The Tourism Law of the People’s Republic of China, which was officially implemented on Oct 1, 2013, has made an impact on many tourist attractions.

However, the Mu Residence – a critical section of the Old Town of Lijiang – has been receiving more tourists year on year. Even in the off season after the Spring Festival, it maintained a capacity of some 2000 people per day.

In 2013, it received more than 700,000 tourists, nearly three times the previous years’ figure. Ticket sales came to nearly ten million yuan ($1.61 million)

“Turbulence of the Mu Clan”, a popular TV play, was a key factor responsible for the increasing tourist volume, according to Wang Weiquan, the deputy director of the Propaganda Office of Lijiang Old Town Museum. The play made the Mu Residence and Naxi Culture a hot favorite among tourists. Some tourists came to the Mu Residence to experience the charming Naxi culture.

Moreover, the volunteer guides of the Mu Residence have also been playing an active role in its popularity, thanks to their background explanations. The Mu Residence is not only a tourist attraction, but also a historical and cultural museum.

One tourist from Beijing said that she came to Lijiang not only for the beautiful natural scenery, but also for its rich ethnic culture. “Lijiang has a great cultural heritage, and I will strongly recommend my friends to take a Mu Residence tour,“ she said.

With the increasing numbers of tourists, Mu Residence is in need of more good guides, which is one of the main requirements for this tourist spot. Also they will further improve the management and service qualities to offer visitors a better experience of the Naxi historical and cultural charm.

Edited by Liu Yufen and Brian Salter