It shows how people can survive in extreme conditions and how attention, awareness, and responsible development can transform lives while preserving the dignity of communities. In addition to the physical and social challenges, the cliff village of Atule’er has a rich cultural and historical background. The Yi people, who form the majority of the village population, have preserved many of their traditions, festivals, and rituals despite the isolation.
Traditional Yi clothing, music, and handicrafts remain an important part of village life, and some families still practice ancient farming techniques passed down through generations. The village’s remote location helped protect these cultural elements from outside influence for many years. Tourism has also become a growing aspect of Atule’er’s story. After images of the village’s wooden ladders went viral, people from across China and the world became interested in visiting.
