Why is Tonghai Confucius Temple So Special?
Tonghai Confucius Temple(通海文庙) is situated on the south of Tonghai County, at the foot of Xiushan Mountain. The temple consists of a group of ancient architectures which are divided by a central axis. It is composed of red walls(65 meters in length, 1.9 meters in depth and 8 meters in height), pools, Wenming Archway(文明坊), Martyr Temple(忠烈祠), Chaste and Filial Temple(节孝祠), Dacheng Gate(大成门), Xiangxian Tmple(the temple of local respectable and dead persons), Famous Officials Temple(名宦祠), East Room(东庑), West Room(西庑), Dacheng Hall(大城殿), Bell and Drum Tower, Saint Temple(崇圣祠), and Book-collection Hall(尊经阁), with a total area of 12,000 square meters. It was selected as the fifth batch of provincial cultural relics protection unit in 1998.
The whole temple presents a solemn atmosphere. In Qing Dynasty, several famous personalities studied here, such as Zhu Zun(朱嶟), the director of Board of Rites; Dong Qi(董玘) and Dong Jian(董健), scholars of the Imperial Academy; And Kan Zhenzhao(阚祯兆), the famous calligraphy artist.
Nearby Attractions
Hexi Confucius Temple in Tonghai County, Yuxi
Xiushan Mountain Park in Tonghai County
Sansheng Palace in Tonghai County, Yuxi
How to Get There
Tourists have two ways to get to Tonghai Confucius Temple in Tonghai County, long-distance bus and train.
1. By Long-distance Bus
There are non-stop long-distance buses from Kunming east bus station to Tonghai bus terminal. It takes about 2.5 hours, 42 yuan. After arriving in Tonghai County, you can take a taxi or walk to Tonghai Confucius Temple. It is about 2 kilometers from Tonghai bus terminal to Tonghai Confucius Temple.
2. By Train
It takes about 2 hours from Kunming railway station to Tonghai railway station, costs 22 yuan.
Accommodation Around Tonghai Confucius Temple
Since Tonghai Confucius Temple is in Wenxing Road of Tonghai County, you can stay in Tonghai County for accommodation. There are some hotels in Tonghai County. Accommodation is convenient.
Useful Travel Tips
1. The traffic route: Kunming-Tonghai County-Liyue West Road(礼乐西路)-West Street-Gucheng West Road(古城西路)-Shuncheng Street(顺城街)-Wenxing Street(文星街)-Tonghai Confucius Temple.
2. Learn something about Confucius in advance.
3. You can participate in some cultural activities during festivals.
4. Tonghai Confucius Temple visit is mainly indoor activities, therefore, travel is possible all the year round.
Wangtianshu Scenic Spot
Wangtianshu Scenic Attraction is the only oasis at 21 degrees north latitude, and has been recognized internationally as China’s unique tropical rainforest. What is the most impressive in the park are the towering Shorea chinensis (Sky Trees) that are the rainforest iconic images in South and Southeast Asia. An Air Corridor (Kong Zhong Zou Lang), 2500 meters long and 36 meters high, has been built on the high canopies. It remains a challenge to both visitors and scientists. The well-protected tropical rainforest that was discovered by the Chinese reputed botanist Mr. Cai Xitao (1911-1981) and witnessed by Prince Philip of the UK, surprised many people when it was unveiled to the outside world. With hotels and air corridor, you can travel and lodge here.
Where is Wangtianshu Scenic Spot?
Wangtianshu Scenic Attraction is located in Mengla County of Xishuangbanna Prefecture. It is 130 kilometers away from Jinghong and 370 kilometers from Luang Prabang-a world cultural heritage site of Laos.
How to Get to Wangtianshu Scenic Spot?
Take bus from Jinghong Banna Bus Station to Mengla County, run every 30 minutes, the ticket price is CNY 50. Then change a car to Wangtianshu Scenic Spot, CNY 9 for this bus.
Main Attractions
◊Wangtianshu (Sky Trees)
Wangtianshu, one of peculiar tree species in Xishuangbanna State, is distributed in Buwa and Jingpiao in Mengla County, meaning “tree that gazes upon the sky”. These trees reach 70 or 80 meters high in the air. This park north of Mengla has a rickety walkway through the canopy, running from Wangtianshu to Wangtianshu. You must first go to the Air Corridor to experience the thrilling feeling. Then you can appreciate the wonders of the nature in the tropical rainforest. Strolling in the forest, there are so many liana, epiphyte and fern, especially the cruel garrotte phenomena.
The “Air Corridor” in Wangtianshu Scenic Spot is 2.5 kilometers long and 36 meters high. Connected by the bulky iron chains between Wangtianshu, the wooden road surface is laid on the corridor, with ropes protection around. It is breathtaking walking on the corridor. From the corridor, you can enjoy a bird view of the whole rainforest.
◊Cai Xitao Path
Cai Xitao came to Bubeng Village of Mengla County for study on the rainforest and find the Parashorea Cathayensis, improving the existence of rainforest in China. This path is named for the great scientist Cai Xitao.
