Golfing in Yunnan got more and more popular, attractive and professional during the last years. Yunnan, without doubt, is the best golfing destination within China. By the time of writing, nearly 20 state-of-the-art golf courses existed only in Yunnan, some of them are rated as best, longest or hardest of China, Asia or even the world. More golf courses are currently being designed and built.

   

Therefore, the variety of proper golf courses in Yunnan is big. Please find below a rough overview of Yunnan’s golfing options. Please also have a look at our golf tours.

Spring City Golf & Lake Resort, Kunming

It open to the Public and have an 18-hole Golf Course that is said to have the Best Sunset views in Chester County!  Here at Spring Hollow we would like to take the opportunity to let you know that we would be more than happy to help you with a party, golf outing, or dinner reservations!

Meadows that define some of the holes were left in place and they give the course a natural look and feel. From one side of the course to the other there is a 110 foot change in elevation. Water hazards in the form of wetlands, creeks, and ponds come into play on six of the golf holes. The frequent and often dramatic elevation changes affords the players not only challenging shot selections, but also beautiful views of the surrounding area.

After played one round golf at Lake Course, we have been visiting Jiuxiang Cave in the afternoon.

Located in the Yi and Hui Autonomous Township of Yiliang, the Jiuxiang Scenic Area not only has beautiful landscapes but also displays the custom and culture of the Yi and Hui minorities. Here, you can appreciate lush forests, narrow canyons and underground caves. The Myth, a film starring Jackie Chan, took this special landscape as a backdrop. The main scenic spots of the Jiuxiang Scenic Area are Green Shady Valley, Grand Underground Valley, Grand Lion Hall, Twin Waterfalls, Fairy Fields and Bat Cave.

Played one round golf at Mountain Course, drive to visit West Hill and Dragon Gate. Overnight at Kunming downtown.

In the western suburbs of Kunming lies Western Hills. They are also called ‘Sleeping Buddha Hills’. For looked at from a distance, they have the appearance of a giant sleeping Buddha. They have also been given another name – ‘Sleeping Beauty Hills’ for the hills when viewed together look like a beautiful young lady laying beside Dianchi Lake with her face upward and her hair trailling into water. You can see the outline of her face, chest, and legs clearly.                                

Western Hills boasts an excellent environment with flourishing flowers and dense forest, providing tourists an excellent environment to enjoy the tranquility and marvelous scenery. No wonder that the place has gained a reputation as ‘having the most pleasant environment in the world’.

Take speed train to Dali, pick up from train station, transfer to Dali Old Town, have lunch, then walk around at the old town, visit The Three Pagodas in the afternoon.

Three Pagodas located in Chongsheng Temple, is about 1 kilometers (0.6 miles) northwest of the Dali Ancient City. Facing Erhai Lake, Chongsheng Temple is located at the western border Cangshan Mountain. It’s said that 9 Kings of Dali Kingdom chose to be a Chongsheng monastery in the temple. The Three Pagodas inside the temple was built 1,800 years ago. It is a symbol of the history of Dali City, and a record of the development of Buddhism in the area. As its name implies, Three Pagodas are made of three ancient independent pagodas forming a symmetrical triangle. This is unique in China. A visit to the pagodas should not be missed by any visitor to Dali City.

Then we go to the Erhai Lake, Erhai Lake is the largest highland lake next to Dianchi and one of the seven biggest fresh water lakes in China. It means, ‘sea shaped like an ear’, in Chinese. Implying that the lake is ear shaped and as large as a sea, hence it was so named.

Cruise on Erhai Lake, we visited Xizhou Bai Ethnic Village and Zhoucheng Dyed Cloth Shop. Then drive to Lijiang in the afternoon.

Play one round golf at Jade Dragon Snow Mountain Golf Club,  visit Ganhaizi and Baishui River, take cable car to Glacier Park, enjoy the Impression Lijiang show.

The course is set in the bottom of a valley that faces the famous Jade Dragon Snow Mountain that is 5596 meters (18,360 ft.) high. You can enjoy mountain views from almost every place on the course. The course is situated at 3100 meters (10,800 ft.) above see level, the second highest in the world and the highest in Asia. It is 8548 yards long, which is longest par 72 in the world.

An ‘”S” shaped neat par 5. The tee-shot is downhill and water come into play for the second shot. The landing area of the second shot is narrow and there is water in front of the green.

Lijiang is considered to be a pearl on the high plateau of Northwestern Yunnan Province, and is regarded as the world of “Shangri-La” (in Tibetan: a wonderful place like paradise) which people yearn to visit. Owing to its special characteristics of ethnic Culture, urban layout and historical authenticity, Lijiang Ancient City was listed as a World Cultural Heritage City by UNESCO in 1997.

Yunnan is the best place to have the golf holiday, you will experience the golf with different elevation from 500 meters in Xinshuangbanna tropical forest to 3100 meters in Lijiang.

Yunnan province in China is known for its diverse landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. In this blog, I will share my experience of a 7-day golf tour in Yunnan, where I explored the natural beauty of the region and enjoyed some thrilling rounds of golf at Kunming Spring City Golf Club, Dali Stone Mountain Golf Club, and Lijiang Jade Dragon Snow Mountain Golf Club.

Day 1: Arrival in Kunming

Our journey began in Kunming, the capital city of Yunnan province. We were greeted by the warm climate and vibrant atmosphere of the city. After checking into our hotel, we took a leisurely walk around the city, exploring the local markets and cafes.

In the evening, we attended a traditional Chinese opera performance, which gave us a glimpse of the rich cultural heritage of the region.

Day 2: Kunming Spring City Golf Club

After a delicious breakfast, we headed to Kunming Spring City Golf Club, located about 30 kilometers from the city center. The club features an 18-hole golf course designed by Alex C. Smith, with stunning views of the surrounding mountains and lakes.

We spent the morning playing golf and enjoying the beautiful scenery. The course was challenging, but the weather was perfect, and we were able to enjoy a few birdies along the way.

In the afternoon, we returned to the city and visited the West Lake, a picturesque lake surrounded by parks and temples. We took a boat ride around the lake and enjoyed the peaceful atmosphere of the place.

Day 3: Dali Stone Mountain Golf Club

Our next stop was Dali, a historic city known for its ethnic minorities and stunning landscapes. After a short flight from Kunming, we arrived in Dali and checked into our hotel.

In the afternoon, we visited the ancient city of Dali, which features well-preserved architecture from the Ming and Qing dynasties. We explored the narrow streets, visited local shops, and tried some of the delicious local cuisine.

In the evening, we drove to Dali Stone Mountain Golf Club, located about 20 kilometers from the city center. The club features an 18-hole golf course designed by Ross Watson, with stunning views of the surrounding mountains and lakes.

We spent the evening playing golf and enjoying the beautiful scenery. The course was challenging, but the weather was perfect, and we were able to enjoy a few birdies along the way.

Day 4: Dali Exploration

In the morning, we visited the Dali Ancient Town, a historic town characterized by its narrow cobblestone streets, traditional Naxi homes, and ancient city walls. We explored the town and learned about the rich history and culture of the Naxi people.

In the afternoon, we visited the Three Pagodas of Dali, a UNESCO World Heritage site. We climbed to the top of the towers and enjoyed the breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

Day 5: Lijiang Jade Dragon Snow Mountain Golf Club

Our final stop was Lijiang, a picturesque city known for its UNESCO World Heritage site, Lijiang Old Town. After a short flight from Dali, we arrived in Lijiang and checked into our hotel.

In the afternoon, we visited Lijiang Old Town, a historic town characterized by its narrow cobblestone streets, traditional Naxi homes, and ancient city walls. We explored the town and learned about the rich history and culture of the Naxi people.

In the evening, we drove to Lijiang Jade Dragon Snow Mountain Golf Club, located about 10 kilometers from the city center. The club features an 18-hole golf course designed by Kyle Phillips, with stunning views of the surrounding mountains and lakes.

We spent the evening playing golf and enjoying the beautiful scenery. The course was challenging, but the weather was perfect, and we were able to enjoy a few birdies along the way.

Day 6: Lijiang Exploration

In the morning, we visited the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, a stunning mountain range located about 100 kilometers away from Lijiang. We took a cable car to the top of the mountain and enjoyed the breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

In the afternoon, we returned to the city and visited the Lijiang River, a picturesque river that runs through the city. We took a boat ride along the river and enjoyed the peaceful atmosphere of the place.

Day 7: Departure

After a week of adventure and relaxation, it was time to say goodbye to Yunnan. We checked out of our hotel and headed to the airport for our flight back home.

Conclusion: Our 7-day golf tour in Yunnan was a fantastic experience that combined adventure, relaxation, and culture. The beautiful landscapes, historic architecture, and vibrant cultures of the region made for an unforgettable journey. If you’re looking for a unique golf vacation, I highly recommend visiting Kunming Spring City Golf Club, Dali Stone Mountain Golf Club, and Lijiang Jade Dragon Snow Mountain Golf Club.

The Dagu Niuzhai Mountain to Dahai Caoshan Mountain hiking tour is a popular itinerary in China that covers some of the most beautiful landscapes in the area. Here is a detailed guide on how to plan and prepare for this hiking trip:

Duration: 3 days and 2 nights

Total Distance: Approximately 50 km

Best Time to Visit: March to May and September to November

Day 1: Dagu Niuzhai Mountain

• Start your hiking tour by arriving in Kunming, the capital city of Yunnan province
• Take a bus or drive to Dagu Niuzhai Mountain, which is located about 120 km away from Kunming
• Hike through the lush forests and breathtaking views of the mountain
• Enjoy a picnic lunch at the top of the mountain before returning to Kunming

Day 2: Dahai Caoshan Mountain

• Start your day by driving or taking a bus to Dahai Caoshan Mountain, which is located about 100 km away from Kunming
• Hike through the mountain’s beautiful scenery, including the Stone Forest and Red River Gorge
• Enjoy a picnic lunch at the top of the mountain before returning to Kunming

Day 3: Departure from Kunming

• Spend the morning exploring any remaining sights in Kunming that you may have missed
• Depart from Kunming and end your hiking tour

Note: The hiking routes on Dagu Niuzhai Mountain and Dahai Caoshan Mountain are well-maintained and marked, but it’s always a good idea to bring a map and compass to avoid getting lost. Also, make sure to wear comfortable shoes and bring enough food, water, and sunscreen.

