History and Culture

Built in Yuan Dynasty, Baiji Temple, also called one hundred chicken temple, has a history of several hundred years. It’s located atop an even higher hill about one kilometer southwest of Guishan Park, with seven evergreen hundred-year-old trees standing in front of its door. It offers an amazing bird’s eye view of the ancient town and the surrounding city.

Baiji Temple is popular among local Buddhism believers. On the first and the fifteenth day of every lunar month, many believers coming for blessing. To redeem their wish, a chicken will be brought and released up on the hill. That’s how it got the name “one hundred chicken temple”. When the east turns white, the cock calls in unison, awakening the sleepy ancient city, people of all nationalities begin another busy day…

How to Get there

From Dukezong Ancient Town, tourists can walk to it. The walk to get there is also quite spectacular, as the hill is covered with thousands of Tibetan prayer flags.

Attractions Nearby

Guishan Park: Built in the reign of emperor Kangxi, the park is built leaning the hill. Chaoyanglou, standing on top of it, has three floors and at the top floor of the building people can have a panoramic view of the Dukezong Ancient Town. At the foot of hill, there is an ancient well providing drink water for the townspeople. 

Giant Prayer Wheel: The giant prayer wheel in Shangrila is reputed as the largest one in the world for its 21 meters in height and 60 tonnes in weight. Because of its size and weight, the prayer wheel is to be spun by multiple people. It’s a must-see attraction of Shangrila tour. 

Moon Square: At the north side of Moon Square stand Diqing Red Army Long March Museum(open time: 10:00 – 17: 00) and Diqing Museum(08: 30 – 18: 00) which deserve a visiting. 

Square Street: Square Street, at the heart center of the old town, is the main tour area gathering a maze of cobbled lanes, white stupas, renovated tourist shops, café, bars, etc. Further away from the square street, the narrow winding lanes will give you a quieter shelter and unveil you more authentic local touch with the unrestored structures and real local life. The main town square is a snack and bauble market during daytime and a lively dancing place for Tibetan locals at night. 

Chinese Name:元阳县全福庄梯田
English Name: Quanfuzhuang Rice Terraces in Yuanyang County, Honghe

Quanfuzhuang Rice Terraces (全福庄梯田) are a captivating yet lesser-known segment of the Yuanyang Hani Rice Terraces, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in Yuanyang County, Honghe Prefecture, Yunnan Province, China.​

🌾 Overview

• Location: Situated approximately 11 kilometers east of Xinjie Town in Yuanyang County, Quanfuzhuang Village is nestled among neighboring villages such as Malizhai, Panzhihua, Dayutang, and Tuguozhai. ​

• Altitude: Around 1,840 meters above sea level.​

• Climate: The area experiences an average annual temperature of about 14°C (57°F).

• Terrace Area: Part of the expansive Bada Scenic Area, which encompasses over 14,000 acres of rice terraces. ​

🌅 Scenic Highlights

• Sunset Views: Quanfuzhuang offers breathtaking sunset vistas, where the terraces reflect hues of pink and red as the sun descends.

• Accessibility: The terraces are easily reachable via trails from nearby roadside viewing platforms, providing a less crowded and free alternative to more popular sites like Duoyishu. ​

• Cultural Significance: The terraces are a testament to the Hani people’s agricultural ingenuity, showcasing a harmonious blend of forest, village, terrace, and water systems. ​

🏘️ Quanfuzhuang Village

• Historical Background: The village boasts a history spanning over 300 years, originally established by Lu Zulong from Malizhai and initially named Zulongzhai. It was later renamed Quanfuzhuang, symbolizing “safety and happiness.”

• Community Engagement: Quanfuzhuang Village is recognized for its effective rural governance, fostering community participation and harmonious living among its residents. ​

📸 Photography Tips

• Best Time to Visit: Late afternoon to early evening is ideal for capturing the terraces bathed in the warm glow of sunset.​

• Seasonal Beauty: The terraces are particularly photogenic from late November to April, when they are filled with water, creating mirror-like reflections. ​

🚗 Getting There

• From Xinjie Town: Quanfuzhuang is accessible via a 11-kilometer drive eastward from Xinjie Town

• Transportation: Local transportation options are available, but hiring a private vehicle or joining a tour group may offer more convenience.

Overview

The Red Army’s Long March Memorial Monument is the vital military fortress in Yunnan Province in history situated in the west bank of Jinsha River of the north side of Shigu Town, Yulong County in Lijiang, which is also known as the First Bay of Yangtze River. It is now the key cultural relic protection unit in Yunnan Province. During the second domestic revolutionary war, the second and sixth armies of China’s Workers and Peasants Red Army crossed the Jinsha River to fight the Anti-Japanese War making a glorious and magnificent chapter in history.

History

In 1935, the Central Red Army arrived in northern Shaanxi and won the decisive victory of a large-scale strategic shift after a long and difficult march. On March 30, 1936, in the course of the strategic shift to Yunnan and Guizhou Province, the second and sixth Red Army received an electric order issued by commander Zhude “crossing Jinsha River northward to fight against Japanese shoulders”. Hence the strategic operation started targeting to fight to cross Jinsha River beginning from Panxian county Guizhou Province.
On April 8, the Red Army’s vanguard fought to cross the Puduhe River, defeating Yunnan Dian Army, and grabbed the iron rope bridge to send the rear guard moving eastward for 10 kilometers. The reds immediately convened an emergency meeting, according to the tight situation forced by the enemy’s four columns, act decisively to abandon the former plan that cross the river from Yuanmou County and Dragon Street instead, they cross the river from Shigu Town, Lijiang Province. On April 11, the Red Army defeated the enemy and captured Fumin.
Helong and Ren zhoushi commanded the second army to arrive at Shigu Town on April 25. On the 26th, the sixth army, led by Xiao Ke and Wang Zhen, took the shortcut from the Jiuhe River to Shigu Town. From then on, eighteen thousand soldiers bravely fought to cross Jinsha River respectively from five main ferries. The sixteenth regiment of the sixth army was finally successfully completed the great Jinsha River Crossing Plan in Judian, which fully demonstrate the superior command ability and extraordinary military art of the Red Army.