◊Tropical rainforest
The rainforest exhibits a high bio-diversity beyond one’s imagination. Only the arboreal layer can be further classified into three to four detailed sub-layers. The forest is full of adnascent plants and entwining rattans which can totally extend miles if flattened. Aged stems incredibly bear clusters of blossoms and fruits. In order to get more sun light, lots of herbal plants have grown huge leaves that can shelter several people from the rain.
◊Five Spectacular Sights
There are 5 spectacular sights in the forest park: (1)-Buttressed base roots(板根); (2)-Plants strangling(绞杀); (3)-Old stem bearing blossoms and fruits(老茎怀春); (4)-Parasitic and adnascent plants(寄生附生); (5)-Drip-dip leaves(滴水叶尖).Nanla River
There is a Nanla River in the spot, legendary a place for Shakyamuni Buddha to chant sutras and pour tea. You can take a boat strolling the river, to explore the wonder of rainforest. It is unique from other scenic spots. Usually need 40RMB for one-way boating.
Recommended Tours
3 Days XishuangBanna Hiking Tour to Yao Ethnic Village and The Air Corridor
Best Time to Visit
Belonging to tropical rainforest climate, Xishuangbanna’s dry season is from November to April the next year and rainy season is from May to October. With annual average temperature of 21c, it has long summer and no winter. With cool and pleasant four seasons, the best time for traveling Xishuangbanna is from October to April the next year.
- The Water-Splashing Festival, the most important festival for the Dai People to celebrate New Year, is usually celebrated in the middle of April.
- Try to avoid Chinese public holidays, such as Labor Day (May 1st to 3rd) and National Day (October 1st to 7th). It is recommended that you start your day early so as to avoid crowds.
Nearby Attraction
Menglun Tropical Botanical Garden
Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden (Chinese name: 西双版纳热带植物园) was built in 1959, is the biggest and richest botanical garden in China nowadays. Since 1996, this garden combined with former Kunming Ecological Research Institute, formed an independent research institution attached to Chinese Academy of Science. With the time goes by, it becomes a comprehensive garden that combined research, preservation and education of tropical plants together.
Useful Travel Tips
●It is better to prepare some mosquito products and sun block in case of insects and sunlight.
●Respect the local customs of Dai and other minorities.
●The Alianya Water-Splashing Show
The Water-Splashing Festival, New Years Day by Dai calendar, will be celebrated in the Jinghong City Proper between April 12 and 18. The grandest festival of the Dai is usually held along with activities such as dragon-boat racing, sending off skyrockets, and throwing love pouches. It is believed that everyone being splashed at will have good luck. There is a Water-Splashing show in the spot every day. Tourist will have a happy experience to join them.
●Wifi covering
The most convenient of the spot is 80% of the spot covered with WIFI, and the internet speed is very good. You can use the internet without considering PB per month. This is very rare in the domestic scenic spots.
Chinese Name:瑞丽畹町国家森林公园
English Name: Wanding National Forest Park, Dehong
With a population of 10,000, it was the smallest town at the county level in China. It borders on Burma in the south, separated only by a river from jiugu, an important town in the north of Burma and has a boundary line of over 28 kilometers. In February 1999, Wanding, a former county-level city, became a part of Ruili City. Wanbing was a key point on the Southwest Silk Route. In 1938,theYunnan -Burma Road was open to traffic, and Wanding was the terminal stop in China.During the Anti-Japanese War, the Japanese army blocked all other ports in China.
Wanding became the only international passageway on land, through which many military supplies were carried to the interior of the country, making great contribution to t he war Wanding Bridge stands over the Wanding River in the south of Wanding Town and is a bridge over the boundary river between China and Burma. A customs house and a frontier inspection station are set up on the bridge. Since Liberation Wanding Bridge has been a bridge symbolizing the friendship between the friendship between the people of the two countries. On December 5, 1985 the sister of the king of Tailand came to Wanding Bridge while paying a visit to the port of Wanding.
Chinese Name:陇川章风观音寺
English Name: Guanyin Temple in Longchuan County, Dehong
Guanyin (Goddess of Mercy) Temple is situated in the middle of Laozhai Village in the west of Zhangfeng Township, Longchuan County. It is a famous scenic spot in the remote frontier of Yunnan and is especially known for 《the Chinese Tripitaka》 housed in it. On entering Guanyin Temple, one will be greeted by the flying eaves at the gate top.
Exploring ahead, you can see a big incense-burner erecting on a platform in the courtyard of the temple. Pilgrims frequently pay visits to Guanyin Temple and usually burn incenses as sacrifices. The incense-burner, 1 meter high, is a tripod similar to Simuwu Rectangle Tripod (14th-11th century B.C) unearthed in 1939 in Henan Province. A garden has been cultivated behind the platform. It’s planted with chrysanthemums and thrifty pine trees. A century-old cypress can be seen growing on the left part of the garden. Though “aged” and “emaciated”, it still perseveres to uphold its large and luxuriant canopy. In the middle of the garden two unnamed trees are flourishing with symmetrically twisting branches.