Preparation:

• Research the hiking routes and make sure you are in good physical condition
• Bring a map and compass to avoid getting lost
• Wear comfortable shoes and bring enough food, water, and sunscreen
• Check the weather forecast and pack accordingly
• Obtain any necessary travel permits or tickets in advance

Overall, the Dagu Niuzhai Mountain to Dahai Caoshan Mountain hiking tour is a great way to explore the natural beauty of Yunnan province. By following this guide, you can plan and prepare for a safe and enjoyable hiking trip.

Yunnan Hiking Tour from Dagu Niuzhai Mountain(大牯牛寨山) in Dongchuan(东川) to Dahai Caoshan Mountain（大海草山）in Huize County(会泽县)

 Two months ago, I took a trip to Dongchuan(东川) with my friends—Binbin，Aya and Haibo. We made a team name of “ Four Old Men” and promised to write a travelogue about what we have seen and felt during this trip. They have already finished their works early except me. Well, I haven’t finished yet. Actually, I wrote many unnecessary details and much nonsense with my phone on the coach back to Zhaotong(昭通). Then, I got a good rest and thrown myself into daily work. I used my spare to modify the writing but only made it a mess. I really don’t know how to continue, but I have to finish it as I promised.

Climbing was not my first choice for the Dragon Boat Festival. In the end, I decided to join this trip due to a series of uncontrollable factors such as the time conflict. Our organizer is Binbin( though he told us that Haibo海波 had planed this trip at first).

Daguniuzhai Village in Dongchuan – Dahai Caoshan Mountain in Huize County (东川大牯牛寨—会泽大海草山）

The route is from Daguniuzhai Village(大牯牛寨) of Dongchuan(东川) to Dahaicaoshan Mountain(大海草山) in Huize(会泽). I had misestimated the trip from the very beginning. I prepared myself rough mountaineering equipment in a hurry( As I was grateful for having a pair of climbing shoes since Binbin said that would be enough for the trip, he sent me a list a few minutes later which containing 20 more needs. Well, Ifelt being cheated). At about 12 o’clock, I took a coach which set off from Zhaotong(昭通) to Dongchuan(东川). I thought it won’t take us too long; however, it actually took us 5 hours to get there. I felt being cheated again!

I was the first one arrived at Dongchuan(东川) in our team, so I was asked to arrange accommodations. Dongchuan(东川) was not that hot as I had imagined due to the rain. I wandered aimlessly aroud the street alone. Accidently, a hotel across the street caught my eyes. I went to have a look with no hesitation and called Binbin斌斌. The room was simply furnished but very clean, and with hot water,free WiFi and suitable prize.  So we booked rooms there. It was not until that time did I knew that we actually got 10 partners in this trip.

I only knew two persons in this team—Binbin斌斌 and Haibo海波. Binbin, an artistic youth, is my classmate and also an unreliable boy. He loves traveling around, doing experiments and taking actions. Haibo is our junior alumnus and also an artistic youth. In my impression, he always has a smiling face and he can play guitar and write good articles. Binbin introduced Aya, a considerate girl who watches sunrise everyday to me. I merely talk to strangers, but we had a friendly chat the first time we met. Then, we came to be “The Four Old Men” of this trip（I might not like art as they do, but, never mind）. Others in the team are basically born in 1990s. In the end, I came to realize that they are truly trouble-makers.

The rest of them finally arrived at half past even. Then, we arranged our accommodations, had dinner and prepared solid food and water for the next day. In consideration of my poor physicalstrength, I also prepared a bottle of Red Bull( a kind of energy drink in China). The organizer Binbin suggested us to take along silk stockings, sulfur soap and essential balm which could prevent us from leeches since the leech is our biggest threaten during the trip. However, not until we divided other needs did he realize that he had forgotten about the sulfur soap. Aya阿雅 and I couldn’t help complaining about this since he had promised to bring one. It was 11 p.m., all the stores were closed and we had to set off at 5:50 a.m., so, we had to forget about the sulfur soap. Fortunately, Aya阿雅 had brought us essential balm.

Not long after I went to bed, I had realized that it was completely wrong to choose this hotel in a hurry. The flowing trucks outside the window were so noisy that I took a long time to fall asleep. However, I was soon awaked by the rain and then got worried about the weather. It was not even 4 a.m., but I couldn’t fall asleep anymore.

Soon, at about 5 a.m., I got up after Aya . She is used to getting up early, taking a quick wash and then going out for sunrise. I felt very dizzy and uncomfortable because of the bed rest. Haibo had persuaded me to take a bottle of HZL(藿香正气水 a kind of medicine) last night, or I would feel worse. Aya was so considerate that she made me a cup of coffee when I was washing.

We called two minibus and the drivers picked us on time. We arrived at our start point Jijieping(基节坪) of Lizigou village(李子沟) after over one hour’s driving of mountain road. The rain had stopped, but the visibility was still very low due to the heavy fog. A younger sister in our car kept asking why there are people living in such high mountains. I felt very puzzled and angry about this since I am actually living in such a mountain in Yunnan(云南).

                                                      Overlook from Jijieping (基节坪)
With the help of a villager, we found our tour guide Mr. Li. He led us the way to climb with a small but heavy pack of salt on his back. He told us the salt was for his sheep.

The rain had stopped but made the road very muddy. It was very hard to move forward with massive mud on our shoes, so, Mr. Li led us to another road in the forest. The trees were wet but the grass helped to wipe out the mud and made it easier to move on.

Due to the bad rest, my liver began to ache, but I was attracted by the wet yellow flower alongside. I felt my packsack became heavier and heavier even I had already lost much weight of it. I asked Haibo to exchange his pack with me since his pack was smaller and lighter than mine. Though, with less weight on my back, my liver got much more painful.

                                                  Wet Beautiful Flowers
Soon, we arrived at a place where people were paving concrete stairs. Mr. Li told us that was for tourism development. Binbin said it was grateful that we could see much more original scenery than others since we had came here before tourism.

The stairs were very steep. Many earthworms were washed out by the heavy rain. I had never seen such big earthworms before. They were about a-finger thick and very long. They were very dreadful.

                                          Long And Big Earthworms
As the elevation had risen fast during this distance, my liver got more painful. My face, back and legs were all soaked with streaming sweat. I couldn’t tell whether the sweat came from ache or tiredness. Haibo and Aya kept persuading me to take the medicine which can strengthen my spleen and stomach. I really felt better and the speeded up. The stairs seemed to go up the cliff endlessly. We were amazed at the floating clouds when we stand on the stairs for a short break. We climbed for another one hour and had met two camping men. Then Mr. Li told us that we had only risen from 2600 meters to 2800 meters. That was only 200 meters. I was so stunned about that since our destination is 4017 meters.

                The Winding Stairs And Struggling Us.
I was familiar with mountains, but I had never seen a mountain, a road like this. In my memory, the mountain road could be muddy or even covered with branches and grass, but at least I can see it. However, there, your road was on a cliff which is full of rocks.

When Mr. Li took us to the cliff, I was about to cry since I had serious acrophobia. With floating clouds around but no road on the cliff, I was extremely eager to go home. Mr. Li tried to comfort us and then climbed over the cliff. Haibo climbed over it, too. I was so afraid but still decided to do this quickly since I worried I would lose my confidence then. Staring at the bare and wet rocks in my front, I followed Mr. Li’s guidance to move my hands and feet very cautiously. When I finally climbed it over and saw the familiar road, I suddenly felt powerless and knelt down. My gloves, knee pads and clothes were all soaked with my sweat, fog and dew. The floating clouds were very beautiful but also tormented us a lot since they had brought much moisture and blocked out our sights. The road was so wet, slippery and muddy. I almost crawled through it.

                                                                 雾气袭来

                      The Fog Is Coming.   No-road Cliff And Frustrated Me
However, all sufferings would go away when you saw the extremely gorgeous scenery. You could never imagine the feel of the moment you stepped on the heaven. Due to the clouds, the faraway mountains were partly hidden and partly visible. It seemed that we could touch the sky with our hands. A gust of wind not only calmed us down but also made the faraway mountains come out to show their beauties.

     Faraway Views        The Direction of This Photo Is Just Right
The road was tougher than we had imagined. After the first cliff, the road was almost alongside the cliff with no mud, no grass and very slippery after rain. It was so hard to move on that I had to watch out every step with great care. On the contrary, the arrogant and fearless 90s thought they were gifted and skilled as they had watched many outdoor safari shows. They sometimes drank from the river and sometimes jumped here and there like a monkey. The reality was not like the shows yet.

Xiaoming, one of our members, came to be the first one to climb over a cliff. Mr. Li told him to stay and wait for others, but he was so impatient. I climbed over the cliff after him and dared to move but then wait for others. A few minutes later, Xiaoming moved before all members came to our side. I saw him lifted his right foot, stepped on a stone and suddenly fell down on his back. I was so frightened to catch him but screamed instead. I saw him fell down the cliff and then rolled a circle. Hearing my scream, Haibo ran out from my back to catch him, but he failed. At that dangerous moment, Mr. Li ran to him quickly and caught him successfully before he fell down the cliff. He had rolled two circles; one more circle would kill him. I can’t find any words to describe that thrilling moment. I nearlysaw a life gone at that moment. Everyone was frightened. I would blame myself for the rest of my life if Xiaoming lost his life in such a way. Haibo told me that he would be very sad and regret if Mr. Li hadn’t caught Xiaoming. Then, what about me? I hadn’t done anything but screamed at that time. I was the one should felt sad and regret. However, no matter Haibo or I would fell down together with Xiaoming if we had caught him, we both knew that clearly.

