Overview

Luxi County (泸西县) lies in the northeastern corner of Honghe Prefecture, Yunnan Province. Renowned for its karst landscapes, ancient caves, traditional festivals, and colorful ethnic cultures, Luxi is often called the “East Gate of Honghe” due to its strategic location as the nearest Honghe county to the provincial capital Kunming.

 

With a long history, diverse population, and rich natural and cultural resources, Luxi serves as both a tourist attraction and a key agricultural hub in Yunnan.

 

Geography and Climate

Location: Borders Kunming City to the north, within 130 km of Kunming

 

Coordinates: Between 24°06′–24°39′ N and 103°16′–103°51′ E

 

Area: ~1,674 square kilometers

 

Elevation: Average ~1,900 meters, typical of Yunnan’s plateau

 

Climate:

 

Subtropical plateau monsoon climate

 

Mild year-round with distinct dry and wet seasons

 

Average annual temperature: ~16°C–18°C

 

Annual rainfall: 800–1,200 mm

 

Luxi’s climate is ideal for highland agriculture and flower cultivation.

 

Population and Ethnic Groups

Total Population: ~350,000 (as of latest census)

 

Ethnic Composition:

 

Han (majority)

 

Yi, Miao, Hui, Dai, and other ethnic minorities

 

The Yi people, especially the Black Yi subgroup, play a significant role in Luxi’s cultural life

 

Historical Significance

Luxi has a history of over 2,000 years, with archaeological discoveries indicating early settlements during the Neolithic era.

 

During the Tang and Song dynasties, it became a frontier settlement of increasing cultural and strategic value.

 

It has historically served as a link between central Yunnan and southern border areas, important in trade, cultural exchange, and military movements.

 

Major Attractions and Cultural Heritage

1. Alu Ancient Caves (阿庐古洞)

A national-level karst scenic area

 

Comprises three interconnected limestone caves with colorful stalactites, stone curtains, and underground rivers

 

Features natural formations named “Dragon Palace,” “Fairy Pavilion,” and “Water Curtain Cave”

 

Known as “The Underground Art Palace of Yunnan”

 

2. Luxi Confucian Temple (泸西文庙)

Built during the Ming Dynasty, later expanded in Qing

 

Reflects the region’s historical emphasis on education and Confucian values

 

A quiet, elegant spot showcasing traditional Chinese architecture

 

3. Luxi Ancient Town Area

Preserved streets, temples, ancestral halls, and old wells

 

Blends Han and Yi cultural elements with typical southwest Chinese small-town charm

 

4. Yiyuan Garden (宜园)

A restored classical Chinese garden reflecting Qing dynasty aesthetics

 

Popular for leisure walks, tea, and cultural events

 

5. Ethnic Villages and Festivals

Yi ethnic villages around the county showcase traditional black-and-red costumes, houses, and weaving traditions

 

Annual Torch Festival, Flower Mountain Festival, and New Year Singing Competitions highlight Luxi’s ethnic vitality

 

Local Products and Cuisine

Luxi is known for:

 

High-quality vegetables (especially green leafy crops and peppers)

 

Tobacco (a key economic crop)

 

Roses and edible flowers

 

Luxi Preserved Duck (泸西卤鸭) – tender and flavorful with a blend of local spices

 

Clay Pot Rice and Yi-style Roasted Meats – hearty and aromatic dishes

 

Yi Herbal Liquors and wild mushroom stews

 

Economy and Industry

Agriculture-based economy: vegetables, tobacco, and flower cultivation are major pillars

 

Emerging sectors:

 

Eco-tourism, especially centered around the Alu Ancient Caves

 

Food processing industries (tofu, pickles, roasted duck)

 

Light manufacturing and clean energy projects

 

Luxi also promotes rural revitalization programs focused on organic farming and cultural tourism.

 

Transportation and Accessibility

Road Access:

 

Luxi is well connected by highway to Kunming and Mengzi

 

Close to Mile City and Shilin (Stone Forest)

 

High-Speed Rail: Accessible via nearby Mile or Jianshui stations

 

Bus Network: Developed for intra-county and prefecture-wide connections

 

Ongoing investment in rural roads and tourist infrastructure

 

Education and Cultural Initiatives

Emphasis on bilingual and minority-inclusive education, especially in Yi communities

 

Schools promote ethnic culture, traditional crafts, and enviro