Huashan Lake in Zhanyi District, Qujing

Overview

Huashan Lake (Huāshān Hú, 花山湖) is located in the northeastern city of Qujing (Qūjìng, 曲靖), Yunnan Province (Yúnnán Shěng, 云南省). It can be reached by following the river from the source of the Pearl River (Zhūjiāng, 珠江), passing through Guanyin Mountain (Guānyīn Shān, 观音山), leading to this stunning lake. Huashan Lake is a dazzling pearl set amidst the source of the Pearl River, embodying the grace and elegance of classical Eastern aesthetics. Surrounded by serene landscapes, it reveals a sense of composure and beauty.

Scenic Features

Huashan Lake is situated in the Karst (Kā sī tè, 喀斯特) landform area of Huashan in Zhanyi (Zhān yì, 沾益). The lake stretches approximately four kilometers in length and is over one kilometer wide. The best way to explore Huashan Lake is by taking a boat ride straight to the heart of the lake. As you glide across the shimmering waters under the warm sun, you will enter a fantastical world where the lake alternates between wide expanses and narrow stretches, displaying hues of blue and white.

During your journey, you will encounter a remarkable sight known as the "Small Stone Forest" (Xiǎo Shílín, 小石林)—a small island characterized by an array of bizarre rock formations resembling towering trees. Each stone stands thickly clustered together, forming a unique natural jungle. Observing closely, these formations take on various animal shapes: some look like lions, others resemble deer, horses, and sheep, while some even evoke the image of lotus flowers blossoming in the water.

Continuing from the Small Stone Forest, you will find Fenghuang Mountain (Fènghuáng Shān, 凤凰山). Originally two connected hills, when the lake rises, they transform into two unconnected islands, reminiscent of two playful phoenixes splashing in the water.

Scenic Description

The landscape surrounding Huashan Lake is exceptionally beautiful, with broad, rippling waters framed by mountains, islands, and clusters of curious rocks. Mr. Jiang Jicheng (蒋吉成), a renowned writer from Yunnan, expressed his admiration for the scenery in his book "Colorful Yunnan" (《彩云南现》): as one ascends the stone paths into the mountains, the dense forest exudes a relaxed beauty, with sunlight filtering through the leaves, creating a glittering effect on the lake's surface.

Historical Context

To thoroughly understand how the hardworking and brave people of Zhanyi constructed Huashan Lake in this Karst region, I spent several months visiting villages in the area, talking to participants, water conservancy officials, and local leaders. It was a challenging endeavor, often requiring additional visits to gather precise information. Local residents were warm and supportive, providing crucial insights into the construction of the dam, the challenges of the clay and silt, and the technical measures taken to manage the springs.

Through their dedicated labor and innovative practices, the people of Zhanyi successfully harnessed the formidable Karst landscape, overcoming significant challenges and creating a miracle at the source of the Pearl River. This remarkable history is chronicled in the book "Nampan River Today and Yesterday" (《南盘江今昔》). The spirit of determination and resilience echoes in the local songs celebrating their achievements.

Today, Huashan Lake has become a famous tourist destination. The area is thriving with agriculture, and the beauty of the lake continues to attract visitors year-round.

Activities

Visiting Huashan Lake offers a myriad of activities, including:

• Boat Tours: The ideal way to experience the serene beauty of the lake.
• Nature Observation: Explore the unique rock formations and diverse wildlife around the lake.
• Photography: Capture the picturesque landscapes, especially at sunrise or sunset.

How to Get There

Huashan Lake is approximately 1 kilometer from the intersection of the Xuantian Gao Registration Road (宣天高登记公路) and Bole Township (播乐乡) in Zhanyi District, Qujing City, Yunnan Province.

Travel Tips

• Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn offer mild weather, perfect for outdoor activities.
• What to Bring:
  • Comfortable shoes for walking.
  • Sun protection (hat, sunscreen).
  • A camera to capture the stunning scenery.
• Facilities: Restrooms and dining options may be limited, so plan accordingly.

Visit Huashan Lake for an unforgettable experience of natural beauty and tranquility in Yunnan! ?