Xiaoming insisted he was fine, so we moved on after a 10-minutes break. Few minutes later, I heard people in the rear screamed again. I suddenly felt powered off and worried something bad had happened. Ilooked back and then came to know that Aya’s pack had been dropped down the cliff by accident. Aya had prepared some solid food for Mr. Li in that pack (Mr. Li’s nephew helped to take Aya’s pack). I was so tired of those screams.

As we walked through the cliffs, we came to a bamboo forest in which full with bamboos higher than us and I couldn’t tell their names. We were wet when we walked through the bamboos. I walked behind the team and suddenly the 90s screamed in the front. I was so distraught since their screams only came from a small waterfall. Aya and I told them not to scream when there was actually nothing happened because we were all tired of screams. I didn’t know what to say about their so-called waterfall as the fall along the highway was more spectacular than this one.

            The Screaming ‘Waterfall’
Soon, we came to a cliff again. I didn’t know how to express my feeling when I saw the cliff even we had made a hard way here. The cliff was almost vertical. We could only see a few raised rocks and holes but not a road. It was just like rock climbing. As a Chinesesaying goes:” It is easier to climb uphill than to go downhill”(上山容易下山难). At that time, we couldn’t go back either since we could only fall down the cliff if we went back. Binbin gave his pack to Mr. Li and went first, then me and Haibo. I hardly knew how to move but with my hands grasped the stone firmly and moved forward with my knees. My knees would be wounded badly without the knee pads. The only thing I could do at that moment was to stare at the rocks before me. Although, Mr. Li had kept telling me how to move, my mind wet blank. Additionally, Binbin kept shouting that he couldn’t see any road at all, so, I did go to the wrong directions. Thanks to Aya’ and Mr. Li’ s warning, I went back to the right way. I’d like to give my biggest thanks to Haibo since that he lifted my feet with his hands all the way to make me feel safety. When I finally came to see the road hidden in the grass besides the cliff, I climbed over the cliff with my knees. I sat down in the wet grass and didn’t want to stand up even though my clothes, pants and hair got soaked again. That stretch of road was a natural moat for me, but luckily, I went through it in the end.

                                              Climbing

                          Poised 90s
At this point, Mr. Li told us we only got one more dangerousstretch to go. Not until that time did I knew that we actually have another further but safer road than this one. What’s more, it we took another way, we could pass a Taoist temple named Zixia Palace(紫霞宫). However, Zixia Palace was in the reconstruction. Mr. Li thought that it was fine to choose this dangerous way since we are all young persons. Nonetheless, we nearly got in big troubles.

In the end, we came to the last dangerous stretch. It was actually easier than what we have went through. The only problem was that there were thousands of loose rocks which were about a fist size. We needed to pay much attention since those rocks were very easy to be crept down. If you were in the front, you need to not stepping down the rocks to attack the latter; if you were in the latter, you need to pay attention to not being attacked by the falling rocks. I climbed up to the slope, looked back and came to find Binbin kneeled down. It turned out that he had got a leg cramp. I took a picture of him. I nearly used my phone on the way I was too tired to take out my phone.

It was finally lunch time-12 a.m. after climbing over several hills. I ate my solid food (I only had solid food since I had ate my canned rice porridge earlier to reduce my burden), drank some water , had a short break and then we srt off again. Mr. Li told us that we might climb to the top at about 2 p.m. and though the road go down may be easier but also more further.

                                                          The Road We Went By
Gradually, the mountain was no longer covered with stones but grass. We could go up the mountain as we like only if the direction is right. The grass was sparse and shorter than our shoes. There were flowers in the grass and clusters of azalea had already withered away. As we felt so sorry to miss the blossom, Mr. Li told us that we might see some white azalea in higher areas. The road was no dangerous anymore but very tiring because of its gradient of 40%. Ioccasionally find several beautiful yellow flowers and then ran to have a look though I couldn’t tell their names. I felt happier after seeing those flowers. As we went higher, we could see clusters of white azalea, but when we went nearly to have a look, only to find they are about fading away.

                                                      Beautiful Yellow Flowers

                                              Withered White Azalea高山白杜鹃

Finally, we could get an instinct glimpse of the prayer flags fluttering on the top, but the slope got steeper and steeper. Aya and I exclaimed that being young was so great as we were left far behind the team. The 90s in the front were truly delighted. The sun came out to burn the land. Aya and I had already put on sunscreen, so we were fine with the ultraviolet light. However, others were all got sunburned by the intense ultraviolet light.

                                                              Sunny Day

                                                                Before Climbing to The Top
There was a Mani stones (玛尼堆) and praying music on the top. Heavy clouds were floating on the other side of the mountain and many hills were hidden in them. It was a glorious sight to see many beautiful purple flowers blossomed all over those hills. We took a picture in the front of a stele on which the altitude of the mountain was engraved. Not far away from the stele was the remains of the old translator station(转播台遗址). It almost became a ruin since the local villagers had taken away the most of the bricks, left only some broken bricks and its base.

                      Devoutly Prying

                                        To the Submmit
Mr. Li urged us to leave for Dacaohai Mountain(大草海山) as quickly as we could. The first stretch was not easy because of the puddles hidden in the grass. Fortunately, the water proofness of my shoes were pretty good, so the inner was not soacked. Otherwise, Icouldn’t make it to the destination. Along our road, we met the two camping men again and another two group of people who climbed to the top from Dacaohai Mountain.

                                The First Stretch We Go Down The Hill
It was pretty easy as we walked through the meadows most of the time. We continuously climbed over several hills but still couldn’t see the end of the meadows. There were countless sheep and cows, yellow, white and purple flowers in the grass. This was really different from what we have seen in the morning. However, I was despaired of these no-end mountains. Xiaoming was left behind because of his painful foot.  Although Haibo had sprayed Yunnan Baiyao on his foot for couple of times, he still felt painful and walked lamely.  So, Binbin gave his alpenstock to him.

                                                                The The Border of Pasture

                                                Cute Yellow Flowers( Fog Again)

We were to emotional to say a word when we finally see the distant Mongolian yurt we were going to live. There was a river between us and the Mongolian yurt. How I wish I could grow wings and fly to it. However, we had to go down to the river, across the river and then climb up to the Mongolian yurt. The mountain on the opposite was full of sheep. It was very spectacular to hear sheep bleating all around. We “Four Old Men” took a picture at that time. We could see from the picture that I was abused by them.

                                            Animals All Around But Don’t Afraid of People
There were thousands of leeches in the river due to the countless sheep and cows alongside. We were all bothered by the leech when we crossed the river. I was so lucky to prevent leeches from my skin owing to wearing the silk stockings which Aya had given to me.

 

                                                    The River in Which We Attacked by Leeches
After 10 hours, we finally arrived at our destination Dacaohai Mountain at about 5 o’clock. We had shish kebab and baked potatoes for rest.

                                    Shish Kebab (too salty)
Considerate that the Mongolian yurt was not suitable to live, we decided to call a minibus to Huize（会泽）. However, the driver was not so reliable that he not only raised the fee but also helped the host of the Mongolian yurt charging us 100 as default.

We went to Yangbawan（羊八碗）to have dinner, but the severs were not very friendly. I was too tired to quarrel about this. The severs’ attitude finally changed because Binbin and Haibo had lost their temper. I was powerless and dizzy. At first, I thought I was too tired, but I finally came to realize that I was just too hungry since I cheered up a lot after having a bowl of rice.

After dinner, I got a fever because of the changeable weather and my clothes got wet, dry.wet and dry for the whole day. Aya had a cold, too. So, Haibo accompanied Aya to buy some medicine though it rained outside. They also took me some medicen.

We found a hotel, took a shower and then went to bed but couldn’t fall asleep. When I closed my eyes, I could only see the cliffs we climbed over before. So, we “Four Old Men” chatted on the phone till late nite.

The next day, we took Binbin’s advice to eat a kind of porridge made of white pea稀豆粉. However, I preferred to the one I usually eat in Zhaotong. Then, we booked tickets and said goodbyes to each other.

When we walked on the meadow, Binbin asked me what I was thinking about when I climbed over the cliff. To be frankly, my mind went blank at that time. I dared think about nothing but the stones which I grasped and stepped. I was afraid of falling down the cliff if Idivided my attention.

This kind of trip is very rare in my life. This is the first time I conquered myself. My acrophobia was almost cured by this trip. This is a worthy trip since I had climbed over the wonderland and witnessed the picturesque scenery. However, this might be a one-time experience. I would choose another further but safer road next time if I went to Dongchuan. So luckily, we came back safe and sound. My words can’t describe our emotion along this trip but to write down some important moments. You can’t imagine what we have seen and saw with the help of these pictures, either. You can only experience Iwith your own feet.

I forgot who sad this: “We went through fire and water, right?”

I replied: “Yes! We are like Damon and Pythias now.”

This trip would be one of my valuable memories in my whole life. My life seemed to be easier than before after taking such a risk. Only one time is enough, to stand higher in the sky and touch the clouds.

This article might not be a travel journey I really don’t know how to write a travel journey. This could only be a rambling diary which I used to record those important moment.

