Zhanhe Town of Ninglang County in Lijiang

Geographical Location

Zhanhe Township is located in the southern part of (宁蒗彝族自治县) Ninglang Yi Autonomous County, (丽江市) Lijiang City, Yunnan Province, serving as the southern gateway of Ninglang County. It is bordered by several surrounding towns: to the east, it connects with (蝉战河乡) Chanzhanhe Township; to the south, it adjoins (永胜县光华傈僳族彝族乡) Yongsheng County Guanghua Lisu and Yi Autonomous Township; to the west, it neighbors (西布河乡) Xibuhe Township; and to the north, it is adjacent to (新营盘乡) Xinyingpan Township. Due to its unique geographic location, Zhanhe Township features a blend of natural landscapes and ethnic customs, with relatively convenient transportation access, making it a suitable destination for tourists.

Resident Ethnic Groups and Traditional Skills

Yi Ethnic Group

The Yi people are the main ethnic group in Zhanhe Township. They possess a rich array of traditional crafts, such as Yi embroidery. Their embroidery is colorful, with patterns often inspired by nature and mythology, featuring delicate and varied stitching techniques. These works are commonly used in the making of clothing and accessories. The Yi people are also renowned for their silver crafting skills. Silversmiths use techniques such as casting, hammering, and weaving to create intricate and unique silver jewelry, including necklaces, bracelets, and earrings, each piece symbolizing the Yi people’s longing for a better life.

Customs and Festivals

Yi Customs and Festivals

  • Torch Festival: This is one of the most grand traditional festivals of the Yi people, usually held on the 24th day of the 6th lunar month. During the festival, people dress in traditional attire and carry torches, dancing and singing around bonfires. The torch is believed to ward off insects and evil spirits, as well as to pray for favorable weather and a bountiful harvest in the coming year.

  • Yi New Year: The Yi New Year is celebrated at a time between the 10th and 11th months of the lunar calendar, on an auspicious day. During the festival, families slaughter pigs and sheep for sacrifices to their ancestors, gather together for family reunions, visit friends and relatives, and exchange blessings, making it a joyful and festive occasion.

Ancient Architecture

Yi Traditional Earth Houses

The Yi traditional “earth houses” are representative ancient buildings in Zhanhe Township. These houses are typically made of a timber and mud structure, with walls built from compacted earth, and flat roofs that are used for drying crops and recreational activities. These houses are well-insulated, keeping warm in winter and cool in summer. The houses are often connected in layers, forming a unique village layout. The construction of the earth houses reflects the Yi people’s living wisdom and their spirit of unity and mutual assistance.

Natural Scenery

  • Mountain Meadows: The surrounding areas of Zhanhe Township feature vast mountain meadows. In the spring and summer, the meadows are covered with lush green grass and vibrant flowers, resembling a natural painter’s palette. The distant mountains undulate, blending harmoniously with the blue skies and white clouds, creating a breathtaking rural landscape. Visitors can run and play here, experiencing the vitality and beauty of nature.

  • Clear Rivers: The rivers in Zhanhe Township, such as the Zhanhe River, are crystal clear, winding through the valleys. The banks are lush with dense vegetation and towering trees. Strolling along the riverbanks while listening to the gentle flow of water and breathing in the fresh air offers an escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, bringing inner peace. Visitors can also enjoy activities such as fishing and bask in the joy of their catch.

Folk Culture Experience

  • Visiting Yi Villages: Deep dive into Yi villages to explore traditional Yi homes and learn about daily life. Engage with the local Yi people, taste their distinctive dishes such as (坨坨肉) Tuo Tuo Meat and (荞粑粑) Qiao Baba, and experience their warmth and hospitality. Visitors can also participate in Yi traditional handicrafts and immerse themselves in the Yi culture.

  • Watching Folk Performances: During certain festivals or tourist activities, visitors can enjoy Yi folk performances, including Yi dance and song. Yi dance movements are strong and energetic, while the melodies of their songs are beautiful and heartfelt. These performances offer a direct and captivating way to experience the essence of Yi culture.

Transportation Guide

External Transportation

  • By Air: You can first fly to (丽江三义国际机场) Lijiang Sanyi International Airport, which has numerous routes connecting with major cities across China. Upon arriving, you can take the airport shuttle bus to Lijiang city center, and then transfer to a bus or hire a car to Ninglang County.

  • By Train: You can take a train to Lijiang Railway Station, which has regular services to cities like (昆明) Kunming. After arriving at Lijiang Railway Station, head to the bus station to transfer to a bus going to Ninglang County.

  • By Bus: The bus station in Lijiang city has frequent buses going to Ninglang County. Upon arriving in Ninglang, there are buses to Zhanhe Township, though the bus schedule may be limited, so it’s advisable to check the bus times in advance.

Internal Transportation

  • Public Transport: Zhanhe Township has village buses, but the schedules are limited and not very reliable, which might be inconvenient for tourists with tight schedules.

  • Private Car Hire: For larger groups or those who prefer flexibility in their travel schedule, hiring a car from Ninglang County to Zhanhe Township is a viable option. With a private car, you can customize your route and timing, though the cost is higher. When hiring, it’s important to agree on the price and travel details with the driver beforehand to avoid any misunderstandings.