The scriptorium, an exquisite and dainty pavilion with flying eaves, is seated on a flat-roofed building. It houses 《The Chinese Tripitaka》, a Buddhist canon codified in the Tang Dynasty when Master San Zang (602-664) journeyed to Ancient India for Buddhist scriptures. Presented by the Education Fund of Taiwan Financial Group,《The Chinese Tripitaka》includes 577 booklets in 7 parts with a total weight of 1,500 kg. It consists of: (1)-Sutra-Pitaka (the collection of sutras); (2)-Vinaya-Pitaka (the collection of Buddhist precepts); (3)-Abhidhamma-Pitaka (the collection of Buddhist theories).
At the end of the garden are the Majestic Hall (Da Xiong Bao Dian) and Chanting Hall (Nian Jing Tang), both of which are traditional pavilions connecting to each other thus giving birth to another spectacular scene in the temple. Inside the Majestic Hall, the Three Bodies of Sakyamuni are enshrined, all of whom are vividly sculpted with benignant looks and radiant smiles. In front of the Three Bodies, several mini-sized Buddha figures are inlaid in orderly-arranged frames. Besides Buddha figures, the Majestic Hall is also equipped with a huge bell and a drum for Buddhist sacrificial ceremonies.
At the center of the Chanting Hall, the Goddess of Mercy in a Zen gesture (palms together) is seated on a pedestal. In front of her is Vairocana (Sakyamuni or Buddha) that is flanked by two Bodhisattvas: Bodhisattva Samantabhadra (Puxian) and Bodhisattva Manjusri (Wenshu). Puxian and Wenshu are said to be two junior sister apprentices of the Goddess of Mercy. Both of them are in Zen gesture too and have respectively a white elephant and a lion as their rides. What’s more, at the left front, a monk statue looking like Tang Seng (Master San Zang is nicknamed “Tang Seng” in the story of “Pilgrimage to West Paradise”) is holding a bowl and Buddhist stick.
The Do’s and Don’ts in Buddhist Temple:
1)Into the hall: you should lift the left foot first from the left door or lift the right foot first from the right door. Don’t go into the hall through the middle door.
2)Into the temple: you should go around from left to right instead of from right to left.
3)You should burn the incense outside the temple in order to avoid fire because most of the monastery buildings are made of wood.
- 11 Days Western Yunnan and Myanmar Border Cycling Tour
- 16 Days Yunnan-Burma Overland Tour from Kunming to Yangon
- 26 Days Grand Yunnan Ethnic Minority Exploration
Admission Fee:￥0
Attraction Transportation:Over-night sleeper bus available from Kunming to Longchuan Route: Kunming-An’ning-Chuxiong-Dali-Baoshan-Longling-Luxi-Longchuan.
Chinese Name:陇川章凤镇拉影村
English Name: Laying Village in Longchuan County, Dehong
Plan your Dehong Ethnic Villages Tour to Dehong? Visit Laying Village in Longchuan County, Dehong which is one of the most fascinating ethnic villages in Dehong. Explore the local folk ethnic culture including History, Food and Dining, Clothing, Customs and Traditions, Architecture, Festivals, Crafts, Religion, Language of local ethnic people in Laying Village in Longchuan County, Dehong.
La Ying, a village situated between the boundary tablets No. 50 and No. 51 at the border line between China and Myanmar, used to be important passage on the South Silk Road. It’s called “Foreigners Street” by either Chinese or Burmese. The east part of the village belongs to China and the west part to Myanmar; so people vividly call it “a village shared by two countries” (Yi Zhai Liang Guo). A huge banyan tree is growing in the middle of the village that is “divided” by bamboo fences, roads and earth ridges. The villagers from two countries share water from one river, share one street, share one temple and yet share one holy tree.
A huge banyan tree is growing in the middle of the village that is “divided” by bamboo fences, roads and earth ridges. The villagers from two countries share water from one river, share one street, share one temple and yet share one holy tree.
Laying Border is also named Zhangfeng Border between Myanmar and China.
洋人街的中国一侧叫“拉影”。抗战时，我抗日自卫军曾在此打过拉影洋人街包围战，毙敌人60余人。现在拉影是中缅两国的口岸之一，陇川县城所在地是章凤镇，拉影距章凤八公里，所以这里的口岸叫章凤口岸。章凤口岸现在过货不多。在口岸我见到不少孩子正好出关去缅甸那边上学。原来他们的父母已经常住中国一侧经商做工，孩子们还要每天“回国”去上学。
Chinese Name: 云南景颇园
English Name: Yunnan Jingpo Ethnic Park in Longchuan County, Dehong
Yunnan Jingpo Park is located at Guangshan Village, Zhangfeng Town, which is 2 kilometers east of new seat of Longchuan County and just beside the Ruili-Zhangfeng road.
All the villagers are Jingpos and their houses are all built in the traditional architectural style of Jingpo ethnic group. There are age-old thatched cottage and bamboo houses with short stilt, and wood-and-tile houses with Jingpo characteristics. These houses are scattered as usual. Bajiao banana tree, Mango Tree, jackfruit tree, grapefruit and all kinds of flowering tree enclosed their courtyards. The folk customs are still basically kept in the village.
