The Four Revolutionary Martyrs’ Cemetery of December 1st Movement (一二·一四烈士墓) is located on the former site of the Southwest Associated University (西南联大), now part of Yunnan Normal University (云南师范大学) in Kunming, Yunnan Province, China. It was established to commemorate the four martyrs who sacrificed their lives during the December 1st Movement (一二·一运动) in 1945.

Location and Significance

• Location: Kunming, Yunnan Province, China
• Commemoration: The four martyrs who perished during the December 1st Movement
• Protection Level: Provincial Cultural Heritage Unit

Memorial Poem

In the northeastern corner of Yunnan Normal University, amidst bamboo and cypress trees, stands the Cemetery of the Four Martyrs of the December 1st Movement. Two stone pillars, topped with a bright red torch, rise in front of the grave pathway. Inscribed on the pedestal of these pillars is a record titled “The Beginning and End of the December 1st Movement” (一二·一运动始末记), written by Mr. Wen Yiduo (闻一多). Behind the cemetery is a stone relief depicting the Goddess of Liberty, with countless young people following her toward freedom, calling for light. Below this relief is an emotional memorial poem:

死者，你们什么时候回来？我们从来没有离开这里。
(The deceased, when will you return? We have never left here.)

死者，你们怎么走不出来？我们在这里，你们不要悲哀。
(The deceased, why can’t you emerge? We are here; do not be sad.)

我们在这里，你们抬起头来。
(We are here; lift your heads.)

哪一个爱正义者的心上没有我们？
(Whose heart, loving justice, does not have us?)

哪一个爱自由者的脑里没有我们？
(Whose mind, loving freedom, does not have us?)

哪一个爱光明者的眼前看不见我们？
(Whose eyes, loving light, cannot see us?)

The martyrs’ cemetery is surrounded by an iron chain fence, creating a solemn atmosphere. Every year, thousands of people visit to pay their respects, with many youths coming here to sweep the graves and commemorate the martyrs.

The December 1st Movement

On August 15, 1945, Japanese imperialism surrendered unconditionally. Shortly after, Mao Zedong (毛泽东) visited Chongqing to discuss matters with Chiang Kai-shek (蒋介石). On October 10, the Kuomintang (KMT) and the Communist Party of China (CPC) signed the Double Tenth Agreement (双十协定). After eight years of resistance against Japan, the Chinese people yearned for recovery and reconstruction. However, the Kuomintang’s ruling faction, in a bid to cover their actions with peace negotiations, intentionally provoked a civil war against the Communist Party.

On October 3, Chiang Kai-shek used a surprise attack to force the resignation of Long Yun (龙云), the Chairman of Yunnan Province, and appointed Li Zonghuang (李宗黄), a core member of the CC faction, as the provincial party director and acting chairman, with Guan Linzheng (关麟征) as the commander of the garrison. Afterward, they publicly suppressed the democratic movement.

On November 25, over 600 students and citizens gathered at the Southwest Associated University for a social event, where Professors Qian Duansheng (钱端升), Wu Qiyuan (伍启元), Fei Xiaotong (费孝通), and Pan Dakui (潘大逵) delivered speeches against the civil war. The Kuomintang authorities dispatched military police and spies to create chaos and threaten attendees. They first cut the power lines, then sent spies to disrupt the meeting, and eventually surrounded the university with armed forces, intimidating the crowd with gunfire.

On November 26-28, 31 universities went on strike, forming a Joint Committee for the Strike and issuing a declaration demanding an end to the civil war, peace, and democracy. They opposed foreign intervention in China’s civil war and called for the withdrawal of American troops stationed in China. They also made four demands to the Yunnan provincial authorities: accountability for the shooting incident at the university, the lifting of the ban on assemblies and parades, no arrests of students, and an apology from the Central News Agency for spreading falsehoods.

In response, Chiang Kai-shek ordered Li Zonghuang to act decisively against the protestors. Consequently, military police violently attacked students promoting their cause and forced them to resume classes unconditionally.

On December 1, the Kuomintang authorities organized a large number of spies and soldiers, armed with weapons, to invade various educational institutions, including Yunnan University (云南大学), the Sino-French University (中法大学), and the affiliated schools of the Southwest Associated University and Nanjing High School (南菁中学). They not only tore down posters and damaged school property but also brutally assaulted unarmed students. Teacher Yu Zai (于再), a Communist Party member, was killed by a grenade in front of the new campus of the university. Students Pan Yan (潘琰, female, Communist Party member), Li Lulian (李鲁连), and Zhang Huachang (张华昌) from Kunming University of Technology (昆华工校) also fell to the ground amid grenade explosions, resulting in 25 severe injuries and over 30 minor injuries. This incident shocked the nation, marking the tragic December 1st Incident (一二·一惨案).

In the face of the oppressors’ violence, patriotic youth in Kunming did not retreat. Students from over 30 universities united in strikes, with over 100,000 citizens gathering in campuses to pay tribute to the martyrs. Supporters held rallies in Yan’an (延安), Chengdu (成都), Chongqing (重庆), and Shanghai (上海), and schools in Chuxiong (楚雄), Yuxi (玉溪), Mojiang (墨江), Xuanwei (宣威), and Zhaotong (昭通) responded in solidarity. The struggle achieved significant results, creating a glorious page in the history of the Chinese youth movement.

Commemoration

To honor the martyrs and inspire future generations, the Joint Committee of Students in Kunming decided to use donations from various sectors of society to build the Cemetery of the Four Martyrs on the campus of the Southwest Associated University (now Yunnan Normal University).

On March 17, 1946, after a funeral procession that involved 30,000 participants, the four martyrs were buried here. After the liberation, the cemetery was designated as a provincial cultural heritage site.

Overview

The Monument of the National Southwestern Associated University (西南联合大学) in Kunming (昆明) was established to commemorate the arduous support during the eight years of existence of the university and to honor the shared history of its three founding institutions, which persevered through difficulties and celebrated joys together. Following the victory in the War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression, as the university’s member schools were preparing to return to the north, the school authorities decided to erect this monument to symbolize their enduring spirit and commitment: “以此石，象坚节，纪嘉庆，告来哲” (This stone symbolizes firmness and integrity, commemorating the past and welcoming the future).

Originally situated on the campus of Yunnan Normal University (云南师范大学), the monument is located to the west of the “December 1st” Martyrs’ Tomb. The monument’s base is arched, standing approximately 5 meters tall and 2.7 meters wide, with a stone tablet embedded in the center. The front of the monument features an inscription of over 1,000 characters, detailing the founding and characteristics of the university, authored by Feng Youlan (冯友兰), inscribed by Wen Yiduo (闻一多), and calligraphed by Luo Yong (罗庸). On the back, there is a list of names inscribed by the university’s Historical Committee, featuring 834 students who enlisted during the war, inscribed by Tang Lan (唐兰) and Liu Jinnian (刘晋年). Over time, Peking University (北京大学), Tsinghua University (清华大学), and Nankai University (南开大学) have all erected copies of this monument on their campuses.

On May 4, 1946, the National Southwestern Associated University officially ended its operations, and the faculty and students erected the “Monument of National Southwestern Associated University” on the original site, marking a significant milestone in China’s educational and revolutionary history. Today, the monument stands as a nationally protected cultural relic in Kunming.

Key Features

• Height: 5 meters
• Width: 2.7 meters
• Climate Conditions: Plateau monsoon climate, tropical rainforest climate

Historical Background

On July 7, 1937, the Marco Polo Bridge Incident (芦沟桥事变) sparked the southward advance of Japanese troops, putting Beijing (北平) and Tianjin (天津) in peril. The three universities—Peking University (北京大学), Tsinghua University (清华大学), and Nankai University (南开大学)—which were originally located in Beijing, were ordered to relocate to Hunan (湖南), where they formed a temporary university in Changsha (长沙). The presidents of the three institutions, Jiang Menglin (蒋梦麟), Mei Yiqi (梅贻琦), and Zhang Boling (张伯苓), served as executive committee members to manage the university, which began classes on November 1 of the same year.

As Shanghai (上海) and Nanjing (南京) fell, and with the situation in Wuhan (武汉) deteriorating, on January 20, 1938, the temporary university officially announced its relocation to Yunnan (云南). Hundreds of faculty and students trekked over 3,000 kilometers, enduring more than two months of hardship, and arrived in Kunming (昆明) on April 26. There, they established the College of Engineering (理工学院) in Kunming and the College of Arts and Law (文法学院) in Mengzi (蒙自), renaming the institution the National Southwestern Associated University, which began classes on May 4. Later that year, a Normal School (师范学院) was added, and after one semester, the College of Arts and Law was also moved back to Kunming. The university continued to operate until May 4, 1946, at which point it ceased to exist, with the three schools returning to Beijing.

During its eight-year existence, the National Southwestern Associated University attracted some of the most accomplished scholars in China, writing a brilliant chapter in the history of Chinese education. Among the over 8,000 students admitted, the university produced two Nobel Prize winners, Yang Zhenning (杨振宁) and Li Zhengdao (李政道), three recipients of the National Supreme Science and Technology Award, Huang Kun (黄昆), Liu Dongsheng (刘东生), and Ye Duzheng (叶笃正), six prominent figures of the “Two Bombs, One Satellite” project, Tu Shou’e (屠守锷), Guo Yonghuai (郭永怀), Chen Fangyun (陈芳允), Wang Xiji (王希季), Zhu Guangya (朱光亚), and Deng Jiaxian (邓稼先), as well as 80 academicians of the Chinese Academy of Sciences and 12 academicians of the Chinese Academy of Engineering.

Monument Structure

The base of the National Southwestern Associated University monument is arched, approximately 5 meters tall and 2.7 meters wide, with the stone tablet embedded in the center. The inscription, composed of 1,178 characters, narrates the founding and historical significance of the university, overflowing with strong patriotic sentiments. The back of the monument lists the names of 834 students who enlisted during the war.

Today, Peking University, Tsinghua University, and Nankai University all have erected their versions of the National Southwestern Associated University monument on their campuses, collectively witnessing and inheriting the resilient spirit of the university.

Original Site in Kunming

The original monument of the National Southwestern Associated University is located on the campus of Yunnan Normal University, to the west of the “December 1st” Martyrs’ Tomb. It features the inscriptions of Feng Youlan, Wen Yiduo, and Luo Yong, and is considered a significant relic of the university’s history in Kunming.

Peking University Campus

To revive the spirit of the National Southwestern Associated University, Peking University decided in 1988 to replicate the original “Monument of National Southwestern Associated University.” A special team was dispatched to Yunnan to collect stone of the same quality, which was then transported to Beijing. After its construction, the monument was erected south of the Daximen (大西门) of Peking University, with an unveiling ceremony held on May 4, 1989.

Tsinghua University Campus

On the western side of the main road in Tsinghua University, there stands a replica of the National Southwestern Associated University monument, facing southwest towards Kunming. The front of the monument bears the inscription written by Feng Youlan, while the back lists the names of the 834 students who enlisted during the war. One side features the university motto, while the other side contains the details of the monument’s construction. The monument is situated on a series of terraces designed to complement the natural topography, highlighting the upright character of Chinese intellectuals. The three terraces symbolize the three universities that joined forces, with different paving materials representing the distinct characteristics of each institution.

