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Chinese Name: 昆明东川红土地山里红酒店
English Name:Hongtudi Shanlihong Hotel in Dongchuan Red Land, Kunming
Address in English:
Address in Chinese: 

Dongchuan Red Land is located in Hongtu Town (红土地镇), over 40 kilometers southwest of the Dongchuan District (东川区) in Kunming (昆明市). Within this region lies Huashitou (花石头), near the 109-kilometer milestone. This area encompasses nearly a hundred square miles and showcases the most concentrated, typical, and distinctive red earth found on the Yunnan (云南) Red Plateau.

Seasonal Beauty of the Red Land

From September to December each year, the landscape transforms as part of the red land is turned over and prepared for planting. Another section is already sown with lush barley or wheat and other crops. From a distance, this vibrant patchwork of color appears to be painted by the heavens, displaying an array of dazzling hues against the backdrop of blue skies, white clouds, and ever-changing beams of light. This combination creates a spectacular view that defines the essence of the red land.

The Significance of Huashitou Village

Huashitou Village serves as the heart of the Red Land. The name Huashitou translates to “colorful stones,” which are found abundantly throughout the village, earning it the affectionate moniker of “colorful stone” among the locals.

The Allure of Colorful Stones

These colorful stones maintain their elegant appearance throughout the year:

• Winter: Though winter has not yet passed, spring is approaching, and the air remains slightly cold. The colorful stones lie on the grassland like sleeping babies.
• Summer: In summer, these stones take on the persona of innocent and lively girls, attracting thousands of photographers from around the globe.
• Autumn: During autumn, the colorful stones resemble mature men, exuding a solemn presence that connects the red land to the crops, the sky, and the mountains. The landscape is adorned with abundant fruits.
• Winter: In winter, the colorful stones often don white coats with vibrant designs, further enhancing their beauty.

The Legend of the Colorful Stones

While Huashitou Village is not large, it is nestled within the Red Land Scenic Area (红土地景区) and is renowned for its unique geological features. The village is abundant in agate (玛瑙), which hides within hard pebbles. When illuminated by sunlight, these stones radiate a dazzling array of colors, leading locals to refer to agate as “colorful stones.” This is how the village derived its name.

Numerous legends surround the existence of these beautiful stones in such a highland area. The most plausible explanation suggests that they were once submerged at the bottom of a river. After geological changes elevated the plateau, the agates surfaced naturally. This phenomenon can be considered a precious gift from nature to humanity.

A Photographer’s Paradise

The beauty of Huashitou Village is accentuated by its concentration of the reddest and most stunning soils in all of Dongchuan. Photographers and artistic souls are enamored with this site, establishing numerous photography bases in the area.

The red land reaches its peak splendor after rainfall, when the soaked soil appears even more vibrant under the sun. The harmony between the red earth and the village creates a secluded paradise, enticing visitors to approach and explore further.

Luosiwan (螺蛳湾) of Dongchuan Red Land (东川红土地) is located in the Hongtu Scenic Area (红土地风景区) on Provincial Road 101 in Xintian Township (新田乡), Dongchuan District (东川区), Kunming (昆明市), Yunnan Province (云南省). It serves as the first stop for visitors entering the Red Land and is the first scenic view encountered when traveling from Kunming to Dongchuan via dirt roads.

Scenic Overview

Luosiwan is a popular photo spot in the Red Land, renowned for its breathtaking scenery. Standing on the path in Luosiwan, visitors can gaze down at a winding mountain road that spirals gracefully up from the foot of the mountain. The land features vast, spiral-patterned mounds of soil in vibrant colors, dividing the entire expanse of the Red Land into irregularly shaped color blocks, forming a stunning visual masterpiece.

Moreover, the parking area at Luosiwan includes Zhang’s Courtyard (张家大院), a picturesque location that remains completely natural. The meals served here are delicious, providing visitors with a great place to rest and savor local cuisine. Here, guests can experience the grandeur and tranquility of the Red Land while enjoying an immersive experience of local rural life and natural beauty.

In summary, Luosiwan is a key attraction in Dongchuan Red Land, drawing numerous visitors to admire and photograph its unique natural landscapes and cultural scenery. Whether to appreciate the beautiful views or to engage with local culture, Luosiwan is an excellent destination worth visiting.

