East Lake in Eryuan County, Dali

Donghu (东湖) is located in the eastern part of Yousuo Town (右所镇), Eryuan County (洱源县). Covering an area between 6 and 10 square kilometers, it complements Xihu (西湖) to the west, with the Miju River (弥苴河) flowing from the northwest of Donghu all the way into Erhai Lake (洱海). This scenic route offers picturesque views along its entire course. The region around Donghu is known as the “Land of Lotuses (荷花之乡)”, home to four villages that blend seamlessly with the lake’s natural beauty, forming an idyllic pastoral landscape. During summer, thousands of lotus flowers bloom magnificently, making Donghu a true natural paradise.

Scenic Features

The lake is fed by clear mountain springs that emerge from the foot of Dongshan (东山), forming a large pond of over 1,500 square meters. This spring-fed pool is surrounded by temples and pavilions, with ancient pines and cypress trees spreading across nearly one square kilometer, giving rise to the lake's signature “a lake within a lake” scenery. The largest Benzhu Temple (本主庙) of the Bai ethnic group (白族) in the Dongchuan Basin (东川盆地) is also located here. From July 23 to 25 each year, worshippers gather at the Longtan Benzhu Temple (龙潭本主庙) to participate in festive ceremonies and prayers.

Donghu is renowned for its abundance of lotus flowers and the charm of a highland water village, offering visitors a tranquil and rustic atmosphere and a deep connection between life and nature.

Location and Transportation

Donghu (东湖) lies east of Yousuo Town (右所镇) in Eryuan County (洱源县), separated from Xihu (西湖) by the Miju River (弥苴河). It connects directly to Erhai Lake (洱海) via the Yongan River (永安江). Covering about 4.7 square kilometers, the layout of the area creates the unique landscape of “villages within the lake, and lake within the villages.”

Cultural Heritage

Historically, Eryuan (洱源)—once known as Langqiong (浪穹)—is the source of Erhai Lake (洱海). In 1530, during a plague in Yunnan, the scholar Yang Shen (杨慎), styled Sheng'an (升庵), came to Dali and Eryuan. The enchanting landscape helped him forget his sorrows. From the mountain base to the shores of Erhai, this fertile land has long been celebrated as a land of fish and rice. The Miju River (弥苴河) flows like a giant dragon from north to south into Erhai, dividing the region in two, with ancient trees and lush vegetation lining both banks. With its captivating scenery, Donghu (东湖) is truly a hidden gem.

Popular spots for viewing lotus flowers in Eryuan (洱源) include Cibi Lake (茈碧湖), Caohai Wetland (草海湿地), Xihu (西湖) in Yousuo, and of course, Donghu (东湖).

Seasonal Beauty

The lotus flowers in Donghu (东湖) are at their most spectacular between June and August. In midsummer, strolling along the lakeshore reveals vast lotus fields, where red and white blossoms bloom in unison—an awe-inspiring sight.

Flora and Fauna

Donghu’s charm lies in its thriving lotus blossoms and untouched natural environment. The local Bai people (白族) have carefully preserved the flora for generations, nurturing a deep love for every flower and leaf. The region holds significant historical value, with notable figures such as Lady Bai Jie (白洁夫人) from the Tang Dynasty and Gao Shanggui (高上桂) from the Qing Dynasty contributing to its cultural legacy.

Travel Information

Public Transport:

From Dali (大理), take a coach from the Xiaguan North Bus Station (下关客运北站) to Eryuan (洱源), getting off at either Dengchuan (邓川) or Yousuo (右所).

Local Transport:

Small electric tricycles (local “xiaosanlun”) can take you to Donghu (东湖) . The local Bai people (白族) are known for their hospitality and will gladly help with directions.

Self-Drive:

Take the Dali–Lijiang Expressway to the Dengchuan exit, then follow National Highway 214 toward Eryuan. After reaching Dengchuan Town (邓川镇), turn right toward Tenglong Village (腾龙村) to reach the Dengbei Bridge Wetland (邓北桥湿地).

Travel Tips

• Best time to visit: June to August for lotus viewing.
• Transport: Local transportation is convenient. Ask the friendly locals for assistance if needed.
• Accommodation: The area is not yet heavily commercialized, but Dengchuan (邓川) and Yousuo (右所) have several decent hotels. For a more luxurious experience, consider nearby hot spring hotels，such as Putuo Spring Resort (普陀泉度假村).

Local Cuisine

• Aquatic vegetables (水菜): Also called "sea vegetables (海菜)," this local specialty can be stir-fried or used in soup.
• Raw pork slices (生皮): A delicacy in Yousuo (右所). Recommended spots: Hongxing Restaurant (红星饭店) and Yuchun Garden (榆春园).
• Wild carp (野生鲫鱼): Tender and fresh; try the spicy and sour version.
• Dengchuan milk fan (邓川乳扇): A unique snack made from fresh cow’s milk.

Donghu (东湖) captivates visitors with its pristine natural beauty and deep cultural heritage. Here, you can fully immerse yourself in its charm and enjoy the serene and simple atmosphere of the highland countryside.