On April 24, 1988, Tsinghua University held a ceremony for the completion of the National Southwestern Associated University monument, attended by nearly a hundred alumni returning to campus. The monument is located amidst trees in a square between the “Gongzi Hall” (工字厅) and the “A” and “B” teaching buildings. The inscriptions on the monument read: “西山苍苍，南国荡荡，联合隽彦，大学泱泱” (The Xishan mountains rise high, the southern lands are vast; united in excellence, the university flourishes), with the characters forming the words “National Southwestern Associated University” (西南联大).

Nankai University Campus

The Nankai University monument of the National Southwestern Associated University is located at the end of Dazhong Road (大中路). This monument was established in 2007 to commemorate the 70th anniversary of the founding of the National Southwestern Associated University, funded by Li Defu (李德福), an alumnus of the History Department from the class of 1977. The monument was designed to replicate the original monument at the site in Kunming. Notable artist and professor from Nankai University, Fan Zeng (范曾), provided the inscription for this monument.

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Full Inscription in Chinese

中华民国三十四年九月九日，我国家受日本之降于南京，上距二十六年七月七日芦沟桥之变为时八年，再上距二十年九月十八日沈阳之变为时十四年，再上距清甲午之役为时五十一年。举凡五十年间，日本所鲸吞蚕食于我国家者，至是悉备图籍献还。全胜之局，秦汉以来所未有也。
国立北京大学、国立清华大学原设北平，私立南开大学原设天津。自沈阳之变，我国家之威权逐渐南移，惟以文化力量与日本争持于平、津，此三校实为其中坚。二十六年平津失守，三校奉命迁移湖南，合组为国立长沙临时大学，以三校校长蒋梦麟、梅贻琦、张伯苓为常务委员主持校务，设法、理、工学院于长沙，文学院于南岳，于十一月一日开始上课。迨京沪失守，武汉震动，临时大学又奉命迁云南。师生徒步经贵州，于二十七年四月二十六日抵昆明。旋奉命改名为国立西南联合大学，设理工学院于昆明，文法学院于蒙自，于五月四日开始上课。一学期后，文法学院亦迁昆明。二十七年，增设师范学院。二十九年，设分校于四川叙永，一学年后并于该校。
昆明本为后方名城，自日军入安南，陷缅甸，乃成后方重镇。联合大学支持其间，先后毕业学生二千余人，从军旅者八百余人。河山既复，日月重光，联合大学之使命既成，奉命于三十五年五月四日结束。原有三校，即将返故居，复旧业。
缅维八年支持之苦辛，与夫三校合作之协和，可纪念者，盖有四焉：
我国家以世界之古国，居东亚之天府，本应绍汉唐之遗烈，作并世之先进，将来建国完成，必于世界历史居独特之地位。盖并世列强，虽新而不古；希腊罗马，有古而无今。惟我国家，亘古亘今，亦新亦旧，斯所谓“周虽旧邦，其命维新”者也！旷代之伟业，八年之抗战已开其规模、立其基础。今日之胜利，于我国家有旋乾转坤之功，而联合大学之使命，与抗战相终始，此其可纪念者一也。
文人相轻，自古而然，昔人所言，今有同慨。三校有不同之历史，各异之学风，八年之久，合作无间，同无妨异，异不害同，五色交辉，相得益彰，八音合奏，终和且平，此其可纪念者二也。
万物并育不相害，道并行而不相悖，小德川流，大德敦化，此天地之所以为大。斯虽先民之恒言，实为民主之真谛。联合大学以其兼容并包之精神，转移社会一时之风气，内树学术自由之规模，外获民主堡垒之称号，违千夫之诺诺，作一士之谔谔，此其可纪念者三也。
稽之往史，我民族若不能立足于中原、偏安江表，称曰南渡。南渡之人，未有能北返者。晋人南渡，其例一也；宋人南渡，其例二也；明人南渡，其例三也。风景不殊，晋人之深悲；还我河山，宋人之虚愿。吾人为第四次之南渡，乃能于不十年间，收恢复之全功，庾信不哀江南，杜甫喜收蓟北，此其可纪念者四也。
联合大学初定校歌，其辞始叹南迁流难之苦辛，中颂师生不屈之壮志，终寄最后胜利之期望；校以今日之成功，历历不爽，若合符契。联合大学之始终，岂非一代之盛事、旷百世而难遇者哉！爰就歌辞，勒为碑铭。铭曰：
痛南渡，辞宫阙。驻衡湘，又离别。更长征，经峣嵲。望中原，遍洒血。抵绝徼，继讲说。诗书器，犹有舌。尽笳吹，情弥切。千秋耻，终已雪。见 [5]仇 [11]寇，如烟灭。起朔北，迄南越，视金瓯，已无缺。大一统，无倾折，中兴业，继往烈。维三校，兄弟列，为一体，如胶结。同艰难，共欢悦，联合竟，使命彻。神京复，还燕碣，以此石，象坚节，纪嘉庆，告来哲。

The meaning of Full Inscription

Feng Youlan (冯友兰), Professor of the National Southwestern Associated University (西南联合大学)

On September 9, 1945, the Republic of China (中华民国) suffered the humiliation of surrender to Japan (日本) in Nanjing (南京). This was eight years after the Marco Polo Bridge Incident (卢沟桥之变) on July 7, 1937, and fourteen years after the Shenyang Incident (沈阳之变) on September 18, 1931, and fifty-one years after the First Sino-Japanese War (清甲午之役). During these fifty years, Japan devoured and eroded our country, but now we have restored all the maps and records of what Japan has taken. This complete victory is unprecedented since the Qin (秦) and Han (汉) dynasties.

Peking University (国立北京大学) and Tsinghua University (国立清华大学) were originally located in Beiping (北平), while Nankai University (私立南开大学) was originally established in Tianjin (天津). Since the Shenyang Incident, the power of our country gradually shifted southward, and we only contended with Japan culturally in Beiping and Tianjin, with these three schools as the backbone. After losing Beiping and Tianjin in 1937, the three schools were ordered to relocate to Hunan (湖南) and formed the National Changsha Temporary University (国立长沙临时大学), with the presidents Jiang Menglin (蒋梦麟), Mei Yiqi (梅贻琦), and Zhang Boling (张伯苓) as executive committee members overseeing the school’s affairs. They established colleges of engineering, science, and technology in Changsha and a college of liberal arts in Mount Heng (南岳), beginning classes on November 1. After the fall of Beijing and Shanghai, and the upheaval in Wuhan, the temporary university was ordered to move to Yunnan (云南). The faculty and students walked through Guizhou (贵州) and arrived in Kunming (昆明) on April 26, 1938. Soon after, it was renamed the National Southwestern Associated University (国立西南联合大学), with the college of engineering and science in Kunming and the college of law and liberal arts in Mengzi (蒙自), starting classes on May 4. One semester later, the law and liberal arts college also moved to Kunming. In 1938, a normal school (师范学院) was established. In 1940, a branch school was set up in Xuyong (叙永), Sichuan (四川), which was later merged with this school after one academic year.

Kunming was originally a famous city in the rear, and as the Japanese troops invaded Indochina (安南) and occupied Myanmar (缅甸), it became a crucial rear base. The Southwestern Associated University supported the war effort, graduating over two thousand students, more than eight hundred of whom served in the military. With the restoration of our rivers and mountains and the renewed light of day, the mission of the Southwestern Associated University was accomplished, and it was ordered to conclude its work on May 4, 1946. The three original schools would soon return to their original locations and resume their former activities.

The eight years of hardship endured during the war and the cooperation among the three schools can be commemorated in four aspects:

1. Our country, as one of the ancient countries in the world and located in the Land of Abundance (天府) in East Asia, should inherit the legacies of the Han and Tang dynasties (汉唐) and become one of the world’s advanced nations. In the future, once the nation is established, it will surely hold a unique position in world history. Among the great powers of the world, while they are new and not ancient, Greece (希腊) and Rome (罗马) are ancient but have no present. Only our country has existed from ancient times to the present; it is both new and old. This is what is meant by “Though Zhou (周) was an old state, its destiny is renewed” (周虽旧邦，其命维新)! The grand achievements of the ages and the foundation laid by eight years of resistance have begun to take shape. Today’s victory is a testament to our nation’s ability to turn things around, and the mission of the Southwestern Associated University began and ended with the War of Resistance. This is the first aspect worthy of commemoration.
2. It has always been the case that scholars belittle one another. What was said in the past is echoed in the present. The three schools have different histories and unique academic styles. For eight long years, they cooperated seamlessly, with differences not hindering unity and unity not negating differences, shining brightly together, like the interplay of five colors. They harmonized like a symphony, which is the second aspect worthy of commemoration.
3. All things grow together without harming each other, and the paths may differ without conflicting; small virtues flow like streams, while great virtues cultivate harmony. This is what makes heaven and earth great. This saying of our ancestors is indeed the truth of democracy. The Southwestern Associated University, with its inclusive and accommodating spirit, transformed the social atmosphere of the time, establishing a framework for academic freedom and earning the title of a fortress of democracy, defying the common notions of the many and speaking out for the truth. This is the third aspect worthy of commemoration.
4. Looking back at history, if our nation cannot stand in the Central Plains (中原) and is confined to the rivers and lakes (江表), it is termed as “southern migration” (南渡). Those who migrated south have never been able to return north. The migration of the Jin people (晋人) to the south is one example; the migration of the Song people (宋人) to the south is another; and the migration of the Ming people (明人) to the south is a third example. The scenery was not different, and the Jin people’s profound sorrow; they hoped to restore their rivers and mountains, but the Song people’s wishes were in vain. We, in the fourth southern migration, were able to achieve complete restoration within less than ten years. The poet Yu Xin (庾信) did not lament Jiangnan (江南), and the poet Du Fu (杜甫) rejoiced at the recovery of the north. This is the fourth aspect worthy of commemoration.

The university initially set its school song, with lyrics beginning by lamenting the hardships of southern migration, celebrating the indomitable spirit of the faculty and students, and ultimately expressing hopes for final victory; the success of the university today resonates clearly, as if it were a match made in heaven. The rise and fall of the Southwestern Associated University is undoubtedly a significant event of a generation, a rare occurrence over centuries! Thus, the lyrics of the song were inscribed as a monument. The inscription reads:

“Pained by the southern migration, I bid farewell to the palace.
Resting in Hengxiang (衡湘), I part once more.
An even longer journey, traversing Mount Yaoshan (峣嵯).
Looking towards the Central Plains, blood is shed everywhere.
Arriving at the boundary, I continue my discourse.
Poetry and books, there still exists a tongue.
Let the horns blow, feelings are even more intense.
A thousand years of shame have finally been avenged.
Seeing the enemies vanish like smoke.
Rising from the north to the south, gazing at the golden urn,
There are no more flaws.
A great unity, no bends or breaks,
Rebuilding the country, continuing the past glory.
The three schools, as brothers, form one body,
Bound together as glue.
Sharing hardships, rejoicing together,
The union is complete, the mission is fulfilled.
The capital is restored, returning to Yanjie (燕碣),
This stone symbolizes steadfastness,
Memorializing the celebration, announcing to future philosophers.”