Geographic Significance

Luosiwan is part of the Dongchuan Red Land Scenic Area (东川红土地景区). It is famous for its distinctive geographical features and natural landscapes, serving as an essential site for tourists exploring the characteristics of the Yunnan Red Soil Plateau. The vibrant, spiral-stacked colors create unique visual effects, and from the paths of Luosiwan, one can see the winding road climbing up the mountain, immersing visitors in a vibrant tapestry of colors.

A Photographer’s Paradise

Luosiwan is not only a visual feast but also a paradise for photography enthusiasts. Here, one can capture the changing scenery of the Red Land under various lighting conditions and through different seasons. From September to December each year, part of the Red Land is turned over, awaiting planting, while another part is already sown with green barley or wheat. From a distance, it appears as if the heavens have brushed on colorful patches, a spectacle enriched by the blue sky, white clouds, and ever-changing light, creating a magnificent scene of the Red Land.

Additionally, Luosiwan serves as a window into local culture and customs. It is home to an ancient sand pine tree (沙松树), reportedly over a thousand years old, known as the “Old Dragon Tree” (老龙树). This tree once died for three years but later sprouted new shoots, earning it the reverence of local villagers as a divine protector of the area.

In summary, Luosiwan of Dongchuan Red Land is not only a showcase of nature’s craftsmanship but also a tranquil and uplifting travel destination. Whether for photography enthusiasts or nature explorers, it is an exceptional destination that should not be missed.

Luosiwan of the Red Land is on the way to Kunming (昆明), and it’s one of the scenic spots of Dongchuan Red Land. After enjoying the sunset at Damakan (大马坎), it is advisable to head to Luosiwan; you won’t regret it. In the morning, the Red Land of Luosiwan is bathed in sunlight, with the mountain tops emerging from the fog. The Red Land resembles a colorful cloth left behind by the gods, a fairyland created by the hardworking people of Dongchuan.

Daguan Grand View of Dongchuan Red Land (红土地大观) is located in Xiaohua Section of Hongtudi Town (红土地镇), Dongchuan District (东川区), Kunming City (昆明市), Yunnan Province (云南省). It is one of the most spectacular red earth landscapes in the world and a prime example of the combination of red landforms and agricultural culture. This attraction ranks among the top 100 most beautiful sights in China and is one of the four major colorful tourism paradises in the country.

View of Dongchuan Red Land from Daguan is magnificent and thrilling. You will have different experiences in different time. When the sun gradually goes down, the land is covered by the light of sunset, which shows a more stereo scene of the  terraced fields. You can also see a dragon tree of thousands of years that has been dead for three years and sprouts again. the locals considered it as “sacred tree” which blesses the villagers in the areas.

Overview

Daguan Grand View covers an area of approximately 116 square kilometers. Key attractions within the site include:

• Jinxiu Garden (锦绣园)
• Colorful Slope (七彩坡)
• Musical Score Hollow (乐谱凹)
• Dama Kan (打马坎)
• Falling Sunset Valley (落霞沟)
• Millennium Old Dragon Tree (千年老龙树)
• Wafang Liangzi (瓦房梁子)
• Spiral Bay (螺丝湾)
• White Mud Pond (白泥塘)
• Red Land Grand View (红土大观)
• Duoyi Tree (多依树)

The red earth in this area has developed under the high-temperature and high-rainfall climate conditions typical of Dongchuan, Yunnan. The soil is rich in iron and aluminum, resulting in heavy and sticky soil with a vibrant red color, creating a unique red landform.

From September to December each year, the crops on the red land reach maturity. Some areas are plowed and prepared for planting, while others have already been sown with green barley, wheat, and various other crops. This creates a striking contrast with the red soil, resulting in a brilliant display of colors. Coupled with the blue sky, white clouds, and ever-changing beams of light, these elements compose spectacular views that captivate visitors.

Visitor Experience

At Daguan Grand View, tourists can appreciate the unique landscapes of the red earth and experience the charm of agricultural culture. Additionally, they can learn about the formation and evolution of the red land, gaining knowledge and broadening their horizons. There are also many other attractions nearby, such as the Old Dragon Tree (老龙树) and Falling Sunset Valley (落霞沟), which are worth a visit.

Xiaojiang River (牛奶河) refers to a river in the Xiaojian area of Dongchuan District, Kunming City, Yunnan Province. Due to local mining industries discharging tailings water directly into the river, the water in Xiaojiang River appears grayish-white, resembling milk. This phenomenon led to it being colloquially dubbed the “Milk River.”

