Yanmen Town of Deqin County, Diqing

Yanmen Township  is located in the southern part of Deqin County, Diqing Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan Province. It is bordered by the Baima Snow Mountain National Nature Reserve to the east, adjacent to Badixiang in Weixi County to the south, neighboring Pudang Township and Bingzhongluo Township in Nujiang Lisu Autonomous Prefecture to the west, and connected to Yunling Township to the north. The township covers an area of 580.33 square kilometers. The terrain is characterized by river valleys, scattered dam areas, and mountainous regions, with the highest point being Guolai Mountain at an altitude of 5030.5 meters and the lowest point along the Lancang River at 1840 meters.

History

Yanmen Township historically belonged to the jurisdiction of the Ji family’s “Deben” (also known as “Bazong”). During the Republic of China period, it was referred to as the Third District or Yanmen Township. In 1950, it was established as Yanmen District. In 1952, the villages were reorganized into four townships: Tuola, Badong, Cizhong, and Chunduole. In 1967, it was renamed Wandon Commune, and in 1976, it was changed to Lanmen District. In 1984, the district and township system was reformed, and it was renamed Yanmen District. In 1987, the district was abolished, and Yanmen Township was established.

Folklore

Yanmen Township is a multi-ethnic settlement, predominantly inhabited by Tibetans, with a minority of Naxi, Han, and other ethnic groups. The township is known for its rich Tibetan culture, including traditional costumes, religious ceremonies, and folk dances like Guozhuang. The annual “Rini Zhuan Mountain Ceremony” is a significant event where locals perform rituals and dances.

Weather and Best Time to Visit

Yanmen Township （燕门乡）features a subtropical monsoon climate with a vertical climate variation, characterized by “one mountain has four seasons, ten miles have different weather.” The climate is mild and humid, with an average annual temperature of 15℃ and an average frost-free period of 300 days. The annual average precipitation is 550 millimeters, with rainfall concentrated from May to October, peaking in July and August. The best time to visit is in spring and autumn when the weather is pleasant and the scenery is at its most beautiful.

Recommended Attractions

  • Cizhong Village: Known as “Little Shangri-La,” Cizhong Village is located on a gentle slope of the Lancang River Canyon. It is home to the Cizhong Church, a national-level cultural heritage site. The village features a unique blend of multiple ethnicities, religions, and cultures.
  • Lancang River: The main river of Yanmen Township, with beautiful scenery along the river, suitable for hiking and photography.
  • Baima Snow Mountain: Adjacent to Yanmen Township, this mountain range is known for its stunning natural beauty and is part of the Baima Snow Mountain National Nature Reserve.

Suggested Duration of Stay

  • Cizhong Village: Suggested stay of 2-3 hours to explore the village and visit the church.
  • Lancang River: Suggested stay of 1 hour for a scenic walk or photography.
  • Baima Snow Mountain: Suggested stay of half a day to one day for a more in-depth exploration of the natural beauty.

Transportation

  • By Car: From Deqin County, the drive to Yanmen Township is approximately 75 kilometers.
  • By Public Transport: Buses are available from Deqin County Passenger Station to Yanmen Township.

Cuisine

  • Tibetan Butter Tea: A traditional Tibetan beverage made from butter, tea, and salt.
  • Zamba: A staple food of the Tibetan people, made from roasted barley flour.
  • Fresh Fish from Lancang River: A local delicacy.

Shopping

  • Ethnic Handicrafts: Items such as wooden bowls and Zamba boxes, known for their craftsmanship.
  • Local Agricultural Products: Including grapes and olives.

Accommodation

There are several Tibetan-style guesthouses in Yanmen Township, offering a good experience of Tibetan culture and lifestyle.

Travel Tips

  • Respect Local Customs: When visiting, respect the religious beliefs and traditional customs of the local ethnic groups.
  • Protect the Environment: Yanmen Township has a good ecological environment. Pay attention to environmental protection during your visit.
  • Safety First: The roads to Yanmen Township are relatively rugged. Drive carefully if you are traveling by car.

Itinerary

  • Day 1: Arrive in Yanmen Township, explore the town center, and taste local specialties.
  • Day 2: Visit Cizhong Village to experience the unique blend of cultures and visit the historic church.
  • Day 3: Head to the Lancang River and Baima Snow Mountain to enjoy the stunning natural scenery. Return to Deqin County or continue to other attractions.
Yanmen Township is a place full of ethnic characteristics and cultural heritage, suitable for tourists who love folk culture and natural scenery. Here, you can feel the warm hospitality of the local people and appreciate the unique charm of ancient ethnic cultures. We hope that your trip to Yanmen Township will be fruitful and leave you with unforgettable memories.