Xichuan Town of Ninglang County in Lijiang

Geographic Location

(Xichuan Township) (西川乡) is located in the western part of (Ninglang Yi Autonomous County) (宁蒗彝族自治县) in (Lijiang) (丽江), (Yunnan Province) (云南省). It is like a gem embedded in the northwest of (Yunnan). To the east, it borders (Xibuhe Township) (西布河乡), to the south it connects (Yongsheng County) (永胜县) (Songping Lisu Yi Ethnic Township) (松坪傈僳族彝族乡), to the west, it faces (Yulong Naxi Autonomous County) (玉龙纳西族自治县) across the (Jinsha River) (金沙江), and to the north, it adjoins (Jinmian Township) (金棉乡) and (Ningli Township) (宁利乡). With a total area of 403.11 square kilometers, its unique geographic location brings together diverse natural landscapes and a blend of ethnic cultures, making it an ideal place for visitors to explore less-traveled scenic spots and experience the rustic local culture.

Ethnic Groups and Traditional Craftsmanship

Yi Ethnic Group (彝族)

The Yi ethnic group is the predominant minority in (Xichuan Township), accounting for 92.8% of the population. Their traditional crafts are impressive, with (Yi embroidery) (彝族刺绣) standing out. The embroiderers skillfully weave colorful threads into fabrics, creating patterns that are either abstract and mysterious or realistic. These patterns often feature auspicious animal motifs, such as strong eagles and graceful horses, or depict scenes of daily life, like farming and bonfire parties. These embroideries not only decorate Yi clothing but are also crafted into handkerchiefs, handbags, and other handicrafts. Additionally, the Yi people’s (lacquerware) (漆器) craftsmanship is also remarkable, with natural lacquer used to create exquisite tableware and drinkware that are durable and glossy, decorated with ancient and elegant patterns.

Lisu Ethnic Group (傈僳族)

Although the Lisu ethnic group is smaller in population compared to the Yi, their traditional crafts are equally impressive. The (bamboo weaving) (竹编) skill is one of their specialties. Local artisans skillfully use bamboo from the mountains to create practical and beautiful bamboo products through processes such as splitting bamboo, shaving, and weaving. The small, delicate bamboo baskets are used for picking fruits, while the elegant bamboo baskets can carry goods. They also make bamboo mats, stools, and more, each item reflecting the Lisu people’s love for life and their clever use of natural materials.

Customs and Festivals

Yi Ethnic Group Customs and Festivals

Torch Festival (火把节)

The Torch Festival, one of the grandest traditional festivals of the Yi people, is held annually on the 24th day of the 6th lunar month. During this festival, the entire (Xichuan Township) (西川乡) is immersed in a sea of joy. The Yi people wear splendid traditional costumes, holding torches and dancing around a bonfire. The blazing torches light up the night sky, symbolizing the expulsion of evil and the wish for a good harvest and prosperous life.

Yi New Year (彝族年)

The Yi New Year is celebrated on an auspicious date between October and November in the lunar calendar. During this time, families slaughter pigs and sheep and make traditional dishes such as (Qiaobaba) (荞粑粑) and (TuoTuo Meat) (坨坨肉). People visit relatives and friends, exchange gifts, and share New Year blessings in the unique Yi style.

Lisu Ethnic Group Customs and Festivals

(Kuo Festival) (阔时节)

The Kuo Festival is the Lisu ethnic group’s New Year, typically celebrated around December 20th in the Gregorian calendar. During this festival, Lisu people wear ceremonial attire, hold traditional worship ceremonies to thank nature for its gifts, and engage in traditional sports such as crossbow shooting and swinging. The entire village is filled with a lively and festive atmosphere.

(Knife Pole Festival) (刀杆节)

The Knife Pole Festival is one of the most unique festivals of the Lisu people. Warriors, barefooted, grip the sharp blades of knives and climb a pole filled with long knives, creating a breathtaking and dramatic scene. This event symbolizes the bravery of the Lisu people and attracts many tourists who come to watch.

