Nujiang Travel Guide 2026: Top Attractions, Local Food & Travel Tips | Trip.com

5-day light hike in Nujiang: The primitive canyon hidden in western Yunnan is stunning

Hey everyone! I just took a trip along this niche Nujiang route and was completely conquered by the wild beauty of the primitive canyon. Compared to the hustle and bustle of Dali and Lijiang, Nujiang feels like a place forgotten by time: rushing river waters carving out deep canyons, Lisu ethnic villages scattered along the mountainsides, the Laomudeng church facing the sea of clouds over Gaoligong Mountain, and the Bingchacha Highway winding along the cliffs. There were no crowded tourists, just the sound of the river, the wind, and the occasional folk song. If you love pristine scenery and light hiking, you must add this route to your bucket list. 5-day Nujiang Canyon light hiking route Day 1: Liuku – Laomudeng: Depart from Liuku in the morning and head north along the Nujiang Grand Canyon. Enjoy the rushing river and towering mountains on both sides along the way. In the afternoon, arrive at Zhiziluo to explore the old buildings of this "City of Memories" and see the abandoned old county seat. In the evening, arrive at Laomudeng, stand on the viewing platform to wait for the sunset over the Nujiang Canyon, and watch the afterglow spread across the river. Day 2: Laomudeng – Bingzhongluo: Wake up early to see the sea of clouds over Gaoligong Mountain as the morning light spills onto the village church. Head north in the morning and stop by the Stone Moon to see the natural stone cave formed on the mountain peak. Arrive at Bingzhongluo in the afternoon to explore the First Bend of the Nujiang River and see the river curve into a horseshoe shape. Stay in Bingzhongluo Town in the evening and enjoy a Lisu-style hand-grabbed rice meal. Day 3: Hiking around Bingzhongluo: In the morning, walk through Wuli Village, strolling slowly along the Ancient Tea Horse Road trail to see the small village by the Nujiang River hidden among the green trees, like a paradise. In the afternoon, explore Qiunatong, walk a section of the canyon trail, and see the river, cliffs, and village all in one frame. Return to Bingzhongluo in the evening to watch the starry sky fill the canyon. Day 4: Bingzhongluo – Zhiziluo: Head back in the morning and stop by the villages near the entrance of the Dulong River to see the life of the elderly tattooed women (please respect their privacy and do not take photos without permission). Return to Zhiziluo in the afternoon to explore the old town again and sit on the old steps watching the clouds roll over the canyon. Stay in Laomudeng in the evening and listen to the local four-part chorus. Day 5: Laomudeng – Liuku return trip: Enjoy the canyon sea of clouds one last time in the morning, then head south along the Nujiang River for the return trip. Stop by Lisu villages along the way to see local hand-weaving. Arrive in Liuku in the afternoon, buy some black cardamom or Dulong blankets as souvenirs, and then conclude the trip. How to choose accommodation · Laomudeng: Prioritize homestays with a view. You can see the canyon and Gaoligong Mountain right from your window and watch the sea of clouds while lying in bed. Many are run by locals, and the hosts are great cooks. · Bingzhongluo: There are both hotels and homestays in town. Prices are reasonable, and facilities are relatively complete. For a quieter experience, you can stay at a farmhouse in the surrounding villages. · Liuku: As a transit point, just choose a chain hotel in the city center. They have complete facilities and are convenient for dining and transportation. Local experiences you can't miss 1. Wuli Village hike: Walk a section of the thousand-year-old Tea Horse Road with cliffs under your feet and the Nujiang River beside you. Entering the village feels like stepping into a paradise. 2. Laomudeng Church: Listen to a local four-part chorus. The a cappella performance is incredibly moving. It usually happens on weekends or holidays. 3. Lisu hand-grabbed rice: A basket filled with rice, grilled meat, wild vegetables, and dipping sauce. Eat it with your hands and pair it with local Chu wine for a unique ethnic experience. 4. Canyon sunrise and sea of clouds: Wake up early and stand on the viewing platform to watch the sea of clouds slowly rise from the canyon as the sunlight gradually spreads across the river. It's incredibly healing. Photo spots & tips · First Bend of the Nujiang River: Shoot from the viewing platform. Use the green trees in the foreground as a frame. The morning light is perfect, the river is emerald green, and the curve of the bend is very photogenic. · Wuli Village: Shoot the village from the Tea Horse Road, using the cliff as a foreground. The village hidden among the green trees creates great depth. · Laomudeng Church: Shoot in the early morning with side lighting. With the church facing the distant sea of clouds and mountains, the image will be clean and evocative. · Canyon road: Find an open curve and shoot the road extending into the distance along the cliff, with the river rushing below. It creates a lot of tension. 💡 Practical tips 1. Transportation: Road conditions in Nujiang are complex. It is recommended to hire a local driver, as they are more familiar with the roads and safer. If driving yourself, slow down and drive carefully. There are many curves and sections prone to falling rocks, so stay alert. 2. Gear: The temperature difference in the canyon is significant, so bring a windbreaker and a light down jacket. The UV rays are strong, so take physical sun protection measures. Wear non-slip shoes for hiking and bring trekking poles to save energy. 3. Supplies: Supplies are plentiful in the county seat but limited in towns, so prepare snacks and water in advance. Signal is weak in some villages, so download offline maps beforehand. 4. Reminder: Respect local customs when entering ethnic minority villages. Ask for permission before taking photos of people, and do not enter private residences without invitation. ⚠️ Tips to avoid pitfalls 1. Do not trust "low-priced chartered tours of Bingchacha." Many are unlicensed vehicles with no safety guarantees. Find a reputable platform or ask your inn for recommendations. 2. Don't buy "wild medicinal herbs" or "rare local specialties" around scenic spots randomly; many are fake. If you want to buy specialties, go to reputable shops in the county seat. 3. Try to avoid deep hiking routes during the rainy season, as they are prone to flash floods and falling rocks. Safety first. 4. Do not enter unopened villages or areas without permission. Many are border management zones, so follow the regulations. The stunning nature of Nujiang is a coexistence of wildness and gentleness carved by nature itself. Once you've been, you'll never forget it. What other super niche canyons have you visited? Share them in the comments section! ❤️ Images are for reference only; please refer to the actual scenery on-site.