On June 1, 2013, Kunming City reported the follow-up handling of the “Milk River” pollution incident. On November 29, 2014, local villager Liu Tianhua reported that the “Milk River” phenomenon had reoccurred in Xiaojian, Dongchuan District, Kunming City.

• Chinese Name: 牛奶河
• Location: 云南昆明
• Cause: 工矿业排放尾矿水
• First Exposed: 2012年6月1日
• Incident: 有企业污染河水

River Background

In April 2013, the water in a small river in Dongchuan Valley, Yunnan, turned milky white due to the illegal discharge of wastewater by several mining companies, leading to the nickname “Milk River.” This milky water flowed for over 70 kilometers, eventually merging with the Jinsha River (金沙江) at the junction of Menggu Township in Qiaojia County, Zhaotong City, and Yebao Ping Township in Huadong County, Sichuan Province, as well as Gele Village in the Dongchuan District.

At the confluence of the two rivers, one side of the Jinsha River presents a natural earthy yellow, while the Xiaojiang side is milky white, creating a distinct visual contrast. The two-colored water flows together downstream.

After the founding of New China in 1949, Dongchuan became an important mining area in Yunnan, with tailings water from dozens of mining companies along the riverside contaminating Xiaojiang. The Xiaojiang River ultimately merges into the Jinsha River at the junction of Qiaojia County, Huize County, and Dongchuan District.

Dongchuan is one of the five districts under the jurisdiction of Kunming City, Yunnan Province. The confluence of the Jinsha River and Xiaojiang River at Xiaokou, within Dongchuan, is at an altitude of only 695 meters, making it the lowest point in Kunming City. Due to the region being part of the world’s deep fracture zone, there is significant geological erosion, forming a typical high mountain canyon topography characterized by steep cuts. Additionally, differences in airflow, rainfall, soil, and vegetation contribute to a distinctive “one mountain divides four seasons, ten miles vary in weather” three-dimensional climate.

River Pollution

Pollution Causes

In Dongchuan District, Kunming City, a river that local villagers call the “Milk River” flows through the area. Tailings water from local mining activities is directly discharged into the river, causing it to turn white, resembling milk. The irrigation and drinking water for nearby villages have been severely affected.

On June 1, 2012, a journalist published a report titled “Life Irrigated by Dongchuan’s ‘Milk River’ is Withering” that caught the attention of many readers. Due to the illegal discharge of wastewater by some mining companies, the water in Xiaojiang River had temporarily turned milky white, sparking widespread concern.

Dagu Niuzhai Mountain (大牯牛寨) is located at the border between Dongchuan District (东川区) in Kunming and Huize County (会泽县) in Qujing City (曲靖市), Yunnan Province. It is part of the Wumeng Mountain Range (乌蒙山脉) and was first successfully climbed by the Kunming Mountaineering and Exploration Association in 1990. The name “Dahai” (大海) is a transliteration of the Yi language word “Da Qi Bai” (达七摆), which means “above the steps.” The highest point of these “steps” is Dagu Niuzhai Peak, which reaches an impressive altitude of 4,017.3 meters. In contrast, the elevation at the Xiaojiang River (小江) is only around 1,100 meters, creating a dramatic vertical drop of nearly 3,000 meters. The mountain features gentle slopes and vast, open high-altitude meadows typical of subalpine landscapes.

Historical Significance

According to the Gazetteer of Dongchuan Prefecture (东川府志), Dagu Niuzhai Mountain was described as:

“Steep ridges and towering peaks, often shrouded in clouds. On clear days, the lush greenery is visible from hundreds of miles across central Yunnan.”

While the summit may not evoke the sense of surveying “all under heaven,” the grandeur and power of the landscape naturally inspire pride.

Original text:

“垂冈绝巘，危峰矗立，常有云气覆之，每天晴日朗，苍翠欲滴，滇中四五百里皆见之”

Climate and Features

The vertical height difference on Dagu Niuzhai Mountain results in a varied climate, often described as “four seasons on one mountain.” One of the most famous features is the western slope, where the Xiaojiang Mudslide Area (小江泥石流区) is located. This area, including Jiangjiagou (蒋家沟), is known for large-scale mudslides, a rare geological phenomenon both in China and internationally.

