Miyi County

Miyi County is located in the northeastern part of Panzhihua City, Sichuan Province, in the lower reaches of the Anning River. It covers an area of 2,153 square kilometers and has a permanent population of about 220,000 (2023). As an important gateway to the Panxi region, Miyi has a long history: it belonged to Shu Commandery in the Qin Dynasty, was established as Qiongdu County in the Han Dynasty, and was set up as Miyi Station in the Ming and Qing Dynasties. It is a multi-ethnic area where cultures of Yi, Lisu, and other ethnic groups blend, forming unique folk customs. The county is rich in natural resources and is known for early spring vegetables, mangoes, loquats, and other specialty agricultural products, earning the nickname 'Sunshine Miyi'. Miyi is famous as the 'Hometown of Zhuanxu', the legendary birthplace of one of the Five Emperors. It boasts natural wonders such as Longtan Karst Cave and Haita Paradise, combining historical depth with ecological charm. In recent years, Miyi has been developing health and wellness tourism, attracting visitors with its warm winter climate and fresh air, becoming a shining tourism pearl in southwestern Sichuan.

Miyi County attracts tourists with its unique natural scenery, historical culture, and ethnic customs. Below is a detailed travel guide:

I. Main Attractions 1. Zhuanxu Longtan Karst Cave (Longtan Karst Cave Scenic Area): Located about 15 km northeast of the county seat, it is a national 4A-level scenic spot. The cave features spectacular stalactites stretching several kilometers across three levels, with attractions such as 'Welcome Waterfall' and 'Fairyland Yaochi'. Admission is about 50 yuan, open 8:00-17:30. Recommended visit time: 2-3 hours. Bring a jacket as the cave is cool. 2. Haita Paradise Scenic Area: About 30 km from the county seat, known for its plateau lake and Haita Temple. Peach blossoms bloom in spring, and autumn leaves create a colorful landscape. Free admission, suitable for hiking and camping. 3. Miyi Terraced Fields (Longzhoushan Terraced Fields): Distributed in Baima Town and Puwei Town, with large scale, especially Puwei Terraced Fields. Best viewed in May (water-filled) and September (golden rice). 4. Anning River Rafting: A section of the Anning River near the county seat offers rafting, about 10 km long, ideal for summer, exciting and refreshing. 5. Lisu Ancestral Holy Land: Located in Xinshan Lisu Ethnic Township, showcasing traditional Lisu dwellings, songs and dances, and the 'Yuede Festival' culture. Visitors can experience hand weaving and fireweed cloth making.

II. Local Cuisine 1. Miyi Copper Hotpot: Made with local chicken, cured meat, and vegetables, with a delicious broth. Recommended at 'Copper Pot Street' in the county seat, about 60 yuan per person. 2. Early Spring Loquat: A specialty of Miyi, large and sweet, available from December to April. Can be bought at the county farmers' market, about 15 yuan per jin (0.5 kg). 3. Salian Cold Noodles: Made from pea starch, served with chili oil and Sichuan pepper, smooth texture. Available at street-side shops in Salian Town, 5 yuan per bowl. 4. Yi Ethnic Tuotuo Meat: Large chunks of pork or lamb cooked with spices, available at Yi family restaurants, about 80 yuan per person.

III. Transportation 1. External: Fly to Panzhihua Bao'anying Airport (about 80 km from Miyi), then take a bus or taxi (about 1.5 hours, 100 yuan); or take a train to Miyi East Station (Chengdu-Kunming Railway double track), about 5 hours from Chengdu, 3 hours from Kunming. 2. Internal: City buses cover main attractions, fare 2 yuan; renting a car is more convenient, about 200 yuan per day.

IV. Accommodation Miyi county seat has star-rated hotels like Miyi Ningze Sunshine Hotel (about 300 yuan/night) and unique guesthouses like 'Taoyuan Ju' by Haita Lake (about 150 yuan/night). It is recommended to stay in the county seat for convenience.

V. Itinerary Suggestions One-day tour: Longtan Karst Cave + Anning River Rafting + county food; Two-day tour: Day 1 same as above, Day 2 Haita Paradise + Puwei Terraced Fields.