About The Red Army’s Long March Memorial Monument

In order to commemorate this great historic feat, the People’s Government of Yunnan Province established the Red Army’s Long March Memorial Monument on August 1, 1977, at the end of Shigu street.
The tablet is 8.1 meters high adding the height of the base and 7.1 meters high with the monument only, with a base length of 5.1 meters, which respectively symbolizes the birthday of the Party, the anniversary of the founding of the army and the proletarian regime day. The top of the monument is made of a one-meter-high ceramic red star. The stele is a square reinforced concrete structure with fine grinding of marble around it.
Chairman Mao’s handwriting was intaglioed on the monument with the words “the Second Army of Chinese Workers’ and Peasants’ Red Army Long Marching and Crossing Jinsha River Monument” On the front. On the back of the inscription recorded the glorious history when the Red Army long Marched and succeeded in crossing Jinsha River. Viewed from distance, visitors can appreciate the magnificent scenery of the First Bay of Yangtze River. That’s really exciting.

How to get to the Red Army’s Long March Memorial Monument

1. Take the bus driving to Jinzhuang, Liming or Judia, and get off at Shigu Town for two hours for 15Yua, and then walk to the Red Army’s Long March Memorial Monument.
2. Visitors can also take a chartered car, traveling all together with Liming and the Tiger Leaping Gorge.

Shigu Ancient Town Accommodation

Stone Drum (Shigu) Town is just one of Lijiang’s many landmarks to discover. Usually the recommended time for a visit is about 1-2 hours. So most of the tourists will not choose to stay at Shigu Town for overnight but go back to Lijiang or continue to Shangrila city. You can browse the accommodation part of Lijiang or Shangrila to check the best hotels we recommend for you. Anyhow, there are some Shigu Town local guesthouses introduced to you.

How to get to Shigu Ancient Town

In the bus station or some main hotels in the Lijiang Old Town, there is special tour bus to Shigu Ancient Town (Yangtze River First Bend), or people can take bus to Weixi or Shigu Ancient Town.

1. Take regular bus from Lijiang Bus Station to Weixi. It passes by Stone Drum Town. The mountain where the town is located is one of the best view points to enjoy the First Bend.
2. Take private minivans from Jinkai Square in Lijiang. It costs around CNY 20 per person.
3. The bus from Lijiang to Shangri-La passes by several viewing platforms for the First Bend.

Travel Tips

● The temperature difference is big between day and night, especially when it is rain. You should take some thick and long sleaves with you to prevent getting cold. Do not forget to prepare some Cold medicine and intestinal medicine. 

●As Lijiang is located on plateau, the ultraviolet (uv) radiation is very strong that you should bring sunhat and sun scream with you.

Why is Kabangya Lake So Special

Kaibangya Lake is located 40 kilometers southwest of the county seat, between the county seat and Nabang Town. Kaibangya is Jingpo Language, which means valley. In 1993, China Dehong and Malaysia jointly established a hydropower station with an installed capacity of 63,000 kilowatts under the mountain. The reservoir of the hydropower station chose the valley. The valley is a relatively low-lying shallow hill in the mountains. The surrounding mountains form a horseshoe shape. A 45-meter-high and 74-meter-long dam was built at the shape of the horseshoe, and the 8-square-kilometer valley was turned into an artificial lake. The Mountains around the lake, with a runoff area of 22 square kilometers, are mostly subtropical virgin forests. From summer to winter, the temperature difference from morning to night is very small; the maximum temperature is not more than 28°C; the minimum temperature is not less than 10°C. It is the best place for summer and winner.

The scenic area is divided into two parts: the natural landscape tour area and the natural recreation area. The natural landscape tour area mainly consists of the wild bird ecological tour area, the island sightseeing tour area, the subtropical orchard tour area, and the water source natural sightseeing tour. The natural recreation area consists of the water recreation area, forest recreation area and camping activities. The water recreation includes ferry, yachts, water parachuting, etc. The forest recreation area includes hunting ground, caravan, etc. There are activities such as picnics, campfires, and sleeping in the camping area. To visit the scenic area, visitors can fully experience the tour of the mountains and waters, return to the basics of life.

Where is Kaibangya Lake

Yingjiang Kaibangya Lake is located 40 kilometers southwest of Yingjiang County, Dehong Jingpo and Dai Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan Province, between the county seat and Nabang Town. Kaibangya is Jingpo Language, which means valley. The natural landscape tour area mainly consists of the wild bird ecological tour area, the island sightseeing tour area, the subtropical orchard tour area, and the water source natural sightseeing tour.

How to Get Kaibangya Lake

In Yingjiang County, it is convenient to get to Kaibangya Lake. After arriving at Yingjiang County, visitors can take one of the three transportation methods, such as

• By Taxi: Taxi is a good way to get to Kaibangya Lake.
• Car Rental: After arriving in Yingjiang County, chartering a car is very convenient to get to Kaibangya Lake.
• By Bike: For those bike lovers, bike is a good travel method for short distance, which takes almost three hours.