On the eastern slope of the mountain, the scenery transforms into a verdant, tranquil landscape. Crystal-clear spring water flows year-round, and vast stretches of green grass cover the land like a natural carpet. The expansive meadows, often dotted with herders, are home to flocks of sheep that are carefully guided by shepherds wearing white felt robes and carrying slender wooden staffs.

Unique Mountain Landscape

During the summer months, the steep cliffs of Dagu Niuzhai Mountain are a nesting site for thousands of swifts (雨燕). These birds contribute to the area’s beauty while providing local farmers with thousands of kilograms of swift guano, a valuable fertilizer used for growing crops like potatoes and oats. Watching the swifts leave their nests in the morning is a mesmerizing experience; their soft calls fill the air as they rise like smoke from the cliffs. In the evening, as the sunset paints the mountain in golden hues, the swifts return, forming dark clouds as they settle back onto the cliffside.

The mountain’s lush meadows are home to over 200 species of pasture grasses, which, combined with abundant water, ensure the health of local cattle and sheep. In the spring and summer, vibrant wildflowers bloom across the landscape, creating a breathtakingly beautiful scene. Surrounded by greenery, flowers, streams, and grazing animals, you will find a sense of peace and escape from the noise and stress of city life.

In the autumn and winter, the mountain is often enveloped in mist, and when the snow begins to fall, it blankets the surrounding peaks, creating a seamless and ethereal vision of white, which leaves visitors enchanted.

Overview

Dongchuan Forest Park (东川森林公园) is located in the northeastern suburbs of Tongdu Town (铜都镇), Dongchuan District (东川区), Kunming City (昆明市). Construction began in 1986 on what was originally a deep gully formed by mudslides, known locally as “Shengou” (深沟). The forest park was developed based on the management of mudslides, transforming the area into a beautiful green space.

The park features towering mountains and steep slopes, with winding paths leading into tranquil areas. The gully is adorned with numerous waterfalls of varying sizes. The nearby Phoenix trees (凤凰树) and Silver birch trees (银桦树) sway gracefully, while the area is filled with evergreen Acacia trees (银合欢). In recent years, many cherry blossom trees (樱花), Crape myrtle trees (紫薇花), and Jacaranda trees (蓝花楹树) have also been planted. Along the mountainside, lush Poplar trees (杨树), Tibetan cypress (藏柏), and tall tropical plants like the Paulownia (桐剑麻) flourish.

Local residents believe that the park has a strong magnetic field beneficial to health, and every day, thousands of people jog along the gully carrying mineral water, making it a local spectacle. Notable attractions include:

• Zhuguo Temple (祝国寺)
• Baiying Waterfall (白滢瀑布)
• Bailong Cave (白龙洞)

Scenic Features

Dongchuan Forest Park (东川森林公园) is situated in the northeastern suburbs of Xincun Town (新村镇), Dongchuan District (东川区), with construction beginning in 1986. It was established as a forest park on the foundation of mudslide management demonstration projects. The gully is flanked by mountains, where lush Poplar trees (杨树) and distinct tropical plants thrive, providing a pleasant walking experience along the shaded paths. The swaying Phoenix trees (凤凰树) and Cloud birch trees (云桦树) grace the area, while the gully is home to an abundance of evergreen Acacia trees (银合欢).

Local people believe that the park’s strong magnetic field promotes health, and it has become common to see thousands of individuals jogging in the deep gully each morning, carrying mineral water, adding to the park’s charm.

Baiying Waterfall

Baiying Waterfall (白滢瀑布) is located at the end of the park. Standing over a hundred meters high, the waterfall appears like a flowing white silk from a distance. When viewed up close, the mist rises, creating a mesmerizing sight of silver droplets, giving a sense of heavenly elixir cascading down, refreshing the spirit.

Bailong Cave

To reach Bailong Cave (白龙洞), one must climb for about 20 minutes. Inside the cave, natural spring water flows down, forming a waterfall nearly a hundred meters high. The splashes at the base create a scene of silver flowers amidst lush greenery, with clear water revealing the bottom of the pool, presenting a naturally beautiful landscape.

Important Notes

Dongchuan Forest Park (东川森林公园) can be visited year-round. Dongchuan is classified as a dry hot river valley region, and summers can be quite hot, so visitors should be prepared to stay cool.

