Nature's creation - the silent gifts of snow-capped mountains and springs
The skeleton and soul of Shuhe River are jointly shaped by Yulong Snow Mountain and the water of Qinglong River.
Snow-capped mountains as a screen: An eternal backdrop
- Perspective of Yulong Snow Mountain: In many corners of Shuhe, one can see the majestic figure of Yulong Snow Mountain just by looking up. Unlike in the Old town of Lijiang, it is not cut off by buildings. In the open area of Shuhe, the panoramic view of the snow-capped mountains is more complete and awe-inspiring. Especially on a clear morning, golden sunlight spills over the snow-capped peaks, creating an eternal and magnificent picture.
Flowing water as a vein: A dynamic rhythm
- Jiuding Longtan and Qinglong River: Jiuding Longtan (also known as Longquan) in the northwest corner of the ancient town is the water source of the Shu River. The pool water is crystal clear, the water plants dance gracefully, and the fish can be counted. The spring overflows and converges into the Qinglong River, meandering through the town. It is precisely this inexhaustible clear spring that has nourished the ancient town for a thousand years.
The Three-Eyed Well: A model of the Naxi people's wise utilization of water resources. Along the Qinglong River, there are many "three-eye Wells" : the first one is for drinking water, the second for washing vegetables, and the third for laundry. This stepwise water usage method reflects the ancient ecological view of respecting nature and harmonious coexistence. It is a living culture and also an excellent subject for photography.
Humanistic craftsmanship - The timeless traces of ancient paths and craftsmanship
Every bridge and every stone-paved road here is imprinted with the hooves of horses and the passage of time.
- Qinglong Bridge: The symbol of Shuhe River, built during the Wanli period of the Ming Dynasty. This ancient stone arch bridge has endured over 400 years of wind and rain. The stone slabs on the bridge deck have been smoothed as smooth as a mirror by the hooves of countless horse caravans, leaving deep hoof prints. Standing on the bridge, listening to the gurgling of the Qinglong River, it seems as if one can hear the bells of the horse caravans and the comings and goings of the caravans in the past.
- Sifang Listening Square: The central square of the ancient town, it is much smaller than Sifang Street in Dayan. This is a great place to experience the Naxi folk customs. During the day, Naxi elders often play the ancient "Baisha Fine Music", and at night, there are bonfire dances. Tourists can participate in them.
- Ancient Road Relics: Renli Road, which extends westward from Sifang Street, is the best-preserved section of the ancient Tea Horse Road. Walking on the five-colored stone slabs polished by time, with ancient shops on both sides, one can best feel the charm of the ancient path.
The Dajue Palace and the Tea Horse Road Museum: The Dajue Palace was built by the Mu family chieftain in the Ming Dynasty, and its murals are exquisite. The Tea Horse Road Museum beside it (originally the "Shuhe Courtyard" of the Mu family Chieftain) is the best classroom to learn about the history of the Tea Horse Road, Naxi culture and the leather history of Shuhe.
- Traditional Residences: The Naxi houses in the ancient town are mostly in the layout of "three wards and one screen wall", with wooden structures and courtyards filled with flowers and plants. Many old houses have been transformed into inns. Staying in them allows one to deeply experience the living aesthetics of the Naxi people.
Photography Secrets:
The Qinglong Bridge and its reflection in the water are classic camera spots, with the best time being in the morning and evening when the light is soft.
By the Jiuding Longtan, one can capture the serene reflections of snow-capped mountains, ancient trees and the pool water.
Partial street scenes and snapshots of people at the Sifang Listening Square are full of the flavor of life.
Look for alleys or the rooftops of inns within the ancient town that can frame the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, and take large photos of the snow-capped mountain and the ancient town in the same frame.