Best Time to Go

It is very suitable to visit Kaibangya Lake all year around. Every season has its unique beauty.

Nearby Attractions

XiangEhu Lake
Located in the southwest of Jiucheng Town of Yingjiang County, the beautiful XiangEhu Lake is the gateway and business card of Jiucheng Town. There are natural wetlands, sparkling natural lakes, and thousands of acres of lotus ponds with unique charm. XiangEhu Lake has a large amount of water, is not dry all year round, has good water quality, and contains many trace elements needed by the human body. There are more than ten kinds of wild fish in the lake, as well as birds such as egrets, yellow ducks and wild ducks, as well as aquatic plants such as lotus, reed and water hyacinth.

Yunyan Stupa
Yunyan Stupa in Yingjiang County, also known as Manmengding Stupa, is located on the top of Yunyan Mountain, 1 km east of Yingjiang County. “Yunyan” in Dai Language means an auspicious, joyful and fascinating place. It is one of the most important Buddhist pagodas of Hinayana in Yunnan. The pagoda was built in 1947 and it took eight years to complete the work. Although it is a modern product, it is rich in ancient style and is listed as a key cultural relic protection unit in Yunnan Province.

Yingjiang Hornbill Valley
Yingjiang Hornbill Valley is located on the bank of the Hongbenghe River in Yingjiang County, Dehong Dai and Jingpo Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan Province. It belongs to the Hengduan Mountains extending from the Himalayas. The highest point is that the Daniangshan Mountain in Zhina Township is 3404.6 meters above sea level. The lowest point is that the Estuary of Nabanglashahe River is only 210 meters above sea level. The huge difference in altitude forms a cluster of northern tropical, subtropical and temperate climates, namely, the typical three-dimensional climate of the river. The forest coverage rate in Yingjiang County is 73.9%. There are many kinds of birds living here. At present, there are 550 species of birds found and recorded in Yingjiang, accounting for more than one-third of the national birds. The unique and precious Buceros bicornis, anthracoceros coronatus and Rhyticeros undulatus settle here. Therefore, it has the reputation of “Chinese Hornbill Valley”. Yingjiang is a beautiful and magical place, a paradise for birds, a kingdom of flora and fauna. 

Why is the Monument of Margary Affair So Special

After the Opium War, British imperialism expanded the scope of the colony, opened up the Burma channel, opened the southwestern gateway of China, and sent the colonel, Bailang with nearly 200 people to attempt to invade the Yunnan Borer in the 13th year of the Qing Dynasty (1874). The British Embassy in China sent a translator Augustus Margary to provide the necessary assistance from Yingjiang. In February of the first year of Guangxu (1875), Bailang and Margary led the troops from Myanmar and invaded Yingjiang County. On February 21, in the face of the people of all ethnic groups who came to block, Margary first shot and killed one person, causing the people to be filled with indignation and rebellion against Bailang and Margary, who abandoned the four people including Margary into Songhe River and expelled the troop from the border.

After the event, the corrupt and incompetent Qing government succumbed to foreigners, brutally encircled and suppressed the patriotic people who defended the borders of the motherland, arrested and slaughter these people, and signed the Sino-British Yantai Treaty with the British government in the second year of Guangxu (1876). However, the feat of the Dehong people to fight against the aggressors will last forever. In 1987, the Yingjiang County People’s Government established a monument to commemorate the anti-British struggle between the military and civilians in the border areas.

Where is the Monument of Margary Affair 

It is located in Yingjiang County, Dehong Jingpo and Dai Autonomous Prefecture.

How to Get to the Monument of Margary Affair 

After arriving in Yingjiang County, visitors can get there by taxi at the price of about 100 RMB, Which takes about 40 minutes.

Best time to Go

It is suitable to visit the Monument of Margary all year around.

Nearby Attractions

XiangEhu Lake
Located in the southwest of Jiucheng Town of Yingjiang County, the beautiful XiangEhu Lake is the gateway and business card of Jiucheng Town. There are natural wetlands, sparkling natural lakes, and thousands of acres of lotus ponds with unique charm. XiangEhu Lake has a large amount of water, is not dry all year round, has good water quality, and contains many trace elements needed by the human body. There are more than ten kinds of wild fish in the lake, as well as birds such as egrets, yellow ducks and wild ducks, as well as aquatic plants such as lotus, reed and water hyacinth.

Yunyan Stupa
Yunyan Stupa in Yingjiang County, also known as Manmengding Stupa, is located on the top of Yunyan Mountain, 1 km east of Yingjiang County. “Yunyan” in Dai Language means an auspicious, joyful and fascinating place. It is one of the most important Buddhist pagodas of Hinayana in Yunnan. The pagoda was built in 1947 and it took eight years to complete the work. Although it is a modern product, it is rich in ancient style and is listed as a key cultural relic protection unit in Yunnan Province.

Yingjiang Hornbill Valley
Yingjiang Hornbill Valley is located on the bank of the Hongbenghe River in Yingjiang County, Dehong Dai and Jingpo Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan Province. It belongs to the Hengduan Mountains extending from the Himalayas. The highest point is that the Daniangshan Mountain in Zhina Township is 3404.6 meters above sea level. The lowest point is that the Estuary of Nabanglashahe River is only 210 meters above sea level. The huge difference in altitude forms a cluster of northern tropical, subtropical and temperate climates, namely, the typical three-dimensional climate of the river. The forest coverage rate in Yingjiang County is 73.9%. There are many kinds of birds living here. At present, there are 550 species of birds found and recorded in Yingjiang, accounting for more than one-third of the national birds. The unique and precious Buceros bicornis, anthracoceros coronatus and Rhyticeros undulatus settle here. Therefore, it has the reputation of “Chinese Hornbill Valley”. Yingjiang is a beautiful and magical place, a paradise for birds, a kingdom of flora and fauna. 

