Xiaoluoshui Village of Lugu Lake in Lijiang
Overview
Xiao Luoshui Village (小落水村) is the last Matriarchal Mosuo (摩梭人) tribe in China, featuring only twenty-four households. It is a traditional and ancient Mosuo village located by the banks of Lugu Lake (泸沽湖). The village has not yet developed its tourism industry, allowing it to maintain its authentic culture, with few tourists visiting. Only those who travel around the lake, burdened with heavy backpacks, occasionally stop by the village for photography, chatting, and drinking by the lakeside.
On December 31, 2019, Xiao Luoshui Village was designated as one of the third batch of “Characteristic Villages of Ethnic Minorities in China” (中国少数民族特色村寨) by the National Ethnic Affairs Commission.
Location
Xiao Luoshui Village is situated on the northern shore of Lugu Lake, nestled in a valley surrounded by mountains on three sides, with a view of the lake to the south. It is the last village along the shores of Lugu Lake within Yunnan Province (云南省), with the boundary between Yunnan and Sichuan (四川) marked at the village entrance. Here, the lakeside road is distinctly divided into two parts: the gravel road leading to Yunnan and the asphalt road heading towards Sichuan.
Environment
The village’s geography creates a serene and picturesque setting, ideal for those seeking tranquility and a connection to nature. The lush surroundings and the clear waters of Lugu Lake contribute to the village’s charm, making it an inviting place for visitors who appreciate natural beauty.
Residents’ Lifestyle
Xiao Luoshui Village has very limited arable land, allowing residents to cultivate only some corn and potatoes. Each household raises livestock and engages in fishing, but due to limited land resources and geographical constraints, their living standards are barely sufficient for survival. The village homes are located about a ten-minute walk from the lakeshore. Here, the shoreline of Lugu Lake is curved, with reeds growing abundantly along the bank. Paddling out on a traditional pig trough boat (猪槽船) through the reeds is a poetic experience.
How to Get There
To reach Xiao Luoshui Village, you can travel to Lugu Lake first. The nearest major city is Lijiang (丽江), from which you can take a bus or hire a taxi to the lake. Once you arrive at Lugu Lake, you can take local transportation or walk to Xiao Luoshui Village. The picturesque surroundings and the peaceful ambiance make the journey worthwhile.
Travel Tips
- Best Time to Visit: The ideal time to visit Xiao Luoshui Village is during spring and autumn when the weather is pleasant.
- Respect Local Culture: Engage with the Mosuo people respectfully and learn about their customs and traditions.
- Stay Overnight: Consider staying in the village to experience the local lifestyle and enjoy the serene beauty of Lugu Lake at different times of the day.
- Bring Essentials: Carry snacks, water, and a camera to capture the stunning landscapes and moments.
- Dress Comfortably: Wear comfortable shoes for walking, as some areas may require a bit of hiking or walking on uneven terrain.