Last but not least, I’d like to say thank you to Binbin, Haibo and Aya. Binbin is an excellent organizer even though he might be unreliable sometimes. He brought me knee gaps and alpenstocks, together with my own climbing boots and gloves, formed my most important weapons along the road. Thanks for Aya’s coffee, silk stockings and essential balm. What’ more, she accompanied and encouraged me all the way. Haibo helped me a lot, too. He prepared medicine for us, exchanged his lighter pack with my heavier one and so on. I also want to express my appreciation to Mr. Li. This trip would be completely a horrible disaster without him. Likewise, thepartners who took pictures for us are very important. Thank you so much. (Fine, that’s all)

Chinese Version: http://www.mafengwo.cn/i/5589140.html

Kunming, the capital city of Yunnan Province, China, is known for its beautiful landscapes, lush greenery, and diverse cultural heritage. In this travel blog, we will take you on a 3-day hiking and photography tour that explores two of the city’s most iconic attractions: Jiaozi Mountain and Dongchuan Red Land.

Day 1: Jiaozi Mountain Hiking Our journey begins with a visit to Jiaozi Mountain, which is located about 70 kilometers away from Kunming. Jiaozi Mountain, also known as “The City of Stone Forest,” is famous for its unique rock formations, which resemble dumplings hanging from the sky. The mountain is home to several hiking trails that offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Our first stop is the Stone Forest Scenic Area, where we will explore the magical rock formations and take in the breathtaking views of the mountains. From there, we will hike to the top of Jiaozi Mountain, where we can enjoy a bird’s-eye view of the surrounding area.

Day 2: Dongchuan Red Land Photography After a refreshing night in Kunming, we will head to Dongchuan Red Land, which is located about 200 kilometers away from the city. Dongchuan Red Land is a UNESCO World Heritage site that is known for its stunning red soil landscapes, which are caused by a unique soil composition and the presence of iron oxide. The red land is divided into several areas, each with its own unique characteristics and scenic beauty. Our first stop is the Red Land Gallery, where we will learn about the history and geology of the area. From there, we will visit the Red Land Village, where we can capture stunning shots of the local people and their traditional way of life.

Day 3: Dongchuan Red Land Hiking and Photography Our final day in Dongchuan Red Land will be spent hiking and photographing the stunning landscapes of the area. We will start our day by visiting the Red Land Plateau, where we will enjoy panoramic views of the red soil and the surrounding mountains. From there, we will hike to the top of the plateau, where we can capture some incredible shots of the sunset over the red land. Our final stop is the Red River Valley, where we will take a boat ride and explore the stunning red river and its surrounding landscape.

Conclusion: The 3-day hiking and photography tour of Kunming’s Jiaozi Mountain and Dongchuan Red Land is a truly unforgettable experience that offers stunning visuals and a unique glimpse into the local culture and heritage. Whether you are a hiking enthusiast or a photography buff, this tour is sure to leave a lasting impression on your heart and mind.

Departure time / 2017-05-05

Dongchuan Redland （东川红土地）scenic spot located in southwest Donchuan （东川）district, which is nearby Huashitou village (花石头村) and about 152 kilometers northeast of Kunming （昆明）. It is considered as the grandest Redland ranked only second to Rio de Janeiro in Brazil (巴西里约热内卢). Its scene is much more magnificent than Brazil Redland (巴西红土地)， so the photographers named it as “The color palette overturned by God”. Yunnan situate in a mild and moister environment, therefore the soil contains such components as oxidized iron, after a long period of oxidation, gradually added and mixed in the soil that produced this extraordinary red soil. Above all, the Redland is glaring after a rain. From 9 September to 12 December each year, part of the land are plowed and other part of land are planted with crops, such as highland barley, wheat and so on. When seen from afar, it is like a color patch painted by God. The bright and colorful land , blue sky , white cloud and the changeable ray of light constitute the magnificent view, which is the paradise of shutterbug.
Transportation:
1. Bus passenger station in northern Kunming (昆明北部客运站), Kunming (昆明)—Fazhe (法者), ticket price: 50yuan , drive time: 7:50 a.m. and 8:30 a.m.
2. Kunming (昆明)—Don chuan(东川), the buses will rolling departure, and then transfer to a another bus to Majie (马街).
Tip: You should drop off at Huashitou village (花石头村) whichever option you choose.
Accommodation:
Hotel expense : 100 Yuan per night, live in Huashitou village (花石头村).
Repast : about 50 Yuan per day, eat in the inn.
Huashitou village (花石头村) located in the three-way intersection of Redland town (红土地镇)，Kunming (昆明) and Don chuan district (东川区), and the traffic is convenient. The scenic spot of Redland are mainly distributed in three routes. The North route , the East route and the South route are both pass here.
The North route : there are Langdadi (浪大地), Jinxiuyuan (锦绣园), Qicaipo (七彩坡) and Damakan (打马坎) from south to north. Langdadi (浪大地) is located to west of the intersection . Layer upon layer terraced fields like the waved boiling white, hence the name. Qicaipo (七彩坡) and Jinxiuyuan (锦绣园) are in the same land, which has different visual effect enjoy from different angles. This land cultivated a lot of crops , like potatoes, buckwheat , etc. It is so spectacular of color during the flowering time. Damakan (打马坎) located at the northest of north-west line, which is the best place to shoot the sunrise.
The East route : there are Dapingtang (大坪塘)，Laolongshu (老龙树), Dongguawan (冬瓜湾), Luoxiagou (落霞沟) , Yueliangtian (月亮田), etc. Laolongshu (老龙树) is a fir whose age is old than a thousand years. She lonely stands on the Redland, and she looks so plain and full of vicissitudes. Luoxiagou (落霞沟) is one of the best place to shoot the setting sun and the sunset at dusk. Yueliangtian (月亮田) is about 20 kilometers away from Huashitou village (花石头村), in which the terraced fields scenery and canyon scenery coalesce, and with distinct layer. So that it become many shutterbug’ s favorite film place.
The South route : It is a road to Kunming. There are Yuepu’ao (乐谱凹), Wafangliangzi (瓦房梁子), Dayakou (大丫口) and many spots like that on both sides. Yuepu’ao (乐谱凹) is one kilometer to Huashitou village (花石头村). Layers of level terraced fields looks like a colorful staff, and the famers are looks like notes.
Back from Hekou (河口), I have a rest for a day in Kunming (昆明). I ordered a ticket to Fazhe (法者) on the internet (www.qunar.com) on Dec. 28th, and it cost me 50 Yuan. The next day, I got up very early, and went out before dawn. I take bus first and then transfer to subway transportation line 1, and arrived Bus passenger station in northern Kunming when day breaks. I picked up the ticket and went into waiting room.

The coach departed punctually, but it successively picked passengers up in the way.    We have taken fifteen in the midway. We arrived at Huashitou village (花石头村) at half past 12. The house sitting opposite is The House of photography in Redland (红土地摄影之家). I checked in firstly, then I had lunch, after then I shoot the scenery nearby upstairs. Mr. Huang, the hold of this hotel, brought us to the spots by himself at 2:30 pm. The spots dispersed distribution and faraway, so we need a car. The best way is to rent a transportation, and we 5 person shared a car. At first, we went to every spot to film, especially Luoxiagou (落霞沟) and Laolongshu (老龙树). Then we went to the West route to shoot the sunset.

Here is Luoxiagou (落霞沟), the gate and viewing platforms are engineered, and before long here may became chargeable. Entered the gate, and we got off at the park and crossed a village. There is  a big viewing platform, including platform, high-platform and footpath. We could overlook the whole Luoxiagou (落霞沟) with wide view, and we feel relaxed and happy.

2 Days Yunnan Photography Tour in Dongchuan Red Land

 

The terrace here are different from the terrace of Yuanyang (元阳). The scenery  of Yuanyang terrace is formed by the reflection of the sky, the clouds and the ray of light. But Dongchuan terrace is much more naturally. All these things such as the land, the crops and the blue sky  are under the sunshine, make the terrace different.

 

Because of the time, we went back and  visited the Yuepu’ao (乐谱凹) and the Waliangfangzi (瓦梁房子) in  the South line, so we haven’t seen the sunset.

I captured these two image of the  Luoxiagou (落霞沟), and the gate has been built, therefore this spot may need by ticket for entering later this year.

Mr. Huang is familiar with the scenery spots in Dongchuan Redland (东川红土地), and he will stop and let us get off the car to shoot some beautiful scene when arriving each spot. We didn’t worry about missing the spot, very well!

When we arrived Laolongshu (老龙树)，I took out the telephoto and closed in, and found there are several person taking picture under the tree.

Getting out from the Luoxiagou (落霞沟)，we filmed the Redland on the roadside. The plowed land appears red under the sunshine of the setting sun.

Later than 5 o’clock, we droved to Luosiwan (螺蛳湾) viewing platform, and seen the famous model—Sheepskin coat man. It was off duty, so I only took two pictures of the model, and shoot nearby. Then we walked to Waliangfangzi (瓦梁房子) to shoot the sunset.

After shooting, we came back the hotel, and went into the kitchen to order food. The landlady cook them for us. It cost about 30 Yuan. I drank some beer and went to bed early. It is cold at night in the mountain, but there’s electric blanket in the inn, so I feel better.
I got up before dawn and freshened up, and went to Damakan (打马坎) to shoot the sunrise in the North line. It took me about half an hour to get the Damakan (打马坎). The daybreak came at 7:30 am. We stop the car at the turning, and got off to wait the sunrise. But we haven’t see the sun because of the thick clouds.

Having shot the sunset, we went back to the Jinxiuyuan (锦绣园) have a shoot. Then we turn back to the hotel at 9:20 am. And ate some noodle with fried egg, which cooked by the landlady. The coach back to Kunming  arrived at 10:00 am, and we got on it. This Yunnan travel made my several wishes come true: I have been Luguhu (泸沽湖)，Yuanyang terrace (元阳梯田), Jianshui (建水)，Hekou (河口)，Dongchuan  Redland (东川红土地). I got back Shanghai on January 6th. This travel lasted 39 days.