A folk singing and dancing team is organized to conduct on-the-spot performances for visitors from all sides. The main scenic spots in the village include village gate, tiny temple housing the village god, Munao Zongge (mass dance) ground, small-scale dance ground, lover’s woods, etc.. There are also some shops for making and selling handicrafts, dining hall which hosts “green leave feast” accompanied with singing and dance, and other affiliated facilities. It is a good place for relaxation and entertainment.
Yunnan Jingpo Park is a wonderful place for visitors to taste green-leave feast, watch Jingpo singing and dance, experience Jingpo-style wedding ceremony, and attend folk sports and campfire party. Only by being a Jingpo, tasting Jingpo food, performing Munao Zongge dance for one day can visitors experience the genuine Jingpo customs and cultures.
Chinese Name:瑞丽喊萨奘房
English Name: Hansa Zangfang Temple in Ruili City, Dehong
Location: 瑞丽市勐卯镇喊萨村
Hansa Zangfang is one of the bigger temples in Dai ethnic villages of Ruili City, belongs to the wood railing frame architecture, grandly and beautifully, with flowery ornament. The corridor is near the door and a couple of peacocks carved into the door. Inside the zangfang, there is a tall figure of Sakyamuni sitting in the seat, gracefully and elegantly, with five disciples standing beside him. The peacocks, white elephants and kylin were drawn in the roof and the wall of the temple. Long flags hung on the girder, which made it more magnificent.
In the stockaded villages of Dai people, nearly every family has a magnificent house, and Hansa Zang House is the biggest and most magnificent one among those houses in Ruili. Zang House means “temple” and is a kind of buildings with balustrades. It is always colourfully decorated, and well known along Sino-Burma boundary. The temple is not very large, but there is a kindly dignitary in the temple who will enlighten you and bless you if you are lucky enough.
Hansa Zang House is a building with Dai characteristics. Hiding in bamboos and roots of Ficus microcarpa, it , together with neighbouring stockaded villages of Dai, forms a harmonious block of buildings. It is said that this is the soul of traditional buildings of Dai and artistic storehouse of Dai culture. Every Dai festival, pilgrims and tourists will come to worship in an endless stream.
“Hansa Zangfang” is the pith of Dai’s architecture and artistic treasury of Dai’s culture.
“奘房”即通常所说的寺庙，是佛教徒出家修行的地方，也是佛爷传经布道的场所。喊萨奘房建于傣族村寨之中，它是一座凤竹环绕、榕树垂须、别具民族特色的建筑，是傣家建筑之精华，傣族文化荟萃的艺术宝库。
瑞丽，傣语叫勐卯，意思是“雾茫茫笼罩的翠绿地方”。它三面与缅甸接壤，瑞丽江像一条闪闪发光的玉带，陇川江又像一条金色的缎带，从东西两面缠着翡翠般的瑞丽坝，更增添了它风姿的秀美。
佛教文化
数百年前，勐卯地区已成为当地傣族政治、经济的中心，在现勐卯镇修建了德宏地区第一座城，为勐卯历代土司的所在地。
据傣文史籍记载，在勐卯古国时曾一度为其京都，也传闻它最早是鸳鸯栖歇之地。这里以幽静见著，寨里绿竹幽径，榕树绿荫，花开四时，果结终年，佛寺点缀其中，组成一幅美丽的油画景色。
景点特色
喊萨奘房是瑞丽农村较大的佛寺之一，雄伟美观，装饰绚丽多彩。奘寺是一座典型的干栏式建筑，脊上有一座塔式宝顶，奘寺旁有泼水亭，还有一骑鸳鸯的仙女，每当傣家节日来临，朝拜的香客和游客络绎不绝，在中缅边境一带有较大影响。进门有走廊，门桶上一对孔雀作飞翔状。一尊高大的释迦牟尼佛像盘腿坐在佛座上，雍容端庄，面容慈祥，旁立五大弟子。寺顶和四壁绘有孔雀、白象、麒麟等吉祥物，梁上挂有许多五彩缤纷的长幡，显得富丽堂皇。每逢泼水节、开门节等节日，到这里拜佛的香客络绎不绝，多部电影电视剧都将这里做为外景拍摄场地。。这里也是国内外宾客观光的好地方。
旅游交通
昆明西部客运站–瑞丽 8：30–21：00 共10班次
芒市三棵树客运站–瑞丽市（约100公里） 7：00–18：00 滚动发车
瑞丽–喊萨奘房（5公里左右）可包车或乘坐出租车前往
Chinese Name:芒市德昂族博物馆
English Name: Deang Ethnic Museum in Mangshi City, Dehong
Location:德宏州芒市三台山德昂族自治乡
The De’ang ethnic museum, lying in Santaishan Township and opened in April 2010, is the first one of its kind in Dehong Dai and Jingpo Autonomous Prefecture. Its architectural style features the traditional folk residence of the De’ang ethnic minority living in Dehong, West Yunnan. Covering about 600 square meters, the museum consists of a main hall, a dynamic performance hall, a handicraft exhibition hall, and a lecture hall, representing high values in such fields as ethnology, history, art, and aesthetics.
