The Ancient Dragon Tree of Dongchuan Red Land, Kunming

Chinese Name: 昆明东川红土地古龙树
English Name: The Ancient Dragon Tree of Dongchuan Red Land, Kunming
Location: Xintian Township, Dongchuan District, Kunming City, Yunnan Province, China

Located in the Dongchuan Red Land Scenic Area (东川红土地景区), approximately 250 kilometers north of Kunming (昆明) City, stands the Ancient Dragon Tree (古龙树), also known as the "Millennium Old Dragon Tree." This tree, believed to be over a thousand years old, is a remarkable natural wonder. Despite the infertile soil of the Red Land, it thrives on a small hill near Huago Village (花沟村), captivating visitors with its towering presence and resilience.

The Ancient Dragon Tree is a sand pine (Abies species), with a height ranging from 10 to 16 meters and a trunk diameter of 3 to 6 meters. Its canopy is umbrella-shaped, and it remains lush and evergreen throughout the year. The tree stands alone in the vast expanse of the red earth plateau, creating a visually stunning landscape.

Key Features

Millennium Age and Legendary Story

The tree is believed to be around a thousand years old and has an extraordinary story of resilience. It was once thought to be dead for three years before it miraculously sprouted new shoots. Locals regard the Ancient Dragon Tree as a sacred tree and a symbol of vitality and protection, with its history deeply embedded in the community's culture.

Cultural Symbol

The Ancient Dragon Tree is seen as a symbol of good fortune, providing protection to the local villagers. It is believed to ensure favorable weather and a bountiful harvest. Every year, villagers hold ritual ceremonies to honor the tree, asking for blessings. The tree was also featured in the famous Chinese film "The Road to the West" (无问西东), further boosting its popularity.

Ecological Protection

The Dongchuan District People’s Court (东川区人民法院) has issued a judicial protection order for the tree, prohibiting damage, climbing, or transplantation, ensuring the preservation of this ancient natural wonder.

Best Time to Visit

• Spring and Autumn (May-June and September-December) are the best seasons to visit, as the Red Land displays vibrant colors. The majestic Ancient Dragon Tree creates a perfect backdrop for photography during these times.

Transportation

By Car:

• Navigate to the Dongchuan Red Land Scenic Area (昆明市东川区红土地景区) via the Kunqu Expressway (昆曲高速) and Songdai Expressway (嵩待高速), which will take you to the area.

By Public Transport:

• From Kunming North Bus Station (昆明北部客运站) or Dongchuan District Bus Station (东川区客运站), take a bus to Huashitou Village (花石头村) and then walk or hire a taxi to the tree.

Hiking Route:

• You can also walk along the Dongchuan Red Land Scenic Area trail, passing scenic spots like Qicai Po (七彩坡) and Jinxiu Garden (锦绣园), covering a distance of about 16 kilometers, which takes around 4-5 hours.

Visitor Information

• Admission: Free entry. The site is open to visitors throughout the day.

• Photography Tips: The best times to capture stunning photographs of the Ancient Dragon Tree are at sunrise and sunset when the changing light creates dramatic shadows and highlights.

Nearby Attractions

• Luoxia Gou (落霞沟), Qicai Po (七彩坡), and other scenic spots in the Dongchuan Red Land area are perfect to combine with your visit to the Ancient Dragon Tree.