Yousuo Town of Chengjiang County, Yuxi

Yousuo Town (右所镇) is located in the central part of Chengjiang City (澄江市), Yuxi (玉溪市), Yunnan Province (云南省), along the shores of Fuxian Lake (抚仙湖). It spans from 102°47′09″ to 102°57′20″ east longitude and 24°30′30″ to 24°46′18″ north latitude. To the east, it borders Jiucun Town (九村镇) and Haikou Town (海口镇); to the south lies Fuxian Lake (抚仙湖); to the west are Longjie Town (龙街镇) and Fenglu Town (凤麓镇); and to the north is Yangzong Town (阳宗镇). The town government is approximately 4.5 kilometers from downtown Chengjiang City (澄江市).

History and Culture

Yousuo Town (右所镇) has a long and rich history. During the fifth year of the Longqing reign in the Ming Dynasty (1571), the region was part of the Wuwei defense system and named “Yousuo” after the Right Garrison. In the Ming and Qing Dynasties, the area was known as Qingpingli (清平里). During the Republic of China period, its administrative name changed several times. In March 1950, it was established as Dingqing District (鼎清区), changed to Yousuo Township (右所乡) in January 1988, and became Yousuo Town (右所镇) in October 1997.

Folk Customs

Yousuo Town (右所镇) is known for its vibrant folk culture, most notably the Yi ethnic group’s “Left-Foot Dance” (左脚舞), which has a history of over 1,000 years. Other traditional cultural expressions include Guansuo Opera (关索戏), the Miaoshan Women’s Dongjing Music (妙善学女子洞经音乐), and Yuxi Lantern Opera (玉溪花灯戏).

Weather and Best Time to Visit

Yousuo Town (右所镇) features a subtropical monsoon climate with spring-like weather year-round. Winters are dry while summer and autumn see more rainfall. The average annual temperature is 15.5°C, with January averaging 9.4°C and July 20.8°C. The best times to visit are in spring and autumn when the weather is cool and the natural scenery is most stunning.

Recommended Attractions and Visiting Times

  • Fuxian Lake National Tourist Resort:
    Located in the southern part of Yousuo Town (右所镇), it is one of the deepest freshwater lakes in China, known for its crystal-clear water and scenic views.
    Suggested visiting time: 3–4 hours
  • Luchong Scenic Area:
    A blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage, featuring numerous historical sites.
    Suggested visiting time: 2–3 hours
  • Chengjiang Moon Bay Wetland Park:
    Offers expansive wetlands and tranquil natural landscapes, ideal for a leisurely stroll.
    Suggested visiting time: 2 hours

Transportation

  • Public Transport:
    Accessible via city buses from Chengjiang City (澄江市), including dedicated routes to Yousuo Town (右所镇).
  • Self-Driving:
    From Kunming (昆明), take the Kunming-Mohan Expressway (昆磨高速) to Chengjiang City (澄江市), then follow road signs to Yousuo Town (右所镇). The drive takes about 1 hour.

Local Cuisine

Yousuo Town (右所镇) is known for local farmhouse cuisine, including specialties such as anti-wave fish (抗浪鱼) from Fuxian Lake (抚仙湖), Chengjiang lotus root (澄江藕), Yuxi tobacco leaves (玉溪烟叶), and silverfish (银鱼) from the lake. Local snacks like rice noodles (米线) and rice cakes (饵块) are also popular.

Shopping

Shopping is centered around the town’s center, where visitors can find traditional handicrafts and agricultural products such as embroidery, bamboo weaving, and local specialties.

Accommodation

  • Boman Hotel (泊漫酒店), Chengjiang:
    Located by Fuxian Lake (抚仙湖), this hotel offers a scenic environment and complete facilities.
  • Local Farmstays:
    These offer a more immersive experience of rural life and local hospitality.

Travel Tips

  • Environmental Protection:
    Please avoid littering and help preserve the environment during your visit.
  • Respect for Local Customs:
    When participating in local cultural events, be mindful and respectful of local traditions and customs.

Suggested Itinerary

Day 1:
Arrive in Yousuo Town (右所镇) in the morning and visit Fuxian Lake National Tourist Resort (抚仙湖国家旅游度假区); enjoy lunch with local specialties; explore Luchong Scenic Area (禄充风景区) in the afternoon; check into your hotel in the evening.

Day 2:
Visit Chengjiang Moon Bay Wetland Park (澄江月亮湾湿地公园) in the morning to enjoy its peaceful scenery; have lunch in the park; return to Chengjiang City (澄江市) or Kunming (昆明) in the afternoon to conclude your trip.

Yousuo Town (右所镇) captivates visitors with its breathtaking natural scenery and rich folk culture. Whether strolling along the lakeside or joining in vibrant cultural festivities, you’re sure to experience the unique charm of this town. May your visit to Yousuo Town (右所镇) be a truly memorable journey.