Chinese Name:元阳新街镇胜村
English Name: Shengcun Village of Xinjie Town in Yuanyang County, Honghe
Keywords: Custom and Culture of Hani People, Natural Landscape

Location: 48 kilometers from the Yuanyang county center in Honghe

opening time: All day long

Sheng Village (胜村), located in Xinjie Town, Yuanyang County, Honghe Prefecture, Yunnan Province, China, is a significant gateway to the renowned Hani Rice Terraces. This village serves as a transit hub for visitors heading to famous scenic spots like Duoyishu and Laohuzui. It is also an ideal place to experience the traditional lifestyles of the Hani and Yi ethnic groups.​

📍 Location & Transportation

• Location: Sheng Village is situated in central Xinjie Town, adjacent to villages such as Quanfuzhuang, Malizhai, and Shuibulong.​

• Transportation: Regular buses operate from Yuanyang County’s Xinjie Bus Station to Sheng Village between 10:30 AM and 4:00 PM, with departures every 30 minutes.​

🌾 Ethnic Culture & Market Days

• Ethnic Traditions: The village is predominantly inhabited by Hani and Yi communities, preserving rich cultural customs.​

• Market Days: Every five days, a bustling market takes place where locals don traditional attire to sell agricultural products and handicrafts, offering a vibrant glimpse into local customs.​

🏞 Tourism & Accommodation

• Scenic Spots: Sheng Village is a necessary stop en route to the Duoyishu Terraces (approximately 6 kilometers away) and Laohuzui Terraces (about 20 kilometers away).​

• Lodging & Dining: The village offers various guesthouses and restaurants, providing convenient accommodations and authentic Hani cuisine.​

📝 Travel Tips

• Photography: The best time for photography is from December to April when the terraces are filled with water, creating mirror-like reflections ideal for capturing sunrises and sunsets.​

• Cultural Respect: Always seek permission before photographing local residents and be mindful of their customs.​

• Environmental Awareness: Please dispose of waste properly to help preserve the ecological environment of the terraces and village.​

Sheng Village’s unique location and rich ethnic heritage make it an excellent destination for travelers seeking an immersive cultural experience in the heart of the Hani Rice Terraces.

About Shengcun Village in Yuanyang County:

Shengcun Village is located in Yuanyang county in Honghe, 48 kilometers from the county center, neighbors Panzhihua Village in the south, Malizhai Village in the west and Gaocheng Village in the north. Shengcun Town sits between Daba Terrace and Duoyishu Terrace, an important transfer station of Yuanyang Terrace tour. It’s a spot where travellers can not only enjoy the sight of  Hani Terrace Fields, clouds, mushroom-shaped houses, but also appreciate the Customs and dressing of Yi and Hani people. Shengcun Town has a main street where you can see various minorities flock there on market days for exchanging or buy different kinds of fresh products, animals and trifles. Meanwhile, the Yi and Hani minority women are always dressed in their traditional clothes. Shengcun Local Market is 25-minute driving from Yuanyang. There are certain public buses reach there from Yuanyang, but it is easier to rent a car to go and return during the market days. A visit of the Shengcun market is possible to combine itself in a half day tour with the visit of Bada and Duoyicun rice fields.

Why is Yunling Nature Reserve So Special?

Yunling Nature Reserve stands in Lanping county of Lisu autonomous prefecture of Nujiang in northwest Yunnan province. Located in the transition zone from Qinghai-Tibet plateau to Yunnan-Guizhou plateau, Yunling Nature Reserve is rich in animal and plant resources, including Yunnan golden monkey, cloud leopard and gold leopard under first-class state protection. The good ecological environment of Lanping not only provides living space for many wild animals and plants, but also serves as a refuge for some endangered species. As a result, Lanping is honored as a natural biodiversity park and gene pool of primitive species. There are more than 200 Yunnan golden monkeys and the rare and endangered species of Yunnan taxus chinensis.

History of Yunling Nature Reserve

It was established in 2003 with the approval of the people’s government of Yunnan province. In 2005, with the consent of the people’s government of Yunnan province, the area was enlarged to 75,894 square meters from 73,426 square meters. In 2010, the functional zone was adjusted and the overall planning was made again.

Features of Yunling Nature Reserve

With the altitude of 1,899 – 4,295.3 meters, the reserve enjoys the north subtropical monsoon climate, with obvious low latitude plateau monsoon features and vertical mountain climate. It is one of the typical development zone of Danxia landform, and within the reserve stands more than 10 mountains above 3,000 meters in altitude. The highest one is Xuebang mountain(雪邦山), with an altitude of 4295.3m. The area is also rich in water resources, with rivers of Lancang River system and lake wetland of Fengping reservoir(丰坪水库).

Nearby Attractions

Scenic Area of Three Parallel Rivers
Luoguqing Valley Scenic Region in Lanping County, Nujiang
Biluo Snow Mountain

Lashihai Lake Overview

Lashi Lake is in the basin in Hengduan Mountain Range, 10 kilometers away from the Old Town of Lijiang.

The warm climate makes it possible for them to pass the long winter safely. When next spring comes and flowers bloom, the birds will leave for the north for reproduction. They bring life to the villages at the foot of Jade Dragon Mountain. Especially when black-necked cranes fly over Jade Dragon in rosy clouds of dawn, you will feel that the legend about the Naxi has come true. (According to book of Dongba, the goddess Chenhong Baobai transformed herself into a crane, and carried Chongrenli’en who had survived the floods to the heaven and begged her father to let them get married. Their children then became the ancestor of Naxi people.)

