Lijiang – A Step into Ancient Naxi Culture

Lijiang, nestled in China’s Yunnan Province, offers travelers an enchanting blend of culture, history, and breathtaking landscapes. Known for its rich Naxi heritage, Lijiang transports visitors back in time with its traditional architecture, ancient waterways, and vibrant folklore. This family-friendly guide will walk you through the magic of the Old Town, help you explore the unique Naxi culture, and give you ideas for fun, thought-provoking activities to do with your children.

A Journey Through Lijiang’s Old Town

Lijiang’s Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is famed for its traditional Naxi architecture, cobbled streets, and intricate waterways. Families wandering through Lijiang will feel as though they’ve stepped into a storybook town, with wooden buildings that have preserved their unique charm over centuries. The town is also home to a variety of artisans selling handcrafted goods, from textiles to paper art, making it a treasure trove of cultural discovery.

Beyond the town, the area is surrounded by stunning natural beauty, including Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, Black Dragon Pool, and vast countryside paths perfect for peaceful hikes and exploration.

Family-Friendly Activities in Lijiang

1. Explore the Streets of Old Town: Stroll through Lijiang’s Old Town to admire its traditional architecture. Check out the Dongba Culture Museum to learn more about the Naxi people’s history and beliefs, and encourage children to look for traditional symbols carved into walls and doors.
2. Visit Jade Dragon Snow Mountain: This iconic mountain is visible from Lijiang and offers a breathtaking backdrop. Families can take a cable car up to one of the higher viewing points and enjoy spectacular views of the mountain and surrounding valley.
3. Black Dragon Pool Park: Located just north of the Old Town, Black Dragon Pool Park offers peaceful gardens, pagodas, and a clear view of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. Take a leisurely stroll or picnic here to enjoy the scenery and traditional architecture reflected in the water.
4. Participate in a Naxi Music Performance: The Naxi people are known for their traditional music, which has been preserved for centuries. Attending a live performance in Old Town is a great way for families to experience Naxi culture and the unique instruments and melodies that define it.

Recommended Books for Exploring Naxi Culture and Lijiang

• “The Ancient Naxi Kingdom of Southwest China” by Christine Mathieu
  This book delves into the history and traditions of the Naxi people, exploring their myths, culture, and social organization, making it perfect for those interested in a deep dive into the unique heritage of Lijiang’s indigenous people.
• “Living in the Spirit of the Naxi” by Joseph F. Rock
  Joseph Rock, an Austrian-American explorer and botanist, dedicated much of his life to studying the Naxi culture. This book provides a firsthand account of his observations and captures the spirit of Naxi traditions and their connection to nature.
• “Lost Horizon” by James Hilton
  Although not directly about Lijiang or the Naxi culture, Lost Horizon was inspired by the landscapes of Yunnan and Tibet. This novel takes readers on a fictional journey to the utopian valley of Shangri-La, offering a taste of the mystery and allure that permeates this region.

3 Thought-Provoking Questions for Parents and Children

1. How do you think traditional architecture and modern buildings reflect different lifestyles?
   Explore why the people of Lijiang built their homes and towns in this way, and how it may reflect the way they live, their beliefs, or how they interact with nature.
2. Why do you think it’s important to preserve old buildings and cultural practices?
   Encourage children to think about how ancient practices and structures help us connect to history and maintain a sense of community identity.
3. What stories or legends do you know from your own culture? How do they compare to Naxi legends?
   Discuss how every culture has unique stories, legends, and folklore, and consider how these tales shape our view of the world and connect us to our ancestors.

Interactive Family Activity: Create a Naxi-Style Family Story Scroll

Inspired by the Naxi Dongba script, this creative activity allows families to learn about Naxi pictographic symbols while making their own story scroll.

Materials Needed:

• Long strip of paper (cut from a large piece or several papers taped together)
• Markers, colored pencils, or crayons
• Black marker for outlining
• Reference sheet of Naxi symbols (you can print examples of Dongba pictographs)
• Glue (optional) and two sticks for a scroll effect

Instructions:

1. Draw the Story Symbols: Use the reference sheet to draw some traditional Dongba symbols that relate to a theme or story. You can also create your own pictographs to represent things meaningful to your family, like “home,” “mountain,” or “journey.”
2. Create Your Family Story: Arrange the symbols to tell a simple story about a family adventure or memorable day. Parents can help kids write words or phrases beneath each symbol to help tell the story.
3. Make It a Scroll: Attach the top and bottom of the paper to two sticks (e.g., popsicle sticks) to make a traditional scroll. This makes it easier to roll and unroll and gives it an authentic look.
4. Present Your Story: Share your scroll with one another, explaining the symbols and story behind it. This can lead to fun discussions about storytelling, family traditions, and different ways to remember important moments.

Conclusion

Lijiang’s charm lies not only in its scenic landscapes but in its dedication to preserving the cultural heritage of the Naxi people. From the winding streets of Old Town to the stunning views of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, a visit to Lijiang offers a chance to step back in time and connect with history in a way that resonates with all ages. Plan your journey to Lijiang with your family, and immerse yourselves in the ancient culture that has inspired adventurers, artists, and storytellers for centuries.