and varied. In addition to the Sanduo Festival (三朵节), the Torch Festival (火把节) is also significant. On the 24th day of the sixth lunar month, every household erects tall torches made of pine and dry wood, adorned with colorful flags. At night, the torches are lit, and the villagers parade around the large torch with small torches in hand, chanting blessings. This is followed by a grand bonfire party, with people singing and dancing around the fire, creating a spectacular scene.

Ancient Architecture

Xiahe Village (夏禾村)

Xiahe Village (夏禾村) retains typical traditional Naxi (纳西族) residential architecture. The layout of the houses is mostly “three rooms and a screen wall” (三坊一照壁) or “four sides and five courtyards” (四合五天井). “Three rooms and a screen wall” refers to a courtyard enclosed by a main house, left and right wing rooms, and a screen wall. The screen wall is usually made of brick and stone, painted with exquisite patterns such as landscapes and flowers, serving both aesthetic and functional purposes like wind protection and lighting. The main house is tall and spacious, generally facing south, and is the center of family activities. The wing rooms are used for living or storage. “Four sides and five courtyards” consists of four houses enclosing a large central courtyard and four small courtyards, showcasing the Naxi people’s (纳西族) architectural wisdom with its rigorous structure and rational spatial layout.

Xiashuhe Village (下束河村)

Buildings around Jiuding Longtan (九鼎龙潭): Centered around the Longtan (龙潭), many ancient buildings are distributed nearby. The Dragon King Temple (龙王庙) beside the Longtan (龙潭) has a simple and elegant architectural style, with flying eaves and painted beams. Inside the temple, a statue of the Dragon King is enshrined, where Naxi people (纳西族) worship and pray for rain. The residential buildings around the Longtan (龙潭) are mostly built by the water, creating a unique waterside scenery.

Ancient inns on the Tea Horse Road (茶马古道): As an important node on the Tea Horse Road (茶马古道), Xiashuhe Village (下束河村) has preserved some ancient inn ruins. These inns were once places for caravans to rest, feed horses, and trade. The architectural style is practical and sturdy. Although some inns have been eroded by time, the remaining structures and layouts still evoke the bustling scenes of caravans coming and going.

Historical Figures

Xiahe Village (夏禾村)

Although Xiahe Village (夏禾村) has not yet produced nationally renowned figures, it has seen many outstanding representatives in local culture and education. For example, a Naxi (纳西族) scholar [specific name] once devoted himself to studying Naxi (纳西族) culture, delving into the history, language, and customs of the ethnic group. He authored books on the inheritance of Naxi (纳西族) culture, making significant contributions to the preservation and transmission of Naxi (纳西族) culture in Xiahe Village (夏禾村) and surrounding areas. In education, [teacher’s name] has long been rooted in rural education, nurturing generations of students from Xiahe Village (夏禾村) and sending many talents to the village, earning great respect locally.

Xiashuhe Village (下束河村)

He Zhiqiang (和志强), a Naxi (纳西族) born near Shuhe Ancient Town (束河古镇) (including the area of Xiashuhe Village (下束河村)), once served as the Governor of Yunnan Province (云南省省长). During his tenure, he made outstanding contributions to Yunnan’s economic development, infrastructure construction, and the protection of ethnic culture. He was committed to promoting Yunnan’s reform and opening-up, actively attracting foreign investment, and fostering economic exchanges and cooperation between Yunnan and the rest of the world. His efforts had a profound impact on Yunnan’s modernization, making him a pride of the Naxi people (纳西族), and his deeds are widely celebrated locally.

Tourism Resources

Xiahe Village (夏禾村)

Rural scenery: The village is surrounded by vast fields, with different scenery in each season. In spring, tender green wheat and broad bean seedlings cover the fields, full of vitality. In summer, golden rapeseed flowers and plump corn cobs show the promise of a good harvest. In autumn, the fragrance of rice fills the air, creating a golden sea. In winter, although the fields are somewhat desolate, the distant mountains and fields form a tranquil ink painting. Visitors can stroll through the fields, participate in farming activities, and experience the joys of rural life.

Nearby natural landscapes: The nearby Wenbi Lake (文笔海) has clear water like a mirror, surrounded by mountains and dense forests. There are many viewing platforms by the lake where visitors can enjoy the scenery and engage in bird photography. In the morning, the lake is shrouded in mist, like a fairyland. In the evening, the setting sun casts its glow on the lake, creating a sparkling, beautiful scene.

Cultural experiences: Visitors can immerse themselves in Naxi (纳西族) family life, learn traditional Naxi (纳西族) crafts, and taste Naxi (纳西族) cuisine. They can also visit local cultural activity rooms to learn about the historical changes and folk culture of Xiahe Village (夏禾村).

Xiashuhe Village (下束河村)

Natural landscapes: With the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain (玉龙雪山) as a backdrop, the scenery is majestic and magnificent, with snow-capped peaks year-round. The Jiuding River (九鼎河) and Qinglong River (青龙河) are crystal clear, with flowing water adding a dynamic beauty to the village. Willow trees line the riverbanks, creating picturesque scenery in all seasons. The surrounding farmland and orchards blend with the natural landscape, forming a unique rural scenery.

Cultural landscapes: In addition to the previously mentioned Jiuding Longtan (九鼎龙潭), Tea Horse Road (茶马古道) relics, and Sifang Street (四方街), there are many traditional Naxi (纳西族) residential buildings to visit. Visitors can stroll along ancient streets, admire the ancient architecture, and feel the traces of time. Moreover, Xiashuhe Village (下束河村) has many Dongba culture (东巴文化) experience venues, such as Dongba paper workshops (东巴纸坊) and Dongba painting studios (东巴绘画工作室), where visitors can participate in the production process of Dongba culture (东巴文化) and gain a deeper understanding of its essence.

