The Ancient Chieftain's Fortress: Exploring the History and Architectural Fusion of Weixi Yezhi Tusi Government Office

A Fortress in the Canyon

Hidden deep within the majestic Three Parallel Rivers region, located in Yezhi Town, Weixi Lisu Autonomous County, Diqing Prefecture, stands a magnificent testament to a bygone era of local rule: the Weixi Yezhi Tusi Government Office. Situated at an altitude of approximately 2,000 meters on a terrace overlooking the turbulent Lancang River (Mekong) canyon, this complex is one of the best-preserved and largest Tusi (native chieftain) offices in southwestern China. Unlike the bustling tourist hubs of Lijiang or Dali, Yezhi offers a tranquil journey into history, where the legacy of the Ancient Tea Horse Road meets the unique governance of the borderlands,,.

The Legacy of the Tusi

For centuries, the Wang family ruled this region as hereditary Tusi, appointed by the imperial court but acting as local kings over the diverse ethnic population. The Yezhi Tusi lineage dates back to the Ming Dynasty, but the current structure was largely solidified during the Qing Dynasty. At its peak, the Tusi's power extended across the Jinsha and Lancang rivers, controlling a vital trade artery connecting Yunnan, Sichuan, and Tibet. The office served not only as the administrative center for political and military affairs but also as the residence for the chieftain's family. Walking through these halls, one can imagine the pomp and authority of the "Emperor of the Earth" who once governed this remote frontier,,.

A Masterpiece of Architectural Fusion

1.The architecture of the Yezhi Tusi: Office is its most striking feature, a physical embodiment of cultural integration. The complex follows the rigid central axis layout typical of Han Chinese government offices, featuring a main gate, a main hall, a second hall, and a third hall, symbolizing the hierarchy of power. However, the details reveal a rich tapestry of local aesthetics. You will find exquisite Naxi wood carvings on doors and windows, distinct Tibetan stone masonry techniques, and defensive watchtowers (Diaolou) characteristic of the Qiang and local tribes. The "Jing Yi Building" (经一楼) on the west side, with its intricate design, and the contrasting private garden, showcase the Tusi's pursuit of both Han Confucian culture and the comfortable lifestyle of a local lord,,.

The Red Army Connection

Beyond its architectural beauty, the site holds a significant place in China's revolutionary history. In 1936, during the Long March, the Second and Sixth Corps of the Red Army, led by General He Long, passed through this region. In a remarkable act of unity, the Tusi opened his granaries to assist the troops, forging a bond between the local ethnic leadership and the revolutionary forces. This event is commemorated within the site, adding a layer of "Red Culture" to the ancient walls. Today, the office houses exhibits displaying historical artifacts, Tusi family heirlooms, and items related to the Lisu and Naxi peoples, making it a living museum of the region's turbulent yet fascinating past,,.

Lisu Culture and the "Achimugua"

2.The Yezhi Tusi: Office is also a gateway to the vibrant culture of the Lisu people. The surrounding area is the birthplace of the "Achimugua" (Goat Dance), a dynamic and rhythmic traditional dance that simulates the movements of mountain goats. This art form has been recognized as a National Intangible Cultural Heritage. Visitors to the ancient town can often witness this primitive and energetic performance, which reflects the Lisu people's close connection to nature and their mountainous environment. The combination of the solemn Tusi office and the lively folk customs of the surrounding village creates a comprehensive cultural experience that is unique to this part of Yunnan,,.