Luchong Village in Jiangchuan District, Yuxi
Luchong Village (禄充村) is located on the western shore of Fuxian Lake (抚仙湖), in Chengjiang City (澄江市), Yuxi (玉溪市), Yunnan Province (云南省), about 20 kilometers from the county seat of Chengjiang. The village covers an area of 9.5 square kilometers. Nestled between mountains and the lake, the area features lush ancient trees and a harmonious blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage.
History and Culture
Luchong Village (禄充村) has a long history and is known for its outstanding talents, once praised with the phrase “One family, two Jinshi; one hundred steps, two Hanlin” (“一门双进士，百步两翰林”). The village is home to several ancient trees, the most notable being the Fragrant Tree (清香树) dating back to the Nanzhao Kingdom (南诏国) during the Tang Dynasty—over 1,200 years old. Another iconic tree is the Albizia Tree, also known as the Couple Tree (合欢树 / 夫妻树), symbolizing eternal love and devotion.
Folk Customs
Luchong Village (禄充村) preserves many traditional folk customs. Each year on the 19th day of the second lunar month, a grand temple fair is held at Guanyin Temple (观音寺) on the main peak of Bijiashan (笔架山). The event is vibrant and lively. In summer and autumn, locals use waterwheels to capture schools of fish known as Kanglang Fish (抗浪鱼) that swim upstream—a unique spectacle of the region.
Climate and Best Time to Visit
Luchong Village (禄充村) enjoys a subtropical monsoon climate with four distinct seasons and mild weather. The best time to visit is from May to October, when the skies are clear and temperatures are ideal for outdoor activities.
Recommended Attractions and Visit Duration
- Luchong Cave
Located in the southern part of the village, it features abundant underground spring water at a constant temperature of around 24°C year-round, which flows into Fuxian Lake.
Suggested visit duration: about 1 hour - Bijiashan
Resembling a pen holder with three peaks, this is a landmark of Luchong Village (禄充村).
Suggested visit duration: about 1.5 hours - Guanyin Temple
Located at the main peak of Bijiashan (笔架山), famous for its annual temple fair on the 19th day of the second lunar month.
Suggested visit duration: about 1 hour - Boxi Bay
Calm and peaceful, ideal for swimming and water sports.
Suggested visit duration: about 2 hours
Transportation
- Public Transportation:
From Kunming East Bus Station (昆明东部客运站), take a minibus to Chengjiang City (澄江市), with departures every 15 minutes. The journey takes about 1.5 hours. From Chengjiang, transfer to the Chengjiang-Luchong Line (澄江禄充线) on the west lakeside bus route, which takes about 20 minutes to reach Luchong Village (禄充村). - Self-Drive:
Drive from Kunming via the Kunyu Expressway (昆玉高速); the whole trip takes about 1 hour.
Local Cuisine
- Kanglang Fish (抗浪鱼):
A local specialty from Fuxian Lake (抚仙湖), usually prepared in copper pots, with a fresh and savory flavor. - Chengjiang Lotus Root Starch (澄江藕粉):
Smooth and nutritious, a regional delicacy.
Shopping
- Dried Kanglang Fish (抗浪鱼干):
A popular local specialty, ideal as a souvenir. - Chengjiang Lotus Root Starch (澄江藕粉):
Available in specialty stores around the scenic area.
Accommodation
- Lakeside Hotels:
It’s recommended to stay in lakeside hotels or guesthouses, such as Bijiashan Villa (笔架山庄), which offer convenient access to the lake and sunrise views. - Downtown Chengjiang:
Alternatively, stay in Chengjiang City (澄江县城) for more transportation options.
Travel Tips
- Environmental Protection:
Luchong Village (禄充村) is an important part of the Fuxian Lake ecosystem. Please protect the environment and do not litter. - Safety Tips:
Be cautious while playing near the lake and avoid swimming alone in unmonitored areas.
Suggested Itinerary
- Day 1:
Arrive in Chengjiang, check in at a lakeside hotel, visit Luchong Cave (禄充大洞) and Boxi Bay (波息湾), and enjoy local cuisine. - Day 2:
Explore Bijiashan (笔架山) and Guanyin Temple (观音寺), enjoy both nature and culture, and return to Chengjiang City (澄江县城) for rest. - Day 3:
Stroll around Chengjiang City (澄江县城), buy local specialties, and return to Kunming.
Luchong Village (禄充村) draws numerous visitors with its beautiful scenery, rich historical culture, and distinctive folk traditions. Whether you’re strolling by the lake or exploring ancient sites, you’ll be enchanted by the unique charm of this land. We hope this guide helps you plan a memorable journey to Luchong Village.