Chinese Version: http://you.ctrip.com/travels/kunming29/3401873.html

9 Days Coloful Yunnan Trip: Dongchuan-Luoping-Puzhehei-Bamei-Yuanyang

Beautiful and warming days are coming, may flowers are blooming in Yunnan(云南)， it’s good time to go for travelling. Come to join us with our photographer team so that you will have a wonderful tour with no worries. What are you waiting for, just do it!

Itinerary:
Day 1：Kunming-Dongchuan Red Land
Day 2：Dongchuan Red Land-Kunming
Day 3: Kunming-Luoping
Day 4: Luoping-Puzhehei  
Day 5:Puzhehei-Bamei
Day 6: Bamei-Yuanyang
Day 7: Yuanyang
Day 8: Yuanyang-Jianshui
Day 9: Jianshui-Kunming

There is enough time to for your art creation, and we will provide full time escort during the tour.
Dongchuan Red Land

“Dongchuan Red Land”（东川红土地）is located in north-eastern Kunming（昆明）. It comes within the jurisdiction of Xintian Xiang（新田乡）.it’s a 200-km tour from Kuming（昆明）and the altitude range from 1800 to 2600 meters on main spot. And the soil contains rich iron and aluminum, but less organic stuff. Because of high temperature and raining climate, the soil turn blood red. Qicaipo（七彩坡），Jinxiuyuan（锦绣园）,Luoxiagou（落霞沟）,Luosiwan(螺蛳湾)，Lepuao（乐普凹）and Guoditang（锅底塘）are some of the most amazing spots there.

Starting out from Kunming（昆明）to Dongchuan（东川）on 8:30, March 8, 2014.  It takes 3 hour to arrive “Huashitou”（花石头）， where there is the center of Red Land. There are full of cobblestone. It shows shining and colorful light from different angle from the stone because those cobblestone consist of agate, so those colorful stones are called “Huashitou”（花石头）.The village are called “Huashitou”（花石头）as well.

Beautiful scene near where we live. And we will head for Luoxiagou（落霞沟）after 20 min.

 We head for Luoxiagou（落霞沟）on 3pm, which is only a 10-min drive. People call it Luoxiagou（落霞沟）due to the light of setting sun. The setting rosy sun changes with the direction wind, the vision of clouds, light, and verity of plants, every picture is unique. From top to bottom, smoke wreathed up from kitchen chimneys, all stuff come up to be a beautiful oil painting. With the corrosion of rain, the line and shadow of gully stands out, you will have irresistible visual impact.

今天这里晴空万里，景色迷人。

这里桃花已盛开。

下午五点离开落霞沟来到神树景点拍摄。

在这只拍了半小时。

来到乐普凹 ，此时已是傍晚六点多，拍了几张后就赶往瓦房梁子。

观赏晚霞和日落的最佳地点当属瓦梁房子，这里地势高，能把乐普凹一带的风景尽收眼底，等待日落之前，还可以先到附近的螺丝湾看一看，非常方便。

螺蛳湾和瓦房梁子景点是从昆明到东川经土地老路上最先看到的景点。 

一直拍到太阳下山。

晚霞中的螺狮湾

 

      天黑了，回住地休息。
      第二天三月九日五点多就起床出发来到打马坎拍日出。在山坡上找到好位子，幸亏来的早，后头来的人都找不到位子了。

东边已有红光。

 
七点一刻太阳出来了。

打马坎：是一个村子的名字。

       早晨日出前后在公路边的高坡上俯瞰打马坎村，红土围绕的村子里炊烟缭绕，村子四周杨树在朝阳斜射下泛着光辉，是一派宁静动人的田园风光。

公路边的风力发电机。

拍完日出后来到锦绣园。

在这拍了一个小时。

回到花石头住地拿行李准备回昆明市区。

 
村里随拍。

遇见一小脚老妇。

十点钟离开了东川红土地，下午一点到达昆明市区。

———————————————————————————————- 

幕间休息：昆明闲逛

翠湖公园

鸟已不多了。

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第二幕 ：罗平菜花瀑布

旅程： 
        3月10日乘车去罗平，到了宗师县天气一直很好，可一进入罗平境内天空中云量开始增多，到了菜花节的主会场已是阴云密布。

        吃过午餐后到金鸡峰林一看已是雾气浓浓。

 
爬到高处就见到此景。

看来这一下午雾都不会散，领队建议下午还是去不在行程里的九龙瀑布看看。

九龙瀑布简介：九龙瀑布离金鸡峰林就半小时车程，位于罗平县东北。在仅4千米长的河道上，便有大小数十个钙化滩和十多级瀑布，形状奇特，植被完好，该瀑布被中国国家地理“选美中国”活动评选为“中国最美的六大瀑布”第四名 。

九龙瀑布门票七十元，进入大门，首先映入眼帘的是碧日滩，清澄平静。滩下有河心小岛，将水分成三股，形成三个宽窄不等，高约2米的小叠水，这是九龙十瀑中的第一瀑。

由此沿河道右侧拾级而上，涉过4个高低不一的钙化叠水

最为壮观的以堵勒大瀑布，也称神龙瀑布。此瀑高56米，宽114米，瀑面呈弧形，瀑后有一个深约10米的水帘洞。

从此处还能向上去看情人瀑，由于时间已是六点了，天快黑了，只得放弃。

 
返回没走原路，改从河道左侧回去。沿途景色。

 
         晚上住在县城里。一觉起来已是大雾弥漫。今天（3月11日）的行程是先去螺丝田看日出，从县城往北去螺丝田，途中还遇堵车，等到那儿已是九点，雾还没散，白跑一趟。只得原路返回去县城后普者黑。
        在下山途中雾渐渐散了，看到了螺丝田的菜花。

在去普者黑的路上又能菜花田。

       车在行驶到离普者黑还有三十公里时遇到了当地人的赶集日，公路两边全是摊位，我们的车被堵在路中，原定下午一点多就能到普者黑，早上遇到大雾堵车耽误了二小时，这里又不知要等多长时间。

村民在买卖牛

我们的队友也去帮忙疏通交通，经过一个半小时的努力终于过了集市，到达普者黑已是下午五点了。

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第三幕：普者黑

普者黑简介：普者黑位于云南省丘北县城13公里处。普者黑是典型的喀斯特地貌， 中心景区主要有普者黑湖  、荷花湖  、灯笼湖、仙人洞  湖、落水洞  湖、摆龙湖  等大小湖泊16个，平均水深4米，最深处达30米，165平方公里的景区里有250多个景点，300多座孤峰，80多个溶洞  ，80多个湖泊，40里野生巨荷荷路，2万余亩水面，形成40里的水上旅游航线。

由于五点才到这，已无法乘船游湖，只得去登青龙山。

 青龙山不高。十分钟就能到山顶。

在山顶望四周。

晚上就住在普者黑村里的欢乐农家庄，这里去年曾接待了芒果台亲子秀《爸爸去哪儿  》的林志颖一家。

3月12日又是一大早起来去村里拍拍。

拍到八点就结束，乘车去坝美村。
 
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第四幕：世外桃源坝美村

       坝美村简介：位于 广南县 北部八达乡和阿科乡交界处，村子四面环山，不通公路，进出寨子主要靠村前村后两个天然的石灰溶岩水洞，村民们要摸着岩壁趟水、撑竹筏、划独木舟、坐小船，经过几公里长的幽暗的水洞才能进出。

旅程： 
       从普者黑到坝美村行车需四小时，中间我们在广南县城用午餐。
 
下午一点到达坝美停车场换坐马车去洞口

20分钟到洞口

上船进村。

经过980米三明三暗船程到达坝美村

 
洞口进村的路

坝美村地图，我将沿着顺时针方向走一圈，我是从图中上方的游船码头进村，先到夫妻树，再过图中下边的游船码头去桃花谷、轿子山。

 去村里的道路上桃花盛开。

村里许多人家在大兴土木建楼房

村里的长寿树。

村里新建的广场。

沿着顺时针方向走走拍拍

这是老房子

这是坝美村的另一出口。

快到桃花谷了。

茅草屋边鸡鸭成群

在山腰间望坝美村全景

桃花谷

走了一圈又到达进村的渡船洞口

 
轿子山

 

再走桃花路

回到“宾馆”看日落

“宾馆” 主人给我们准备的晚餐，好看不好吃。

         晚饭后就休息了，13日早上七点我们就乘船出去了，这天要行车八个多小时去元阳。

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 第五幕：元阳梯田

简介：梯田位于云南省 元阳 县的哀牢山  南部，是哈尼族  人世世代代留下的杰作。梯田随山势地形变化，因地制宜，坡缓地大则开垦大田，坡陡地小则开垦小田，甚至沟边坎下石隙也开田，因而梯田大者有数亩，小者仅有簸箕大，往往一坡就有成千上万亩。所有的梯田都修筑在山坡上，梯田坡度在15度至75度之间。以一座山坡而论，梯田最高级数达3000级。

旅程：
       今天（3月13日）的行程很顺利，下午五点到达老虎嘴，走到下面的观景台开始拍摄。

光线在不断的变化，大家不停的按快门。

 
老虎嘴梯田分布于深谷间，状如一巨大的花蕊，3000多亩梯田形状各异，如万蛇静卧于花蕊间，阳光照射下似天落碧波，浪花泛起，万蛇蠕动。老虎嘴梯田是元阳哈尼梯田最具有代表性、最为壮观的地方，完全可以用绵绵不绝、丝丝相连、无边无垠去形容。 

