Ru’gyog Township of Saga County in Shigatse

Rujiao Township (如角乡) is located in the southwest of Shigatse (日喀则市) in Tibet Autonomous Region (西藏自治区), China, to the south of the Gangdise Mountains (冈底斯山) and along the upper reaches of the Yarlung Tsangpo River (雅鲁藏布江). In the 14th century, the Pazhu Regime (帕竹政权) established the “Saga Dunba Zong” (萨嘎敦巴宗) in this region. Before liberation, the regime had both religious and secular divisions with officials directly appointed by the Ganden (哲蚌寺), Sera (色拉寺), and Jokhang (大昭寺) Monasteries. The Saga County People’s Government (萨嘎县人民政府) was officially established here in April 1960.

Overview of Rujiao Township

  • Location: Southwest Tibet, Shigatse, Saga County

  • Area: 1,810.51 km²

  • Population: 1,120 (as of 2017)

  • Postal Code: 858613

  • Main Villages: Kabugu (卡布古), Gaqiong (噶穷), Charang Kongre (擦让孔热)

  • Climate: Plateau climate

  • Primary Industry: Livestock farming (yaks, sheep, goats)

History and Development

Rujiao Township was officially established in 1961, and is situated approximately 30 kilometers from the Saga County Government. The area is rich in natural resources, including vast grasslands, mineral deposits, and wildlife. The township is known for its pristine environment, offering a glimpse into the pastoral lifestyle of Tibet.

Natural Resources

The region is abundant in natural resources, with over 39.75 million acres of grasslands. The township’s livestock farming industry thrives, with yaks, sheep, and goats raising large herds. The landscape also supports diverse plant species such as Asteraceae, Poaceae, and other grasses. There are only a few evergreen coniferous plants, with Cedar (香柏) being the most common, covering an area of about 2.74 million acres.

Wildlife in the area includes animals such as wild yaks, wild donkeys, Tibetan antelopes, wild goats, yellow sheep, stag deer, marmots, and wild boars. The township also houses geothermal springs, lakes, and multiple species of birds, including Tibetan cranes and snow partridges.

Mineral Resources

The region has rich mineral resources, including iron, copper, lead, gold, sulfur, granite, and quartz. Water resources are abundant, with over 10 rivers and more than 6 lakes scattered throughout the township. Among the rivers is the Yarlung Tsangpo River, which originates in the neighboring Zhongba County (仲巴县) and flows through Saga County for 320 kilometers. There are also numerous geothermal hot springs and smaller lakes scattered across the region.

Local Customs

Rujiao is known for its rich Tibetan cultural traditions. The traditional clothing worn by locals varies, with distinct garments representing different areas. Some examples include:

  • Loba: A large sheepskin coat with leopard fur for decoration and trim.

  • Detong: A traditional outerwear made from felt, common in farming and pastoral areas.

  • Quba: A summer coat made from felt, designed to protect against rain and wind.

  • Chalu: A sheepskin coat commonly worn in winter.

  • Belts: Long belts (3-4 meters) made of fabric, and silk sashes for festive occasions, typically in colors like blue, red, yellow, and rose.

  • Footwear and Socks: Leather boots made from cowhide and handwoven woolen socks.

  • Hats: Fox fur hats are worn in autumn and winter, while woolen hats are worn in the spring and summer.

For women, accessories such as coral, pearls, jade, ivory, and turquoise are commonly used to decorate hair, while silver jewelry such as earrings, necklaces, rings, and bracelets are often worn. Men often carry knives on their waist and wear rings.

Tibetan clothing is simple yet luxurious, combining practicality with decorative elements for festivals and celebrations.

Attractions in Rujiao Township

Bailaikangri Peak

Bailaikangri Peak (白丽康日峰) is one of the highest peaks of the Gangdise Mountains (冈底斯山), standing at an elevation of 7,095 meters. The peak offers breathtaking views, especially during September to November, when the sunlight creates a stunning “Golden Mountain” effect. Climbers must obtain a mountaineering permit in advance.

Rujiao Hot Springs

The Rujiao Hot Springs (如角温泉) are naturally occurring springs that resemble a bowl-shaped pool, with a temperature above 70°C. These hot springs are believed to have therapeutic properties, particularly for ailments like gastric diseases and arthritis. The surrounding mist creates a beautiful contrast with the clear blue sky.

Transportation and Routes

By Car

To reach Rujiao Township from Saga County, travel along the G219 National Highway (G219国道) for approximately 50 kilometers. The road is paved for most of the journey, but some parts of the route require a four-wheel-drive vehicle due to gravel sections.

Camping

Camping spots are available near Regang Village (热岗村), located at 4,377 kilometers along the G219. Basic facilities like dry toilets are available, but visitors must bring their own cold-weather gear for camping.

Travel Tips

Altitude and Health Precautions

Rujiao Township is located at an altitude of over 4,500 meters. Visitors should prepare for altitude sickness by taking Rhodiola supplements at least 7 days before arrival. It’s also recommended to bring oxygen tanks and SPF 50+ sunscreen.

Border Pass

Since Rujiao Township is a border area, visitors will need to obtain a border pass before entering.

Nearby Attractions

Pekucuo Lake

Pekucuo Lake (佩枯措) is a beautiful plateau lake located along the G219. The lake is famous for its picturesque reflection of the nearby Xixabangma Peak (希夏邦马峰). It takes around 1.5 hours by car to reach the lake from Rujiao Township.

Lunbogangri Snow Mountain

The Lunbogangri Snow Mountain (伦布岗日雪山) stands at an elevation of 7,095 meters. The mountain is perfect for professional trekkers and has a hot spring located at its base.

Practical Information

Best Time to Visit

The best months to visit Rujiao are May to October. After October, some routes may be closed due to snow, making travel more difficult.

Accommodation

For accommodations, consider staying in Saga County, where options like Orange Hotel (桔子酒店) offer 24-hour oxygen supply, or Xinji Hotel (新吉酒店), which features floor heating and free parking.

Food

Try the yak hotpot with barley bread at the Gangdise Tibetan Restaurant (岗底斯藏餐厅). The average meal cost is between 300-500 RMB per person.

Special Tips

Offline Maps

Before heading to Rujiao, it is advisable to download offline maps as certain parts of the G219 Highway do not have mobile service.

Vehicle Requirements

A four-wheel-drive vehicle (such as a Land Cruiser) is recommended for the journey, especially since some routes require driving through water.