Mosuo flavors impress tourists in Lijiang

The famous tourism city of Lijiang, Yunnan province, has entered its peak season between July and August.

The Mosuo, a branch of the Naxi ethnic group, is a hot attraction for tourist in Lijiang for their special culture and cuisines. It is the main ethnic group of the region, scattered across lakeside villages with a population of about 15,000.

The Mosuo still retains some remnants of a matriarchal society and other special eating customs. There are five traditional unique Mosuo dishes that cannot be missed when visiting the city.

Pipa pork

This cured meat is one of the most important Mosou dishes, commonly served to guests or special friends by locals. An entire pig is cleared of viscera and bones, before being smeared with various seasonings within.

The Mosuo people used to prepare this dish in late winter, and stored the cured pig in a cool and well-ventilated place. The pork would take the shape of a pipa (Chinese lute), which gives the dish its name.

Pipa pork is one of the most important Mosou dishes. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]