Chinese Name: 昆明西华园
English Name: Xihua Park in Kunming

Location:

Yangzonghai Lake (阳宗海) is one of the nine major plateau lakes in Yunnan, spanning the borders of Chengjiang (澄江), Chenggong (呈贡), and Yiliang (宜良) counties. It is located between longitudes 102°5′ and 103°02′, and latitudes 24°51′ to 24°58′, approximately 36 kilometers from Kunming (昆明), and belongs to the Nanpan River (南盘江) system of the Pearl River (珠江) basin.

Historical Background

Originally known as Daze (大泽) or Yixiu Lake (奕休湖), it was referred to as Ming Lake (明湖) during the Ming Dynasty (明朝). The name Yangzonghai comes from its proximity to the residence of the local officials. This lake is classified as a young lake formed later in geological history and is characterized as a tectonic fault lake, known for its abundant catches of golden-line fish (金线鱼). The primary water sources for the lake include the surrounding Tangquan River (汤泉河) and rainfall.

Geographical Features

Yangzonghai Lake has a spindle shape, with its long axis oriented north-south. The watershed area is 252.7 square kilometers, while the lake surface area is 31.1 square kilometers. The water level reaches an elevation of 1770.46 meters, with an average depth of 20 meters and a total water storage capacity of 604 million cubic meters. Major inflows include the Yangzong River (阳宗大河), Shizhai River (石寨河), and Qixing River (七星河), with Tangchi Channel (汤池渠) as the only outlet. The eastern and western shores of the lake are steep, while cultivated fields are distributed on the northern and southern sides.

Name Origin

According to historical records, the name Yangzonghai is derived from the strong Zong (宗) tribe that settled in the area during the Nanzhao Dali Kingdom (南诏大理国) period, where it was classified as a stronghold. In the fourth year of the Baoyou period (1256 AD), a local government was established in this region. The name later evolved from “Qiangzong” to “Yangzong,” hence the name Yangzonghai. During the Yuan Dynasty (元代), the lake was referred to as “Da Chi” (大池) because of the hot springs (温泉) nearby, leading to its alternate name, Tangchi (汤池).

Formation and Evolution

Yangzonghai Lake is a fault-structured lake located in the Xiaojiang Fault Zone (小江断裂带). It was formed due to the intense development of surface fractures, creating a graben-type tectonic lake. Over time, this basin developed into the structural lake we see today.

Location and Boundary

Yangzonghai Lake is located between longitudes 102°5′ and 103°02′ and latitudes 24°51′ to 24°58′, just 36 kilometers from Kunming. The 326 National Highway (即昆河公路) runs through the area, making it easily accessible. The lake’s surface is spindle-shaped, wider at both ends and slightly narrower in the middle, with an elevation of 1770 meters. It stretches approximately 12 kilometers from north to south and about 3 kilometers from east to west, covering an area of 31.49 square kilometers. The total water storage capacity of Yangzonghai is 604 million cubic meters. The watershed area covers 192 square kilometers (upstream of the Tangchi hydrological station), with around 20 square kilometers of lake surface area within Kunming (昆明), of which Yiliang County accounts for 14 square kilometers and Chenggong District for 6 square kilometers. The shoreline of the lake is approximately 32.3 kilometers long.

Scenic Area Details

Water System Composition

The average annual water production in the Yangzonghai watershed is about 36 million cubic meters, with an additional 20 million cubic meters sourced from the Baisi River (摆衣河). The average annual water volume is around 56 million cubic meters. The average inflow to the lake is 52 million cubic meters, with an average outflow of 36 million cubic meters. The primary water sources, apart from rainfall during the rainy season, include the Yangzong River, Shizhai River, and the Baisi River.

Major Rivers in the Yangzonghai Watershed

River Name	Area (Square Meters)	Length (Kilometers)
Yangzong River	64.45	12.92
Baisi River	94.00	19.06
Qixing River	14.40	6.37
Luxichong River	8.18	5.10

The Yangzong River is the main natural inflow to Yangzonghai Lake, originating from two tributaries: the right tributary Mazhuang River (马庄河) and the left tributary Shizhai River. The Qixing River springs from the hillside of Yangzonghai and features a reservoir. The Baisi River does not belong to the natural drainage area of Yangzonghai but was artificially connected to the lake in 1960 through a diversion channel.

Hydrology Characteristics

The flood season in the Yangzonghai watershed occurs from May to October, accounting for approximately 86% of the annual precipitation, with June to August contributing to 57% of the total annual rainfall. The overall pattern shows abundant summer runoff, low winter flow, and transitional conditions in spring and autumn.

When the lake surface water level is at 1770.46 meters, the surface area is about 31 square kilometers, with an average depth of 20 meters and a maximum depth of 30 meters. The total shoreline measures 32.3 kilometers, and the total water storage capacity is 604 million cubic meters. Recent maximum water levels were recorded at 1770.77 meters (November 3, 1999), while the lowest level was 1767.53 meters (May 29, 1995).

Pollution Overview

The pollution in Yangzonghai is primarily characterized by domestic waste and non-point source pollution, which mainly comes from nearby towns and the cooling water from the Yangzonghai Power Plant. The nitrogen and phosphorus concentrations in the water have exceeded the limits, surpassing the threshold for eutrophication.

From 1997 to 2001, Yangzonghai experienced its most severe pollution in 1997, with pollution levels peaking. By 2001, most of the lake’s water quality improved to Category II standards. However, significant concerns remain about total phosphorus and total nitrogen levels.

According to the 2015 annual environmental report of Yunnan Province, the water quality in Yangzonghai was categorized as Class IV, indicating mild pollution and not meeting the environmental function requirements (Class II). Major exceedances were noted for arsenic, total phosphorus, and chemical oxygen demand.

Natural Resources

Fish Resources

Yangzonghai is home to 28 species of fish classified into 6 orders, 11 families, and 20 genera. Among them, 20 species are native, while 8 are non-native. Notable among the native species are the four unique to the Nanpan River system, five endemic to Yangzonghai, and five endemic to the Yunnan-Guizhou Plateau (云贵高原). The golden-line fish is the primary economic fish, making up about 70% of the fish catch. However, certain species like Yangzong Snail (阳宗螺蛳), Yangzong White Fish (阳宗白鱼), and others have gradually disappeared since the 1980s.

From 2008 to 2010, an investigation into the fish genetic resources in the Nanpan River system found five native fish species including Yangzong White Fish, crucian carp, loach, yellow eel, and black fish.

Fish Species in Yangzonghai

Order	Family	Fish Species
Salmoniformes	Hypophthalmichthys	Taihu New Silver Fish
Cypriniformes	Cobitidae	Loach
	Cyprinidae	Grass Carp, Bighead Carp, Silver Carp, Crucian Carp, etc.
	Other Families	Maimai Fish, Stickleback, Chinese Psephurus

Yangzonghai Lake offers a rich diversity of natural resources and a picturesque landscape, making it a vital ecological region in Yunnan Province.

List of Attractions and Names

• Yangzonghai Lake (阳宗海)
• Kunming (昆明)
• Chengjiang (澄江)
• Chenggong (呈贡)
• Yiliang (宜良)
• Tangquan River (汤泉河)
• Yangzong River (阳宗大河)
• Shizhai River (石寨河)
• Qixing River (七星河)
• Tangchi Channel (汤池渠)
• Daze (大泽)
• Yixiu Lake (奕休湖)
• Ming Lake (明湖)
• Nanzhao Dali Kingdom (南诏大理国)
• Yangzong Snail (阳宗螺蛳)
• Yangzong White Fish (阳宗白鱼)

Plant Resources

In 2003, the composition of algal species in Yangzonghai Lake included 4 divisions and 13 genera, consisting of: 9 genera of Cyanophyta (蓝藻门), 2 genera of Cryptophyta (隐藻门), 2 genera of Bacillariophyta (甲藻门), 6 genera of Bacillariophyta (硅藻门), 4 genera of Euglenophyta (裸藻门), 19 genera of Chlorophyta (绿藻门), and 1 genus of Chrysophyta (金藻门). The most common species is Microcystis (小环藻). The dominant algal species are Microcystis (小环藻), Microcystis aeruginosa (微囊藻), and Oocystis (卵囊藻) in spring; Microcystis (小环藻) in summer; and Microcystis (小环藻) in winter.

Vegetation Distribution

The Yangzonghai watershed belongs to the northern subtropical vegetation zone of the Yunnan Plateau. The forest types are semi-humid evergreen broadleaf forests, coniferous forests, and mixed coniferous-broadleaf forests. Agricultural cultivation and land reclamation have severely damaged a large amount of vegetation and lakeside wetlands in the watershed. The successive establishment of industrial enterprises and recreational facilities lacks unified planning, resulting in outdated environmental protection facilities and incomplete biological management measures. Consequently, soil erosion in the watershed has reached 65%, with annual soil and water loss amounting to 236,000 tons, leading to a deteriorating ecological environment.

The secondary biological species growing in the Yangzonghai watershed include a mixed forest composed of Yunnan pine (云南松), Huashan pine (华山松), Yunnan fir (云南油杉), drought-resistant East melon (旱东瓜), eucalyptus (桉树), cypress (柏树), poplar (杨树), and oak (栎类) broadleaf trees. The shrub forest mainly consists of dominant species such as spiny acacia (苦刺), thorn pear (棠梨), small iron (小铁子), and other plants. The artificial economic forests primarily include walnuts (核桃), peaches (桃子), pears (梨), and chestnuts (板栗). The vegetation in the entire watershed has transitioned from a composite type to a single type, with forest environments degrading into barren types. In 2004, the forest coverage (including wooded and shrub areas) in the Yangzonghai watershed was 23.67%. Among this, the coverage of wooded land was 13.62%, and the coverage of shrub land was 10.05%. The overall vegetation coverage (including cultivated land, forested land, and grassland) in the Yangzonghai watershed was 77.38%, with cultivated land covering 35.67%, forested land covering 23.67%, and grassland covering 18.04%.

Land Overview (土地概况)

The Yangzonghai watershed includes areas from Qidian Township (七甸乡) in Chenggong County (呈贡县), Yangzong Town (阳宗镇) in Chengjiang County (澄江县), and Tangchi Town (汤池镇) and Caodian Township (草甸乡) in Yiliang County (宜良县). From 1995 to 2004, cultivated land area decreased by 11.05%, with paddy fields decreasing by 6.0%, dry land decreasing by 12.7%, and forested area decreasing by 8.58%, among which the area of wooded land increased by 57.73%, while shrub land decreased by 23.66%. Grassland decreased by 3.60%, and the water area slightly increased by 0.50%. The area of residential, industrial, and transportation land increased by 101.63%. The main agricultural activities in the watershed primarily focus on the cultivation of grains and vegetables, with fruit cultivation being secondary.