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Stop visiting only Potatso! 4 hidden gems in Shangri-La that are breathtaking!

🏔️ Yunnan Shangri-La isn't just about Potatso and Dukezong! Today, I'll take you to unlock those stunning hidden gems tucked away in the snow-capped mountains and meadows. Plus, with some super practical anti-altitude sickness gear, you can easily start a picturesque journey to Shangri-La! 🌿 Herbal tech · Inhale for instant relief ✔️ Ingredient enthusiasts rejoice: 5 herbal extracts including Rhodiola, Patchouli, Saposhnikovia, American Ginseng, and Mint. Natural, gentle, and non-irritating, it's like injecting "high-altitude adaptability" into your body 💪 ✔️ A lazy person's dream: No need to swallow! Just a gentle sniff, and the fresh herbal scent instantly wakes you up. Suitable for use during periods, or by seniors and children anytime~ ✔️ Security in your pocket: Individually packaged and lighter than lipstick. Grab it while hiking or spinning prayer wheels, and enjoy "breathing freedom" no matter how high the altitude is 🌬️ 📸 Shangri-La's hidden gems · Tips to avoid pitfalls 1️⃣ Abujicuo (near Napa Lake) ✨ Highlights: A secret spot cherished by hikers. Alpine meadows reflect in the azure lake. Along the way, you might encounter yak herds and wildflowers everywhere, as if you've stumbled into a fairy tale world! ⚠️ Note: Requires a 3–4 hour hike. We recommend wearing non-slip hiking shoes. Some sections have no signal, so travel with a companion. 2️⃣ Wudi Lake (Gezan Township) ✨ Highlights: A sapphire hidden in the primeval forest. The lake water is crystal clear. Camping by the lake offers direct views of snow-capped mountains and starry skies. It's known as the "Little Switzerland of Shangri-La"! ⚠️ Note: Road conditions are quite primitive; a 4WD vehicle is recommended. Practice "Leave No Trace" and take all your trash with you. Bring warm gear, as there's a large temperature difference between day and night. 3️⃣ Nijie Village (Core area of the Three Parallel Rivers) ✨ Highlights: Known as the "World's First Village," this primitive village is hidden among snow-capped mountain canyons. Streams, meadows, and sacred waterfalls create a picturesque secret realm, perfect for an immersive experience of Tibetan life! ⚠️ Note: Village accommodation is simple, so book in advance. Respect local Tibetan customs; remove your shoes before entering a local home. 4️⃣ Shika Snow Mountain (Jiantang Town) ✨ Highlights: You can view multiple snow-capped mountains at once, including Meili, Yulong, and Haba. The summit meadow is covered in wildflowers in summer and becomes a natural ski resort in winter. The views are unparalleled! ⚠️ Note: The altitude at the top of the cable car is high, so avoid strenuous exercise. Bring sunscreen, as the UV rays are extremely strong. ⚠️ Hardcore tips for altitude sickness & itinerary ✅ First 2 days: Don't wash your hair! Don't drink alcohol! Slow down and let your body adapt to the 3,300m altitude~ ✅ Clothing rules: The temperature difference between day and night exceeds 15°C. Use onion-style layering (T-shirt + knitwear + windbreaker). Bring sunglasses and a sun hat. ✅ Respect customs: Remove hats and sunglasses when entering temples. Do not touch prayer wheels or prayer flags casually. Receive Hada with both hands. 💬 Interaction time! Have you been to these hidden gems, or do you have other secret Shangri-La treasures? Share your stories in the comments section, and let's discover a different "Sun and Moon in the Heart" together~ 📌 Save this post, and you can copy the itinerary next time you go to Shangri-La!