Leisure and entertainment: There are many leisure and entertainment facilities around Xiashuhe Village (下束河村), such as horseback riding fields and farm stays. Visitors can ride horses along the Tea Horse Road (茶马古道), experiencing the life of ancient caravans. At farm stays, they can enjoy local cuisine and the tranquility and comfort of rural life.

Additional Travel Guide Information

Transportation Guide

Xiahe Village (夏禾村)

Public transport: From Lijiang City (丽江市), take a bus to a nearby stop in Huangshan Town (黄山镇), then transfer to a local minibus to reach Xiahe Village (夏禾村). Buses generally operate from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with intervals of about 30 minutes. Specific information can be checked in advance with the local bus service.

Self-driving: Use navigation software to set Xiahe Village (夏禾村) as the destination. Drive from Lijiang City (丽江市) along the main road, which is in good condition. Be aware of road signs near the village, with speed limits generally between 40-60 km/h.

Xiashuhe Village (下束河村)

Public transport: There are several bus routes from Lijiang City (丽江市) to the vicinity of Shuhe Ancient Town (束河古镇), such as Bus 11. After reaching the stop near the ancient town, walk or take a local tricycle to Xiashuhe Village (下束河村). Buses generally operate from 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM, with intervals of about 15-20 minutes.

Taxi: Taking a taxi from Lijiang City (丽江市) to Xiashuhe Village (下束河村) is convenient, costing approximately 30-50 RMB, depending on the distance and traffic conditions.

Accommodation Recommendations

Xiahe Village (夏禾村)

Currently, Xiahe Village (夏禾村) mainly offers farm stay accommodations, which are relatively affordable, generally ranging from 100-300 RMB per night. These farm stays are mostly converted from traditional Naxi (纳西族) residences, with simple but clean facilities. Some also provide farm-style meals, allowing visitors to experience authentic rural life.

Xiashuhe Village (下束河村)

Boutique homestays: There are many boutique homestays converted from traditional Naxi (纳西族) residences, retaining the traditional Naxi (纳西族) architectural style with wooden structures and carved doors and windows, exuding an ancient elegance. Rooms are equipped with modern facilities such as air conditioning, water heaters, and wireless internet. Some homestays have courtyards filled with flowers, where visitors can enjoy tea and bask in the sun. Prices vary by room type and season, generally ranging from 200-800 RMB per night.

Resort hotels: For visitors seeking more comprehensive facilities and services, there are resort hotels nearby. These hotels offer spacious rooms, restaurants, gyms, and swimming pools. The decor blends modern and Naxi (纳西族) elements, creating a unique atmosphere. Prices are relatively higher, generally ranging from 500-1,500 RMB per night.

Food Recommendations

Xiahe Village (夏禾村)

Naxi Baba (纳西粑粑): Soft and glutinous, available in sweet and savory flavors. The sweet version includes fillings like brown sugar, offering a sweet and delicious taste, while the savory version is paired with minced meat, providing a unique flavor.

Shuimen Baba (水焖粑粑): Made from flour and steamed with water, served with a special dipping sauce, offering a rich flavor.

Local chicken hotpot: Uses free-range local chicken, with firm meat and a delicious broth, paired with various vegetables, making it nutritious.

Xiashuhe Village (下束河村)

Cured pork rib hotpot: Features locally cured ribs with firm meat and a rich aroma. The hotpot is paired with potatoes, tofu, and greens, offering a hearty flavor, especially warming in cold seasons.

Naxi grilled fish: Fresh fish grilled to a golden crisp, with tender meat, served with green peppers, onions, and bean sprouts, topped with a special sauce, available in various flavors like spicy, hot, and savory.

Chickpea jelly: A traditional Naxi (纳西族) dish with a smooth and thick texture, can be served cold or fried. When served cold, it is mixed with soy sauce, vinegar, chili, and Sichuan pepper, offering a spicy and sour taste. When fried, it has a crispy exterior and a soft interior.

Travel Tips

Seasonal Choices

Spring (March-May): As the weather warms, trees bud and flowers bloom around Xiashuhe Village (下束河村), and the fields in Xiahe Village (夏禾村) are full of life, making it ideal for outings and flower viewing.

Summer (June-August): The climate is cool, making it a great summer retreat. The streams in Xiashuhe Village (下束河村) are full, perfect for playing by the water. However, summer brings more rain, so remember to bring rain gear.

Autumn (September-November): The skies are clear and the mountains turn golden in Xiashuhe Village (下束河村), making it harvest season. Visitors can enjoy fresh fruits and agricultural products. The fields in Xiahe Village (夏禾村) present a bountiful scene, with charming scenery.

Winter (December-February): Although the weather is cold, visitors can enjoy the snow-covered Jade Dragon Snow Mountain (玉龙雪山). Winter also sees concentrated traditional Naxi (纳西族) festivals, offering a rich festive atmosphere.

Precautions

Respect local customs: When visiting Xiahe Village (夏禾村) and Xiashuhe Village (下束河村), respect the Naxi people’s (纳西族) religious beliefs and customs. When visiting homes or participating in activities, follow the host’s guidance, avoid touching or damaging items, and maintain a quiet and solemn demeanor in sacred places.

Environmental protection: Both villages have beautiful natural environments. Visitors should protect the environment by not littering, especially near rivers, to keep the water clean.

Safety: When engaging in activities like playing by the streams or hiking the Tea Horse Road (茶马古道), pay attention to personal safety. Follow the advice of staff or local villagers and avoid dangerous areas. When horseback riding, adopt the correct posture and follow the instructions of the horse handlers.

Sun protection and warmth: The Lijiang area has high altitude and strong UV radiation.