Hongta Hill in Hongta District, Yuxi
Hongta Mountain (红塔山) is located on Wenbi Mountain (文笔山), about 2 kilometers southeast of the downtown area of Hongta District (红塔区), Yuxi City (玉溪市), Yunnan Province (云南省). It is adjacent to Hongta Avenue (红塔大道), bordered by Yuxi Normal University (玉溪师范学院) at the back and facing the Hongta Group Building (红塔集团大楼) in front.
Historical and Cultural Background
Historical Development: Hongta Mountain (红塔山) derives its name from the red tower (红塔) standing on its peak, originally a white pagoda built during the Yuan Dynasty (元代) and reconstructed in 1839 (the 19th year of Daoguang in the Qing Dynasty 清道光十九年). In 1958, the white pagoda was painted red and renamed “Hongta” (红塔), with the scenic spot also renamed from “White Pagoda in the Evening Sun” (白塔夕照) to “Morning Glow of Hongta” (红塔朝晖).
Cultural Significance: Hongta Mountain is not only an iconic attraction of Yuxi (玉溪), but also an important historical and cultural site. The Hongta Tobacco Culture Museum (红塔山烟事文化馆) showcases the history of tobacco cultivation, processing, and branding.
Folk Customs
Traditional folk celebrations around Hongta Mountain include Spring Festival, Mid-Autumn Festival, and other Chinese holidays. Nearby is Yunquan Temple (云泉寺), home to eight scenic spots including “Yunquan Waterfall” (云泉飞瀑), “Biyun Nest” (碧云窝), and “Puxian Tower Shadow” (普贤塔影), making it an important place for local prayer and blessings.
Weather and Best Time to Visit
Yuxi (玉溪) experiences a mid-subtropical plateau monsoon climate, with mild temperatures and distinct seasons, making it suitable for travel year-round.
- Spring: enjoy blooming mountain flowers
- Summer: a cool retreat from the heat
- Autumn: crisp and refreshing air
- Winter: warm sunlight
Recommended Attractions and Visiting Duration
Hongta (红塔):
The core attraction of Hongta Mountain (红塔山), this is a solid seven-sided, eight-tiered tower made of bluestone, filled with earth, and built in the dense-eave style.
Recommended visiting time: about 1 hour.
Hongta Mountain Park (红塔山公园):
A scenic park ideal for a relaxing walk or hike. Trails offer beautiful views and diverse plant life.
Recommended visiting time: about 2 hours.
Yunquan Temple (云泉寺):
Originally built during the Tang Dynasty (唐代), this temple features eight scenic sites and is a major cultural heritage location.
Recommended visiting time: about 1 hour.
Admission
Hongta Mountain (红塔山) is open to the public free of charge.
Transportation
Public Transport:
Take Bus No. 2 from downtown Yuxi and get off at the Hongta Group Station (红塔集团站), then walk about 235 meters to reach the mountain.
Self-driving:
Navigate to “Hongta Mountain (红塔山)” or “Hongta Group (红塔集团)”. Exit the Kunming-Mohan Expressway (昆磨高速公路) at the Yuxi/City Center exit, then drive along Hongta Avenue to the Hongta Industrial Park.
Local Cuisine
Yuxi specialties include:
- Yuxi Rice Noodles (玉溪米线)
- Yuxi Roast Duck (玉溪烤鸭)
- Flower Pastries (鲜花饼)
These can be enjoyed at local restaurants.
Shopping
You can purchase tobacco products and souvenirs at the Hongta Tobacco Culture Museum (红塔山烟事文化馆).
Accommodation
City Hotels:
Many hotels in downtown Yuxi offer comfortable stays at moderate prices.
Homestays:
There are local homestays around Hongta Mountain for a more immersive experience.
Travel Tips
- Protect the Environment: Do not litter in the scenic area.
- Stay Safe: Be cautious when exploring high areas and follow the site’s safety regulations.
Suggested Itinerary
Day 1:
- Morning: Arrive in Yuxi City and explore Hongta Mountain Park and Hongta (红塔)
- Afternoon: Visit Yunquan Temple (云泉寺) to experience its cultural richness
Day 2:
- Morning: Visit the Hongta Tobacco Culture Museum (红塔山烟事文化馆)
- Afternoon: Return to the city center for local food and souvenir shopping
As a symbolic attraction of Yuxi (玉溪市), Hongta Mountain (红塔山) blends deep cultural heritage with natural beauty. We hope your journey through Yuxi brings a memorable experience, highlighted by the charm of Hongta Mountain.
