Lishui, Prefecture-level city in southwestern Zhejiang, China
Lishui is a prefecture-level city in southwestern Zhejiang spread across mountainous terrain shaped by the Wuyi Mountains range. It consists of nine administrative divisions, including Jingning She Autonomous County, and features the region's highest peak at around 1,929 meters.
The area originated as Chuzhou prefecture in 589 before being renamed Lishui County in 779 during the Tang dynasty. This administrative shift marked a turning point in the region's governance and development.
The northeast section around Jingning She Autonomous County is home to the She ethnic minority, who maintain distinct traditions and craftsmanship practices visible in daily life. Walking through their communities reveals different building styles, dress customs, and local markets that reflect their heritage.
Visit best during late summer through autumn when the heavy monsoon rains of spring and early summer have passed. Pack waterproof clothing anyway, as the mountainous landscape stays quite humid and wet throughout much of the year.
With more than two-thirds of its land covered in forest, the region is called the Foliage Ocean of Zhejiang and is known for producing fine Longquan celadon pottery. This mix of natural wealth and ancient ceramic traditions defines much of its character.
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