Lashihai International Wetland Park was approved as a plateau wetland nature reserve in Yunnan Province in June, 1998. Since then, the nature reserve has been rehabilitated, protected and improved, which turns to be a paradise of thousands of birds consisted of 57 species, a place where biodiversity has been effectively conserved.

With an area of 5,330 hectares, Lashihai Lake is about 9.3 km long from south to north and 8.2 km wide from east to west. It is the largest lake in Lijiang County. Surrounded by the mountains, the catchment of Lashihai is about 256.6 square meters.The Rivers of Meiquan and Keluokang are merged together into Lashihai. With good quality of water, which meets water quality requirement of Grade II. It is one of the reserved drinking water sources for the city of Lijiang.

There are Naxi and other minority nationalities inhabited around Lashihai Lake, who are rich in cultural and folk customs. Zhiyun Temple situated by Lashihai Lake is regarded as one of the five temples in the city of Lijiang. It is a famous tourism spot of Tibetan Lamaism.

Where Is Lashihai Lake?

Lashi Lake, on the southern slope of the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain and 10 km (6.2 miles) from Lijiang Old Town, is part of the Lijiang – Lashihai Plateau Wetland Nature Reserve. It is a paradise for migrant birds and thousands of them stay here over winter every year. It is also the origin of the Ancient Tea Horse Road.

Despite being called Lashihai (Hai means sea), it is actually a lake cut off by Lashi Dam. Lashi is a word in ancient Naxi language, meaning a “new desolate dam”. The lake was formed in the Pliocene epoch and is around 5,330 hectares (20 square miles). It is on an altitude of about 2,437 meters (7,995 feet). Because of the lake, the wetland nature reserve was established in 1998.

Now Lashi Lake is famous for viewing migrant birds by boat and also experiencing the Ancient Tea Horse Road on horses.

What to See in Lashihai Lake?

1. Animals

At the turn of each autumn and winter, thousands of water fowls migrate afar from the north, among which there are some of national protected birds, such as Black Storks, Black Neck Cranes, Chinese Mergansers, etc. as well as great numbers of ordinary water birds like Ruddy Shelducks and Mandarin Ducks and so on. According to the records, the quantity of bird species in the area of Lashihai wetland each year amounts to 25,000 ~ 30,000, the Anatidae of Anseriformes takes the dominant. 9 from 57 species of birds in wetland are of special, rare and distinctive ones. They are distributed in the shallow lake areas in the south, west and east side of Lashihai.

2.Plants

The wetland plants in nature reserve are divided into four major life forms, among which there are 21 kinds of helophyte plant, 7 kinds of merged aquatic plant, 5 kinds of floating plant and 11 kinds benthophyte (submerged) plant. The submerged ones are among the largest portion for the building of aquatic plant community in the lake. The Ottelia acuminate is not only edible but valuable for ornamental purpose as well, which is an endangered species listed as national protected species Grade III.

3.Beauty Spring & Holy Well Source & Seven Fairies Lake

The water in Beauty Spring, the Holy Well Source and the Seven Fairies Lake is the melted snow from Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. The local Naxi people’s daily life is based on the Beauty Spring. The Holy Well Source is a holy place for Naxi people’s sacrifice. The Seven Fairies Lake is the end of the current tea-horse road. This lake is the source of Beauty Spring and Holy Well Source, as well as the water source of Lijiang Ancient Town. The water flows to this lake and then separates into different branches to Lashi Lake and Lijiang.

4.The Cliff of Dying for Love

The Cliff of Dying for Love faces the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. The cliff is named so, because many corpses of those dying for love can found at the cliff’s bottom. There is a beautiful story concerning this cliff. It is said that a long time ago, one loving couple could not get married because of the families’ opposition. As a result, they decided to jump off the Spruce Plateau. They felt tired on the way to the plateau, so they just jumped off the cliff here, hand in hand. To commemorate them, the cliff was named as Cliff of Dying for Love.

5.Nearby Zhiyun Temple

In addition to these popular activities, the local Zhiyun Temple, a quiet place without crowds, is a great option for travelers. The temple is located to the north of the Lashi Lake. Built in 1727, it was the residence of two Living Buddhas and has five yards now. Except for some Buddha statues, visitors can find many daily use items of the Living Buddha, such as clothes, bronze seals, ivory chopsticks and clothes for religious rites. A gingko, an old pine tree and an oriental cherry in the yard all witness the development of this temple. The temple now has free entry.

【Bird Watching】Best time to visit Lashi Lake is Dec. It is the best time to have the bird watching. And birds can be saw easily in the morning and the evening.

【Sightseeing】The most beautiful place of Lashi Lake will be Mei Spring. Sourcing from the conjunction of Wohu Mountain and Beidou Mountain, spring water flows from jagged ricks, as green as the top level jade, the bottom can be seen even the water level with 6 meters depth.

【What to Eat】Roast fish can be a try. When sailing boat on the lake, you can buy some roast fish.

【Horse Riding & Boating】Many horse ranches can be found in Lashi Lake, according to different lengths will be charged differently, from CNY 100 to 300, including a riding and a boating and a meal

Recommend activities at Lashihai Lake

Boating on the Lashihai Lake 

The canoe of Naxi is made of a whole trunk of one tree, try to show the biggest smile as you can, borrow a canoe from local villages, and ride it to the center of the lake!

Vist local Naxi families in the villages surrounding the lake

Many typical villages have not been polluted by mordern tourism, lots of things to see for local interest.