Ancient Architecture

The (Yi Earth Houses) (彝族土掌房) are representative ancient buildings of (Xichuan Township) (西川乡). These houses are typically made of wood and earth, with walls built from compressed earth. The roofs are flat, supported by wooden planks or sticks, with a layer of earth on top. This design helps in insulation and temperature regulation and provides space on the roof for drying crops and engaging in daily activities. The Earth Houses are usually built on the mountainside, with a unique layout that creates a harmonious village structure, demonstrating the Yi people’s architectural wisdom and their spirit of community and mutual assistance.

Tourist Resources

Natural Scenery

Bamboo Mountain (竹山)

Bamboo Mountain, with an elevation of 4,072 meters, is the highest point in (Xichuan Township) (西川乡). From the summit, visitors can enjoy a panoramic view of the surrounding mountains and vast forests. Especially in spring and summer, the mountains are adorned with blooming azaleas in red, pink, and white, turning the area into a picturesque scene. The mountain is also a prime spot for cloud watching, where the mist and clouds create an ethereal landscape.

(Zibu River) (子布河) and (Shali River) (沙力河)

(Zibu River) (子布河) is crystal clear, winding through the valleys with lush vegetation on both banks. The gentle sound of the flowing water and the fresh air make it a perfect place to relax. The (Shali River) (沙力河) is even wider, with strong currents that flow from (Xichuan Shali) (西川沙力) to (Xibuhe) (西布河), eventually merging into the (Hailuo River) (海洛河). The riverbanks are home to wetlands that serve as habitats for many bird species. Lucky visitors may spot birds such as egrets and wild ducks playing and foraging in the water.

Cultural Experiences

Yi Village Exploration

Explore the Yi villages to visit traditional Yi dwellings and experience the unique fire-pit culture inside the homes. Sit around the fire-pit with local Yi villagers, listen to their ancient stories, and taste authentic Yi dishes. Visitors can also participate in Yi embroidery and lacquerware-making, crafting their own unique souvenir with Yi ethnic features.

Lisu Culture Exploration

In Lisu settlements, visitors can experience traditional Lisu lifestyles. Watch Lisu traditional dance performances, where the dance movements are strong and vigorous, and the songs are loud and clear, full of ethnic charm. Learn Lisu bamboo weaving techniques under the guidance of local artisans and try your hand at creating a simple bamboo product, enjoying the fun and cultural essence.

Transportation Guide

External Transportation

Air Travel

Visitors can fly into (Lijiang Sanyi International Airport) (丽江三义国际机场), which is well connected with several cities across China. After arriving at the airport, take the airport shuttle to (Lijiang City) (丽江市) and transfer to a bus heading to (Ninglang County) (宁蒗县). After arriving at (Ninglang County) (宁蒗县), you can take a bus to (Xichuan Township) (西川乡), though bus services are less frequent, so it’s advisable to check the schedule in advance.

Train Travel

Take a train to (Lijiang Railway Station) (丽江站), which has trains connecting to cities like (Kunming) (昆明). Once at the (Lijiang Railway Station) (丽江站), transfer to the bus station in (Lijiang City) (丽江市), and then take a bus to (Ninglang County) (宁蒗县), followed by a bus to (Xichuan Township) (西川乡).

Bus Travel

There are frequent buses from the (Lijiang City) (丽江市) bus station to (Ninglang County) (宁蒗县). Upon reaching (Ninglang County) (宁蒗县), transfer to a bus to (Xichuan Township) (西川乡). Alternatively, you can rent a vehicle in either (Lijiang City) (丽江市) or (Ninglang County) (宁蒗县) for a more flexible and convenient journey, though it will be more expensive.

Internal Transportation

Rural Public Transport

There are limited rural public transport services within (Xichuan Township) (西川乡), with irregular schedules that may be inconvenient for tourists on tight schedules.

Renting Transportation

Visitors can rent local motorbikes or small vans to travel around (Xichuan Township) (西川乡). Renting a motorbike provides flexibility, but safety precautions like wearing helmets are essential