Ancient Earthquake Site of Hongshiyan in Yongsheng County, Lijiang

Chinese Name: 永胜县红石崖古地震遗址
English Name:Ancient Earthquake Site of Hongshiyan in Yongsheng County, Lijiang

Hongshiyan is the best-preserved earthquake site in the world, formed after a major earthquake 500 years ago. It showcases the awe-inspiring aspects of nature with its torn and collapsed features. Located about 2 kilometers northwest of Yongsheng County (along the Liyong Highway), the Hongshiyan Canyon is approximately 9 kilometers long and 3 kilometers wide, with the valley floor dropping about 500 meters to the highest peak, covering a total area of 54 square kilometers. This site holds great scientific research, exploration, and recreational tourism value, serving as a precious resource left by nature for the people of Yongsheng, waiting to be developed and protected.

The 1515 Earthquake

According to the Yunnan Tongzhi from the Ming Dynasty, a significant earthquake occurred on May 6, 1515 (the sixth year of the Zhengde era). With a magnitude of 8.1, the earthquake's epicenter intensity reached 10 degrees, classifying it as a tectonic earthquake. Due to the earthquake's high magnitude and strong intensity, the energy was concentrated, causing the mountains in the affected area to be torn apart and creating numerous cracks of varying widths, the longest of which stretches for 2 kilometers and is found on the northern cliff. The earthquake tore apart and collapsed the mountains, forming the large rift valley we see today, which is 50 to 300 meters wide, 500 meters deep, and 9 kilometers long.

A giant “sinkhole” was also created on the eastern side of the rift valley. This earthquake destroyed many homes in the ancient county town—then known as Beishengzhou—and redirected the originally north-south flowing Lingyuanqing water system to an east-west direction, leading to the formation of the Wulang River system flowing from Hongshiyan to San Chuanba. During the earthquake, mountains collapsed, and a large amount of limestone erupted from the surface, leaving behind different levels and platforms. The earthquake rift valley formed a bottomless abyss, with steep cliff walls on both sides, peculiar stone formations, and a spectacular landscape.

Prominent experts have conducted studies at the earthquake site multiple times, resulting in several research papers. Professor Bruhn, a geological expert from the University of California, visited Hongshiyan for research twice in 1982, stating, “This is the most complete and magnificent ancient earthquake site in the world.” In April 2005, this earthquake site was approved by the National Earthquake Bureau as the “Yongsheng Hongshiyan National Earthquake Site.”

Scenic Attractions

After enjoying the spectacular views of the ancient earthquake site, visitors can continue north to Daguanping, located 1 kilometer north of the “sinkhole.” This area is densely forested, with wild rabbits and mountain chickens visible throughout. Walking for an hour along the terraced slopes of Daguanping leads to the summit of Guanshan, where a panoramic view of Yongsheng and the beautiful Yulong Snow Mountain in Lijiang can be enjoyed. The rocks at the mountain peak are uniquely shaped, and many peonies and herbaceous plants grow among the crevices of the rocks. In spring, wild grasses and mountain flowers bloom, creating a vibrant scene. About 200 meters down the eastern slope from the mountain top is Linxian Pool, covering an area of approximately 10 acres, where the beautiful mountain scenery is reflected, creating an enchanting sight.

Historical Impact of the Earthquake

According to historical records, the earthquake affected areas including Dali, Lijiang, Heqing, Jianchuan, and more. It caused severe damage in today's Yongbei Town, with over 20 square kilometers experiencing land subsidence of about 20 meters toward the northwest. The northern part of the basin broke apart, forming numerous ravines and pits. The earthquake expanded the fractures at Hongshiyan, leading to rock collapses and the disappearance of spring water sources. Over 1,500 houses collapsed, and more than a thousand people were injured or killed.

Longmen Gorge Site

Another site formed by the earthquake is the Longmen Gorge to Qiaotou River site. Longmen Gorge, also known as Shimen Pass, is traversed by the Salt Pond River, extending over 20 li. The northern gorge features towering peaks, while the southern gorge is slightly lower. Along the banks of the river, steep cliffs with predominantly dark red and black rock walls create a dramatic landscape. The valley is deep, and the cliffs once hosted ibex, making it daunting to approach.

The Salt Pond River flows through Longmen Gorge for over ten li, with the Qiaotou River at the foot of Xishan Pass, where the landscape becomes flat. An ancient transportation route, the Tea-Horse Road, connects the ancient Yongsheng County to the San Chuanba Jin Guan market. The Mengchuan Bridge, built here, signifies eternal stability and has historical significance.

Xishan Caohai

San Chuanba in Yongsheng originally belonged to the Jinguang and Liangguan areas, which merged to form San Chuan Town. Covering an area of 85 square kilometers, it currently has 63,148 acres of arable land and a population of over 60,000. San Chuan has always been a grain base of Yongsheng, especially during the Qing Dynasty. The area features large grasslands and a flat landscape surrounded by mountain ranges due to the geological formation resulting from the Yongsheng Great Earthquake.

The vast expanse of greenery and flowers creates a picturesque scene, especially with the backdrop of the snow-capped Yulong Snow Mountain. The area hosts the “Diyizhai Caohai”—the most famous grazing ground in Yunnan, attracting tourists to enjoy leisure time and picnics. The grasslands are home to many animals, including wild goats, cattle, and horses.

Cultural Significance

The ancient earthquake site of Hongshiyan provides not only a geological spectacle but also historical significance, revealing the resilience and adaptation of local communities. The scenic area has become a focal point for cultural events, educational research, and eco-tourism, contributing to the preservation of local history and natural heritage.

Summary

In summary, Hongshiyan and its surrounding regions, including Longmen Gorge and San Chuanba, present a remarkable blend of natural beauty and historical significance. These sites provide insights into geological phenomena and serve as reminders of the region's past, making them important for both conservation and tourism. As Yongsheng continues to develop its tourism potential, the Hongshiyan earthquake site stands as a testament to the power of nature and the enduring spirit of its people.