China's Yanjin County - the Narrowest City on Earth

Yanjin County is located in the southwestern part of Yunnan Province, China, and is known for its stunning landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and traditional ethnic diversity. Situated near the borders of both Sichuan and Guizhou, Yanjin offers a unique blend of natural beauty, history, and indigenous cultures. It's not a major tourist hub compared to other parts of Yunnan like Dali or Lijiang, but it has been gaining attention in recent years for its serene atmosphere and off-the-beaten-path charm.

Situated on the banks of the narrow Heng River valley, a tributary of the Yangtze, the town of Yanjing, Yanjin's county seat, has been referred to as the "World's Narrowest City." The buildings of the city are situated on tall pillars, which is a preemptive measure toward water-level rise during periods of heavy flooding. Videos of the city routinely go viral because of its uniqueness and the surrounding natural environment, attracting much attention to the city.

The city is within the valley, along with a highway and a railway but does not have a high-speed train.

Daily slow train service 5635/5636 between Neijiang 内江 and Zhaotong 昭通 passes through Yanjin 盐津 and Yanjingbei 盐津北 (Yanjin North) stations. Neijiang is pretty close to Chengdu. Yanjinbei Station is closer to the city center.  

Geography and Climate

Centuries ago, the city's river made for easy trading, leading some workers and their families to settle on the thin strips of land surrounding it. Today, Yanjin's population has ballooned to over 400,000 residents, despite the city's lack of space.

A trip to Yanjin reveals a city where the buildings are positioned on stilts and an unobstructed view of the water is the norm rather than a rarity. In fact, as Yanjin grows, more homes and structures are built lengthwise along the river, currently stretching a total of five kilometers. Multi-story buildings with several staircases are another way the people of Yanjin adapt to the lack of land. Though it may seem cramped, the Chinese city is bursting with life and filled with breathtaking scenery wherever you look.

Yanjin County lies in the mountainous region of Yunnan, with rugged terrain and deep river valleys. The county is bordered by the Jinsha River to the north, which is part of the larger Yangtze River system. This river has shaped the geography of the region over millennia, creating dramatic cliffs, gorges, and fertile plains along its banks.

The climate is subtropical monsoon, with hot summers and mild winters. Due to the elevation, temperatures can vary significantly between day and night, and rainfall is concentrated in the summer months, making it lush and green.

Ethnic Diversity and Culture

Yanjin is home to a number of ethnic minorities, including the Yi, Hui, and Han people, each contributing to the rich cultural fabric of the county. The Yi people, in particular, have a long history in this region, with their own language, customs, and festivals.

• Yi Culture: The Yi people are known for their colorful traditional clothing, unique rituals, and celebrations. Their festivals often involve elaborate dances, music, and feasts. The Yi New Year, also known as the “Torch Festival,” is one of the most important celebrations, where locals light large torches to ward off evil spirits and celebrate the harvest.

• Hui Influence: The Hui Muslim community is also present in Yanjin, adding another layer of cultural richness. You can find mosques and markets selling halal food, which reflects the diverse culinary influences in the region.

• Traditional Crafts: Yanjin’s artisans are skilled in traditional handicrafts, including handwoven textiles, pottery, and silver jewelry. These crafts are an important part of the local economy and culture.

  

Natural Attractions

Yanjin County is known for its stunning natural landscapes, which range from deep river valleys to high mountain peaks. Here are some of the highlights:

• Jinsha River: The Jinsha River, which flows through Yanjin, is one of the most important natural features in the area. The river is surrounded by steep cliffs and lush forests, offering opportunities for scenic boat rides, hikes, and exploration. The river is part of the larger Yangtze River system, but in this region, it's still relatively pristine and undisturbed.

• Mountains and Hiking: Yanjin's mountainous terrain is perfect for trekking and nature walks. The area is dotted with secluded villages, where you can experience the local way of life and enjoy panoramic views of the valleys and rivers below.

• Wildlife: The area around Yanjin is home to a variety of wildlife, including rare birds, monkeys, and other native species. The diverse ecosystems support both temperate and subtropical flora, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts and wildlife photographers.

