Longquan River in Yimen County, Yuxi

Longquan River (龙泉河) is located in Yimen County (易门县), Yuxi City (玉溪市), Yunnan Province (云南省), about 80 kilometers from Kunming (昆明), approximately one hour by car. The scenic area centers around Longquan National Forest Park (龙泉国家森林公园) and includes the Wild Mushroom Museum (野生菌博物馆), Longquan Cultural Square (龙泉文化广场), Longquan Ten-Mile Corridor (龙泉十里长廊), and Nantun Lake Ecotourism Area (南屯湖生态旅游区).

History and Culture

Historical Origins

Formerly known as “Longchuan (龙川)”, Longquan River (龙泉河) has a history of over a thousand years and is the birthplace of Yimen County (易门县). It was traditionally a site where local people worshipped dragons and water deities with theatrical performances, reflecting a rich cultural heritage.

Cultural Relics

Along the river are ancient stone inscriptions from the Tang Dynasty (唐代) called the "Eight Sights of Longquan" (龙泉八景), as well as historical temples such as Longquan Grand Temple (龙泉大寺) and Longyin Temple (龙隐寺).

Folk Traditions

The "Er Yue Er" (二月二) Opera Festival is the most iconic traditional folk event in Yimen (易门). Originating in the Jiajing period of the Ming Dynasty (明朝嘉靖年间), it has a history of more than 500 years and is listed as an intangible cultural heritage of Yunnan Province (云南省).

Folk Customs

"Er Yue Er" (二月二) Opera Festival

On the second day of the second lunar month, Yimen County (易门县) holds grand cultural and tourism celebrations including traditional lantern opera performances, dragon dance competitions, and motorbike music festivals.

Other Folk Activities

Yimen also hosts ethnic festivals such as the Miao Flower Mountain Festival (苗族花山节) and Yi Torch Festival (彝族火把节).

Weather and Best Time to Visit

Weather

Yimen County (易门县) has a subtropical monsoon climate, with distinct seasons, cool summers, and mild winters.

Best Time to Visit

Spring and autumn are the most pleasant seasons, offering ideal weather and beautiful scenery.

Recommended Attractions and Duration

• Longquan National Forest Park (龙泉国家森林公园): Around 2 hours. Enjoy towering ancient trees and mist-shrouded temples.
• Longquan Cultural Square (龙泉文化广场): Around 1 hour. View sculptures and buildings themed around dragon culture.
• Longquan Ten-Mile Corridor (龙泉十里长廊): Around 1.5 hours. This 1,731-meter-long corridor features picturesque landscapes.
• Nantun Lake Ecotourism Area (南屯湖生态旅游区): Around 2 hours. Explore scenic lakes, mountains, and wetlands.

Transportation

Self-Drive

From Kunming (昆明), drive along the Kunming–Mojiang Expressway (昆磨高速). The journey takes about 1 hour.

Public Transportation

Take a long-distance bus from Kunming (昆明) to Yimen (易门), then transfer to local buses.

Local Food

• Wild Mushrooms: Yimen (易门) is known as the "Hometown of Mushrooms" (菌乡), with summer being the best time to taste wild mushrooms.
• Local Snacks: Try local specialties like Yimen Roast Duck (易门烤鸭) and wild mushroom hotpot (野生菌火锅).

Shopping

• Dried Wild Mushrooms: Available in local markets, ideal as gifts.
• Ethnic Handicrafts: Miao embroidery (苗族刺绣), Yi silver ornaments (彝族银饰), and more.

Accommodation

• Hotels in the County Seat: A variety of mid-range hotels are available in Yimen town.
• Guesthouses: Characteristic guesthouses near Longquan River (龙泉河) offer local hospitality experiences.

Travel Tips

• Environmental Protection: Do not litter in the scenic areas. Help preserve the natural environment.
• Safety: Be cautious near rivers and waterfalls, and follow park regulations.

Suggested Itinerary

Day 1
Morning: Arrive in Yimen (易门), visit Longquan National Forest Park (龙泉国家森林公园).
Afternoon: Explore Longquan Cultural Square (龙泉文化广场) and Longquan Ten-Mile Corridor (龙泉十里长廊).
Evening: Enjoy local cuisine.

Day 2
Morning: Visit Nantun Lake Ecotourism Area (南屯湖生态旅游区).
Afternoon: Return to town and shop for local souvenirs.
Evening: Watch the "Er Yue Er" (二月二) folk performances.

Longquan River (龙泉河) in Yimen (易门) is not only a scenic destination with natural beauty, but also a place rich in historical culture and folk traditions. From its clear river waters and ancient architecture to vibrant festivals and delicious mushroom dishes, it offers an unforgettable travel experience in the heart of Yunnan.