Village in the clouds: Yunnan village emerges as tourism star

Located in the Nujiang Lisu Autonomous Prefecture of southwest China's Yunnan Province, the Laomudeng-Zhiziluo Scenic Area – comprising the core villages of Laomudeng and Zhiziluo – has become a rising tourist destination known for its rich Nu ethnic culture and dramatic alpine canyon landscapes. Perched high in the mountains, the area is often described as a "village in the clouds," blending breathtaking natural scenery with vibrant ethnic traditions.

The village serves as a living hub of intangible cultural heritage, showcasing Nu ethnic architecture, customs, music, cuisine, costumes and traditional song and dance. It has earned multiple honors, including "China's Most Beautiful Village," "National Forest Village," and a "Model Village for Poverty Alleviation," drawing tour groups and self-driving travelers from across China.

In recent years, local authorities have advanced an integrated approach to development, focusing on scenic tourism, income growth and ecological conservation. By leveraging its rich ecological, cultural and historical resources, the region has developed a comprehensive tourism system led by the core scenic area, supported by rural tourism, driven by intangible cultural heritage and complemented by local cuisine and retail. This model has helped boost rural industries and increase farmers' incomes, contributing to high-quality rural tourism development.

As participation in the cultural tourism sector continues to expand, a growing number of local residents have become active stakeholders. Guesthouses, farm stays, restaurants, cultural workshops, heritage exhibition halls and specialty product shops have rapidly emerged, creating new livelihoods and transforming village residents into entrepreneurs. Through tourism, this community is steadily moving toward greater prosperity and sustainable development.