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The Nalou Tusi Yamen is a historical site representing the culture and architecture of the Tusi system, which governed various ethnic groups in Yunnan. Recommended activities include:
The Nalou Tusi Yamen, also known as the Nalou Tusi Mansion and the Nalou Chieftain's Office, is located in Potou Township, 40 kilometers south of Lin'an Town, Jianshui County, Honghe Hani and Yi Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan Province. Now a nationally protected cultural relic, it served as the yamen of the Nalou Chadian Deputy Chieftain's Office (Yi Tusi), who ruled over the area along the Red River for generations during the Ming and Qing dynasties. Standing majestically on a hillside on the north bank of the Red River, it boasts a unique shape and strategic location. The building covers an area of 2,895 square meters.
The Nalou Tusi Yamen was organized along its central axis, with the main gate, front hall, main hall, and backyard arranged in a straight line from south to north. Wing rooms, study rooms, and side rooms were symmetrically arranged, forming a three-story quadrangle courtyard with over 70 rooms of varying sizes. The main gate, built in the style of a square, stood on a three-meter-high platform, with a playground and screen wall in front. Even more unique was the defensive artillery towers at each corner of the Nalou Yamen, which still bear the marks of bullets.
The subtropical monsoon climate has a relatively uniform seasonal pattern, with rainy and cool summers and warm winters. All seasons are suitable for travel.
The existing Nalou Tusi Yamen in Jiaxin Village, the residence of Chieftain Pu Guotai, was built in the late Qing Dynasty and is well-preserved. It features a tall screen wall in front of the gate and a spacious courtyard flanked by stone forts. Inside, the Yamen consists of a front hall, lobby, and backyard, arranged in a row. Flanking these halls are side rooms, a study, and other structures. Surrounding the Yamen are earthen and stone retaining walls. It is the largest and best-preserved ethnic minority Tusi Yamen in southern Yunnan.
It is recommended to play for about 2 hours.
20 yuan/person
08:00-18:00
The Nalou Tusi Yamen was once the administrative center for the local Tusi leader, a hereditary chieftain during the imperial period. The Tusi system was unique to certain regions in China, particularly in minority areas like Yunnan, where local ethnic groups were governed by these leaders under the supervision of the imperial court. The Yamen served as the seat of power and symbolizes the integration of local traditions with Chinese governance.
The Nalou Tusi Yamen is located in the Red River region of Yunnan Province. It can be accessed by taxi or private car from major nearby cities, such as Honghe or Gejiu. There is no metro service in the immediate area, so taxis or local buses are the most convenient options for getting there.
The Yamen is open daily, typically from 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM. The best time to visit is during the spring and autumn months when the weather is mild and the area is less crowded. Early mornings are usually quieter, making it an ideal time for photography and exploration.
The entrance fee for Nalou Tusi Yamen is approximately 30 CNY. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the entrance. There are no online ticket sales available, so visitors should buy their tickets in person.
Booking in advance is not necessary, as tickets can be purchased on-site. However, if you're visiting during peak seasons or holidays, it’s recommended to arrive early to avoid long lines.
To fully explore the Nalou Tusi Yamen, including the historical structures and nearby areas, 1 to 2 hours should be sufficient. If you want to immerse yourself in the local culture or enjoy photography, you may want to spend additional time.
The must-see highlights include the main Yamen building with its grand architecture, the surrounding courtyards, and any exhibitions that detail the history of the Tusi system. The entire site offers insight into the fusion of ethnic and imperial cultures.
Guided tours are available at the site, and some guides speak English, though they may be limited in availability. Audio guides are not commonly available, so it’s best to arrange a tour if you need explanations in English.
The best viewpoints are from the upper floors of the Yamen, where you can overlook the surrounding landscape and historical structures. The courtyards also provide beautiful, tranquil settings for photography.
Start by exploring the central courtyard, then move on to the main building where the local Tusi leaders would have worked. Don't miss the smaller exhibits or any cultural performances happening in the area. Finish your visit with a walk around the outer grounds for views of the surrounding nature.
Night visits and light shows are not available at Nalou Tusi Yamen. It is an outdoor, historical site best visited during daylight hours.
The Yamen is not overly crowded, but weekends and holidays can bring in more visitors. Weekdays, especially in the morning, are the least crowded times to visit.
Basic facilities, including toilets and rest areas, are available on-site. There are also small shops selling souvenirs and snacks. However, food options are limited, so it’s best to bring your own water or snacks if needed.
The Yamen is largely outdoors and features uneven terrain, which may be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors. However, children and those who are able to walk on uneven ground can enjoy the site. It's advisable to check the accessibility in advance if mobility is a concern.
Cash is widely accepted, but mobile payments such as WeChat Pay and Alipay are also commonly used. It's a good idea to have both options available just in case.
There are no large restaurants within the Yamen itself. However, nearby towns and villages offer local eateries where you can try traditional Yunnan dishes such as "crossing-the-bridge noodles" and other local specialties.
Local eateries may offer vegetarian options, but vegan or halal food may be limited in the area. If you have dietary preferences, it’s best to inquire ahead at restaurants in nearby towns.
There are a few guesthouses and hotels in nearby towns, including Gejiu, where you can find mid-range and budget options. It’s advisable to stay in Gejiu, which offers more amenities and is closer to transportation hubs.
Nearby attractions include the Red River Valley, famous for its beautiful terraced fields and local ethnic cultures. You can also visit the Gejiu City, which is known for its rich history and heritage, and the surrounding natural landscapes.
Yes, there are souvenir shops selling items such as traditional crafts, ethnic clothing, and small artifacts that reflect the local culture of the area.
After visiting the Yamen, you can continue your trip by taxi, bus, or private car. If you're heading to another part of Yunnan, Gejiu is a transport hub with buses to other major cities.