Biking from Dayan town to Lashihai Lake

Ask a local person to lead the way, lots of turns on the countryside paths.

Bird watch in winter time

Ask local persons for the time when is the perfect time.

Enjoying the Ancient Tea Horse Road on Horse

Riding to experience the Ancient Tea and Horse Road is the other must-try activity to get close to the local special culture. The ancient Tea and Horse Road, similar to the Silk Road, was an important trading route in the southwestern part of China and the horse was a significant form of transport on this route. Different from the tall and big horses on the grassland, the horses in Yunnan are small, but good at long-distance transporting. Consequently, it may feel different during the ride.

Presently, only a small section of this old road is available for traveling. Visitors will pass some Naxi villages, virgin forest, the Beauty Spring (Mei Quan), the Holy Well Source, the Cliff Dying for Love and the Seven Fairies Lake.

How to get to Lashihai Lake

1. Take bus 31 or 32 from Lijiang Old Town to Shidi Gongyuan.
2. Hire a car to Lashi Lake. The car trip takes about 30 minutes and the fare is around CNY 30 to 50.
3.Go to parking lot near Zhongyi Market of Lijiang Ancient Town, you can see mini vans with signs to different villages of Lashi Lake, choose the right one, generally costing CNY 4 – 5 one way.
4.Renting a bike and cycling to the Lashi Lake by yourself, about 1 hour, moderating level, cost CNY 100 – 150 renting bike per day.

Recommended Visiting Tours

Lashihai Lake is a famous wetland park and entertainmen place in Lijiang. Ride a horse to experience the Ancient Tea and Horse Road and take a boat on the Lashihai Lake is the must-try activities to get close to the local special culture.

1 Day Lashihai Lake Boat Cruise and Horse Riding Tour along the Ancient Tea Horse Road

1 Day Lijiang Cycling Tour from Lijiang Old Town to Lashihai Lake and Zhiyun Monastery

Lashihai Lake Accommodation

Generally the tourists who pay a visit to Lashihai Lake will choose to stay in Lijiang Old Town. There are many characteristics hotels, guesthouses and inns to choose in Lijiang Old Town. People who want a more beautiful living environment can also choose to live in the Shuhe Ancient Town or the tranquil Baisha Old Town. Anyhow, there are lots of agritainments near the scenic spots where you can choose to stay.

Travel Tips for Lashihai Lake

1. For hiring a car, you are advised to order directly from the owner of the hostel, or book with a reliable local tour agency. Their services usually include the car to the lake, horse riding and bird viewing tours. Booking with them directly will save money and avoid you being cheated.

 

2. If you take a bus to the lake on your own, you need to find horse ranches and some boats in the lake independently. There are 18 ranches, so you need to bargain when making choice. (This method is not suggested, because it is too difficult to tell which one is best.) For bird viewing, you need to rent a boat. Now, each ranch can provide three horse-riding lines and one boat line. The horse-riding charges CNY 200-360, the boating charges no more than CNY 200.

3. Hiring a car to Zhiyun Temple for a single journey costs about CNY 25.

4. Travelers who want to ride need to bring some clothes easy for riding. Put your personal things and valuables in a safe place. You must listen to the grooms’ orders. Please hold the rain tight to avoid falling off when the horse is running. Sunglasses and sun cream are necessary.

Lahu Ethnic Culture Exhibition Center

The Lahu Culture Exhibition Center covers an area of ​​27.27 hecteres, with a total investment of more than 1 billion yuan and a construction area of ​​more than 350,000 square meters. It is a major project of the county government, and the county government try the best to promote the “Lahu culture famous county” strategy and accelerate the construction of national cultural tourism city. The project consists of Gourd Square, Mupa Mipa Park, National Science and Technology Museum, Tea Culture Exhibition Center, Commercial Center District, Upscale Hotel Area and High-end Residential Area. The exhibition center is based on the Lahu style, and takes into account the cultural elements of the ethnic minorities of Wa, Hani, Yi, Dai, Bulang, Hui and Jingpo, and it will become a “living Lahu Museum”.

The World Lahu Culture Exhibition Center is based on ethnic customs. It consists of Zanaqie Court, Lahu Leisure Folk Park, Lahu People’s Sacrifice Park, Gourd Square, and ethnic leisure buildings. Among them, the World Lahu Culture Exhibition Center is Gourd Square. The Gourd Square, which is shaped by the gourd, is the center of the exhibition center. It can accommodate more than 50,000 people. It is the epitome of the people of all ethnic groups who are pursuing the beautiful new life. It is a showcase for the people of all ethnic groups. The big stage of colorful national culture expresses the good wishes of the Lahu people to “go out from the gourd to the sun.”

How to get Lahu Ethnic Culture Exhibition Center

People can go there by taxi from Lancang County, or people can ride bikes to go to the Lahu Ethnic Culture Exhibition Center.

Travel Tips

1.If you join the festival, Please respect Lahu People’s Custom.
2.Minority guide will provide the service for you. The charge for the service is different.
3.Ethnic dress is available for rent.

Why is Nandian Dragon Pool So Special

The archway of Nandian Dragon Pool is imposing and architecturally antique. Facing the streets of Nandian Road, the architectural style of the archway blends with the elements of the Han and Dai ethnic culture. The four gates of the archway are engraved with the vigorous and powerful four characters”南甸玉潭(Nandian Yutan)”. On both sides are small doors, on the left side of the door, “龙腾苍穹(Longteng Cangqiong)”, on the right side of the door, “鲤跃玉潭(Liyue Yutan)”, neatly symmetrical, the four arches on the archway site are engraved with four dragons that are vivid and prosperous. There are two layers in the top, with heavy slanting angles, finely carved, exquisite blue tiles, and a gourd overlapped at the top of the archway is particularly eye-catching.