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Yunnan's Last Hidden Paradise – As Recommended by National Geographic 🌿 The "last hidden paradise of Yunnan," as praised by China National Geographic, refers to the Nujiang Lisu Autonomous Prefecture in northwestern Yunnan – especially Bingzhongluo and the Dulong Valley. Squeezed between the Gaoligong and Biluo snow mountains, with the Nujiang River roaring through, this region retains its pristine nature and rich cultural heritage. 🏔️ Highlights · Bingzhongluo: "Where gods and humans coexist" – the dramatic First Bend of Nujiang and the fairy-tale Peach Blossom Island. · Wuli Village: A Nu ethnic village on the ancient Tea Horse Road, accessible only by foot – misty and magical. · Qiunatong: The northernmost village in the Nujiang Grand Canyon – "a village that fell from the sky." · Dulong Valley: A true primordial wonderland, home to the Dulong people – only 24 tattooed-face women remain, living fossils of a thousand-year-old culture. · Laomudeng: The best viewpoint over the Nujiang Grand Canyon – church bells, sea of clouds, and sunrise. 🚗 Getting There Fly to Baoshan or Dali, then take a bus or drive to Liuku (Nujiang's capital). A classic 5–7 day route: Liuku → Fugong → Gongshan → Bingzhongluo → Wuli → Qiunatong → Dulong Valley (permit required) → return. 💡 Tips · Best season: October to April – clear skies and emerald-green river. · Permit: A border pass is required for Dulong Valley. · Footwear: Hiking shoes essential; bring a light jacket for temperature swings. Nujiang's beauty lies in its raw, untouched mystery. If you're seeking a place where gods and humans truly coexist, this is it. 🌿 #photovsrealitytravel

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Journey through the land of colorful clouds and embark on a cultural and scenic rendezvous in Northwest Yunnan.