四只石头水鼓托起宽大的门框，红红的太阳挂在大门之上;宽阔的场地上一栋尖顶、蓝瓦、白墙、极具德昂族特色和风格的传统民居……这些具有民族风格的建筑，在苍翠的群山脚下，显得光彩夺目，这是中国德昂族博物馆。
中国德昂族博物馆坐落于中国唯一的德昂族乡——芒市三台山乡，紧邻320国道旁，这里不仅保存记载着德昂族多姿多彩的文化瑰宝，更展示着生活在这片土地上千百年流传下来的德昂族历史文化。
走进博物馆，一幅幅生动鲜活的照片、一件件德昂族人民生产生活的物品映入眼帘，利用现代光电技术让展品栩栩如生。德昂族姑娘蒋蔚一边带领记者参观，一边讲述德昂族的历史文化。“德宏是德昂族的主要聚居地之一，也是云南最古老的民族之一。”作为三台山德昂族乡文化站负责人的蒋蔚，对自己民族的历史了然于胸。
整个博物馆共有两层，在一层的展厅里主要展示介绍德昂族变迁的历史资料以及德昂族人民在生产生活中用的物件。在展厅的中央，一台结构复杂的全木制“机器”引起了记者的好奇，一张桌子形状的台面上安置一个圆桶，再以数根木条加转轴连为一体，可以再台面上平行转动。小蒋告诉记者，这是德昂族用来揉茶用的，从古至今，茶成为了德昂族人民生活中不可缺少的一部分。
德昂族有着独具本民族色彩的服饰，在二层展厅内，展示着不同款式花样的男女老幼德昂族服饰，或简单或庄重，有盛装也有便装，装扮十分讲究。在长期的生产生活中，勤劳的德昂族妇女学会了织锦，这种手艺一直流传至今，涉及到的印染、刺绣、织锦等工艺，以黑色为底蕴的德昂族服饰，在领口、袖口、胸襟、裙边等部位都刺绣了精美花纹图案，每一针每一线都凝聚了德昂族妇女的智慧与技巧。
展厅内还展示着德昂族用于祭祀、庆典活动中的水鼓、经书、案台等物品。“馆内的展品都是从民间收集而来，原汁原味。这个镶嵌着琉璃用来摆放经书的案台是我们博物馆最古老、最珍贵的一件东西了。”蒋蔚介绍道，旁边的木制蒙皮水鼓，一般在“浇花节”的庆典活动中表演，在敲鼓表演前，往鼓身里加一点水，发出的声音就浑厚悠远。
“我们德昂族能有这样一个博物馆，我感到很高兴，终于有了一个展示民族文化的地方，聚集了一个民族的灵魂，对保护和传承德昂族文化会有很大作用。”70多岁的德昂族非物质文化遗产项目传承人李腊拽欣慰地告诉记者。
这个来之不易的德昂族博物馆，作为管理维护它的蒋蔚，对它倍加爱护。每天把展厅打扫得干干净净，她如数家珍一样向每一位参观者讲述每一件展品背后的故事、讲述德昂族悠久的历史，她如同文化使者一样传播着德昂族璀璨的民族文化。
2010年，德宏州为研究、拯救、挖掘、传承德昂族历史、民风民俗，争取到了中央少数民族发展项目资金、上海对口帮扶项目的支持和省政府的支持，作为全省8个人口较少民族文化遗产保护与传承重点工程之一，先后累计投资298万元，建成了如今占地4400平方米、主展馆面积200余平方米的中国首个展示德昂族历史文化的博物馆。截至目前，馆内收藏了300多件涵盖出土文物、古籍文献、服饰纺织、民间工艺品、生产生活用具、民间礼俗及节庆文化用品。
‣‣‣ Introduction of De’ang Ethnic Minority
- 11 Days Western Yunnan and Myanmar Border Cycling Tour
- 16 Days Yunnan-Burma Overland Tour from Kunming to Yangon
- 26 Days Grand Yunnan Ethnic Minority Exploration
Geographic Location
Modou Mountain (磨豆山) is located at the border between Huaning County (华宁县) and Jiangchuan District (江川区) in Yuxi City (玉溪市), Yunnan Province (云南省). Standing at an elevation of 2663.1 meters, it is the highest point in Huaning County. It not only marks the boundary between the two areas but also serves as a bridge linking them, blending the unique features of both.
History and Culture
Modou Mountain (磨豆山) has a long and storied past. According to legend, it was once a sacred site where ancient Yi (彝族) ancestors performed rituals to worship the deities of heaven and earth. The ancient structures, stone steles, and cliff carvings on the mountain bear witness to the historical changes of the land. The mountain was originally called “Modou Ridge” (磨豆岭), named after the early Yi people who ground beans in this location.
