Xinzhuang Lisu and Dai Ethnic Town of Huaping County in Lijiang
I. Location
Huaping County Xinzhuang Lisu and Dai Nationality Township (华坪县新庄傈僳族傣族乡) is located in the southwestern part of Huaping County (华坪县), Lijiang City (丽江市), Yunnan Province (云南省), 20 kilometers away from the county town. The township covers an area of 276.6 square kilometers, with seven village committees and 140 villagers’ groups. It is home to 10 ethnic groups, including Lisu (傈僳族), Dai (傣族), Miao (苗族), etc.
II. Ethnic Groups and Their Traditional Skills, Customs, and Festivals
A. Ethnic Composition
Xinzhuang Township (新庄乡) is home to 10 ethnic groups, including Han (汉族), Lisu (傈僳族), Dai (傣族), Miao (苗族), Hui (回族), Zhuang (壮族), Yi (彝族), Bai (白族), Tibetan (藏族), and Naxi (纳西族). Among them, Lisu and Dai are the main ethnic minorities.
B. Ethnic Culture
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Lisu: The Lisu people have a rich and colorful culture, including Lisu songs and dances, traditional costumes, etc. Visitors can participate in traditional Lisu festivals, such as the Knife-Pole Festival (刀杆节), to experience the unique culture of the Lisu people.
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Dai: The Dai people attract many visitors with their unique ethnic charm. Visitors can stroll through Dai villages, admire traditional bamboo houses, listen to ancient ethnic legends, and immerse themselves in the charm of ethnic culture. In addition, the exciting Water-Splashing Festival allows tourists to feel the enthusiasm of the Dai people amidst the splashing water.
III. Ancient Architecture
Xinzhuang Township (新庄乡) has rich ancient architectural resources, including some traditional ethnic buildings and historical relics. For example, the ancient building complex in Xinzhuang Village (新庄村) has preserved the traditional architectural style and cultural connotations.
IV. Historical Figures
Xinzhuang Township (新庄乡) has a long history and profound cultural traditions, nurturing many outstanding historical figures. Although there are no specific records of historical figures, the rich ethnic culture and historical relics here bear witness to the wisdom and hard work of the local people.
V. Tourist Attractions
A. Natural Scenery
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Natural Scenery of Wumu River: The Wumu River is one of the most beautiful sections in Chuangfang Township (船房乡). With clear waves like mirrors and dense shades dripping with greenery, visitors can enjoy the natural beauty of the Wumu River here.
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Gasa Nisa Rural Tourism Project: Located by the river in Gazo Village (嘎佐村), Chuangfang Township (船房乡), this project mainly features river drifting. It also offers catering services, sales of agricultural and special products, and provides services for sightseeing, leisure, entertainment, dining, shopping, and accommodation.
B. Cultural Attractions
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Historical Culture of Huarong Village: Huarong Village (华荣) has a long history and is one of the important cultural resources of Chuangfang Township (船房乡).
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Ethnic Festivals: Xinzhuang Township (新庄乡) develops rural tourism through festivals and has launched unique festivals such as the Mulberry-Picking Water-Splashing Festival. These activities not only attract a large number of tourists but also promote local economic development.
VI. Transportation
To get to Xinzhuang Township (新庄乡) from the county town of Huaping (华坪县), you can choose to drive or take public transportation. If you drive along the Huayong Line (华永线), the total distance is about 20 kilometers, which will take approximately 0.5 hours. If you choose public transportation, you can take a bus to Xinzhuang Township (新庄乡) at the Huaping County Passenger Station (华坪县客运站), with a journey time of about 1 hour.
VII. Travel Tips
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Best Travel Time: Spring and autumn are the best times to visit Xinzhuang Township (新庄乡), when the climate is pleasant and the natural scenery is the most charming.
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Local Specialties: Visitors can taste local specialties such as Lazha Wine (腊渣酒) and Huaping Mangoes (华坪芒果).
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Accommodation Recommendations: The Gasa Nisa Rural Tourism Project provides accommodation services, where visitors can experience local folk customs.
Xinzhuang Township (新庄乡) has become an attractive rural tourism destination with its rich natural scenery and unique ethnic culture. Here, visitors can escape the hustle and bustle of the city, enjoy the tranquility and beauty of nature, and experience the unique culture and lifestyle of ethnic minorities.