When you dream of Yunnan, you hope that a single trip can capture everything: snow-capped mountains, deep canyons, starry lakes, and the vibrant life of ancient towns. This 7-day essential Northwest Yunnan loop connects iconic landmarks including Lijiang, Shangri-La, Shaxi, Dali, and Lugu Lake. Travel at a relaxed pace and unlock the myriad wonders of the Three Parallel Rivers region. Step into Lijiang Old Town, where winding bluestone paths and Naxi-style houses create a charming scene. Let the evening breeze carry the sound of folk songs as you soak in the unique, gentle atmosphere of this highland town. Next, head to Tiger Leaping Gorge to witness the roaring Jinsha River and the towering cliffs, feeling the awe-inspiring power of nature up close. Continue to Shaxi Ancient Town, away from the crowds, and touch the lingering warmth of history preserved along the Ancient Tea Horse Road, between the old stage and the narrow alleys. Enter Shangri-La and immerse yourself in Tibetan culture. See the golden roofs of Songzanlin Monastery gleaming in the sun and prayer flags fluttering in the wind, experiencing the solemn tranquility of Tibetan Buddhism. Stroll through Dukezong Ancient Town, spin the giant prayer wheel, and make a wish. Experience horseback riding on the Napa Sea grasslands, where the wind blows through the grass and cattle and sheep graze by the lake—the romance of the highland wilderness is yours to behold. Travel to Dali to embrace the "wind, flowers, snow, and moon" of Erhai Lake. Cycle along the S-bend of Erhai Lake for photos, feeling the sea breeze on your face as you pass by healing landscapes. Head to Wenbi Village to find a scenic spot for a relaxing afternoon tea, overlooking the vast, rippling blue waters of Erhai. Wander through Dali Old Town, encountering Bai culture and the local way of life in its alleys. Finally, visit Lugu Lake, where clear waters reflect the distant mountains in a dreamlike scene, and immerse yourself in the unique charm of this Mosuo secret realm. This trip is a private tour, meaning one booking per group—perfect for family and friends. A dedicated driver-guide will accompany you throughout the journey; with years of local driving experience, they serve as both your driver and a thoughtful concierge. Enjoy a private vehicle for the entire trip with the freedom to stop whenever you like. Departure times and the pace of sightseeing are flexible, so you can say goodbye to early mornings and rushed itineraries. We have carefully selected quality accommodations that balance comfort with an authentic local experience. This is a 100% pure travel experience with no shopping stops or forced sales, leaving all your time for the scenery. You will also have 24/7 dedicated customer service to assist you throughout your trip, responding promptly to any questions before or during your travels. No need to worry about planning, transportation, or accommodation—leave the travel logistics to us. All you need to do is immerse yourself in the landscapes and culture of Northwest Yunnan and embark on your own Yunnan dream.

1001HW TRIP󱱹1

Nujiang Grand Canyon Hiking Guide

🌄 The Nujiang Grand Canyon is truly worth visiting! A 7-day trip to experience the wildness and healing of the Yunnan border. Many people ask me where else to go in Yunnan besides Dali and Lijiang. My answer is straightforward: the Nujiang Grand Canyon. There are no overly commercialized ancient towns here, nor are there crowded groups of influencers. It feels more like a secret road hidden in northwest Yunnan. Traveling north along the Nujiang River, you'll see canyons, mist, villages, rushing rapids, and snow-capped mountains all in one frame. Every shot looks cinematic. Highlights The most breathtaking aspect of the Nujiang Grand Canyon is the sense of scale, where "people are in the mountains, and the river is in the valley." I recommend slowing down and taking 3–5 days to explore: start from Liuku, pass through Laomudeng, Zhiziluo, and Bingzhongluo, and then head to the Qiunatong area. I don't recommend just rushing between attractions along the way; the best scenery is actually on the roadside—river bends, terraced fields, misty villages, iron chain bridges, waterfalls, and cliffside roads. You'll find surprises whenever you pull over. A few of my favorite spots: Laomudeng is perfect for an overnight stay. In the early morning, looking from your hotel toward the Gaoligong Mountains, mist will roll up from the valley. Zhiziluo has a quiet, nostalgic feel, perfect for documentary-style photography. Bingzhongluo is the essence of the Nujiang Grand Canyon, with layers of farmland, river bends, and villages—it's especially great to visit in the morning. If you have the energy, be sure to walk a section of the canyon trail. With the rushing river beneath your feet and cliffs and mist all around, the sense of awe is something photos just can't capture. Photo spots 1. Nujiang First Bend Observation Deck: Great for capturing the large, curved river bend. I recommend going in the morning for cleaner light. 2. Roadside at the entrance of Laomudeng Village: You can capture the village, tea plantations, and distant misty mountains all at once. Placing a person at the bottom of the frame adds great depth. 3. Intersection in the old town of Zhiziluo: Perfect for documentary-style, lonely, and vintage vibes. I recommend using low-saturation tones. 4. High-angle roadside in Bingzhongluo: Great for capturing layers of farmland, villages, and tributaries of the Nujiang River. A wide-angle lens works best here. 5. Riverside trail: A shot of a person from behind looks more natural than a posed front-facing shot and highlights the massive scale of the canyon. 6. Sunset observation deck: Perfect for capturing the warm orange cliffs and the reflection on the river. I recommend arriving 20 minutes early. Travel tips The Nujiang area is beautiful, but it also tests your travel preparation. First, don't make your itinerary too tight; there are many mountain roads and curves, and driving times are longer than you might expect. Second, be cautious about visiting during the rainy season. After rainfall, the risk of falling rocks, landslides, and road closures increases, so be sure to check the daily road conditions before you set off. Third, don't just wear pretty dresses without considering warmth; the temperature difference between day and night in the canyon is significant, and it gets noticeably colder when it's misty. Fourth, try to book your accommodation in advance, especially in the Laomudeng and Bingzhongluo areas, as good rooms are limited during peak season. Finally, respect local life. Do not enter villagers' homes to take photos without permission; always ask first. Overall, the Nujiang Grand Canyon is not a "highly developed" tourist destination, but it is perfect for those who love raw nature, road trips, and a sense of discovery. When you stand at the edge of the canyon, watching the Nujiang River rush between the mountains and the mist rising from the valley, you'll suddenly feel that all the bumps in the road were worth it. Hashtags