The Dragon Pool is like an open fan. There are more than 700 meters around the lake. Around the lake, it is a prefabricated fence carved with birds and beasts, dragons and the Ninth Heaven patterns. There are seven pavilions standing beside the pool. The pavilion is enriched with the artistic style of the southern misty rain and the waterside pavilion. It is simple and elegant, with a patchwork structure, exquisite structure, unique arches, unique craftsmanship, leisure in the pavilion, dancing and playing chess, playing the violin, dating, and viewing and enjoying the fish in the lake. It is a place where leisure and entertainment are integrated. It is also a hotbed for viewing the scenery of the Dragon Pool.

Where is Nandian Dragon Pool

Nandian Dragon Pool is located in the seat of Lianghe County, Yunnan Province. It is less than 400 meters away from the famous Nandian Xuanfu Chieftain Office. The gates are all facing Nandian Street, and Nandian Dragon Pool is also known as Yutan Pool.

Legend of Nandian Dragon Pool

Legend has it that a beautiful mythical love story, the third princesses of the Dragon King of the West Sea in the Dragon Palace accidentally shattered the Jiulong Jade Cup given by the Jade Emperor as the treasure of the Dragon Palace. The West Sea Dragon King was furious, then the third princesses were taken to the world, guarding at the foot of the mountains Yutan, every morning, she had to wash and dress up at the lakeside, but she was found by the youth who sent firewood to the rich family every day before dawn. Every morning, he will rush to the pool to peep. One day, suddenly it rained heavily, and the young man ignored himself and took off her clothes to cover her. When they met each other, they fell in love at first sight. After that day, the rich man knew it after long time. He wanted to take the dragon princess away. At the time of the crisis, the youth came forward, but he failed. Finally, the Dragon Princess saved the youth.

How to Get to Nandian Dragon Pool

In Lianghe County, it is convenient to get to the Dragon Pool. After arriving at Lianghe County, visitors can take one of the three transportation methods, such as

• By Bus: There are many buses to other counties and attractions in Lianghe County.
• By Taxi: Taxi is a good way to get to the Dragon Poolat the starting fare of 5 Yuan.
• By Bike: For those bike lovers, bike is a good travel method for short distance. 

Best Time to Go

The mid and last ten days of April are the best time to visit the Dragon Pool.

Nearby Attractions

Nandian Xuanfa Chieftain Office
Built in the first year of the emperor Xianfeng of Qing Dynasty in 1851, Nandian Xuanfu Chieftain Office is located at No. 103 Nandian Road, Zhewu Town, Lianghe County, Dehong. It is the best preserved chieftain government in Yunnan Province, announced on November 27, 1996 as the national key cultural relic’s protection unit. It is also the only currently unique national cultural relic’s protection units in Dehong Prefecture.

Introduction

Dahouzhai Ancient Tree is the center of the banyan tree group,which is located in front of the city’s public security bureau and west. The tree species belongs to the alpine figs of the family Moraceae. The height of four trees is about 20 meters, and the largest tree has a circumference of 8 meters and a crown of thousands of square meters. Among them, a tree known as the “Divine Tree” has been around for nearly a thousand years. Is the county’s few natural and historical heritage. In 1983 was announced as the county-level cultural relics conservation unit.

Characteristics of Banyan Trees

1. Like other fig species, including the common edible fig Ficus carica, banyans bear multiple fruit in structures denominated “syncarps”. The syncarp of Ficus species supplies shelter and food for fig wasps and, in turn, the trees are totally dependent on the fig wasps for pollination.
2. Frugivore birds disperse the seeds of banyans. The seeds are small, and because most banyans grow in woodlands, a seedling that germinates on the ground is unlikely to survive. However, many seeds fall on the branches and stems of other trees or on human edifices, and when they germinate they grow roots down toward the ground and consequently may envelop part of the host tree or edifice. For this reason banyans bear the colloquial name “strangler fig”. A number of tropical banyan species that compete for sunlight, especially of the genus Ficus, exhibit this strangling habit.
3. The leaves of the banyan tree are large, leathery, glossy, green, and elliptical. Like most figs, the leaf bud is covered by two large scales. As the leaf develops the scales abscise. Young leaves have an attractive reddish tinge.
4. Older banyan trees are characterized by aerial prop roots that mature into thick, woody trunks, which can become indistinguishable from the primary trunk with age. Old trees can spread laterally by using these prop roots to grow over a wide area. In some species, the prop roots develop over a considerable area that resembles a grove of trees, with every trunk connected directly or indirectly to the primary trunk. The topology of this massive root system inspired the name of the hierarchical computer network operating system “Banyan VINES”.

Etymology

The name was originally given to F. benghalensis and comes from India, where early travellers observed that the shade of the tree was frequented by Banyans (a corruption of Baniyas, a community of Indian traders).
In the Gujarati language, banya means “grocer or merchant”, not “tree”. The Portuguese picked up the word to refer specifically to Hindu merchants, and passed it along to the English as early as 1599 with the same meaning. By 1634, English writers began to tell of the banyan tree, a tree under which Hindu merchants conducted their business. The tree provided a shaded place for a village meeting or for merchants to sell their goods. Eventually, “banyan” became the name of the tree itself.

Classification

The original banyan, F. benghalensis, can grow into a giant tree covering several hectares. Over time, the name became generalized to all strangler figs of the Urostigma subgenus.

