Nujiang Travel Guide: The Last Secret Land of the Three Parallel Rivers

1.Introduction: The Grand Canyon of the East Nujiang Lisu Autonomous Prefecture is a hidden sanctuary located in the northwestern part of Yunnan Province. It is named after the roaring Nujiang River (Salween River) that slices through the region from north to south. Geographically, this area is a geological wonder. As described in geographical surveys, the Nujiang River, along with the Lancang (Mekong) and Jinsha (Yangtze) rivers, flow parallel to each other, compressed tightly within the high ridges of the Hengduan Mountains. This unique formation creates the famous "Three Parallel Rivers" protected area. Nujiang is flanked by two colossal mountain ranges: the Gaoligong Mountain to the west and the Biluo Snow Mountain to the east. These mountains act as massive walls, channeling the river into a deep, long, and mysterious gorge often referred to as the "Grand Canyon of the East." Unlike the plateaus of Tibet or the basins of Sichuan, Nujiang is defined by its verticality; the elevation drops dramatically from snow-capped peaks like Kawagebo (over 6,000 meters) to the river valleys (around 700 meters). This creates a stunning "three-dimensional" landscape where one can experience four seasons in a single mountain climb.

2.The Mysterious Nujiang River: The soul of the prefecture is the Nujiang River itself. Originating from the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, it flows southward into Yunnan, cutting a path of wild beauty before eventually entering Myanmar and the Indian Ocean. The river is known for its turbulent waters and the magnificent "First Bend of Nujiang" (Nujiang Di Yi Wan), where the emerald waters make a near-perfect U-turn around a small islet, creating a breathtaking spectacle. The river valley is a corridor of life, with climates ranging from subtropical in the low valleys to frigid in the high peaks. This vertical climate distribution allows for an incredible biodiversity, making Nujiang a "gene bank" of biological resources. The lush vegetation covers the slopes, transforming from tropical forests at the bottom to alpine meadows and snow at the top.

A Mosaic of Ethnic Cultures Nujiang is not just a geological museum; it is a rich tapestry of human culture. It is the only Lisu autonomous prefecture in China and home to unique ethnic groups found nowhere else, such as the Nu and Drung (Dulong) peoples.

• 3.The Lisu People: As the main ethnic group, the Lisu people are known for their vibrant festivals and hospitality. Their "Kuoshi Festival" (New Year) is a time of singing, dancing, and archery contests. The "Sandian" (Bathhouse) Festival in Liuku is a famous tradition where people gather at natural hot springs to bathe, sing folk songs, and socialize in a celebration of nature and community.
• 4.The Nu People: Living primarily in Gongshan and Fugong counties, the Nu people are famous for their "Fairy Festival" (Xianru Festival), celebrating the flowering of azaleas. Their traditional houses, often built of wood and bamboo, cling to the mountainsides, blending seamlessly with the forest.
• 5.The Drung People: Residing in the remote Dulongjiang Valley, the Drung people were once isolated from the world by heavy snow for half the year. They are known for the fading tradition of facial tattooing among women. The opening of the Dulongjiang Tunnel has now made this mysterious valley accessible, revealing a pristine paradise of turquoise waters and primitive forests.

6.Bingzhongluo: The Place Where Men and Gods Live Together If there is a crown jewel in Nujiang tourism, it is Bingzhongluo in Gongshan County. Often called "The Place Where Men and Gods Live Together," Bingzhongluo is a serene plateau nestled among the mountains. Here, the Nujiang River slows down, winding gently through golden fields of barley and traditional villages like Wuli Village. The scenery is pastoral and idyllic, often compared to Switzerland but with a distinct Himalayan soul. What makes Bingzhongluo truly unique is the harmonious coexistence of multiple religions. You can find Tibetan Buddhism, Catholicism, and Christianity practicing side by side. The white walls of a Catholic church stand peacefully near the fluttering prayer flags of a Buddhist temple, symbolizing the inclusive spirit of the region.

7.The Old Tea Horse Road: Historically, Nujiang was a crucial passage for the Tea Horse Road (Cha Ma Gu Dao). Caravans transported tea and salt between Yunnan and Tibet through these rugged canyons. Traces of this ancient trade route can still be found today, etched into the cliffs. The perilous "Daily Walk of the Caravans" along the cliffs is a testament to the resilience of the ancestors who traversed this formidable terrain. Walking on parts of the remaining trails gives visitors a profound sense of history and the hardships endured for trade and cultural exchange.

8.Adventure and: Eco-Tourism For the modern traveler, Nujiang is a paradise for adventure. It is less commercialized than Lijiang or Dali, offering a more authentic experience. Hiking is a popular activity, with trails leading to high-altitude lakes, waterfalls, and sacred mountains. The Biluo Snow Mountain offers challenging treks with rewards of stunning alpine views. The Gaoligong Mountain National Nature Reserve is a haven for birdwatchers and botanists, home to rare species like the Skywalker Hoolock Gibbon. The "Stone Moon" (Shi Yue Liang) in Fugong, a massive hole in a marble cliff through which the sky is visible, is another natural wonder that attracts hikers and photographers.

Conclusion Nujiang is a place where the earth's power is visible in the deep cuts of the canyon and the towering peaks. It is a place where the air is pure, the water is wild, and the culture is ancient. Whether you are listening to a four-part harmony choir in a riverside church, crossing the river on a traditional rope bridge (liusuo), or simply gazing at the mist rising from the Nujiang, this region offers a travel experience that touches the soul. It is a destination for those who seek not just sights, but a connection with the raw forces of nature and humanity.