Topography and Landform (地形地貌)

About 6 kilometers north of Yangzonghai is the main peak of the Wuna Mountain Range (乌纳山脉), Lao Ye Mountain (老爷山), which has an elevation of 2,730 meters and is the highest peak in Yiliang County (宜良县). The western shore features the Wuna Mountain’s foothills. The northernmost peak, Xiangyang Mountain (向阳山), has an elevation of 2,523.4 meters, while the southern peak, Matou Mountain (马头山), is 2,242 meters high. The elevation of Pingpo Head (平坡头) is 1,991 meters, and Guanshan Mountain (官山) is 1,885 meters high. The eastern shore features the Yinxian Bottom (迎仙底) at an elevation of 1,874 meters, with Huazhulong Southwest Peak (花树龙西南峰) at 1,994 meters, Black Dragon Mountain (黑龙山) at 2,111 meters, Dagezi (大凹子) at 2,184 meters, Heijizhuangzi (黑脊梁子) at 2,268.1 meters, and Tang Lao Ye Grave (塘老爷坟) at 2,407.8 meters. The southern Yangzong Basin (阳宗坝子) slopes northward, with all water flowing toward Yangzonghai. To the north, behind Tangchi Basin (汤池坝子) and Zouma Ping (走马坪), Lao Hong Mountain (老红山) has an elevation of 1,890.2 meters, and Jiangjia Mountain (姜家山) is 1,967 meters high. The Kunhe Railway (昆河铁路) passes behind Lao Hong Mountain and Jiangjia Mountain.

Lakeside Landscape

Beach Amusement Park

Yangzonghai Beach Amusement Park (阳宗海海滨游乐场) is the first emerging tourist attraction opened to the public in Yunnan’s first provincial-level tourism resort. This amusement park is a large-scale comprehensive recreational area centered around water amusement projects, covering an area of 140,000 square meters, with over 40 land, water, and air amusement projects. The water surface covers 11.5 square kilometers, and the lawn area is 60,000 square meters.

There are more than 40 water, land, and air amusement projects, including seaplanes (水上飞机), water parachuting (水上跳伞), jet skiing (摩托艇), beach volleyball (沙滩排球), and more. The park has also constructed open-air barbecue areas, business leisure areas, and lush gardens. In the park, visitors can enjoy beautiful scenery, participate in thrilling water sports, and appreciate the environment along the lakeside.

Yangzonghai Water Sports Center (阳宗海水上运动中心)

The Yangzonghai Water Sports Center is a professional water sports facility that offers various water activities, including windsurfing, kayaking, rowing, and pedal boating. The center provides complete services, including boat rental, training, and water sports equipment sales. The center has become a popular destination for water sports enthusiasts and tourists looking to engage in exciting activities on the lake.

Overview of Yincuixia Valley

Yincuixia (荫翠峡) is a scenic gorge located in Yiliang County (宜良县), Kunming (昆明), Yunnan Province (云南省), China. The valley is open year-round, from Monday to Sunday, 08:00 to 18:00. Situated in the northern part of the scenic area, Yincuixia is considered the upstream section of the gorge based on the flow direction of the river within it. The gorge stretches approximately 1 kilometer in length, with a tranquil lake known as Chentan (沉潭) at its center, where the maximum water depth reaches 16 meters. Visitors can enjoy boat rides along the river for about 700 meters, taking in the beautiful scenery of the area, particularly the famous Shieh Hóng Bridge (叠虹桥), often described as a gem of nature.

The river flowing through Yincuixia is called Maitián River (麦田河), an important tributary of the Nanpan River (南盘江), which is part of the upstream Pearl River (珠江) system. The entire Jiuxiang Scenic Area (九乡风景区) is referred to as the “first cave group of the Pearl River source,” highlighting its significance. The Maitián River flows with a timeless vigor, its bed deeply carved into the rock, with sheer cliffs rising hundreds of meters on both sides, creating a lush and shaded environment. The waters reflect vibrant greens and blues, thus earning the name “Yincuixia” (meaning “shade of green gorge”). The width of the river typically ranges from 8 to 10 meters, with the widest point measuring less than 20 meters, while the cliffs on either side soar over 30 meters, reaching up to 50 meters at their highest. This unique geological formation is known as a “Zhanggu” (嶂谷) in geological terms, characterized by its stunning beauty and remarkable uniqueness.

The diverse landscape of Yincuixia and its historical formation contribute to its reputation as a masterpiece of nature, making it a remarkable destination worth visiting.

Main Attractions

1. Steep Cliffs and Canyons

The cliffs on both sides of Yincuixia are steep and majestic, contrasting with the gentle waters of the river flowing between them. This interplay of hard rock and soft water, framed by the blue sky and green trees, creates a tranquil environment often filled with the sounds of chirping birds and the soft gurgle of the water. It is as if an artistic master has painted this landscape, blending poetry and dreams, making it feel like a scene from a fairyland. Visitors can collect the crystal-clear waters of Yincuixia to wash away worldly troubles, allowing their spirits to be elevated, free from thoughts of wealth and status. The unique stalactite formations on both sides of the gorge present dynamic and vivid textures, resembling life itself. These formations are not often found in caves illuminated by artificial light; instead, they exhibit a natural beauty that is timeless.

2. Cave Formations

Geological studies suggest that Yincuixia was originally a dark river cave connected by mountain walls. This unique cave formation allowed for the development of various stalactite shapes. Over time, the continuous erosion by surface water caused the cave ceiling to collapse, revealing the underground river, which then became a surface river, transforming the cave into a Zhanggu, resulting in the landscape we see today.

3. Rock Layers

The rock layers of Yincuixia, examined by geological experts, date back approximately 300 million years and are composed of sedimentary rock formed from ancient marine fossils. This type of rock is often referred to as a prehistoric marvel or a natural landscape painting, as its texture features fossils from the earliest forms of life on Earth. If polished, these rocks reveal stunning patterns reminiscent of natural landscape art. This unique geological characteristic gives Yincuixia unparalleled historical depth and scientific research value.

Poetry Inspired by Yincuixia

A poet who revisited Yincuixia expressed his feelings in a poem, which I would like to share with you:

重履九乡境，深山还放舟。
Birds sing in the serene sky, while the forest shadows reveal hidden springs.
钟乳错危岸，鸥枭藏古树。
Stalactites cling to steep cliffs, while seagulls and owls nest in ancient trees.
参差影幻变，瞻荡梦轻柔。
The shadows dance and change, swaying gently in a dream.
船激鱼吹浪，云闲崖枕流。
The boat stirs the fish, creating ripples, while clouds rest against the cliffs.
仙源难再得，到此应忘忧。
This paradise is hard to find again; here, one should forget their worries.

Love Legend

Upon arriving in Jiuxiang (九乡) in early spring, with the earth fresh and vibrant, friends told stories of Yincuixia, also known as Lover’s Valley (情人谷). The gorge, extending 1,000 meters, allows for nearly the entire stretch to be explored by boat. Boarding a small boat at the entrance, we drifted along the spring waters into this extraordinary gorge of Yunnan. Towering cliffs rise steeply from the lush greenery; the winding spring waters flow through deep mountains and dense forests. The gentle sound of flowing water and the melodic rhythm of the oars create a picturesque scene where the water takes on a beautiful powder-blue hue, mirroring the clear sky and fluffy clouds.

The sheer cliffs on both sides rise high enough to touch the clouds, with their rugged brown surfaces proudly standing against the wind. Gazing for a while, one might wish to reach out and softly inquire about the immense power that, on a certain day, broke free from its confines, asserting its existence. Branches and vines flourish on the cliffs, creating a lush, green tapestry. Sunlight streams through, casting a shimmering golden light that fills the atmosphere with vitality. The boat glides through the gorge, a serene exploration in a gentle, nourishing environment, making it feel like a place where immortals reside.

As we journeyed, the tranquility of the flowing waters and the depth of our thoughts felt reminiscent of the past adventures of fishermen in Wuling (武陵). The significance of Yincuixia in the Jiuxiang Scenic Area is irreplaceable; locals often say, “The beauty of Jiuxiang can be summed up in a stone, but Yincuixia alone holds three times its worth.” The entire gorge, 1,000 meters long, leaves visitors enchanted. It is said that no visit to Jiuxiang is complete without experiencing Yincuixia, a sentiment not taken lightly.

There is also a beautiful love legend associated with Yincuixia, telling the story of the Dragon King’s third princess and a young Yi ethnic man from the area. Local guides share this enchanting tale with visitors as they navigate the gorge by boat.

Overview

Located in Jinxing Village (金星村) of Yiliang County (宜良县), Kunming (昆明), Yanquan Temple is situated at the foot of a mountain that resembles a reclining lion, known as Fushishan (伏狮山). The mountain features five towering peaks with sheer cliffs. Beneath the cliffs, a clear spring flows ceaselessly, providing high-quality water in abundant quantities. The beautiful mountain scenery, lush bamboo forests, and serene environment contribute to its charm, leading to its alternative name, Yanquan Mountain (岩泉山). As the saying goes, “Since ancient times, famous mountains have been home to many monks.”

In the early years of the Yuan Dynasty (元至正, approximately 1341), the renowned monk Master Panlong (盘龙祖师) arrived, built a thatched hut, and promoted Buddhism. After fulfilling his mission, his disciples constructed a temple to honor him, and this tradition has continued through generations.

Basic Information

• Chinese Name: 岩泉寺
• Location: Jinxing Village, Yiliang County
• Significance: One of the Eight Scenic Spots of Yiliang (宜良八景)
• Established: 1450-1456

Historical Origins

During the Ming Dynasty (明), specifically in the Jingtai period (景泰, 1450-1456), a local named Zhu Fuhai (朱福海) began the construction of the temple. Later, during the Wanli period (万历), the monk Xingkuan (兴宽) undertook significant renovations. The temple became known as “Yanquan Shuyu” (岩泉漱玉), one of the Eight Scenic Spots of Yiliang. In 1687, the county magistrate Gao Shilang (高士朗) and educator Wang Zuocai (王佐才) invited local literati to invest in building pavilions and ponds, enhancing the site’s natural and cultural beauty.

However, during the Xianfeng and Tongzhi periods (咸同兵燹), the temple suffered damage. In 1915, County Magistrate Qian Liangjun (钱良骏) repaired the pavilions, naming one “Banshan Pavilion” (半山亭). By 1929, local gentry Ma Yunxiang (马云翔) raised funds to repair the Doumu Pavilion (斗母阁) and Yuhuang Pavilion (玉皇阁), constructing a new pavilion and extensively planting flowers and trees, along with creating large-scale rock carvings. The temple experienced a peak in prosperity during this time. However, in 1940, Kunming was bombed by Japanese planes, leading to the temporary relocation of a military hospital and subsequent damage to the site.