The many banyan species include:
1. Ficus microcarpa, which is native to Sri Lanka, China, India, Nepal, Bhutan, Taiwan, the Malay Archipelago, New Guinea, Australia, Ryukyu Islands and New Caledonia, is a significant invasive species elsewhere.
2. The Central American banyan (Ficus pertusa) is native to Central America and northern South America, from southern Mexico south to Paraguay.
3. The shortleaf fig (Ficus citrifolia) is native to southern Florida, the Caribbean Islands, Central America, and South America south to Paraguay. One theory is that the Portuguese name for F. citrofolia, os barbados, gave Barbados its name.
4. The Florida strangler fig (Ficus aurea) is also native to southern Florida and the Caribbean Islands, and distinguished from the above by its coarser leaf venation.
5. The Moreton Bay fig (Ficus macrophylla) and Port Jackson fig (Ficus rubiginosa) are other related species.

In Horticulture

Due to the complex structure of the roots and extensive branching, the banyan is used as a subject specimen in penjing and bonsai. The oldest, living bonsai in Taiwan is a 240-year-old banyan tree housed in Tainan.

How to Get there? 

Here are two bus terminals in Yunxian County by which you can get to or leave Yunxian county.

1. By Long-distance Bus

Yunxian County Bus terminal (云县客运站)
Address: Aihua town of Yunxian County in Lincang(临沧市云县爱华镇)
Tel: 0883-3221333

Xingfu Bus terminal(幸福客运站)
Address: Xingfu Village, Xingfu Town, Yunxian County(临沧市云县幸福镇幸福村)
Tel: 0883-3833226

2. By Air

In addition, people from other provinces or countries can take plane to Lincang, and then go to Yunxian County by Long-distance bus.

Travel Tips:

1. To visit the ancient trees of Dahouzhai, we should have some understanding of the general situation of the ancient trees cluster of Dahouzhai. If you go on a tour with a tour group, the tour guide will explain to the tourists the humanistic geography of the ancient trees of the Dahouzhai village.
2. If it’s a self-help tour, you can go to the recommend scenic spots nearby.
3. Visitors can use photos to record the pleasure of playing in the Dahouzhai Ancient Trees.

Introduction

Canglong Cave is the hiding place of Prince Dragon, located in Cangyuan County, Yunnan Province, China. It’s located in the Yungui Plateau, is a cave. At present, it is in the initial stage of development and has now invested nearly 1 million yuan. It takes about 150m from the entrance of the hole to reach the fork entrance of the scenic spot. The right hole has now been developed more than 600m, and the left hole has been developed more than 800m.

Main Attractions in Canglongdong Cave

1. Baishou Hall (百兽厅)

The hall is located 120 meters after entering the cave. It’s 40 meters long, 48 meters wide and 28 meters high. The hall has stalagmites, stony columns, which are like that monkey is playing, lion is crouching, tiger is foraging and so on.

2. Shentian Hall (神田厅)

The Shentian Hall is located at 550 meters (40 meters in length, 30 meters in width, 40 meters in height; 1.7 to 1.5 meters in height and 3 meters in width) in the rockfill dam at the bottom of the cave.

3. Guanyin Hall (观音厅)

There are full of magical color in Guanyin Hall. A stalagmite at the gate of the hall is very much like the treasure lotus in which Quan yin rides. Walking into the hall, the stone pillar looks like a Wa girl, some like a giant Ganoderma lucidum, and some like Maitreya sitting in a lifelike, lifelike manner.

4. Talin Hall (塔林厅)

The Tallinn Hall is located 300 meters in the branch hole. There are dozens of stalagmites, stone columns, about 8-15 meters high, one stone pillar is about 20 meters high.

How to Get & Leave There

By Air

Cangyuan Washan Airport (沧源佤山机场) is an airport being built to serve Cangyuan Wa Autonomous County in Lincang, Yunnan province, southwest China. The airport is located in Nuoliang Township (糯良乡). Construction began on 20 December 2013, the airport have been opened to navigation by the end of 2016. It is the second airport in the prefecture-level city of Lincang, after Lincang Airport. 

By Long-distance Bus

1. Cangyuan Bus terminal (沧源客运站)
    Address: Provincial highway 314, Cangyuan County, Lincang.(临沧市沧源佤族自治县314省道)
    Tel: 0883-7121237

2. Mangka  Bus terminal (芒卡客运站)
     Address: Mangka Town, Cangyuan County, Lincang (临沧市沧源佤族自治县芒卡镇)

3. Cangyuan Automobile Transport Company
     Phone: 0883-7121699 (+86-0883-7121699)
     Address: MengDong Street, Cangyuan autonomous county, LinCang, Yunnan.

Travel Tips:

1. Dress: The climate here is the subtropical monsoon climate, annual average temperature is 17.2℃, the lowest temperature is -1.3℃. Therefore, in Summer and Autumn, you don’t have to take a lot of warm clothes, but a coat for slightly dropping in the temperature on rainy days; In spring and winter, even if it’s not so cold, you should keep warm because we don’t have heating there.
2. Sunscreen: Yunnan province is on the Yunnan-Guizhou plateau with enough sunshine and strong ultraviolet ray, so sun cream is needed. In addition, you can prepare a hat or sun-proof clothing. 
3. Safety: Yunnan is a mountainous region, so is Cangyuan. You are supposed to watch your step, especially in Canglong Cave. 

Yunnan Travel Guide

Things To Do

• Yunnan Overview
• Yunnan Attractions
• Yunnan Tours
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• Yunnan Culture
• Festivals and Activities

Travel Information

• Yunnan Travel Tips
• Yunnan Climate
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