Local Customs
The cultural traditions around Modou Mountain (磨豆山) are rich and diverse. Local residents have preserved many traditional customs and ways of life. For example, ritual ceremonies held at the summit reflect deep reverence for nature and ancestors. The nearby villages maintain traditional architectural styles, offering insight into the local folk culture and lifestyle.
Weather and Best Visiting Time
The climate on Modou Mountain (磨豆山) is cool and pleasant, with distinct seasons. Summer offers moderate temperatures, making it a great summer retreat. The best time to visit is in autumn, when the mountain meadows turn golden, creating picturesque scenery ideal for hiking and camping.
Recommended Attractions and Suggested Duration
Wind Turbines at the Summit
A vast field of wind turbines sits at the summit of Modou Mountain (磨豆山), making it a perfect photo spot.
Suggested visit duration: 1–2 hours
Viewing Platform
From the mountain’s viewing platform, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of Fuxian Lake (抚仙湖), Xingyun Lake (星云湖), and Qilu Lake (杞麓湖), experiencing the rare sight of “one mountain overlooking three lakes, three counties, and one district.”
Suggested visit duration: 1 hour
Meadows
In autumn, the meadows of Modou Mountain (磨豆山) turn a golden hue, ideal for camping and picnics.
Suggested visit duration: Half a day
Transportation
From Kunming (昆明), Modou Mountain (磨豆山) is approximately 120 kilometers away, about a 2.5-hour drive. It is recommended to first navigate to “Hongshiyan Village” (红石岩村), then continue to “Modou Mountain Wind Farm” (磨豆山风电场). On the way, you can stop in Chengjiang (澄江) to enjoy Fuxian Lake Copper Pot Fish (抚仙湖铜锅鱼).
Local Cuisine
Fuxian Lake Copper Pot Fish (抚仙湖铜锅鱼):
A famous specialty in Chengjiang (澄江), this dish is known for its fresh and delicious flavor—definitely worth trying.
Local Snacks:
There are many local snack vendors around Modou Mountain (磨豆山), where visitors can sample regional specialties.
Shopping
Handicrafts:
Shops near Modou Mountain (磨豆山) sell a variety of handmade crafts that reflect the local culture.
Souvenirs:
Visitors can buy Modou Mountain-themed souvenirs, such as windmill models and straw crafts.
Accommodation
Camping at the Summit:
The grassy summit of Modou Mountain (磨豆山) is suitable for camping. It is advised to bring your own tent and warm clothing.
Nearby Hotels and Inns:
There are various hotels and guesthouses around Modou Mountain (磨豆山), including local options like Huayao Countryside Guesthouse (花腰田间特色民宿).
Visitor Tips
Safety:
Winds can be strong at the summit, so bring warm clothing. Be cautious while hiking to avoid slips and falls.
Environmental Protection:
Please protect the natural environment—do not litter.
Other Notes:
There are no service facilities on the summit, so bring your own food and water.
Suggested Itinerary from Summit to Surrounding Areas
- Modou Mountain Summit (磨豆山山顶): Enjoy the scenery of wind turbines and meadows, and take memorable photos.
- Viewing Platform: Overlook Fuxian Lake (抚仙湖), Xingyun Lake (星云湖), and Qilu Lake (杞麓湖).
- Meadows: Camp or picnic to embrace the beauty of nature.
- Nearby Villages: Explore traditional villages and experience local customs and culture.
Modou Mountain (磨豆山), with its unique natural beauty and vibrant folk culture, is attracting more and more visitors. Here, you can witness the stunning view of “one mountain overlooking three lakes, three counties, and one district,” and feel the grandeur and tranquility of nature. May your visit to Modou Mountain be an unforgettable experience.
Hidden among the towering mountains on the border of Sichuan and Yunnan lies a serene, crystal-clear highland lake—Lugu Lake (泸沽湖). Known as “Lugu Haizi” (鲁窟海子) in ancient times, this lake is a renowned tourist destination, celebrated for its pleasant climate, tranquil atmosphere, and a unique beauty that balances ruggedness and delicacy.
How to Get There
From Lijiang (丽江) to Lugu Lake
With the completion of the Lining Highway (丽宁公路) in 2016, the drive from Lijiang to Lugu Lake now takes only 3-4 hours.
Bus: The Lijiang Bus Station (丽江客运站) offers two buses in the morning and one in the afternoon to Lugu Lake Bus Station (大落水). The journey takes about 4.5-5 hours, with a one-way ticket costing around 70 RMB.
From Chengdu (成都) – Xichang (西昌) to Lugu Lake
Travelers can take a train, flight, or drive from Chengdu to Xichang. From Xichang to Lugu Lake, the 280-kilometer journey on asphalt and cement roads takes 5-6 hours due to mountainous terrain.
Bus: There are usually two buses daily from Xichang to Lugu Lake, with additional services during peak seasons. Tickets can be purchased in advance on the Sichuan Bus Ticket Website (四川汽车票务网).
Note: The conventional 4-day round-trip tour from Chengdu to Lugu Lake includes only one night and half a day at the lake, which is not highly recommended.
