Nujiang

Nujiang, in Chinese 怒江, may refer to two related geographical entities in southwestern China: the Nujiang River and the Nujiang Lisu Autonomous Prefecture.

The Nujiang River, also known as the Nu River, is a major river that originates on the Tibetan Plateau and flows generally southward through western Yunnan before joining the Salween River in Myanmar. The upper course traverses rugged mountain terrain and deep gorges, supporting rich biodiversity. The Nujiang River basin is part of the Three Parallel Rivers of Yunnan Protected Areas, a UNESCO World Heritage Site recognized for its dramatic canyons and high biodiversity. In recent decades, the river has been at the center of hydroelectric development debates due to ecological and social concerns along its course.

Nujiang also designates the Nujiang Lisu Autonomous Prefecture, a prefecture-level division of Yunnan Province in western China. It lies in the western part of the province and encompasses the Nujiang River basin. The prefecture is home to several ethnic groups, including Lisu, Tibetan, Yi, and Bai, and comprises multiple counties. Its economy combines agriculture, forestry, and growing tourism, with emphasis on nature and cultural experiences. The area is noted for its mountainous landscapes and proximity to the Hengduan Mountains and related protected areas.