 站在老虎嘴的任何一个地方看下面的梯田，都是一幅幅恰似江南的水墨画卷，都是美丽的自然风光。

象不象奔驰的骏马 

 
日落西山

霞光照耀在梯田里

摄友们

拍完后乘车到住宿地胜村已是八点半了。明天五点出发去多依树看日出,去的早可找到好位置。

3月14日五点多钟到达多依树等看日出，可惜在六点过后起雾了

雾越来越浓

 
这是在雾中间隙看到的多依树梯田，也就几十秒钟。

新街也一直被雾气笼罩着，到第二天（3月15日）离开时雾都没散。

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尾声：
        3月15日离开元阳的老县城新街，下午到达建水县团山村。
团山村简介：团山村位于云南省建水县，在这个宁静的小村子里隐藏着一个颇具规模、历经600年风雨仍保存完好的汉族民居，这在少数民族边远地区实属罕见。明洪武年间，江西鄱阳县一位名叫张福的商人，把生意做到了临安（建水），看中了县城外土地肥沃、风俗醇美的张宝石寨，于是在此安家，繁衍子孙，方成为巨族。团山民居的布局和装饰与江南民居有相似之处。所有建筑一律坐西朝东，屋面为青瓦，白灰粉饰外墙，青砖作墙裙，每座房屋都以天井为核心，大门多在主体建筑一侧，通过形状不一的过道，到达主体院落，有一进院、二进院、三进院，平面布局包揽了云南传统民居中”四合五天井”、”三坊一照壁”、”跑马转角楼”等主要形式。

东寨门

我们从东寨门右侧进入将军弟

 将军弟正门

张家花园正门

张家花园是张氏后人张汉庭的私人住宅，为团山民居的主要代表，房屋建于清光绪31年，由一组一进院、一组二进院和花园祠堂组成。前院是花厅，院内铺青石板、置花台、青石水缸和花木；中院为家眷生活起居的主房，后院是长辈生活起居的正房。
花园祠堂在大门左边，

花园祠堂庭院宽敞，中间有水池，祠堂坐落在十几级台阶的高台上，庄严典雅。如今祠堂的功能已变成了小学校的教室，祠堂的敞廊是孩子们课余嬉戏的好地方，陈年的祠堂里洋溢着生气。 

团山民居各户人家的宅院筑得紧凑舒适，尤以梁棹窗棂间的精细木雕著称。木雕中的人物形象、动物姿态、植物纹样、几何图形，都根据各种形体采取不同的雕凿方法，穿漏与浮雕相结合，面面俱到，技艺之高超，令人叹为观止。那份气派，埋藏着主人家发财之后对”儒雅”的崇尚。 

除木雕、砖雕、石雕外，彩绘书画也是装饰建筑的重要组成部分，诗词楹联遍布庭院板壁，其中一座楼的天花板上，就集中了100多幅彩绘书画，足以显示主人家书香世第的文化气息。

北寨门

皇恩府，团山张氏十二世张母朱太君生于道光十一年（1832年），卒于民国四年（1915年），享年八十有三。二十岁夫亡，遗孤子，尚在襁褓，戚党以扶孤大义劝慰再三，遂矢志守节，遵循张氏宗族治家格言，“一勤天下无难事，百忍堂中有太和。”昼则佣工田亩，夜则针纺织，扶孤成立，子孙济济，五世同堂，乡里无其不效。光绪二十五年（1900年），儿子张树元在个旧开矿发迹，回乡建房，前清例受修职左郎乡饮宾，张母被前清例封安人，立坊入祠，旌表其门。“皇恩旌表”匾额列于大门正上方，故得名“皇恩府”。

参观完团山村后我们就去建水县城入住建水酒店，晚上在古城里的香满楼美食了一顿，菜肴非常棒！

3月16日从建水途经抚仙湖到昆明机场，大家互相告别后乘机回各自的家。

Chinese Version: http://www.mafengwo.cn/i/3018924.html

Gongwangshan Mountain, located in the southeast of Kunming City, Yunnan Province, China, is a popular hiking destination known for its stunning landscapes and diverse flora and fauna. The mountain range is home to Xueling Peak, which at 4,223 meters above sea level is the highest peak in the area. On this Dongchuan Hiking Tour, we will explore the beautiful trails of Gongwangshan Mountain and conquer the highest peak, Xueling Peak, for an unforgettable experience.

The Journey: Our journey began early in the morning as we gathered at the Dongchuan Village, which is situated at an altitude of around 2,500 meters above sea level. The villagers here are known for their warm hospitality and rich cultural heritage. We were welcomed with a traditional tea ceremony before setting off on our adventure.

As we started hiking, we were surrounded by lush forests, breathtaking waterfalls, and stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The trail was challenging, but the fresh air and the breathtaking scenery made the journey worth it. Our experienced guide led us through the tricky sections, ensuring our safety and making sure we captured the best moments along the way.

After a few hours of hiking, we reached the foot of Xueling Peak, which stands at an impressive 4,223 meters above sea level. The snow-capped peak towered above us, offering a sight that was both awe-inspiring and humbling. We took a break to absorb the beauty of the place and grab some lunch before continuing our ascent.

As we climbed higher, the landscape changed, and we found ourselves in a winter wonderland. The snow-covered trees and slopes were a sight to behold, and we couldn’t help but feel like we were in a fairytale. Our guide took us to some of the most picturesque spots, where we could take photos and enjoy the tranquility of the place.

Despite the high altitude and the challenging terrain, we managed to make it to the top of Xueling Peak. The view from the summit was breathtaking, and we felt like we were on top of the world. We took a moment to cherish this achievement before making our way back down to Dongchuan Village.

The Return: As the sun began to set, we made our way back to Dongchuan Village, exhausted but exhilarated. The villagers welcomed us back with open arms and treated us to a delicious dinner. We spent the evening exchanging stories with our guide and learning more about the local culture and traditions.

Conclusion: Our Dongchuan Hiking Tour to Xueling Peak of Gongwangshan Mountain in Kunming was an unforgettable experience. The stunning beauty of the mountain, the challenging hike, and the warm hospitality of the villagers made this trip a truly memorable one. If you’re looking for a thrill-packed adventure in the heart of the Himalayas, this tour is definitely worth considering.

Jiaozi Snow Mountain located in Wumeng town(乌蒙乡) of the northeast corner of Luquan country(禄劝县) in Kunming, Yunnan province，which belongs to the rest part of Arch King mountains in WuMeng Mountain Ridge, its height is 4247 meters above sea level, it is called Jiaozi Snow Mountain due to the shape of mountain peak looks like Jiaozi（轿子雪山）, and then in Tang Dynasty, the king of Nanzhao in Dali named the mountain as “Le Baini”. The Jiaozi Snow Mountain is high and towering, the stereo-climate is obvious, besides, its geological and geomorphologic landscape is of high ornamental and researching value. Resources of animal and plant are diversified and in winter, it is covered by snow, which is a snow mountain nearest to kunming, the capital of Yunnan province, with an extremely developmental potential. Characterized with its unique natural landscape, it attracts more and more mountaineers and travel-enthusiasts. The main scenic spot is ten thousand-unit cuckoo flower sea, high mountain and Tianchi, colorful waterfall, and the Buddha of Jiaozi.

Two-day Traveling Agenda on Jiaozi Snow Mountain.

Tourists who traveling on the Jiaozi Mountain usually choose to stay a night in Zhuanlong（转龙）and climbing the mountain next day as the time is too tight. Recently, there are too many tourists watching the snow in winter, people living in Tangdian is of a large quantity, but the distance between the two spots is only about 20 kilometers, and its condition is better than the Zhuanlong in all respects. The price in weekends was 80 to 120 yuan recently, as the supply is not adequate to the demand, the price was a little expensive. I recommended JinHui dining hall of Hui nationality in the center of the town, the price is moderate, the taste is good, the oil drenching dry meat is quite great(50 yuan/dish).

Early in next morning, I left Tangdian at 8 o ‘clock, and after drivng 60 kilometers, I arrived at the Jiaozi Snow Mountain at 9 o ‘clock. The parking lot is mostly full of vehicles, mostly from Kunming. Then the real mountain climbing begin after driving ferry push about 7 kilometers to take cable car to get to the top of the mountain.

The snow and the forest of the Jiaozi Snow Mountain are beautiful too! Climbing the mountain after snowing, you’ll get the better scenery. Along the way, I saw many azalea bushes and trees. If you Climb in May and June, the landscape was another flavor.

Driving away from the scenic spot at 4:30 p.m., taking dinner in TangDian, and you can go home at about 8:30 in the evening.

The Detailed Strategy of Traveling on Jiaozi Snow Mountain.

There is no nonstop car from kunming to Jiaozi Snow Mountain, so you need take a vehicle from kunming to Zhuanlong town (The only way to Jiaozi snow mountain, also the best choice for accommodation and food in the snow mountain scenic area), Zhuanlong town belongs to luquan autonomous county including Yi and Miao nationalities. Taking the car from the northern passenger stations in the kunming, the first at 6:20, almost a car every hour of the station, but the departure arrangement is not fixed, after all the Zhuanlong is a small town, the urban and rural time between the period have some error, the tourist are told the car is not on schedule, that means now can’t buy the tickets. From kunming to Zhuanlong town need to through the line of Heilongtan(黑龙潭)-Songmingaziying(嵩明阿子营)-Xundiankedu town(寻甸柯渡镇)-Xundiantangdian town(寻甸倘甸镇)-Luquanzhaunlong town(禄劝转龙镇), The whole journey is 150KM approximately and it takes three and one half hours.

I arrived in the Zhuanlong town, the station of the Zhuanlong town is in the south of the town, and walking to the town center for 5-8 minutes. There are three main streets in the town, In front of the door of the station is the main street, and the shop, restaurant, the supermarket, etc dispersed two sides. Along the main road from north, you can get to the town center, if it is market-day on Sunday, the way will be overwhelming.You need to go from the west side of the main streets, and this street is centralized with hotels of small town, many small hotel located here. Here, I mainly recommends two hotels, the Zhuanlong hotel located on the main road, and the Zhuanlong hotel needs to book in advance which mainly operating group reception . Then isYinghe hotel, which located the most west of the river , the facilities here are good, in a small town than a regular hotel, although many aspects but in there is good, the hotel is located in the Xima(洗马)river, the scenery outside the window is good, cool wind blow gently, very comfortable, double standard rooms holidays (May 1th) listed price is 160 yuan, the boss is very nice, have any questions and needs can be consulting (advance booking telephone 0871-8942189) with her. There are some small hotels near the hotel, the price is low, 50 to 100, which is a good choice for student friends. If it’s a holiday, suggest booking a hotel in advance or as early as possible get there because the hotel room is limited.