Crossing from Daocheng Yading (稻城亚丁) to Lugu Lake
This crossing route is currently under construction and may take 2-3 years to complete. It is not recommended for individual自驾 travelers and requires organized support. The route is: Lugu Lake (泸沽湖) – Wujiao (屋脚) – Yiji (依吉) – Eya (俄亚) – Yading (亚丁) – Daocheng (稻城).
From Shangri-La (香格里拉) to Lugu Lake
Many travelers assume that the journey from Shangri-La to Lugu Lake must pass through Lijiang, but this is not necessary. An alternative route via Labo (拉伯) – Luojixiang (洛吉乡) takes about 6 hours on asphalt roads, similar to the time taken via Lijiang.
From Kunming (昆明) to Lugu Lake
The only direct option from Kunming is a flight to Lijiang, with one daily flight. Plan your schedule accordingly when booking.
From Panzhihua (攀枝花) to Lugu Lake
The drive from Panzhihua to Lugu Lake takes about 6 hours. The road conditions are good, but the winding roads require careful driving. There are no direct buses from Panzhihua to Lugu Lake.
Direct Flight from Chengdu to Lugu Lake
Since December 29, 2017, Xiangpeng Airlines (祥鹏航空) has offered direct flights from Chengdu to Lugu Lake. The drive from Ninglang Lugu Lake Airport (宁蒗泸沽湖机场) to the scenic area takes about 40 minutes.
Things to Do
Lugu Lake Panoramic Viewing Platform (泸沽湖全景观景台)
Located just inside the Yunnan entrance of Lugu Lake, this platform offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the lake. It is highly recommended for visitors entering from the Sichuan side to capture a memorable photo.
Gemu Goddess Mountain Cable Car (格姆女神山索道)
Take a 20-minute cable car ride spanning 1,500 meters to enjoy a full view of Lugu Lake. A short 10-minute hike leads to the Goddess Cave (女神洞), where you can admire stalactites and interact with wild macaques.
Grass Sea (草海)
The Grass Sea is essential to maintaining the clarity of Lugu Lake’s waters. It is a vital ecological system.
Zhaqiao Bridge (走婚桥): An ancient bridge (now renovated) where Mosuo people used to meet, also known as the “First Magpie Bridge in the World” (天下第一鹊桥).
Night Activities
Bonfire Party (篝火晚会)
A traditional activity in Lugu Lake, where locals gather around a bonfire to dance. If someone you admire dances with you and presses your palm three times, it signifies mutual interest in forming a friendship.
Local Food
Zouhun Banquet (走婚宴)
A traditional Mosuo feast featuring specialties like preserved pork (猪膘肉), sausages, local chicken, and fish, typically served during festivals.
Stone Pot Fish (石锅鱼)
Fresh fish cooked in a stone pot, a mouthwatering local delicacy.
Tusi Banquet (土司宴)
A full-course meal with 18 dishes, including six cold plates, three main courses, and four desserts.
Where to Stay
Daluoshui (大落水)
Most convenient transportation and well-developed facilities.Many hotels and restaurants with high value for money lake-view rooms.Highly commercialized with many tour groups.
Lige Peninsula (里格半岛)
Waterfront location with limited accommodations, making it the most expensive area.True waterfront rooms are on the peninsula, while others are 20-40 meters away.Second most convenient location after Daluoshui and Lugu Lake Town.
Nisai (尼塞)
A small village at the foot of Gemu Goddess Mountain.Known for its “Lover Trees” (情人树), beautiful scenery, and fewer tourists.Less convenient transportation.
Xiaoluoshui (小落水)
Scenic and less crowded, offering an authentic Mosuo cultural experience.
Langfang Village (蒗放村)
Located at the southernmost end of Lugu Lake.The latest developed village, quieter but less convenient transportation.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Lugu Lake is a destination that promises more than just a scenic getaway. It is a place where nature and culture converge, offering visitors a chance to explore breathtaking landscapes, experience unique customs, and savor local delicacies. Whether you are a nature lover, a cultural enthusiast, or simply someone seeking a peaceful retreat, Lugu Lake is a journey like no other—a true paradise blessed by the Goddess Gemu.
Jiaoye Park昆明郊野公园, also known as Countryside Park, is one of the largest parks in the suburban area of Kunming (昆明), with a total area of 180 hectares and a sightseeing area of 62.5 hectares. The park is renowned for its picturesque landscapes, especially during spring when the hills are blanketed with blooming flowers like camellias, pear blossoms, wild cherries, apricots, and many other unnamed flowers, both herbaceous and woody, creating a stunningly beautiful spring scene.
The vibrant peach blossom is the symbol of the park. Over the past ten years, more than 5,000 peach trees have been planted along the 2-kilometer roadsides by the park staff. After the Chinese New Year, the peach buds begin to swell, and by March, countless flower buds bloom together, revealing a spectacular “sea of peach blossoms.” These peach flowers come in red and white, with white petals showing red accents. Some trees even bear blossoms of two different colors on one tree, and within a single flower, two shades may appear. This unique phenomenon is known as “Er Jiao” (二娇), which fascinates visitors.