Local Cuisine

Yunnan’s cuisine is known for its bold flavors, with an emphasis on fresh ingredients, herbs, and spices. In Yanjin, you can find traditional dishes that are distinct to the region, influenced by the various ethnic groups who live there.

• Spicy Yi Food: Yi cuisine is known for its use of chili peppers, garlic, and ginger. Local dishes often feature lamb, beef, and various root vegetables. Suan Tang (sour soup) is a traditional dish made with fermented vegetables and meat.

• Hui Food: The Hui Muslim community’s food is characterized by its use of halal meat, especially lamb and beef. Yang Rou Chuan (lamb skewers) is a popular street food, along with Lamb Noodles, a hearty dish often served with a flavorful broth.

• Rice and Grains: The area also grows a variety of rice and grains, with Yunnan rice noodles being a staple in many meals.

  

Historical and Cultural Sites

While Yanjin is not as rich in ancient temples and historic sites as some other parts of Yunnan, it still offers glimpses into the past with its traditional villages and rural landscapes.

• Ancient Villages: The local villages, many of which are still largely untouched by modern development, give visitors a window into traditional Yunnanese life. The architecture, with its wooden houses and stone pathways, reflects the region's history and culture.

• Ethnic Festivals: Experiencing the traditional festivals of the Yi and Hui people provides insight into the local customs and traditions. These festivals often include folk music, dance, and rituals that have been passed down for generations.

Getting There and Practical Tips

Yanjin County is a bit off the beaten path, but it is accessible by road from several major cities in Yunnan, including Kunming (the provincial capital), which is about 200 kilometers away. The nearest railway station is in Zhaotong, and from there, buses or taxis can take you to the county.

• Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Yanjin is in the spring and autumn when the weather is mild and the landscape is at its most beautiful. Summer can be quite hot and rainy, while winter is cold but generally not as harsh as other parts of China.

• Accommodation: While Yanjin is not a major tourist destination, there are basic guesthouses and inns in the area. It’s advisable to book accommodations in advance, especially during festival times.

Why Visit Yanjin?

Yanjin is perfect for travelers who want to experience the authentic, rural side of Yunnan without the crowds. It offers an opportunity to explore traditional cultures, pristine nature, and a slower pace of life. Whether you're hiking along the Jinsha River, sampling Yi and Hui cuisine, or simply enjoying the local festivals, Yanjin is a place that rewards those who seek a deeper connection with the land and its people.

How to visit

Due to its remote location and the size of China, getting to Yanjin County isn't that easy. Luckily, the Chongqing-Kunming highway runs through the valley and right by the city making arrival by road relatively convenient. The closest cities to Yanjin County are Yibin and Zhaotong, and while a road trip is off the cards for international travellers (China doesn't recognise international driver's licenses), there are a number of ways you can get to Yanjin using public transport.

Catching a high-speed bullet train to Kunming, the provincial capital, from Shanghai, Beijing or Hong Kong is one way to do it. Kunming also has an airport, but in the spirit of eco-friendly travel and beautiful scenery - we encourage opting for a train journey which will take you in the region of 7-12 hours, depending on where you travel from.

Once you arrive in Kunming, it's still quite a way to Yanjin County itself. Local information states that you can take a long-distance bus (about a 6-hour ride one-way) or a train to Yanjin Country from Kunming. It's hard to find specific information about the train online, but if you are keen to find the best possible route to Yanjin, it's worth contacting a local travel company like this one, who are likely to have up-to-date intel on inter-provincial trains, accommodation, and tips on the best way to explore Yanjin County and the surrounding areas.  

Conclusion

If you're looking for an off-the-beaten-path destination in Yunnan that offers stunning landscapes, rich cultural experiences, and a genuine sense of local life, Yanjin County should be on your list. With its combination of natural beauty, ethnic diversity, and traditional lifestyle, Yanjin provides a unique and memorable experience for those willing to explore beyond the more famous tourist spots in Yunnan.