Mu's Mansion

Introduction & Historical Significance
Nestled in the heart of Lijiang’s Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Mufu Palace (Wood Mansion) stands as the architectural and cultural heart of the Naxi Kingdom. Built in 1382 during the Ming Dynasty by the Mu clan, hereditary rulers of Lijiang for over 470 years, this grand complex embodies the fusion of Naxi, Han, and Tibetan influences. Known as the "Forbidden City of the South," it served as the political, cultural, and spiritual hub of the Naxi people, reflecting their matriarchal "Dongba" traditions and strategic role along the ancient Tea-Horse Road. Today, Mufu Palace is celebrated as a masterpiece of Naxi craftsmanship and a living museum of ethnic heritage.

Architectural Layout & Design
Spanning 4.6 hectares, Mufu Palace follows a symmetrical layout aligned with Naxi cosmology, blending natural harmony with imperial grandeur:

• Main Palace Complex: A three-tiered courtyard system with 162 ornate buildings, featuring intricately carved wooden beams, lotus-patterned eaves, and marble courtyards. The central axis leads to the Hall of Supreme Harmony, a replica of Beijing’s Forbidden City, adorned with dragon motifs and Naxi-style murals.
• Suyuan Pavilion: A three-story wooden tower offering panoramic views of Lijiang’s rooftops and Jade Dragon Snow Mountain.
• Dongba Culture Hall: Dedicated to the Naxi’s ancient pictographic script and shamanic rituals, housing thousands of Dongba scriptures and ritual artifacts.
• Gardens & Water Features: A network of ponds, bridges, and willow-lined pathways inspired by Naxi "harmony with nature" philosophy, including the Moon-Reflecting Pond and Five-Phoenix Tower.
• Eco-Conscious Design: Traditional rammed-earth walls, bamboo groves, and permeable stone pavements minimize environmental impact.

Major Attractions

• Hall of Supreme Harmony: Marvel at the throne hall’s golden dragons and murals depicting Naxi legends, with daily cultural performances (10:00 AM & 3:00 PM).
• Suyuan Pavilion Observatory: Capture sunrise over Jade Dragon Snow Mountain and the cobblestone streets of Lijiang Old Town.
• Dongba Scripture Gallery: Explore interactive exhibits on Naxi shamanism, including sand paintings and ritual drums.
• Imperial Garden: Wander through peony-filled courtyards and ancient cypress groves, home to peacocks and traditional tea houses.
• Naxi Cultural Village: Experience weaving, Dongba paper-making, and folk music workshops in restored wooden houses.

Ticket Information

• Standard Entry: ¥70 (includes main palace, gardens, and Dongba Hall).
• Combined Tickets: ¥120 with Lijiang Old Town; ¥200 for multi-day passes including Black Dragon Pool and Jade Dragon Snow Mountain.
• Opening Hours: 08:30–18:00 (extended to 20:00 in peak season).
• Special Events: Nightly "Naxi Ancient Music" shows (¥80–150) and Dongba ritual ceremonies during Festivals.

Transportation Guide

• Public Transport: Bus 6/11 to "Mufu Palace Station" from Lijiang’s South Gate.
• Self-Drive: 15-minute drive from Lijiang city center; parking available at North Gate (¥15/day).
• Walking/Cycling: 10-minute stroll from Lijiang Old Town’s Square Street via stone-paved lanes.
• Taxi/Shuttle: Direct taxis from Lijiang Airport (¥60) or shared e-bikes (¥25/day).

Best Time & Tips

• Optimal Seasons: April–June (wildflowers) and September–October (autumn foliage); avoid July–August monsoons.
• Photography: Dawn for misty courtyard shots; sunset for golden light on Suyuan Pavilion.
• Cultural Etiquette: Remove hats in sacred areas; ask permission before photographing Dongba priests.
• Packing: Light layers, comfortable shoes, and sunscreen; oxygen canisters for altitude (2,400m).
• Dining: Savor Naxi specialties like jambalaya-style chicken, barley pancakes, and rose-flavored tea at palace cafés.

Nearby Attractions & Itineraries

• One-Day Tour:
  • Morning: Explore Mufu Palace and Dongba Hall.
  • Afternoon: Stroll Lijiang Old Town’s canals and Black Dragon Pool.
  • Evening: Attend a Naxi music performance or riverboat cruise.
• Cultural Synergy: Pair with Jade Dragon Snow Mountain for hiking or Baisha Village for fresco art.
• Extended Itineraries: 3-day Naxi Culture tour including Tiger Leaping Gorge, Lugu Lake, and Shuhe Ancient Town.

Mufu Palace is a timeless testament to the Naxi Kingdom’s legacy—where every stone, script, and song whispers tales of resilience and artistic spirit. As a UNESCO-protected gem, it invites travelers to step into a world where imperial grandeur meets the soul of Yunnan’s mountains.