Cultural Heritage Protection

In July 1987, the rock carvings were designated as a key cultural relic under protection by Yiliang County. In February 1993, the county government approved the transfer of ownership of Yanquan Temple to the Jinxing Office (金星办事处). In recent years, the office has carried out extensive renovations, constructing new buildings such as the Mahavira Hall (大雄宝殿), Tianwang Hall (天王殿), Yuhuang Pavilion, Caishen Hall (财神殿), mountain gates, and a swimming pool, as well as planting trees and grass and improving pathways. This revitalization has transformed Yanquan into a site more beautiful than ever. In April 1999, the Kunming Expo Bureau and Yunnan Provincial Tourism Bureau designated Yanquan Temple as an official tourist reception unit for the Expo.

In 2000, the temple management committee erected three commemorative stone tablets: “Professor Qian Mu’s Writing Place” (钱穆教授著书处), “Yuan Jiagu’s Tea Tasting Place” (袁嘉谷品茗处), and “Cangzhen Pavilion Ruins” (藏真阁遗址), documenting three significant modern historical events related to Yanquan Temple and greatly enhancing its cultural standing.

Current Status of the Temple

Since around the mid-1990s, with the development of tourism, temples in scenic areas like Yanquan Temple have become increasingly popular. Private entities pay fees to the temple authorities to operate the temple commercially, employing monks to attract donations and incense money for profit. This practice, which has been explicitly prohibited by the state, has grown under profit motives, leading to rising operating fees and the hiring of non-religious personnel who profit through deception and extortion.

According to the “2004-2005 Yunnan Religious Situation Report,” Yanquan Temple has long ceased to function as a traditional religious institution. Instead, it has transformed into a comprehensive local cultural industry entity aimed at commercial operation, blurring the lines between religion and politics. In 2004, the Jinxing Street Office contracted the temple to a private owner for over 2.2 million yuan annually until 2009. A former contractor of nearby temples revealed that incense prices reached as high as 130 yuan for premium offerings, with ordinary incense ranging from 10 to 60 yuan.

In addition to incense offerings, the temple sells jade and other handicrafts, with 30% of the revenue returned to travel agencies. Similar to Yanquan Temple, the contractor even hired several fake masters from the Emei Mountain (峨眉山) area to perform fortune-telling for tourists, earning a commission of 10% for each master, totaling thousands of yuan monthly. The contractor admitted that temple income relies heavily on these “masters,” but asserted that they adhere to “professional ethics” and do not exaggerate their claims, avoiding distasteful remarks.

In 2009, Kunming’s total tourism revenue reached 22.634 billion yuan, with total tourist numbers hitting 31.15 million, leading to a surge in the temple’s rental fees. It was reported that the fees paid to the Jinxing Village Committee had risen to nearly 4 million yuan annually.

Related Anecdotes

Professor Qian Mu’s Writing Place

The inscription “Professor Qian Mu’s Writing Place” honors Qian Mu (钱穆, 1895-1990), a prominent scholar from Wuxi, Jiangsu (江苏无锡). He began his self-study path in 1913 and later engaged in middle school education. He completed significant works such as “An Introduction to National Studies” (国学概论) and “Chronology of Pre-Qin Philosophers” (先秦诸子系年).

In 1930, his “Chronicle of Liu Xiang and His Son” (刘向歆父子年谱) made waves in academic circles. After being recommended by Gu Jiegang (顾颉刚), he became a lecturer in Chinese literature at Yanjing University (燕京大学) and later a professor at Peking University (北京大学). During the Second Sino-Japanese War, he moved with his institution, and when the Southwest Associated University (西南联大) was established in Mengzi (蒙自), he was persuaded by Chen Mengjia (陈梦家) to revise the “Outline of National History” (国史大纲). Shortly thereafter, the university relocated to Kunming. To avoid disturbance, he resided in Yanquan Temple, completing the “Outline of National History” by the autumn of 1939, shortly after which it was published.

The book became a widely adopted textbook in universities across the country, significantly promoting national consciousness and unity among students. Scholars have described the “Outline of National History” as a monumental work in modern Chinese historiography. Qian Mu’s writing was characterized by profound insights, merging poetry and history, and influencing generations of students and scholars alike.

Cangzhen Pavilion Ruins

The “Cangzhen Pavilion Ruins” inscription commemorates the construction of Cangzhen Pavilion (藏真阁) on the south side of Longquan (龙泉) during the early Qing Dynasty (清). It was dedicated to the highly esteemed Taoist Master Yin Cheqing (尹澈清真人). The pavilion housed several stone tablets, preserving the legacy of the master.

In 1939, when Qian Weichang (钱伟长) was preparing to travel abroad with his newlywed wife, Kong Xiangying (孔祥瑛), they visited Yanquan Temple to see his uncle Qian Mu. They spent their honeymoon in the pavilion, further enriching its historical significance.

Inscriptions in the Temple

On June 23, 1994, Qian Weichang returned to the temple with his wife and inscribed: “岩坚泉清，宜结良缘” (“The rock is firm, and the spring is clear; it is suitable to form a good relationship.”)

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Attractions and Names Mentioned in the Content:

1. Yanquan Temple (岩泉寺)
2. Fushishan (伏狮山)
3. Master Panlong (盘龙祖师)
4. Zhu Fuhai (朱福海)
5. Master Xingkuan (兴宽)
6. Gao Shilang (高士朗)
7. Wang Zuocai (王佐才)
8. Ma Yunxiang (马云翔)
9. Qian Liangjun (钱良骏)
10. Yanjing University (燕京大学)
11. Peking University (北京大学)
12. Gu Jiegang (顾颉刚)
13. Qian Mu (钱穆)
14. Qian Weichang (钱伟长)
15. Kong Xiangying (孔祥瑛)

Location Details

• Jinxing Village, Yiliang County, Kunming (昆明宜良县金星村)

Location:
http://blog.sina.com.cn/s/blog_646d55be0100v4g2.html

Zhenghe Park (郑和公园) is a themed park dedicated to commemorating the renowned Chinese admiral and explorer Zheng He (郑和). Located on Yuèshān (月山) in the urban area of Jinning District (晋宁区), the park was established in 1958 and originally named Yuèshān Park (月山公园). In 1978, the local community renamed it Zhenghe Park to honor Zheng He. Spanning an area of 16.67 hectares (250 acres), the park serves as a prominent venue for showcasing Zheng He’s culture and promoting his spirit, thanks to its exceptional natural conditions.

Main Attractions in Zhenghe Park

The park features several significant attractions, including:

• Zheng He’s Former Residence (郑和故居)
• Zheng He Memorial Hall (郑和纪念馆)
• Zheng He Statue (郑和雕像)
• Sanbao Tower (三宝楼)
• Zheng He Stele Forest (郑和碑林)
• Mahazhi Tomb (马哈只墓)

Among these, the “Mahazhi Tomb Stele” is recognized as a national key cultural relic protection unit, and the “Zheng He Memorial Hall” is one of the first provincial-level patriotic education bases in Yunnan Province (云南省).

Atmosphere and Architecture

Zhenghe Park is characterized by its solemn atmosphere, where towering pines and cypress trees harmonize with fruit orchards. On either side of the South Gate, relief sculptures depict “Zheng He’s Seven Voyages to the West” (郑和七下西洋), showcasing a magnificent fleet sailing westward. The East Gate is situated at the midpoint of Kunyang Street (昆阳大街) and features a glass pavilion topped with red walls.

The park houses the Zheng He Memorial Hall and the Mahazhi Stele. Inside the Zheng He Memorial Hall, over 100 valuable cultural relics are on display, including:

• Zheng He’s navigational maps
• Models of Zheng He’s ocean-going treasure ships
• Various pictures and texts related to his voyages

To the west of the hall, among the pine and cypress forest, lies the tomb of Zheng He’s father, Mahazhi. Zheng He lost his father at the age of 11 and could not recall his father’s name. He only knew that both his grandfather and father had made the pilgrimage to the holy city of Mecca, earning them the respectful title of “Haji” (哈只) in Arabic, meaning a pious and knowledgeable pilgrim. Consequently, the stele inscribed “Public Name Haji” became popularly known as the “Mahazhi Stele.”

Additionally, the park features the Zheng He Memorial Pavilion (郑和纪念亭).

Zheng He Statue and Three Treasures Tower

From the main entrance of Zhenghe Park, visitors ascend steps surrounded by lush greenery and fragrant flowers. Standing at 5.55 meters tall, the Zheng He statue (郑和雕像) rises majestically on a 3-meter-high base shaped like a treasure ship. The statue was designed and crafted by Professor Wang Guanyi (王官乙), the head of the Sculpture Department at Sichuan Fine Arts Institute (四川美术学院) and a member of the China Artists Association (中国美术家协会), using granite.

Continuing up, visitors can see the Three Treasures Tower (三宝楼) on one side, while the Mahazhi Tomb rests quietly on the other. The Three Treasures Tower, constructed in the shape of a treasure ship, has three levels. Climbing to the top offers a panoramic view of Jinning District and the southern shore of Dian Lake (滇池).

The discovery of the Mahazhi Tomb has clarified important details regarding Zheng He’s origins, confirming that he was from Kunyang (昆阳洲). The inscription on the tombstone is one of the most precious historical documents for studying Zheng He.

Jinning District Museum (晋宁区博物馆) – Zheng He Memorial Hall

The Jinning District Museum (晋宁区博物馆) is another significant component of Zhenghe Park and serves as an important platform for promoting Zheng He culture. Officially opened to the public for free on July 11, 2017, the museum features three permanent exhibition halls:

1. Ancient World (远古天地)
2. Civilization of Dian Kingdom (滇国文明)
3. Zheng He Culture (郑和文化), which includes a special exhibition hall for Zheng He and World Maritime Postage Stamps (郑和·世界航海邮票展厅)

The museum showcases a range of artifacts, including ancient fossils, bronze culture from the Dian Kingdom, and exhibits related to Zheng He. With a collection of 2,275 items, including 8,258 stamps, the museum houses the most precious cultural relics among all museums in Kunming City (昆明市), featuring six national first-class relics, eleven second-class relics, and 156 third-class relics.

The Jinning District Museum aims to promote the “Zheng He Brand” by systematically and comprehensively displaying the historical background, rich materials, and significant meaning of Zheng He’s voyages to the West. Additionally, it organizes educational activities such as “Mobile Museums” that visit schools and communities, and events like “Understanding My Hometown, Loving My Hometown,” to strengthen the communication and dissemination of Zheng He culture.

On November 30, 2022, the “Zheng He Cultural Venue Alliance” (郑和文化场馆联盟) was established in Shanghai, with the Jinning Museum becoming a founding member. Together with 31 cultural institutions and research organizations from Shanghai, Jiangsu, Zhejiang, Fujian, Hainan, and Yunnan, they will collaboratively study and promote Zheng He culture.

Overview

Puzhao Temple is located in the western part of Kunyang in Jinning District, Kunming City (昆明市晋宁县城昆阳西部). Nestled among dense pine and cypress trees, this ancient temple is one of the “Three Zhaos” (三照) of Yunnan, along with the Yuanzhao Temple (圆照寺) and Lingzhao Temple (灵照寺). It is recognized as a sacred Buddhist site in central Yunnan and is known for its beautiful natural surroundings.

