Yongning Basin

Introducing Yongning Basin

Yongning Basin, located in Yongning Township northwest of Lugu Lake, comprises three scenic areas: the Yongning Basin, the Lugu Lakeshore, and the Jinsha River Gorge. Surrounded by mountains, Yongning Basin, at an altitude of 2,644 meters, covers an area of ​​41.23 square kilometers and is a rich producer of rice, corn, buckwheat, and white melon seeds. It is one of the highest basins in Yunnan Province for rice cultivation.

Yongning, formerly known as Loutouzhen and Dalan, is called "Lüdi" in the Mosuo language, meaning a resting place. Kublai Khan passed through the area during his southern expedition to Dali in the late Song Dynasty and named it "Yongning," implying eternal peace. Before the Tang Dynasty, it was primarily inhabited by Tibetans, but today it is primarily populated by Mosuo and Pumi people. Historically, Yongning was a key point on the ancient Tea-Horse Road. Several wealthy local families and feudal lords organized caravans, escorted by armed chieftains, to conduct trade via Yongsheng, Lijiang, Weixi, Zhongdian, Zayu, Lhasa, and Shigatse, on their way to Myanmar, Nepal, and India. During the Yuan Dynasty, the Yongning Prefecture government was established in Ba Nei, later elevated to Yongning Prefecture, with the Mosuo A clan inheriting the chieftainship.

Yongning Basin is surrounded by mountains and boasts stunning natural scenery. Villages are scattered throughout the basin, with the Kaiji River flowing through its center. Its banks are crisscrossed by ditches and crisscrossed by fields and paths. The fertile land and abundant resources make it a veritable "Jiangnan" (Southern China) on the plateau. The area boasts a wealth of cultural and natural attractions, including Riyuehe, where Kublai Khan, the founder of the Yuan Dynasty, stationed his central army during his campaign against the Dali Kingdom. There are also the ruins of Kaiji Bridge, where Kublai Khan reportedly built a wooden bridge to facilitate the passage of his troops. There are also the Zhame Temple, the Zhebo Sakya Temple, the Yongning Tuzhifu Yamen (ruins of the Tusi Yamen), Yongning Hot Springs, and the leatherworker street in the ancient Tea and Horse Town.

Climate and best time to travel

Low-latitude plateau climate zone; Yongning Basin is surrounded by mountains and has beautiful natural scenery. It is one of the basins with the highest altitude for rice cultivation in Yunnan Province and is suitable for travel in all seasons.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Yongning Basin, Lugu Lake, and Jinsha River Canyon Terrace;

It is recommended to play for 3-4 hours

Tickets

Free and open

Attraction opening hours

Open all day

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Most Popular FAQs for Yongning Basin

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Yongning Basin, nestled in the Lijiang region of Yunnan, is a historical and cultural area with a deep connection to the Naxi people. The basin has long been a hub for traditional agricultural practices and is known for its natural beauty. The area is significant for its biodiversity and unique ecosystem, which has made it a popular destination for nature lovers and cultural enthusiasts.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Yongning Basin is located about 50 km from Lijiang, in the northwest of Yunnan Province. Visitors can reach the basin by taxi or private car from Lijiang. Public buses also operate to nearby towns, from where taxis or local transportation can take you directly to the basin.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The area is open throughout the year, with no specific closing hours. The best time to visit is during the spring and autumn months, as the weather is mild, and the landscapes are most scenic. Summer is also a great time for hiking, but it can get hot during midday.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

There is no official entrance fee for visiting Yongning Basin, as it is a natural area without a centralized ticketing system. However, some specific activities or guided tours may have a fee. Tickets, if required, can usually be bought on-site or through local travel agencies.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Booking tickets in advance is generally not necessary unless you are booking a guided tour or specific activity. For the most part, you can purchase tickets on-site when you arrive.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

A visit to Yongning Basin typically takes around 3 to 4 hours. This allows for a relaxed exploration of the area, including a walk around the basin, visits to the villages, and plenty of time for photography.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

The must-see highlights include the natural beauty of the basin itself, the traditional Naxi villages, and the various hiking trails offering panoramic views of the valley and surrounding mountains.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available in the area, and they are typically conducted in Mandarin. Some tour operators may offer English-speaking guides, but it is advisable to arrange these in advance if you require an English-speaking guide.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best photography spots are along the hiking trails, especially those with views over the valley and the surrounding mountains. Sunrise and sunset offer great lighting for landscape photography, as do the traditional villages with their unique architecture.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

It is recommended to start by walking around the villages to get a feel for the local culture. Then, take one of the hiking trails that lead to elevated viewpoints for panoramic views of the basin. End your visit with a relaxing walk through the fields or along the river.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

There are no night visits or light shows available at Yongning Basin. The area is primarily a daytime destination for nature exploration and cultural immersion.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

The basin is generally less crowded than other major tourist sites in Lijiang. The least crowded times are during weekdays and in the off-season (winter), when fewer tourists visit the area.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

Basic facilities like toilets and rest areas are available in the nearby villages. There are no major restaurants or shops within the basin itself, but you can find food and water in nearby towns such as Lijiang.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

The terrain in Yongning Basin can be uneven, especially on the hiking trails. While the area is accessible for elderly and children, it may be challenging for visitors with mobility impairments. It is recommended to check with local guides or accommodation providers about specific accessibility features.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is commonly accepted in the nearby towns, while mobile payments such as Alipay and WeChat Pay are also widely used. Credit cards are not commonly accepted in the area, so it is advisable to carry cash.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are no major restaurants inside Yongning Basin, but you can find traditional Naxi restaurants in nearby towns such as Lijiang, offering local specialties such as yak meat and vegetable dishes.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian food options are available in the region, especially in local restaurants. Halal options may be more limited, but there are Muslim restaurants in Lijiang where you can find halal food.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are several accommodations in Lijiang, ranging from budget guesthouses to luxury hotels. Some traditional Naxi guesthouses in the nearby villages offer a more immersive experience.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

Nearby attractions include Lijiang Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. These sites can easily be combined in a day trip along with a visit to Yongning Basin.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops can be found in Lijiang, where you can purchase Naxi handicrafts, textiles, and jewelry. Traditional hand-painted items and pottery are also common souvenirs.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

After visiting Yongning Basin, the best transportation options are taxis or private cars to Lijiang. You can also take a bus from nearby towns to Lijiang or other parts of Yunnan.