Recommended Time

2-3 days

Transportation

Take a bus from the Dongchuan District (东川区) passenger station to Fazhe, passing through Huagou Village (花沟村) and Huashitou Village (花石头村), among other areas.

Admission

The entrance fee is 1 RMB.

Location

Dongchuan District (东川区), Kunming City (昆明市), along the 029 Provincial Road (029乡道).

The land in Dongchuan and the terraced rice paddies in Yuanyang are the masterpieces cultivated by the industrious ethic groups in the long river of time. The beauties are breathtaking, gorgeous and magnificent! During this superlative visual feast photography tour, you’ll lose yourselves in the peerless scenery and special folk customs. 

Brief Itinerary

• Day 1: Kunming Arrival
• Day 2: Kunming-Dongchuan
• Day 3: Dongchuan-Shilin
• Day 4: Shilin-Yuanyang
• Day 5: Yuanyang
• Day 6: Yuanyang-Jianshui
• Day 7: Jianshui-Kunming
• Day 8: Kunming Departure

Google Map

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1  Kunming Arrival

Sightseeing and Activities:Flowers and Birds Market, the Green Lake
Accommodation: Kunming
Meals: None

You’ll begin your journey to the diverse and captivating province of Yunnan from the capital city, Kunming. Upon arrival at the Kunming International Airport, meet your local guide and transfer to the hotel.

If time permits, you will have a Kunming city tour to visit the Flowers and Birds Market in the downtown of Kunming. You will take a leisurely stroll along the Green Lake, a charming area of teahouses and small boutiques selling handicrafts and beautiful local paintings.

Day 5 Yuanyang

Sightseeing and Activities:the sunrise view of Duoyishu Rice Terraces, Shengcun Market, Bada Rice Terraces, Qingkou ethnic village, Qingkou Rice Terraces, the sunset of Longshuba Rice Terraces
Accommodation: Yuanyang
Meals: Breakfast and Lunch

Today you have a full day to visit the terraces belonging to the Hani and Yi people. These rice terraces – carved out of the mountainsides by generations of Hani people – are said to be among the most magnificent in the world. Get up very early to see the sunrise over the terraces at Duoyi village and then visit the local Hani and Yi people. During the day you will visit different areas of the huge valley to see the amazing engineering and beautiful formations of the terraces. There are lots of rice terraces in Yuanyang, you will choose the most beautiful parts of them to visit.

In the late afternoon,  drive back to Xinjie Town, enjoy the sunset view of Longshuba Rice Terraces and villages.

Day 6 Yuanyang-Jianshui

Sightseeing and Activities:Jianshui Swallow Cave, Jianshui Ancient Town, Zhu Family Garden, Confucius Temple
Accommodation: Jianshui

Meals: Breakfast and Lunch

After breakfast in the hotel, drive about 3 hours to Jianshui County. On the way back, visit Jianshui Swallow Cave which is the largest karst formation cave in Asia. There are usually thousands of swallows flying around in this aptly named cave.You will follow a guide in the cave to see the striking caverns and also to see the bare hand rock climbing performance in the cave. Walk into the cave and visit the colorful Karst landform and take the small boat cruise out of the cave.

Arrive in Jianshui Ancient Town in the afternoon, pay a visit to Jianshui Ancient Town, Zhu Family Garden and Jianshui Confucius Temple. Visit the famous Confucius Temple with its interesting history. Confucious was born in Shandong province 2,500 years ago and taught more than 3,000 students in his lifetime, among them 72 were outstanding. He is the greatest teacher in China’s history and has worldwide influence.

Day 7 Jianshui-Kunming

Sightseeing and Activities:Zhang Family Garden in Tuanshan Village, Double Dragon Bridge, Xingmeng Mongolian Village
Accommodation: Kunming
Meals: Breakfast and Lunch

Drive to Tuanshan Village about 15KM away from Jianshui Ancient Town, visit the Zhang Family Garden, the ancient houses and the Double Dragon Bridge. Visit Tunshan village with hundred-year-old houses built by the family of Zhang. In the village, you will see the different standards of houses built by rich and poor families, and also the family temple which plays an important role for education, family history, and Chinese culture, which says that people should always remember their ancestors and maintain community traditions.

After lunch, drive back to Kunming. On the way, visit Xingmeng Mongolia Village in Tonghai County of Yuxi City. 

