Wrapped in mystery and misconception, the truth behind the Mosuo people and culture constantly attracts visitors to their home deep in the mountains around Lugu Lake.  First, the Chinese givernment incorrectly classifies the Mosuo as a sub-group of the Naxi.  Some Mosuo can actually be offended by this mistake, which is practically an insult to be regarded as a mere sect of the neighboring Naxi. 

Secondly, and most notably, is the Mosuo's matrilineal tradition, whereby Mosuo women control property rights and manage the household.  Fathers do not live with their children.  Instead they return to the house of their mother each night.  Anyone even remotely familiar with the Mosuo has heard of evocative and alluring myths concerning the alleged promiscuity of Mosuo women.  However, these pervasive misconceptions only serve to motivate the Mosuo today, as guests are welcomed into their secluded homeland in an effort to display their true culture and exhibit a tradition of hospitality.  

See the Wikipedia entry on Mosuo people