Where Humans and Gods Dwell · Tattooed-Face Mystery

Nujiang Gongshan County — core area of the Three Parallel Rivers and birthplace of Dulong culture. A 2-day-1-night itinerary exploring the mystical Bingzhongluo — a land where humans and gods dwell together, witnessing the magnificent First Bend of Nujiang, and seeking the tattooed-face tribe of the Dulong River, experiencing the most pristine natural and cultural charm of northwestern Yunnan.

300 Degrees
First Bend of Nujiang
Dulong Ethnic
Tattooed-Face Culture
Humans & Gods
Bingzhongluo
Three Parallel Rivers
World Heritage
Gongshan Bingzhongluo
Gongshan County Bingzhongluo — Land Where Humans and Gods Dwell
Nu ethnic villages and snow-capped mountains surrounding an idyllic mystical realm

Gongshan County Two Days One Night Mystery Culture Journey

Where humans and gods dwell together + canyon wonders + tattooed-face tribe, feel the pristine charm of northwestern Yunnan

Duration
2 Days 1 Night
Main Destinations
Bingzhongluo, First Bend of Nujiang, Dulong River, Stone Gate Pass, Wuli Village
Suitable For
Cultural Explorers, Nature Enthusiasts, Photographers, Anthropological Researchers
Per Capita Budget
¥400-¥650
01
Exploring the Land of Humans and Gods
Culture & Nature
Itinerary Highlights

Explore Bingzhongluo in the morning, witness the First Bend of Nujiang in the afternoon.

Attractions
Bingzhongluo
A Nu ethnic settlement, an idyllic mystical realm surrounded by snow-capped mountains, including primitive villages such as Wuli Village and Qiunatong. Multiple religions coexist here, earning it the reputation of "a land where humans and gods dwell together" and making it an important cultural landscape in northwestern Yunnan.
First Bend of Nujiang
The core landscape of the Nujiang Grand Canyon, where the river forms a 300-degree turn. Featuring viewing platforms, hiking boardwalks, and Peach Blossom Island, it is praised as the "Canyon Pearl."
Stone Gate Pass
A geological wonder of the Nujiang Canyon, with cliffs on both sides like a knife-cut natural stone gate. It includes Tea Horse Road relics and cliff inscriptions, serving as the natural gateway to Bingzhongluo.
Practical Information
Travel Tips
  • Respect village life
  • Do not damage farmland crops
  • Ask for consent before photographing
Accommodation Recommendations
  • Bingzhongluo view B&Bs
  • Nu-style characteristic inns
  • Qiunatong holiday cottages
02
Tattooed-Face Tribe Visit
Culture & Ecology
Itinerary Highlights

Full day exploring the Dulong River secret realm.

Attractions
Dulong River
The best-preserved pristine ecological area in China, featuring mysterious tattooed-face tribes, waterfall clusters, and primeval forests, known as the "Natural Museum of Wild Plants."
Dulong Tattooed-Face Village
A Dulong traditional culture preservation area, home to the last generation of tattooed-face women. It includes traditional dwellings, sacrificial sites, and a tattoo-face culture exhibition hall, serving as a precious window into the living culture of the Dulong people.
Gaoligong Mountain Nature Reserve
A World Biosphere Reserve with complete vertical climate zones, serving as a habitat for rare flora and fauna, acclaimed as the "World Species Gene Bank."
Practical Information
Special Experiences
  • Dulong blanket weaving experience
  • Primeval forest trekking
  • Dulong family visit
Cultural Etiquette
  • Do not force photographs of tattooed-face women
  • Respect ethnic customs
  • Do not enter villages without permission

Gongshan County Must-Try Foods

Sago Palm Starch

A traditional Dulong delicacy — starch extracted from wild sago palm tree cores, steamed and served with honey. Known as the "Canyon Energy Powder," it is listed in the provincial intangible cultural heritage directory.

Stone Griddle Baba (Buckwheat Cake)

A Nu ethnic staple — buckwheat batter spread on heated stone slabs and baked until crispy outside and soft inside, embodying the dietary wisdom of mountain-dwelling peoples.

Lacquer Oil Stewed Chicken

A Nujiang specialty dish — free-range chicken stewed with lacquer tree oil, offering a unique aroma. Hailed as the "Canyon Tonic Supreme," it embodies the ecological dietary philosophy.

Gongshan County Travel Tips
Best Seasons
  • May-October: Dulong River open season
  • April: Peach blossom blooming season
  • October: Harvest festival season
Cultural Etiquette
  • Do not touch sacrificial artifacts
  • Respect tattooed-face women's wishes
  • Do not cross prayer flags
Safety Reminders
  • Watch for landslides during rainy season
  • Hire a guide for primeval forest areas
  • Bring altitude sickness medication
Transportation Guide
  • Fugong to Gongshan: 3-hour drive
  • Dulong River requires advance permit
  • Off-road vehicle recommended
  • Some sections require hiking

Explore All Districts and Counties of Nujiang Prefecture