calebcomet

Road trip to Nujiang for magnificent landscapes

🌄Nujiang Grand Canyon | A world-class landscape hidden in Western Yunnan A hidden treasure destination in Western Yunnan! If you are tired of commercialized hotspots, you must visit the Nujiang Grand Canyon. As one of the longest and most magnificent canyons in the world, there are no crowds here, only pure and stunning mountain and river scenery. It is an excellent place for road trips, hiking, and unwinding in Yunnan. The entire canyon scenery is breathtakingly natural. The towering Gaoligong Mountains stand opposite each other, and the clear Nujiang River flows through the valley. Clouds and mist linger around the mountains throughout the seasons, and every step offers a view like a landscape painting. The scenery along the way is primitive and unspoiled, with simple Lisu ethnic villages scattered along the riverbank. The combination of mountain scenery and local life is incredibly healing, making it perfect for an immersive, slow-paced trip. Highlights No need to visit specific spots; the core experience is driving along the river road. In the morning, the valley is filled with mist, creating an ethereal atmosphere; in the afternoon, the sun shines on the river, making the water look emerald and bright; in the evening, the sunset reflects in the valley, creating a full atmosphere of mountains and rivers. Every photo taken is a stunning shot without filters, unique and sophisticated. Best photo spots Nujiang First Bend Observation Deck, for a panoramic view of the winding river; riverside viewing boardwalk, for close-up shots of the river and canyon walls; mountain road curves, for capturing beautiful road trip scenes; village highlands, for panoramic views of the mountains and canyons, where culture and nature blend perfectly. Travel tips 1. The mountain roads in Western Yunnan have many curves and cliffside sections. Drive carefully and do not block the road to take photos. 2. The mountain climate is changeable. Bring extra light clothing and be prepared for wind and sun protection. 3. There are many signal blind spots in some areas of the canyon. Prepare offline navigation in advance. 4. The riverbank rocks are slippery. Stay away from the edge of cliffs; safety comes first. Come to Nujiang Grand Canyon, embark on a date with the mountains and rivers, feel the magnificence of nature, and unlock a different kind of niche trip to Western Yunnan!

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How to do a 5-day trip to Nujiang for CNY 1,500 per person? I'll break down the budget for you.

