Longkan Wharf of Erhai Lake in Dali

Longkan Wharf (龙龛码头) is located on the eastern shore of Erhai Lake (洱海) in Dali City (大理市), Dali Bai Autonomous Prefecture (大理白族自治州), Yunnan Province (云南省). It is about 5 kilometers from Dali Ancient Town (大理古城). The wharf is not only part of the scenic Erhai Ring Road but also a cultural link between the ancient town and surrounding areas.

History and Culture

The history of Longkan Wharf dates back to the Nanzhao Kingdom (南诏) period. It was also one of the filming locations for the movie Breakup Buddies (心花怒放). The site blends natural beauty with rich cultural memories of the Nanzhao era.

Natural Scenery

Longkan Wharf is an excellent place to watch the sunrise and sunset over Erhai Lake. In the early morning, the sun rises from behind Cangshan Mountain (苍山), turning the lake golden, with rippling waves and seagulls in flight. At sunset, light and shadow mingle as the red water cedars reflect on the shimmering lake surface.

Cruise Routes

Erhai Lake Grand Cruise (Long Route):

• Morning: Longkan Pier (龙龛码头) (9:00-10:00) → Xiao Putuo (小普陀) (20 minutes) → Nanzhao Folk Island (南诏风情岛) (1 hour) → Butterfly Spring Pier (蝴蝶泉码头) (Taoshu Pier) (结束时间12:30-13:30).

• Afternoon: Butterfly Spring Pier (蝴蝶泉码头) (Taoshu Pier) (13:30-14:30) → Nanzhao Folk Island (南诏风情岛) (1 hour) → Longkan Pier (龙龛码头) (结束时间17:30-18:00).

Longkan Erhai Lake Eco Cruise:

• Morning: Longkan Pier (龙龛码头) (9:30-10:00) → Luoqian Peninsula (罗荃半岛) (1 hour) → Longkan Pier (龙龛码头) (结束时间11:50).

• Afternoon: Longkan Pier (龙龛码头) (14:50) → Luojiao Peninsula (罗较半岛) (1 hour) → Longkan Pier (龙龛码头) (结束时间16:30).

Ticket Information

• The round-trip fare for the long or short cruise routes ranges from approximately 140 to 142 yuan.

• Ticket prices may vary due to seasonal factors, holidays, etc., so it's recommended to check with the ticket office when purchasing.

Cruise Schedule

• Long Cruise: Departing from Dali Port (大理港) at 09:00 AM, arriving at Longkan Pier (龙龛码头) by 10:00 AM. (Please note that departure times may vary depending on the port of departure).

• Short Cruise: Departs from Longkan Pier (龙龛码头) at 10:30 AM and 2:00 PM.

Practical Tips

• Check the weather in advance and plan your trip accordingly.

• Choose the cruise route based on personal interest and physical condition.

• Be mindful of the cruise schedule to avoid missing the last boat.

• Ensure safety on the boat by avoiding unnecessary movement or climbing over the railing.

Tourist Activities

• Cycling and Walking: The lakeside path is perfect for strolling. Renting an electric bike (around 30 RMB/day) allows you to explore nearby red cedar forests.

• Cultural Experiences: Nearby Longxiading Village (龙下登村) is a thousand-year-old Bai (白族) village where visitors can try traditional crafts such as tie-dye and kite-making.

• Food and Accommodation: Small shops near the wharf serve Yunnan coffee (云南咖啡), Crossing-the-Bridge Rice Noodles (过桥米线), and other local specialties. Staying in a lakeside guesthouse lets you enjoy morning coffee on the balcony while watching the sunrise, and fall asleep to the sound of waves.

Transportation

• Public Transport: Take the Three Pagodas Line (三塔专线) to Longkan Ecological Park Station (龙龛生态园站), then walk about 1.5 km to the wharf.

• Driving/Taxi: Navigate directly to Longkan Wharf; parking is available nearby.

• Electric Bike: Rent one from Dali Ancient Town or Caicun Wharf (才村码头) and ride to Longkan Wharf.

Ticket Information

Longkan Wharf is open to the public free of charge.