Geographical Features

Changsong Mountain (长松山) lies to the west of Kunyang, connected to Baihu Mountain (白虎山) in the south and Qingshan Mountain (青龙山) in the north, with the Wenfeng Pagoda (文蜂塔) facing it from the east. The lush forest and picturesque scenery offer a tranquil atmosphere, making it an ideal retreat.

Climate

Jinning District is characterized by a low-latitude, high-altitude, subtropical monsoon climate. Winters are mild, summers are not overly hot, and the seasons resemble spring, with distinct wet and dry periods. There may be occasional droughts in spring and winter, while summers and autumns can be humid without extreme heat.

Admission Fee

Entry to Puzhao Temple is free of charge.

Historical Development

In the Yuan Dynasty, the governor Gao Ani (高阿泥) built a summer retreat here. The Ming Dynasty scholar Yang Sheng’an (杨升庵) also resided at Puzhao Temple, leaving behind inscriptions and poetry that captured its beauty:

“木客园林传地籁，金仙楼殿接兜罗。人间尘土山中少。天际风烟海上多。西崦亭亭悬落日，东流渺渺送微渡。他乡良会真难得，不惜樽前听醉歌。”

Throughout history, notable figures such as the great navigator Zheng He (郑和), the traveler Xu Xiake (徐霞客), General Deng Kai (邓凯), and the Ming Dynasty Emperor Zhu Yunjian (朱允炆) have visited the temple.

In the Yuan Dynasty, the monk Chongzhao (崇照) came here to practice and became a disciple of the temple’s elder, Master Yunfeng (云峰和尚). After studying Buddhism for three years, he returned to Panlong Temple (盘龙寺). According to legend, the temple emitted light at night, and its brilliance led Master Yuanzhao (圆照大师) to name it Puzhao Temple. In the 11th year of the Dade era (大德十一年, 1307), Master Daxiu (大休禅师) praised the mountain as a land of great feng shui. The following autumn, local resident Yang Lian (杨琏) initiated the construction of the temple, with Governor Gao Shou (高寿) leading the efforts, naming it Puzhao Temple.

Changsong Mountain has a spring known for its sweet and refreshing water, hence called “Puzhao Lingquan” (普照灵泉), which is one of the eight scenic spots in Kunyang.

During the Hongwu era of the Ming Dynasty, temple officials like Li Qing (李庆) and others contributed to the rebuilding of the temple after it fell into disrepair. In the 25th year of the Kangxi era (康熙二十五年, 1686), monk Rulun (如纶) repaired it again, but it was later destroyed during the Xianfeng and Tongzhi wars (咸同兵患). In the early Guangxu era (光绪初), locals such as Shen Shan (沈善), Yang Xian (杨先), and Li Wenyuan (李文元) funded repairs, followed by further donations from people like Chi Leda (迟乐道) and Li Hewu (李和武) for additional construction.

In the early Republic of China, locals like Wu Rulin (吴汝霖) and Feng Kejia (冯克家) led efforts to build new structures and repair the temple. However, in 1957, Puzhao Temple was converted into a gunpowder factory, and a tragic explosion on the fifth day of the fifth lunar month in 1958 destroyed the temple, leaving its historical relics and artifacts in ashes.

Main Attractions

To revive tourism and restore this famous temple, Puzhao Temple was reopened on June 17, 1993, with significant support from various organizations and the public, raising several million yuan in funding. New structures have been built, including:

• The First Mountain Gate (第一道山门)
• Caishen Hall (财神殿)
• Ksitigarbha Hall (地藏殿)
• Sleeping Buddha Hall (睡佛殿)
• Heavenly King Hall (天王殿)
• Guanyin Hall (观音殿)
• Guanyin Pond (观音池)
• Dining Hall (斋堂)
• Dragon King Temple (龙王庙)
• Mahavira Hall (大雄宝殿)

These halls feature statues of Maitreya Buddha (弥勒佛), the 24-Armed Guanyin (二十四臂观音), Weituo (韦驮), and various other deities, including the Four Heavenly Kings (四大天王) and 500 Arhats (五百罗汉).

An asphalt road was constructed to connect the temple to the county, transforming the previous dirt path into a thoroughfare. In just a few years, the temple has been revitalized, adorned with elegant architecture, plaques, and couplets that enhance its beauty.

Aside from restoring Puzhao Temple, further development has taken place in Changsong Mountain, now featuring a Forest Amusement Park (有缘谷) with attractions such as:

• Shili Changting (十里长亭)
• Yuanyang Tower (鸳鸯楼)
• Phoenix Tower (鸾凤楼)
• Magpie Bridge (鹊桥)
• Peacock Bench (孔雀凳)
• Butterfly Chair (蝴蝶椅)
• Eight Immortals Table (八仙桌)
• Hearts Table (同心桌)
• Hammocks (吊床)
• Swings (秋千)

A long, shaded path meanders through the park, allowing visitors to enjoy various flora such as camellias, rhododendrons, fragrant flowers, and ferns, with opportunities to forage for wild mushrooms in the summer. The peaceful and fragrant environment provides a serene escape from the bustling city.

Buddhist Temples

The temple houses several significant halls:

• Sleeping Buddha Hall (睡佛殿): Also known as the Jade Buddha Hall (玉佛殿), it contains a statue of Shakyamuni Buddha made of high-quality white jade, weighing approximately 100 kilograms and measuring 2.2 meters long. Its exterior is covered in gold foil, and the hall features couplets that convey deep philosophical meanings: “信天上神，神能济世；靠地下人，人主沉浮。”
• Heavenly King Hall (天王殿): Also known as the Vajra Hall (金刚殿), flanked by two statues of the Guardian Kings, it houses the Four Heavenly Kings, each with symbolic meanings related to the protection and prosperity of the realm.
• Guanyin Hall (观音殿): The central figure is the 24-Armed Guanyin, donated by Mr. Ma Jing (马静), holding various divine objects that symbolize her vast abilities. The hall also features the thirty-two manifestations of Guanyin, symbolizing her responsiveness to the needs of devotees.
• Dizang Hall (地藏殿): Funded by the abbot Nengfu (能福) and the monastic community, it is adorned with beautiful carvings and houses the Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva, surrounded by bronze statues of the Three Saints of the Western Paradise (西方三圣).
• Mahavira Hall (大雄宝殿): This grand hall is among the largest and most magnificent in the province, featuring statues of Amitabha Buddha, Shakyamuni Buddha, and the Medicine Buddha.

Thanks to the support of believers from across the globe, the construction involved over 150,000 yuan in total investments, with contributions from individuals in the United States, Spain, Hong Kong, Taiwan, and Beijing, employing skilled craftsmen from various provinces.

Tourism Information

Youyuan Valley Forest Amusement Park (有缘谷森林游乐园) is located on the left side of Changsong Mountain. It boasts serene surroundings with rich forests, clear waters, and vibrant flora. Outside the park, there is a crescent-shaped pond, also known as the Release Pond (放生池), featuring a white jade statue of the Water-Dripping Guanyin, where tired visitors can refresh themselves with pure water.

Entering Youyuan Valley is akin to stepping into a paradise where nature and humanity coexist harmoniously. The sounds of birds and flowing water create a serene atmosphere, complemented by blooming mountain flowers.

Inside the valley, there is a statue of the Elder of the Moon (月下老人), the deity of love and marriage, where many devotees seek blessings for happy relationships.

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List of Attractions and Names

• Puzhao Temple (普照寺)
• Changsong Mountain (长松山)
• Baihu Mountain (白虎山)
• Qingshan Mountain (青龙山)
• Wenfeng Pagoda (文蜂塔)
• Yuanzhao Temple (圆照寺)
• Lingzhao Temple (灵照寺)
• Puzhao Lingquan (普照灵泉)
• Forest Amusement Park (有缘谷)
• Youyuan Valley (有缘谷森林游乐园)
• Guanyin Pond (观音池)
• Various Halls (e.g., Sleeping Buddha Hall, Guanyin Hall, Dizang Hall, Mahavira Hall)

Overview

Walnut Garden (Hetaoyuan) Scenic Area is located in Hetaoyuan Village (核桃园村), which is part of Shuanghe Yi Ethnic Township (双河彝族乡) in Jinning District (晋宁县). It is situated in the southern part of Kunming (昆明), approximately 10 kilometers from the Shuanghe Township government and 43 kilometers from the county seat of Kunyang (昆阳). The area is accessible via a cement road, making transportation convenient. To the east, it borders Yuxi New Village (玉奚新村); to the south, it is adjacent to Yuxi Houhe (玉奚后河); to the west, it neighbors Yuxi Laoguangqing (玉奚老光箐); and to the north, it is close to Shuanghe Township (双河). The jurisdiction consists of a natural village functioning as a village committee. Currently, there are 176 farming households with a population of 602 people, all of whom are agricultural residents. The labor force here comprises 385 individuals, making it an ethnic settlement.

Yi Family Happiness Eco-Tourism Scenic Area

The “Yi Family Happiness” Eco-Tourism Scenic Area (彝家乐生态旅游景区) is about 90 kilometers from Kunming, offering convenient transportation. The average altitude is 2,148 meters, and the total area covers 23,440.5 acres, with a high forest coverage rate of 78.7%, making it one of the few such areas near Kunming. This picturesque locale features clear mountains and beautiful waters, along with a superior natural ecological environment that retains a strong traditional Yi (彝族) cultural flavor.

Attractions

Within the scenic area, there are attractions such as:

• Walnut Qings (核桃箐)
• Camellia Qings (茶花箐)
• Deer Pond (麂子塘)

Entertainment facilities have been established, including a bullfighting arena and swings. A welcoming song and dance troupe performs Yi folk dances for tourists, and the Torch Festival (火把节) is celebrated daily. Visitors can also organize a variety of outdoor activities, such as hiking and fishing, allowing for a close encounter with nature.

Visitor Experience

This area attracts numerous tourists with its economical services, stunning natural scenery, vibrant ethnic customs, and authentic farm dishes. Here, one can fully experience the joys of rural life and enjoy all that nature has to offer, creating a fresh and tranquil feeling that is hard to find in the bustling modern metropolis.

Travel Guide to Walnut Garden (Hetaoyuan) in Jinning Shuanghe Township

To reach Walnut Garden Scenic Area from Kunming city center, take Dongjiao Road (东郊路) and exit at the first exit at the roundabout. Proceed to the Second Ring East Road (二环东路) auxiliary road ramp, then merge onto the Second Ring East Road. After exiting, continue on the Kunming-Shijiazhuang Expressway (昆石高速), then take the Kunyang exit onto the Kunyu Expressway (昆玉高速) toward Yuxi. After exiting at Kunyang on the 102 Provincial Road (102省道), turn right and then left, continuing along the 102 Provincial Road for 2.3 kilometers. Then, turn right onto the 215 Provincial Road (215省道), and a left turn will take you to Jinning (晋宁).

Natural Environment

The area boasts a forest coverage rate of 78%, with clear mountains and beautiful waters, along with a well-preserved natural ecological environment. It also maintains the traditional and simple Yi cultural charm.

