Go Deep in Lijiang: Courtyard tells history of old town

Located next to the Sifang street in Old Town of Lijiang, Tiandiyuan courtyard is a typical traditional residence with Naxi style. When entering the courtyard, visitors can see exhibitions like ancient Naxi housing appliances, Dongba ancient documents, cultural relics collected from the ancient tea-horse road period and more.

Naxi people’s worship of nature originated from the saying "Heaven is the father, earth is the mother, and people live in between", thus giving the name of the courtyard. Here, visitors can enjoy the original Naxi songs and dances performed by local artists.

1. Dongba sword dance mainly shows the Naxi will to fight against demons.

2. Folk song chorus consists of the three kinds of the most widely spread folk songs of Naxi culture. The lyrics express their gratefulness and respect for nature.

3. Leba dance reflects the heroic morale of Naxi men who are high-spirited and fearless.

4. Meaning singing and chanting, Guqi is performed by two instruments: a string of leaves and Qiangdi flute.

5. “Beautiful white clouds” belongs to the Naxi ancient music (Baishaxiyue ancient music) which was listed as a national intangible cultural heritage in China.

6. Hailed as the most primitive chorus music, “Remeicuo” is listed as a national intangible cultural heritage.

7. Flute performing is a folk dance.

As one of the cultural courtyards in Old Town of Lijiang, Tiandiyuan is mainly devoted to the inheritance and development of Naxi culture, and it is a window to show the charm of Lijiang.

Source: Yulong Publicity Department; Trans-editing by Mo Yingyi