Nujiang is currently the best-value hidden gem in Yunnan—attractions are free, costs are low, and there are few tourists. But it has a catch: high transportation costs, poor accommodation, and you must carry cash. This article explains the budget allocation, where to spend, how to save, and what you can't skimp on, all in one go. 💰 Transportation: 40% of the total budget—don't skimp on this The biggest pitfall in Nujiang is transportation. Attractions are distributed along the Nujiang Grand Canyon in a line, about 300 km in total, with no public transport connecting them. Self-driving is most recommended. From Dali, take the Hangrui Expressway for 3 hours to Lushui, then follow the G219 National Highway (Nujiang Beautiful Highway) for 5 hours to Bingzhongluo. An SUV is a must. If you don't drive, carpooling from Liuku to Bingzhongluo costs about CNY 80 per person and takes 2.5 hours. However, for the Liuku-Fugong-Gongshan section, there are few buses and they take a long time, so hiring a car is more worry-free. The Liuku bus station has buses to Fugong and Gongshan, but the distances between attractions are long and rural bus schedules are infrequent, so hiring a car will save time and effort. ⚠️ Golden rule for refueling: Fill up whenever you see a station in Liuku, Fugong, or Gongshan! It's common to go 200 km without a gas station. Budget allocation: Carpooling + hired car for 5 days is about CNY 400–500 per person; self-driving gas + tolls is about CNY 500–600. Don't skimp on this; if you do, you won't be able to get around. 🏨 Accommodation: 20% of the total budget, cheap but don't expect too much Accommodation in Nujiang varies wildly. At the 150-yuan inn in Laomudeng, you can open the window to see the sea of clouds over Crown Mountain. In Bingzhongluo, the Qiunatong homestays are CNY 150 a night and the fire pit tea is super healing. The Love Nujiang Hotel in Liuku offers great value. But be aware: most homestays don't have elevators, so you'll need to carry your own luggage; hot water in some rooms can be unstable; soundproofing is basically non-existent. Budget allocation: Average CNY 150–200 per night for five nights, totaling CNY 750–1,000. Don't save money here—how well you sleep directly affects your energy for driving mountain roads the next day. 🍜 Food: 15% of the total budget, unbelievably cheap Nujiang's food is cheap and unique. Lacquer oil chicken is a Lisu specialty; free-range chicken is stir-fried with lacquer tree seed oil—it's incredibly fragrant, but those with allergies should be careful. Lisu hand-grabbed rice is served on banana leaves and eaten by hand, which is very ceremonial. Stone-baked cakes are grilled on volcanic stones and cost CNY 5 each with honey. Corn porridge is CNY 5 for a big bowl that will fill you up. Budget allocation: CNY 60–80 per person per day is enough. Ersi (rice noodles) in Liuku is CNY 8 a bowl, and lacquer oil chicken at an old shop in Bingzhongluo is CNY 60 per person. 🎫 Attraction tickets: 5% of the total budget, you'll spend almost nothing on tickets in Nujiang The Fugong section of the Nujiang Grand Canyon is free, with no general admission fee, and you can explore the viewing platforms along the way for free. The Nujiang First Bend viewing platform is free, Wuli Village is free, and Shimen Pass is free. Budget allocation: Admission fees are almost zero. Occasionally you might pay for parking or village experience projects, totaling less than CNY 100 for 5 days. ⚠️ Three things you can't skimp on First, motion sickness medicine. 749 sharp turns await you—so many curves you'll question your life choices. Second, a border permit. You need to apply for this in advance at the Gongshan County Public Security Bureau to enter Dulongjiang; it's free, but bring your ID card. Third, cash. Some small stalls only accept cash, so have small change ready. 📊 Total budget (per person for 5 days) Transportation CNY 400–600, accommodation CNY 750–1,000, food CNY 300–400, tickets under CNY 100, totaling CNY 1,550–2,100. If you carpool instead of driving yourself, you can keep the cost per person around CNY 1,500. 📍 Summary in one sentence In Nujiang, your money is mainly spent on the road and accommodation; you'll spend almost nothing on tickets and food. Spending money on transportation—SUV, hired car, gas—is more worth it than spending it anywhere else. Cell signal can be spotty, so download offline maps in advance.

cuteByte

Next to the Gaoligong Mountains in Lujiangba, step into a Baoshan coffee estate! So cool

In Lujiangba, Baoshan, there are vast coffee plantations. Step into a coffee estate and experience a unique coffee culture! 📍 Huke Coffee Estate With the Gaoligong Mountains at its back and the Nujiang River in front, the scenery is superb and the environment is wonderful. You must try the pour-over coffee here. 📍 Xinzhai Coffee Estate Retro red brick architecture, full of artistic vibes, and great for photos. Designed by the famous architect Hua Li. Other options like Biton Coffee Estate and Brian Coffee Experience Center are also great.