Recommended Hotels

Service Included:

1. Admission fees for all of the sightseeing spots listed in the itinerary;
2. Meals as listed in the itinerary;
3. Accommodation with breakfast as listed in the itinerary;
4. Private English-speaking tour guide and vehicle for transfers & sightseeing;
5. Service charge & government taxes;
6. Luggage transfers between airports and hotels;
7. Two bottles of mineral water each day;
8. Travel Agency’s Responsibility Insurance.

Service Excluded:

1. Any arrival and departure international airfares or train tickets;
2. Chinese visa fees;
3. Excess baggage charged by Airlines;
4. Single room supplement;
5. Tips to guides and drivers;
6. Personal expenses and gratuities to service staffs;
7. Personal travel accident insurance;
8. All optional programs;

Travel and Tours Packages of Honghe and Yuanyang Hani Rice Terraces

1 Day Yuanyang Bada Hani Rice Terraces Hiking Tour
1 Day Yuanyang Hani Rice Terraces Cycling Tour
1 Day Yuanyang Duoyishu Hani Rice Terraces Hiking Tour with Hani,Yi Ethnic Villages and Mushroom Houses
1 Day Yuanyang Hani Rice Terraces Hiking Tour from Duoyishu to Laohuzui
1 Day Yuanyang Hani Rice Terraces Tour
2 Days Kunming-Yuanyang Hani Rice Terraces Tour at a glance
3 Days Yuanyang Hani Rice Terraces Tour from Kunming
3 Days Kunming, Jianshui and Yuanyang Hani Rice Terraces Group Tour
4 Days Long Street Banquet Festival and Yuanyang Rice Terraces Photography Tour
6 Days Kunming Jianshui Yuanyang Photography Tour
6 Days Kunming Shadian Muslim Tour with Yuanyang Rice Terraces and Jianshui Old Town
7 Days Yuanyang Rice Terraces Photo Tour with Tea Culture Experience
8 Days South Yunnan Ethnic Minority Discovery and Tropical Forest Photograph Tour
8 Days Deluxe Kunming, Shilin, Mile Jianshui Photo Tour with Yuanyang Rice Terraces and Fuxianhu Lake
8 Days Yunnan Photography Tour to Kunming-Dongchuan-Shilin-Jianshui and Yuanyang Hani Rice Terraces
10 Days South Yunnan Ethnic Minority and Tropical Rain-forest Photography Tour with China Border Culture
10 Days Southeast Yunnan Family Tour with Ethnic Culture, Rice Terraces, Mushroom House & Butterfly Valley
11 Days Yunnan Classic Tour with Jianshui Old Town and Yuanyang Hani Rice Terraces
11 Days Yunnan Photograph Tour with Luoping Rapeseed Flowers Festival and Honghe Hani Rice Terraces Field
11 Days China-Vietnam Overland Tour from Kunming to Hanoi
26 Days Grand Yunnan Ethnic Minority Discovery

Location

Gongwang Mountain拱王山 is situated between Dongchuan District and Luquan County in Kunming City, Yunnan Province. It serves as the watershed between the Pudou River and the Xiaojiang River. Located at latitudes 25°47′ to 26°33′ N and longitudes 102°45′ to 103°19′ E, it covers an area of 45,000 square kilometers. The mountain range extends primarily in a north-south direction, with a significant elevation gradient from south to north. The main peak, Xueling, stands at 4,344 meters above sea level, making it known as the “Highest Peak in Central Yunnan.” Due to its location along a major fault zone and its loose surface materials, landslides and debris flows are common in the slope areas, offering both scientific research and scenic viewing opportunities.

Name

Chinese Name: Gongwang Mountain

Location: Between Dongchuan District and Luquan County, Kunming City, Yunnan Province

Latitude: 25°47′ to 26°33′ N

Total Area: 45,000 km²

Scenery

Jiaozi Snow Mountain

Jiaozi Snow Mountain, located within the Gongwang Mountain range, covers a radius of about a hundred miles and is named for its resemblance to a flower basket. Standing at an elevation of 4,243 meters, it features steep slopes and is known for its dramatic views. During winter and spring, Jiaozi Snow Mountain reveals its three major highlights: the Ice Lake, Snow Field, and Snow Peaks. It combines with the Huaxi Waterfall Group, Rhododendron Forest, and Basalt Cliffs to create a three-dimensional scenic combination. From the summit, you can overlook Dongchuan to the east, the Jinsha River to the north, the Pudou River to the west, and Dianchi Lake to the south.