Park Overview
Jiaoye Park is located at the foot of Yunan Mountain (玉案山), west of Kunming, and backed by Qipan Mountain (棋盘山). It is also adjacent to Qiongzhu Temple (筇竹寺) to the west. The park allows visitors to bring pets and even offers self-service barbecue areas, making it an ideal destination for outdoor leisure activities.
- Location: West of Kunming, Yunnan Province (云南省), at the foot of Yunan Mountain, adjacent to Qiongzhu Temple
- Opening Hours: 08:00–18:00
- Ticket Price: 8 yuan
- Country: China
- City: Kunming, Yunnan Province
- Recommended Visiting Duration: 2-3 hours
- Best Time to Visit: Year-round
History
Since its opening in 1990, Jiaoye Park has attracted millions of visitors. It has become a popular destination for those seeking outdoor activities and nature exploration. With its vast sightseeing area, the park blends the natural charm of rural landscapes with the best features of urban parks. Within the park, visitors can enjoy the plum blossoms found in Heilongtan (黑龙潭), the camellias of Jindian (金殿), the magnolias of Xishan (西山), and the cherry blossoms of Yuantong Mountain (圆通山), all in one place.
Main Attractions
The primary attraction of Jiaoye Park is its stunning natural beauty. In early March, the hills are filled with camellias, pear blossoms, wild cherries, apricot blossoms, and many other vibrant flowers. These blossoms create a breathtakingly beautiful spring scene, attracting visitors from all over. The park’s peach blossoms are particularly famous, featuring rows of peach trees with flowers in both red and white hues, forming a stunning natural spectacle.
One of the park’s most curious features is a peach tree with blossoms of two different colors on the same tree. In fact, some individual flowers even exhibit two shades of color, earning them the unique name “Er Jiao” (二娇).
Attractions and Key Names:
- Kunming (昆明)
- Jiaoye Park (郊野公园)
- Yunan Mountain (玉案山)
- Qipan Mountain (棋盘山)
- Qiongzhu Temple (筇竹寺)
- Heilongtan (黑龙潭)
- Jindian (金殿)
- Xishan (西山)
- Yuantong Mountain (圆通山)
- Er Jiao (二娇) (two-color peach blossoms)
Laoyuhe Wetland Park (捞鱼河湿地公园) is located in Zhonghe Village (中和村), along Huanhu East Road in Kunming (昆明). This wetland park has been renovated to balance ecological functions with scenic beauty. In the past, large-scale lake reclamation projects turned much of Dianchi Lake’s (滇池) wetlands into fish ponds and farmlands, which decreased the lake’s ability to purify itself and led to worsening water quality. In recent years, with the continued progress of Dianchi Lake’s ecological restoration projects, a closed ecological belt has formed. This belt, with an average width of about 200 meters, covers an area of around 33.3 square kilometers, and more than 80% of the region is covered by vegetation. This ecological green barrier along the lakeshore serves to protect the lake, and Laoyuhe Wetland Park is just one of the many wetland parks in this region.
Ecological Importance and Natural Beauty
At the entrance of the park, visitors are greeted by rows of dawn redwood trees (水杉), one of the three “living fossils” in China’s plant world. As you move closer to Dianchi Lake, the wetland merges seamlessly with the lake, where the blue sky meets the sparkling waters, creating a breathtaking landscape that draws many visitors to relax and enjoy nature.
Wetlands are often called “the lungs of nature” because they play a critical role in regulating the balance between human activities and the environment. They also serve as a vital ecological buffer zone, preventing pollutants from entering Dianchi Lake. Laoyuhe Wetland Park offers visitors a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle and bustle, with opportunities to enjoy vibrant flowers, breathe in the fresh air from the green meadows, and get close to Dianchi Lake under the clear blue sky.
Tulip Wonderland
The tulips planted in Laoyuhe Wetland Park are imported directly from the Netherlands. There are 11 varieties of tulips, including Virelande (维兰迪), Parade (检阅), Blaze (烈焰), Dynasty (王朝), Pink Giant (巨大粉), Avocado (阿夫可), Big Goose (熊鹅), Cocktail (鸡尾酒), Purple Flag (紫旗), Grand Duke (大王子), and World Love (世界真爱). These tulips come in four distinct colors and are currently in full bloom, with a flowering period of 25 days. The blooming tulips provide visitors with an experience akin to a “Fragrant Journey to Holland.”
Transportation to Laoyuhe Wetland Park
- By Car: Drive along Dianchi Road (滇池路) and turn onto Huanhu Road (环湖路), or take Kunyu Road (昆玉路) and exit at Chenggong Station (呈贡站). From there, turn onto Tuofeng Street (驼峰街) and continue on Huanhu East Road. After passing through the Qixing Mountain Tunnel (七星山隧道), the park will be on your right about three kilometers after exiting the tunnel.
- By Public Transport: Take Line 1 of the Kunming Metro and get off at University Town South Station (大学城南站). From there, take Bus 222 to Zhonghe Village Station (中和村站), and walk 40 meters to the flower fields.
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