Dominic456_Bailey

2026 Shibao Mountain Song Festival photo diary

In Jianchuan, the seventh lunar month is the mildest time of the year. Rain nourishes the land, rice flowers fill the air with fragrance, corn is ready to ripen, and the valley is lush and green. Nourished by thousands of years of agricultural civilization, the people of all ethnic groups in Jianchuan take advantage of the farming lull to welcome a grand festival—the Shibaoshan Song Festival. In 2008, the Shibaoshan Song Festival was included in the second batch of the National Intangible Cultural Heritage list. Every year, from the 27–29 of the seventh lunar month, tens of thousands of people from all ethnic groups in Jianchuan and surrounding areas—including Dali, Eryuan, Yunlong, Lanping, Heqing, and Lijiang—flock to Shibaoshan. This year's festival is deeply integrated with the 2026 'Intangible Cultural Heritage Dali Tour' series of events. The 2026 'East Asian Capital of Culture: China Dali Activity Year'—'Intangible Cultural Heritage Dali Tour' Dali Cultural Ecological Protection Zone Achievement Exhibition and the 'Millennium Song Festival, Famous City Jianchuan' Shibaoshan Song Festival series of events kicked off grandly in the Ancient City of Jianchuan. Representative intangible cultural heritage projects from 7 cultural ecological protection zones outside the province, as well as from various provincial, prefectural, and county locations, brought wonderful performances and products. Events such as the intangible cultural heritage market, song and dance performances, the Ah Peng Music Season, and themed photography exhibitions were held in succession. The Shibaoshan Song Festival is known as the 'Bai Valentine's Day' and 'China's Song City.' Young men and women attending the festival, holding dragon-head sanxian and dressed in traditional ethnic costumes, gather at Shibaoshan. Using songs as a medium and strings to convey emotions, their singing is filled with lingering longing, a yearning for a better life, and a passion that has remained unchanged for thousands of years. In Shibaoshan, the most moving scenery is found not only on the singing stages but also among the mountains and forests. In the small woods by the roadside, on the stone steps in front of ancient temples, and under the cliffs by clear streams, singers sit on the ground or stand, improvising and playing. The sanxian rings out, the Bai songs drift, the singers exchange verses, and the onlookers listen intently—this is the original essence of the song festival. Elders say that to attend the festival, one must bring a plastic sheet and a flashlight; if you find a singing partner during the day, the singing continues by the bonfire or in the woods throughout the night. In addition to the singing, this year we also invited the internet-famous Jingpo sword dancer Yuan Zhiping. He blends ethnic dance with modern aesthetics, delivering a performance full of power. From the opening gala on September 4, the Ah Peng Music Season, and the intangible cultural heritage market, to the opening ceremony at Shibaoshan, the forest singing, and the bonfire party, I have used my lens to record this feast of intangible cultural heritage. I am now sharing a selection of these works with you, so we can all experience the thousand-year echo of this mountain song city.

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Spend time with Wa, a poetic retreat by the Nu River

Binzhongluo in Yunnan is a pure land surrounded by mountains. Here, you’ll find not only breathtaking natural scenery but also an unforgettable guesthouse—Banshandu · Yuwa Guesthouse (Binzhongluo). Today, I’ll take you inside this guesthouse that lives in harmony with nature to experience a different kind of travel.🚗✨ 🚗 Winding mountain roads, meet the best version of yourself🍃 In the early morning, I drove my car along the winding mountain roads. The forests on both sides changed shape as I moved forward, like a carefully choreographed visual feast by nature. When I arrived at Banshandu · Yuwa Guesthouse, the sunlight was just right, shining on the walls built from locally sourced stones, giving a warm and sturdy feeling. Here, every breath carries the freshness and tranquility of nature. 🏡 Stay among the clouds, dream by the Nu River🌙 After checking into the family room at Banshandu · Yuwa Guesthouse, I realized this place is more than just accommodation—it’s a sanctuary for the soul. The room’s design blends the cultural features of the Nu, Tibetan, and Dulong ethnic groups, with every detail reflecting rich cultural vibes. What impressed me most was the large window, through which I could see the distant Nu River flowing gently, as if telling stories that have lasted for thousands of years. When night falls, lying in bed with my eyes closed and only the sounds of nature around me, all worries seem to drift away with the wind. 🚶‍♂️ Hike the mountains, get close to nature🌱 Every morning, I chose to hike in the nearby mountains. It was not only a way to exercise but also a spiritual cleansing. Walking along the mountain path, I saw many unknown flowers and plants growing in their most natural state, showing the resilience and beauty of life. Along the way, I met several friendly locals who enthusiastically shared stories about this land, deepening my understanding of the area. 🍽️ A feast for the senses, Yunnan on your palate🍜 I have to mention the dining service at Banshandu · Yuwa Guesthouse. Whether it was the rice noodles for breakfast or the native chicken soup and roasted local pork for dinner, every dish was full of authentic Yunnan flavors. Especially the breakfast rice noodles personally recommended by the manager—the broth was delicious and the ingredients plentiful, making every bite a moment of pure happiness. Enjoying the meal on the scenic corridor while gazing at the Nu River is an experience you’ll never forget. This guesthouse is not just a place to stay but a lifestyle expression. Here, you can temporarily leave behind the noise of the city and return to inner peace. If you want to experience a true journey into nature, Banshandu · Yuwa Guesthouse is definitely a great choice.🌟

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