Attractions and Activities

The “Yi Family Happiness” agritourism (彝家乐农家乐) leverages the nearby attractions of Walnut Qings, Camellia Qings, and Deer Pond, providing entertainment facilities like a bullfighting arena and swings. The welcoming song and dance troupe performs Yi folk dances, hosting the “Daily Torch Festival” (天天火把节), where visitors can hike and fish.

Culinary Delights

Here, visitors can enjoy economical and affordable rural experiences, savoring authentic Yi cured meats and free-range chicken, as well as other ecological delicacies. This offers an alternative experience that cannot be found in the noisy modern city.

Chinese Name: 晋宁区石寨山古墓群
English Name: Ancient Tombs of Shizhaishan in Jinning District, Kunming

Shizhaishan Ancient Tombs, located in Shizhaicun Village, Shangsuantown, Jinning District, Kunming City, Yunnan Province, are a group of tomb sites belonging to the ancient Dian Kingdom kings and their relatives from the Warring States Period to the Han Dynasty. From 1955 to 1996, the Shizhaishan Ancient Tombs underwent five excavations, uncovering 86 ancient tombs dating from the Warring States Period to the Han Dynasty. Nearly 5,000 cultural relics were unearthed, including bronze, gold, silver, iron, jade, and agate artifacts. The bronze artifacts are well-crafted with exquisite patterns, reflecting strong local ethnic characteristics and showcasing the social development of the ancient Dian Kingdom.

The Shizhaishan Ancient Tombs served as burial grounds for the Dian kings and their clans, representing the center of Dian culture and symbolizing the cultural history of Yunnan and southwestern China from the Warring States Period to the Han Dynasty. It is also a representative site of Bronze Age culture in Southeast Asia and world civilization history. On June 25, 2001, the Shizhaishan Ancient Tombs were designated as the fifth batch of national key cultural relics protection units by the State Council of the People’s Republic of China.

Historical Evolution

The history of the ancient Dian Kingdom is sparsely documented in written records, mainly found in Sima Qian’s “Records of the Grand Historian – Treatise on the Southern Barbarians.” Therefore, the construction period of the Shizhaishan Ancient Tombs is estimated to be from the Warring States Period to the Han Dynasty. From 1955 to 1960, archaeologists from Yunnan Province conducted four excavations at the Shizhaishan Ancient Tombs. The first excavation took place from March 3 to 23, 1955, as a trial excavation. The second excavation, which yielded significant results with over 4,000 cultural relics unearthed, occurred from November 1956 to January 1957. Subsequent excavations were carried out in 1958 and 1960. Additionally, a rescue excavation was conducted in 1996.

Burial Patterns

The burial structure at Shizhaishan is relatively simple, with graves dug between natural rocks or on flat ground. Large graves contain wooden coffins with burial objects, where human bones are placed inside, and accompanying burial items are found on top of the coffins or second-tier platforms and around the bones. Large tombs are generally 3-4 meters long and about 2 meters wide, while small tombs measure approximately 2 meters long and 1 meter wide, with depths ranging from 0.9 to 3 meters. There are no visible mounds on the surface. The coffins are rectangular in shape, coated inside and out with black, green, and vermilion lacquer, adorned with patterns. The burial posture is supine with straight limbs. In Tomb No. 9, the skeleton was found with the waist broken, separated into two piles, with the skull placed between the upper limbs. The clear and organized fractures of the upper and lower limbs suggest a sacrificial victim.

Cultural Relics

Overview
Excavations at the Shizhaishan Ancient Tombs unearthed over 5,000 artifacts, including precious items like the “Seal of the Dian King” and the “Golden Knight Bronze Storage Vessel with Four Oxen,” all finely crafted with beautiful decorations that vividly depict the social history of the ancient Dian Kingdom. The bronze artifacts discovered at Shizhaishan are diverse and finely crafted, including weapons, tools for production, daily utensils, musical instruments, and decorative items. Weapons include daggers, spears, swords, axes, adzes, polearms, crossbows, arrowheads, helmets, armguards, and leg armor; production tools consist of hoes, spades, sickles, chisels, scrapers, fish hooks, needles, and awls; daily utensils range from pots, basins, kettles, and wine vessels to earrings, cases, boxes, pillows, mirrors, belt hooks, and umbrella covers; musical instruments include bronze drums, bells, and gourd flutes. Additionally, various ornaments found on bodies, utensils, and coffins are beautifully crafted and rare ancient artifacts.

Seal of the Dian King

The Seal of the Dian King is cast in pure gold, with a snake-shaped knob, the head raised, the body coiled, and scales on the back. The knob and the seal body were separately cast and then welded together. The characters are chiseled, with visible chisel marks on both sides, in seal script, with four characters in white reading “Seal of the Dian King.”

Golden Knight Bronze Storage Vessel with Four Oxen
The Golden Knight Bronze Storage Vessel with Four Oxen measures 50 cm in height and 25 cm in diameter. In the center of the vessel cover is a knight with a chignon hairstyle, wearing a long sword with exquisitely decorated scabbards, entirely gilded. The knight is seated on a steed, its head held high, mouth open and tail curled up. The four legs of the steed stand on a rectangular platform, beneath which is a pillar, emphasizing the knight’s status and contributing to the overall aesthetic composition. Four sturdy bulls are sculpted around the knight, their heads and tails interlocking. On either side of the vessel body are tiger-shaped ears, symmetrical and tightly gripping the waist of the artifact, appearing to climb upwards. One tiger’s tail curls upward, while the other curls downward. Both tigers are depicted with astonishing realism in terms of overall shape and detailed portrayal. The bottom of the vessel is in the shape of tiger claws with three legs.

Value of Cultural Relics

The Shizhaishan Ancient Tombs yielded a large number of bronze artifacts with distinctive local ethnic characteristics. The figurative sculptures on bronze ornaments and storage vessels provide important material evidence for identifying and understanding the ethnic composition of the Dian people, reflecting various aspects of social production, life, and external exchanges such as sacrificial rituals, warfare, hunting, planting, granary filling, and tribute offerings. These relics provide valuable physical evidence for understanding the culture of Shizhaishan and the history of the ancient Dian Kingdom.

Protection Measures

In 1965, the Shizhaishan Ancient Tombs were designated as a provincial-level cultural relic protection unit by the Yunnan Provincial People’s Government. On June 25, 2001, they were listed as the fifth batch of national key cultural relic protection units by the State Council of the People’s Republic of China. On October 12, 2021, the National Cultural Heritage Administration announced the Shizhaishan Ancient Tombs as one of the “14th Five-Year Plan” major sites. On December 29, 2022, the Shizhaishan Archaeological Site Park in Jinning was included in the fourth batch of national archaeological site park project lists by the National Cultural Heritage Administration.

Honors Received

In March 2001, the fifth excavation of Shizhaishan was selected as one of the “100 Great Archaeological Discoveries of 20th Century China” by Archaeology magazine. On October 18, 2021, the Shizhaishan Ancient Tombs were announced as one of the “100 Great Archaeological Discoveries of the Century” by the Chinese Archaeological Society and the China Cultural Relics News.

Tourist Information

Geographical Information
The Shizhaishan Ancient Tombs are located in Shizhaicun Village, Shangsuantown, Jinning District, Kunming City, Yunnan Province.

Details of Shizhaishan Ancient Tombs
Approximately 240 meters southeast from the intersection of Huanhu South Road and Niuguang Line in Jinning District, Kunming City.

Driving Directions
Starting from the Jinning District People’s Government, travel via Yongle Street and Huanhu South Road to reach the Shizhaishan Ancient Tombs.

Overview

Panlong Temple (盘龙寺) is one of the most popular temples in Kunming (昆明), located on the eastern shore of Dianchi Lake (滇池) in Jining District (晋宁区), approximately 40 kilometers from downtown Kunming. Along with Xishan (西山) and Jizu Mountain (鸡足山) in Binchuan (宾川), it is known as one of the three major Buddhist sacred sites in Yunnan (云南).

Established in 1983 as a key cultural heritage site in Kunming, Panlong Temple was closed to the public on November 28, 2022, with the reopening date yet to be announced.

• Chinese Name: 盘龙寺
• English Name: Panlong Temple
• Location: On Panlong Mountain (盘龙山), 5 kilometers east of Jincheng Town (晋城镇), Jining District, Kunming
• Climate: Subtropical monsoon climate
• Opening Hours: Year-round, 7:30 AM – 5:30 PM
• Ticket Price: 8.0 RMB
• Major Attractions: Tianguan (天门), Yinxian Bridge (迎仙桥), Sleeping Buddha Hall (睡佛殿), Luzu Hall (吕祖殿), Master Hall (祖师殿), Mahavira Hall (大雄宝殿)
• City: Kunming, Yunnan Province (云南省昆明市)
• Country: China (中国)
• Best Seasons to Visit: All year round
• Official Phone Number: 0871-67811064

Historical Development

Panlong Temple was established in the seventh year of the Yuan Dynasty (元至正七年, 1347 AD) by the monk Lianfeng (莲峰和尚). Over its more than six hundred years of history, the temple has endured significant hardships. In the seventeenth year of the Daoguang Emperor’s reign (公元1837年), an 8.0 magnitude earthquake devastated most of the temple’s buildings. Additional destruction occurred during the Xianfeng (咸丰) and Tongzhi (同治) periods due to military conflicts.

In the fifth year of the Guangxu Emperor’s reign (公元1879年), local communities raised funds to rebuild the temple. After suffering further calamities in the late 1960s, Panlong Temple began restoration efforts in the 1980s and gradually regained its former glory.

During its peak in the Ming Dynasty (明代), Panlong Temple had dozens of structures, 450 rooms, and over 1,000 Buddha statues. Today, the temple features pavilions, towers, ancient bells, and numerous steles, showcasing exquisite architecture and a variety of styles, making it one of the top cultural heritage sites in Yunnan.

Temple Collections

Many renowned poets and scholars have left behind poems, calligraphy, couplets, horizontal plaques, and inscriptions at Panlong Temple. The works of Emperor Yongli (永历帝), King Liang of the Yuan Dynasty (元梁王), the great traveler Xu Xiake (徐霞客), and other prominent figures such as Dan (担当), Qian Nanyuan (钱南园), and Yuan Jiagu (袁嘉谷) are particularly valuable.

There are over a dozen ancient steles with significant cultural value, including the “Inscription on the Baoyun Pagoda of Master Dajue” (《大盘庵大觉禅师宝云塔铭》), “Record of the Complete Zen Monastery” (《具足禅院碑记》), “Initial Establishment Stele of Panlong Temple” (《盘龙寺初立常住碑》), and “Imperial Edict Stele of Emperor Yongli” (《永历帝敕文碑》), which have all been classified as Kunming municipal cultural heritage.

Related Legends

The “Inscription on the Baoyun Pagoda of Master Dajue,” established at the end of the Yuan Dynasty (元朝末年), is located under the left corridor of the Master Hall and commemorates Master Chongzhao’s (崇照大师) achievements in spreading Zen Buddhism and establishing Panlong Temple.