The time is not early after living, maybe a little late to clime the mountain, so i choose to eat first, Meals has nothing special in Zhuanlong, but pea jelly or tofu is still good, ham was said to have been a line, I am not interested in smoked products, so i didn’t try. For Stir-fried vegetables tourists, I recommended Shenlong(神龙) restaurant, which located on the main street, the small town of health conditions are about the same, but here also tastes good, cheap, adequate weight, boss enthusiasm (Zhuanlong people’s unadorned passion yet ~ ~), three meats and two vegetables are less than 50 yuan. Time is enough to take a nap after lunch, because there is no special spot in the town.

In the afternoon, you can stroll around the Zhuanlong, there are only three places could to go. First is the spring of the Zhuanlong town, also called “micro-spring”, is made up of springs, and the next spring, springs on the corners of the beast, the outlet of the central has a “bottomless”, mainly for people to drink, spring water flow on the channel into the next spring, for the laundry cattle drink, spring under the edge correlation has been abandoned. It is named as spring because the spring all-year- round in a day of spring up change, it is said that the pool of dragon king turn, which is the reason named Zhuanlong twon, is actually a aquifers caused by intermittent flow.

Ps: The spring water overflowed when I got there at noon and then shallowed after dinner, and while the village woman talked to me and cooked.The second place is “Jiang family courtyard(蒋家大院)”, is located in the southeast corner of town and built by the local gentry Jiang Changhai in 1944 and rebuilt after the earthquake in 1985, it concluded two yards and wall park. standing in the courtyard and hanging corridor, as if there was a brilliant families living shadow, but seems the rise and decline about the history of family prosperity. Ps: I found most of the rooms are used for the office of the land resources, and the historical relics are not well protected, which spooky in the evening. Finally I recommend you can go along the Xima river(洗马河). And doesn’t have to go to the Zhongshan bulding (中山楼) in the centre of town, It’s amazing, Which has a red building doors and Windows locked, Carefully looking the “XXX elderly activity room”. Then you can buy some local food especially malt sugar due to gown wheat locally.

Get up early the next day after breakfast ready to climb the hill, something mainly remind the drivers, There are buses of Jiaozi Snow Mountain travel company to get the snow mountain every day early, but aimed at visitors of the group, the company not allowed to pick up the individual, except you are lucky and meet a good driver. There are a lot of small vans can hire up the hill in zhuanlong station, it`s one-way 250 yuan prices (Holiday), round-trip is 400 yuan prices (holiday) if let the driver waiting for you to send you back down the mountain, about 30 to 40 yuan per capita. Of course, if you have to look for the charter a few people together, you could ask the room next door hh, also can go to the station and accoroding per capita to give money, the driver need to contract other guest.

Ps: I gave 50 per person to the hill, when the driver pulled three batch of visitors which has three different prices, I understand at that time but don’t want to care about it, but annoyed the driver noisy that he suffer losses, later when I learned that the driver is the people of Tangdian rather than local, I figured out that I got wrong blame the unadorned passion Zhuanlong people!!!!!!!!!!!!!! The bus from zhuanlong passes through the scenic spot gate to the tourist service center (altitude 2950 meters)of “Sifangjing(四方景)”, it takes about 45 minutes for 45 kilometers. The driver stopped here and goes down the hill to the Zhuanlong town. Get off the bus to bought tickets, the price of 70 yuan (including the scenic spot bus back and forth fee), to be remind you here, and the earliest scenic mountain bus at 8:30, so plan the right time to ride, “Sifangjing” service center has the breakfast. By bus tickets in scenic spot (early morning 8:30) by the “quartet scene” enter the scenic area about 20 minutes to get the “Xiapingzi(下坪子)” (altitude 3500 meters), here is the begining up to the hill, also is the home to the scenic area, there are some scenic hotel, price – 200 yuan/bed, If you want to see the sunrise could live here last night.

Then we started hiking. The scenic route is roughly oval around the mountain, and some of the scenic spots are single-line and need to be returned. You can choose the path according to your own situation, there are artificial board channel setup, walking along the channel, the basic will not get lost (in four party ticket at scene can ask the conductor for a detailed site map), Now I will introduce the route of mine to you.

After getting off, the scenic spot “Haohanpo(好汉坡)”on the left side is not bad so that can be put in the final view. So from the right to buy a ticket to take the cable car up to the “Daheiqing（大黑菁）” (altitude 3850 meters), 35 yuan per person, along the road need to take 15 minutes or so, along the way also can see at the foot of the cuckoo flowers (the blossoms) or to the left of the picture of Haohanpo to Huaxi(花溪). After the ropeway boards along the west from the “Daheiqing” channel and attractions logo began walking, through the Huaxi, at this time, don’t watch the first waterfall group, continue to “sight” (altitude 3987.3 meters) and west on (in the high altitude to remind you often appear oxygen breathing difficulties, timely adjustment, if you have special need to pay attention to patients with high blood pressure, heart and lung function, although there are service stations for the scenic spot, but only for tourists to rest, there is no complete oxygen facilities and staff), “Yixiantian(一线天)” is one of the largest sites relative relief, it’s tired extremed!!!!! Continue to walk by the “Caodianhua(草甸花)” “, “the ruins of the temple（神庙遗址）”, “Pride Lin(傲骨林)” and to “Tianchi” (altitude 4150 meters) on the way to see cuckoo flowers (the blossoms).

Ps: There are visitors to throw coins in tianchi pray for luck, here I remind you don’t leave anything that does not belong to here in the mountains, ecological protection, you know!!!!! Along the way to the east “Mubanghai(木邦海), “QiXing Tower landscape”, “Buddha cliff” to “Tiantai peak (4216 meters above sea level),” “Buddha cliff” only a foggy in the autumn season to see the light refraction presents the shape of figure of Buddha, other time is can’t see the drop!!!!! Ultraviolet ray is very strong in this process because of the mountain, friends must prepare a hat, sunscreen, Mrs can prepare thin silk scarves around targeting top, Besides, mountain has low temperatures and wind, bring enough clothes before up to the hill.

Ps: If on MAY 1th go to there, No pants, shirt, pathfinder coat — -It’s freeze!!! In particular, it is best to prepare Chineselegging, sweaters, down jackets, scarves and gloves. “Tiantai peak” is the special attractions, eastward along the way to return to continue to its top of the mountain, take some rest, eat some biscuit, and chocolate this kind of energy food, along the way there will be from the snow mountain village villagers sell baked potato, buckwheat bread, eggs this kind of food, could buy some, a baked potato is very good, can warm hands, it’s high quantity of heat food have the cold-resistance.

Ps: such a high mountain, person of hometown back to the hill is not easy, a potato to 1.5 yuan, sell in other scenic spots, tourists must be bought something, might as well if you need to buy some… The people of the Zhuanlong… Simple Zhuanlong people!!! Rest finished, climb the top, along the narrow stair, left and right whirl, tired again and again!!! But top of the mountain scenery infinite (elevation 4223 meters), here is the Jiaozi Snow Mountain peak, mountain opposite the “Dongchuan(东川) might as well to the dongchuan people shouted a throat… Oh!!!!!! Along the way to return to the “Shentian (the scenic spot has been abandoned), “Jingtangguai(精怪塘)” (elevation 3950 meters) south to “moon rock”, then we watch the west before viewing “waterfall group”, in recent years, yunnan got drought, small water quantity, small waterfall… Sweat! Then we walked over the same road and went back to the “Daheiqing” station. If your physical well at this moment, then down bawcock slope foot along the ornamental pool “Biqing pool(碧清池)”, “bamboo creek wonderland（竹溪仙境）” and other attractions then return xiaping stronghold, exhaustion people can directly from the “Daqinghei” taking the cable car back to “Xiapingzi”, at this point, your Jiaozi Snow Mountain trip is almost done, say bye!

On the “Xiapingzi” (remember to keep well) ride the bus down to the “Sifang Jing” service center. Find the drivers drop you to return Zhuanlong town, the people drive themselves this time may be very tired, sleepy, but pay attention, safety first!!!!!!

People not drive themselves return from Zhuanlong town back to kunming’s need to take the car at the station, early morning 7 o ‘clock in the morning, can’t buy the ticket in advance, buy a ticket that day, many tourists, so get up early, or leave a driver phone, make a phone call to let him leave a ticket for you. And one more thing to remind everybody, Zhuanlong bus ticket without seat number, early to get early to sit, if you arrive in time you will find that the car is waiting for you a full. Ps: My concept of time is very strong, is not meant to let you wait, very confused, Zhuanlong people!!!!!!!!!! In addition, because the station dispatcher writes the ticket, inevitably appear write repeated (the Zhuanlong people!!! I have always been annoyed… Let’s say bye to the unpretentious and enthusiastic people.

Special Tips:

1, The Jiaozi Snow Mountain has a total length of 155 kilometers, most of which are secondary road design, and the part of the mountain is a three-stage road, with a speed limit of 80 kilometers and some parts 60 kilometers. Due to not closed road, fork, villages, motorcycles, agricultural vehicles and pedestrians so elusive, you need to be very careful, especially some areas which sometimes had the accident.

2, when it is sunny, the temperature is of mountain is not very low, the temperatures on the cable car station is 2 ° C, Jingguaitang – 2 ° C, estimates go upward – most probably 5 ° C. When climbing, you need to wear the necessary anti-cold clothing, especially the anti-skid and moisture-proof shoes. In the shade of the trail, snow freezes, and visitors are often seen sliding to a fall.

3, The tickets for the scenic spot, the round-trip ticket, and the cable car ticket are 140 yuan, and the proposal is to buy tickets on taobao.com, which we buy online for 90 yuan per person.

4, It is not convenient to eat and drink in the scenic spot. It is recommended to carry hot heat foods such as cookies, chocolate, milk, beef jerky, vitamin drinks, etc. Some people will have altitude sickness, recommend walking at a constant pace, don’t make joking, and often stop to take a break and supplement your diet.

5, Jiaozi Snow Mountain scenery is more beautiful than you can imagine, more big than expected and the scenic spot of also far beyond imagination, developing the tourism of pedestrian way is very long, it all go down at least 6 to 7 hours (excluding and cable car by car), tired ah! And the main attraction is at 3,900-4,200 meters above sea level, the tourists who are not good at the body will not be able to! It is recommended that you prepare your thoughts and choose your own path according to your physical condition and time.

6, Tangdian is appropriate to eat dinner, the condition is better than the Zhuanlong. We saw a lot of tourists returning from the Zhuanlong who said that there were too many people in Zhuanlong.

7, Early go mountains up and down. everything have to catch, the best time to get the scenic spot is in the morning at half past eight, leaving at 4:00 PM, Otherwise having to queue by car or cable car so that waste of your two hours of time at least.

Yunnan Province, located in southwest China, is known for its diverse ethnic groups and rich cultural heritage. One of the most unique and interesting cultural events in Yunnan is the traditional ceremonial wedding.

The traditional ceremonial wedding in Yunnan is usually held in the minority ethnic groups, such as the Naxi, Bai, Hani, and Lisu people. These weddings are often elaborate and colorful affairs, with many traditional customs and rituals involved.

One of the most important customs in a traditional Yunnan wedding is the “bride hunting” ceremony. This ceremony is held before the actual wedding and involves the groom’s family sending representatives to the bride’s family to propose for her hand. The bride’s family then decides whether to accept the proposal or not. If the proposal is accepted, the groom’s family will send a delegation to the bride’s village to retrieve her.

During the wedding ceremony, the bride and groom will wear traditional clothing and decorations, such as colorful facial makeup and headdresses. The ceremony usually involves a series of rituals and ceremonies, including the sacrifice of animals, the sharing of food, and the exchange of gifts.

One of the most interesting aspects of a traditional Yunnan wedding is the “drinking of three cups of wine” ceremony. This ceremony involves the bride and groom drinking three cups of wine together, symbolizing their commitment to each other and their willingness to share everything.

Overall, a traditional ceremonial wedding in Yunnan is a unique and fascinating cultural event that offers a glimpse into the rich heritage of the region’s ethnic groups. If you are interested in experiencing a traditional Yunnan wedding, you can visit the region’s ethnic villages and attend a local wedding ceremony.

Few days ago, our guests had the privilege of attending a Traditional Yunnan ceremonial Wedding in Dongchuan, it’s been a great experience to see the authentic culture and traditions ,and will always find a way shine through. That’s in a break for our overview in Dongchuan landscape sightseeing.

They are really welcome and nice people for the overwhelming kindness. The journey getting there was laughable, the wedding day itself was awesome, and the trip back to the city was also laughable.

I’ve attached few pictures below that Celeste and I shot, hopefully it’ll give you a glimpse of what a traditional ethnic minority wedding looks and feels like. it was an adventure not to be forgotten for our trip in Yunnan, the food, the Traditional Red color, the beautiful and unique bride, all these will become a beautiful leave memory in Red land Dongchuan.

Your vivid portrayal of Dongchuan Red Land offers a compelling invitation to explore this less-trodden gem in Yunnan. Here’s how your description can be turned into an informative and enticing travel blog post:

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Dongchuan Red Land: Yunnan’s Palette of Earthly Wonders

Hidden in the northeast of Kunming lies a landscape so vibrant and surreal that it rivals the masterpieces of the greatest painters. Dongchuan Red Land, with its undulating hills and vivid hues, is a living canvas that captures the imagination and soothes the soul.

A Symphony of Colors

Dongchuan is not just a destination; it’s an experience, a spectacle of nature’s artistry. The iron-rich soil, thanks to Yunnan’s warm and humid climate, has oxidized over centuries, painting the land in striking shades of red. This extraordinary phenomenon creates a visual feast that is often likened to the works of Van Gogh, with the local farmers as the unwitting artists of this organic masterpiece.

The Dramatic Skies and Artistic Fields

Perched at an altitude of 1,800 to 2,600 meters, Dongchuan enjoys clear skies that set the stage for breathtaking sunrises and sunsets. The light plays upon the land, casting shadows and illuminating the red clay, the golden fields of grain, and the patchwork of crops in a display that changes from one moment to the next.

(Remark: Sunset over Dongchuan, where every second is a changing painting.)

A Secret Among Photographers

Discovered in the 1990s and kept a closely guarded secret for years, Dongchuan Red Land is now a pilgrimage site for photographers and nature enthusiasts. Here, the deep reds, purples, and bright hues stretch across thousands of mountains, waving with the breeze, creating a living oil painting that no camera can truly capture.

(Remark: Photographers capturing the fleeting beauty of Dongchuan’s landscapes.)

A Place for Peace and Exploration

The area is dotted with scenic spots and rustic villages that invite exploration:

• Damakan Village: In the early morning, the village awakens to the sight of smoke spiraling from chimneys, set against the backdrop of the red earth and morning fog.

• Qicaipo: Aptly named for its ‘Seven Colors Slope,’ it’s a place where dawn and sunrise bathe the earth in a spectrum of colors.

• Yuepuao: Here, you witness the harmony of rural life amidst the stunning red land, with villages that seem to have sprung from the earth itself.

(Remark: The tranquil rural life of Yuepuao amidst the red earth.)

When to Visit

The canvas of Dongchuan changes with the seasons. The most striking contrasts are seen from mid-May to early June and from mid-October to November, when the tilling of the land reveals the red soil against the lush crops. Winter brings a different kind of beauty, with snow occasionally dusting the hills, though travel can be more challenging.

(Remark: Dongchuan’s red earth veiled in winter’s snow.)

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Dongchuan Red Land is more than a place; it’s an emotion, a connection to the earth that is both grounding and exhilarating. For those who seek the road less traveled and the joy of discovery, Dongchuan offers a journey into a world where nature’s palette knows no bounds.

Your journey to Dongchuan Red Land during the Chinese National Day Holiday paints a picture of a serene escape, far from the bustling crowds that characterize many of China’s famous tourist spots. Your narrative captures the essence of Yunnan’s hidden gem, offering a glimpse into its breathtaking landscapes and the simple, yet profound, lifestyles of its inhabitants. Here’s how your experience could be transformed into a travel blog entry:

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Dongchuan Red Land: Yunnan’s Palette of Earthly Delights

As the throngs of tourists swarm to the well-trodden attractions of Kunming, I found solace in a place less known yet strikingly beautiful – the Dongchuan Red Land. A tapestry of vibrant colors sprawled across the land, this northeastern part of Kunming holds secrets only a few have had the pleasure to uncover.

A Journey to the Colors of Dawn

My adventure began with an early departure for Damakan at the break of dawn. The companionship of fellow travelers from the hostel and the open road set the stage for a day of discovery. As the sun peeked over the horizon, the red lands were bathed in a warm glow, the light dancing across the folds of the earth, creating a scene so surreal it could have been the work of celestial painters.

(Remark: The image above captures the sunrise at Damakan, a moment where time seemed to stand still.)

The Red Land Mosaic

Throughout the day, our driver navigated through the countryside, revealing different facets of Dongchuan’s beauty. Viewing decks offered panoramic vistas, while the country lanes allowed us to wander amidst the patchwork of red, green, and white terraces. The red soil, rich and fertile, lay bare after the harvest, contrasting sharply with the verdant potato plants and the delicate white of the winter rape flowers.

(Remark: This photo, though taken by a mere phone, attempts to do justice to the layered terraces of Dongchuan Red Land.)

Echoes of Tradition

Amidst this natural splendor, life continues in its age-old rhythms. Farmers, adorned with straw hats, work the land with their cows, their hands planting seeds and reaping crops with the same tools that have been used for generations. Occasionally, a horse-drawn cart would meander past, a reminder of the timeless pace of life here.

(Remark: A local farmer continues the traditional ways of working the land.)

Culinary Simplicity

With no restaurants in sight, our meals were served at the hostel, each dish a testament to the freshness of local produce. From edible wild herbs to exotic mushrooms, the flavors were a reflection of Dongchuan’s fertile soils. As the day waned, I savored a baked corn, a simple yet delicious treat, while waiting for the sunset at Luosiwan.

(Remark: Baked corn, a common sight, and a delightful snack in Dongchuan.)

A Portrait of Local Charm

After the sunset, I encountered an endearing old man in Luosiwan, known from many photographs online. Dressed in traditional attire, he and his loyal dog were a charming sight, always ready to share a smile with those who wished to capture their image.

(Remark: The famous old man of Luosiwan, a friendly face in a beautiful setting.)

A Night Under the Stars

As night fell, the skies above Dongchuan revealed their final treasure – a starry expanse so clear and vast it defied description. The Milky Way stretched across the heavens, a celestial spectacle free from the taint of light pollution. It was here, under the dome of the cosmos, that I truly grasped the magnitude of our universe.

(Remark: The starry sky over Dongchuan, a sight to behold and cherish.)

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Dongchuan Red Land is a reminder that beauty often lies off the beaten path, waiting for those willing to seek it out. It’s a place where the earth itself tells a story, painted in hues of red and green, under a canopy of blue by day and a tapestry of stars by night. If you’re yearning for a journey that offers more than just sights, but feelings and experiences that resonate deep within, Dongchuan Red Land awaits.