According to legend, when the temple was founded, this area was a dragon pond hidden in a valley. A dragon lived here, and Master Lianfeng chanted incantations to drive it away. Afterward, the pond dried up, and he built the temple, naming it Panlong Temple. Another version of the story suggests that there were originally six dragons in the pond, five of which were driven away, while one dragon remained and caused disturbances. Master Lianfeng subdued it, making it his steed. As the number of followers grew, so did the temple’s incense offerings, and soon after, Master Lianfeng passed away, being revered as “Master Panlong.”

In the early Ming Dynasty (明朝), the founder Monk Yuanzu (祖源和尚) expanded Panlong Temple, adding the Scripture Building (藏经楼) and Guanyin Hall (观音殿), giving it a more substantial form. According to the travel notes of Xu Xiake, “Master Lianfeng of Panlong Mountain, named Chongzhao, attained Nirvana on the 18th of August during the Yuan Zhizheng era… to this day, this has become the Panlong Festival” (《徐霞客游记》记载：“盘龙山莲峰祖师，名崇照，元至正间以八月十八日涅槃……至今日以此为盘龙会。”).

Visiting Routes

Nestled in the tranquil surroundings of Panlong Mountain, reaching this Buddhist sanctuary requires passing through “Four Gates.” Start from the eastern gate of Jincheng, marked by the “South Yunnan Spiritual Realm” archway, the “Entrance” gate. Next, proceed past the remnants of the Xiangshan Academy (象山书院) to reach the mountain gate, known as the “Mountain” gate. After passing Yingshan Lake (映山湖), ascend further and go through three heavenly gates, representing the “Heaven” gate. Finally, passing the Sleeping Buddha Hall and Luzu Pavilion (吕祖亭), you will arrive at the temple gate, the “Buddha” gate, which also serves as the “Tao” gate and “Holy” gate. Entering these four gates, one transcends the mundane, as if stepping into a realm of immortality, where the gifted and the divine converge at Panlong.

Panlong Temple Fair

Every year on the first day of the eighth lunar month, the Panlong Temple Fair (盘龙庙会) takes place. On this day, thousands of pilgrims and tourists flock to the temple to worship and celebrate, with most visitors coming from Kunming, Chenggong (呈贡), Kunyang (昆阳), and Yuxi (玉溪). The atmosphere is lively and bustling, unmatched by any other temple fair in the Kunming area.

Scenic Features

Panlong Temple is home to centuries-old trees and flowers, including tea flowers from the Yuan Dynasty, red plums from the Ming Dynasty, and silver osmanthus from the Qing Dynasty (清代). These trees continue to bloom every year, attracting countless flower enthusiasts.

Within the temple, there is a small courtyard known as the “Tea Flower Hall” (茶花殿), featuring two camellias purportedly planted by Master Lianfeng, which are over 600 years old. One tree produces large flowers, known as “Lion’s Head” (狮子头), which are bigger than a bowl and display vibrant colors. Another tree, “Soft Branch Pine Cone” (软枝松子鳞), stands over two meters tall, showcasing prized varieties.

Temple Scenery

Panlong Mountain spans several dozen miles, with its majestic main peak surrounded by mountains, the sound of pines echoing, and the towering central peak named “Panlong.” The name of the mountain reflects its form, as described by Qing Dynasty poet Zhou Hualin (清代周华林): “The winding mountain seems to coil like a dragon, with treetops concealing the temple and clouds veiling the exquisite peak” (蜿蜒山不断，作势欲盘龙，树杪藏箫寺，云根隐秀峰).

Transportation Information

• Take a minibus from East Station (东站) to Jiangchuan or Tonghai, getting off at Jincheng Panlong Temple (票价约15元).
• Direct buses to Panlong Temple depart from under the Kunming Chrysanthemum Interchange Bridge (昆明菊花立交桥), with tickets priced between 15 RMB and 20 RMB.

Major Attractions

Panlong Temple is constructed in accordance with the mountainous terrain, featuring the Three Heavenly Gates (一、二、三天门), Yinxian Bridge, Sleeping Buddha Hall, Luzu Hall, Master Hall, Mahavira Hall, Jade Emperor Pavilion (玉皇阁), Kṣitigarbha Hall (伽蓝殿), and Medicine Buddha Hall (药师殿), among over 20 courtyards. It serves as a sanctuary for the deities of Buddhism, Taoism, and Confucianism, with the Master Panlong Hall, Medicine Buddha Hall, and Guanyin Hall being particularly popular. The temple’s surroundings are rich in lush vegetation, renowned for its tea flowers and cypress trees. Originally home to Wansong Temple (万松寺), it now features the tall Guanhai Pavilion (观海楼), where visitors can enjoy panoramic views of Dianchi Lake and the distant Xishan Mountain.

Highlights:

• Discover the cultural relics and ancient inscriptions in the temple.
• Explore the lush gardens and majestic ancient trees.
• Experience the peaceful atmosphere ideal for meditation and reflection.
• Participate in the annual Panlong Temple Fair for a local cultural experience.

Travel Tips

• Best Time to Visit: Early mornings are ideal for tranquility and meditation.
• What to Wear: Comfortable clothing and shoes for walking.
• Food and Drink: It is advisable to bring water and snacks, as local food options may be limited.

Chinese Name: 富民县龙纳河
English Name: Longna River in Fumin County, Kunming

The Longna River (龙纳河) is located in Xihe Village (西核村), Luomian Township (罗免乡), Fumin County (富民县), approximately 20 kilometers from the county town. The area is easily accessible, featuring beautiful scenery, with scattered villages along the way. The local Yi (彝族) gardens are fragrant with fruit, and the scenic area is rich in forests. The streams are clear and pristine. The Longna River, also known as Longzha Dam (龙闸坝), attracts many visitors, earning it the nickname “Little Jiuzhaigou of Fumin” (富民的小九寨).

The Beauty of the Longna River

Water nourishes trees, and trees, in turn, nurture water. Under the nourishing sun and rain, the river valley is lush and green, with vibrant hues covering the landscape. Water springs from the roots, filtered through black soil and fallen leaves, gathering into a vast reservoir without leaving any traces, showcasing its unique resilience as it quietly forms a magnificent water body.

On the grassy areas by the reservoir, small frogs can be found in abundance, easily caught if one is not careful. I managed to catch one, took a picture, and released it back to see it happily hopping around. This is their territory, and we should not disturb these little spirits too much.

With my companions, I played by the water, throwing stones to create ripples. The beautiful circles of ripples danced on the azure surface.

Scenic Features

Mingjing Pool (明镜池), Bi-Lv Pool (碧绿潭), Happy Spring (开心泉), Qinqutang (情趣塘), Mysterious Pool (神秘潭), and Dream Pool (梦幻池) are like pearls scattered throughout the valley, making it vibrant and colorful. The primeval forest is a pure, bright green, resembling a celestial tapestry that has fallen into the pools, creating beautiful landscape paintings on the red soil plateau.

Have you ever seen traditional weaving? While hiking in the mountains, I chanced upon local Yi villagers herding their livestock. During their free time, they skillfully wove cloth, a rare sight of this ancient weaving method. The hardworking Chinese can create a piece of sky with their hands. Seeing the elderly woman smiling so joyfully made me happy as well. My companions and I took turns to take photos with her.

The stream flows down the winding valley, sometimes rushing, sometimes gently flowing. The crystal-clear water allows one to see the pebbles at the bottom. The stream emits a melodious sound, seemingly singing the joy of life and the brilliance of love.

After climbing the mountain, we descended to pick cherries. The cherry tree belonging to the owner was so tall that I couldn’t reach the fruit. The owner actually sawed the tree down for us to pick, leaving me astonished. We filled an entire basket with cherries!

Longna River Health Valley Scenic Area

The Longna River Health Valley Scenic Area (龙纳河养生谷风景区) is located in Xihe Village, Luomian Township, about 20 kilometers from Fumin County. With convenient transportation and beautiful scenery, the area features scattered villages along the route, where the homes of the Yi and Miao (苗族) people waft fragrant smoke from cooking. The scenic area is dense with forests, with streams flowing gently and fish swimming leisurely. The combination of lakes and mountains is stunning, resembling a paradise on earth that makes visitors linger and forget to leave, earning it the reputation of being “Little Jiuzhaigou of Fumin.”

Chinese Name: 龙纳河养生谷 (Longna River Health Valley)
Alias: 富民的小九寨沟 (Fumin’s Little Jiuzhaigou)
Location: 罗免乡西核村 (Xihe Village, Luomian Township)
Related Attractions: 明镜池 (Mingjing Pool), 碧绿潭 (Bi-Lv Pool), 开心泉 (Happy Spring)

The valley is filled with the sounds of trickling springs and babbling brooks, and the mountains and waters are clear and beautiful. Mingjing Pool, Bi-Lv Pool, Happy Spring, Qinqutang, Mysterious Pool, and Dream Pool are scattered like pearls, bringing life and color to the entire valley. The primeval forest is a brilliant green, resembling a celestial tapestry that has fallen into the pools, creating beautiful landscape paintings on the red soil plateau.

The picturesque lake, with its stunning reflections and swimming fish, is breathtaking. The ecological fishing farm also has its own unique charm, shaded by greenery and accompanied by clear waters, recreating a poetic scene of “small bridges and flowing water in harmony with homes.” Fishing from the bank, one can catch lively yellow fish and catfish, constantly bringing surprises. Wandering through the area allows one to forget worldly matters and completely immerse themselves in nature.

“Fumin’s Little Jiuzhaigou” offers an ethnic-style farmhouse that is nestled by the mountains and water, creating a paradise on earth that leaves visitors enchanted.

Activities in the Longna River Valley: Water Crossing, Hiking, and Climbing

Activity Introduction
The Longna River Valley is located in Xihe Village, Luomian Township, Fumin County, about 20 kilometers from the county town. The canyon is dense with forests and has gently flowing streams. The area is home to the Yi and Miao villages, where the villagers are simple and hospitable. If you encounter enthusiastic villagers in the mountains, they might even perform a duet of mountain songs for you.

Activity Example:

Total Distance: 10 kilometers
Estimated Time: 4-5 hours

We gather at the E exit of Line 3 or Line 4 of Dazhu Camp, take a bus for about 47 kilometers to Longzha Dam (龙扎坝水库), and enter the Longna River Valley from the right side of the dam for approximately 10 kilometers of hiking, photography, and crossing small streams. After having lunch in the valley, we return to the dam in the afternoon and then take a bus back to Kunming (昆明).

Itinerary: Longna River Ecological Park – Longzha Dam – Longna River Valley

Necessary Items

1. Essential Gear: Hiking shoes or military rubber boots (essential), a backpack (essential), trekking poles, rain gear (essential), gloves, a trash bag, a sun hat, sunscreen, and a mobile phone (with a portable charger).
2. Medicines: Ten Drops of Water (十滴水), Huoxiang Zhengqi Oral Liquid (藿香正气口服液), Yunnan Baiyao (云南白药), adhesive bandages, and any special items you may need.
3. Lunch: Bring your own lunch, along with at least 2 liters of drinking water and 1 liter of sports drinks. You may also bring a small amount of pickled vegetables, fruits, milk candies, dried beef, or other snacks.