The First Peak

Xueling, known as the “Highest Peak in Central Yunnan,” reaches an elevation of 4,344 meters and is the main peak of Gongwang Mountain. The summit is covered in snow for most of the year. During sunset, the snow-capped peak takes on a brilliant orange-red hue, glowing magnificently and earning the local nickname “Snow Fire Peak.” The journey to the peak is filled with beauty as the winding roads offer views of clouds floating below, sometimes drifting gently and other times swirling dramatically. In summer and autumn, the sky is adorned with golden and silver light, blending harmoniously with the mountains. In winter, clear skies and snow-capped peaks provide vivid color contrasts and sharp details.

Scenery

In spring and summer, the mountain is adorned with vast expanses of rhododendrons, creating a vibrant and picturesque landscape. The view from the peaks, with clouds playing among the mountains, evokes a sense of grandeur and the feeling of “reaching for the stars.” The main peak also features glacial lakes, considered among the finest water scenery in the region.

How to Get There

To reach Gongwang Mountain, you can start from Kunming City:

1. By Car: Drive from Kunming to Dongchuan District. The journey covers approximately 200 kilometers and takes about 4-5 hours. From Dongchuan, continue to the Gongwang Mountain area.
2. By Public Transport: Take a bus from Kunming to Dongchuan. Once in Dongchuan, you may need to hire a local taxi or arrange transportation to the mountain.

Best Time to Visit

• Spring and Summer (April to September): This is the best time to visit for enjoying lush green landscapes and blooming rhododendrons. The weather is generally mild and suitable for hiking and sightseeing.
• Winter (December to February): If you enjoy snow and clear views, winter offers a chance to see the snow-capped peaks and crisp, clear skies.

Travel Tips

1. Weather Preparation: Bring layered clothing, as temperatures can vary significantly between day and night. In winter, be prepared for snow and cold temperatures at higher elevations.
2. Safety Precautions: Due to the risk of landslides and debris flows, check weather conditions and road status before your trip. It’s advisable to travel with a local guide if you’re unfamiliar with the area.
3. Health and Safety: Carry sufficient water, snacks, and first-aid supplies. Altitude sickness may occur at higher elevations, so acclimatize gradually and stay hydrated.
4. Local Regulations: Respect local regulations and environmental guidelines to preserve the natural beauty of the area.

Dubbed as “God’ Palette”, Dongchuan Red Land is a rising star which attracts more and more photography enthusiasts and casual travelers home and abroad. With an altitude of 1,800–2,600 meters, it’s located in Huashitou County, under the jurisdiction of Dongchuan district of Kunming, 250 km northeast of Kunming downtown, which is the most typical and the most featured red soil in Yunnan Plateau. It is still an untouched place, for its fresh air, fabulous views and superb color landscapes. This article introduces you the transportation in Dongchuan.

Dongchuan Bus Station

Dongchuan Bus Station lies at No.58, Kaitong Road, Dongchuan District of Kunming city(昆明市东川区凯通路58号). The photo number is 0871-2156906.

Bus Schedule from Kunming to Dongchuan

No-stop Bus: Kunming – Dongchuan Red Land

At Kunming North Bus Station, there are 2 daily buses running to Fazhe passing by Dongchuan Red Earth. The departure time is 07:50 and 08:30. You need to let the driver know where you want to get off, Huagou or Hua Shi Tou, etc. The journey will take about 3-4 hours. Now there are direct scenic buses directly to Qingzhen Laodifang(清真老地方) of Dongchuan Red Land, departing at 08:00, 10:00, 12:00, 14:00, 16:00, 18:00 respectively from Kunming (Nanyao) Bus Station(昆明南窑汽车客运站) and Kunming South Bus Station(昆明南部客运站).

Bus with Stop: Kunming – Dongchuan – Red Land

The same at Kunming North Bus Station, tourists can take the bus to Dongchuan District which run between 7:00am and 7:00pm with a 3.5h journey. Then you need to transfer a local bus going to the Red Earth Scenic Area from Dongchuan District. There are only two daily buses going to Dongchuan Red Land – one starting at 8:00am and the other at 12:50pm. Alternatively, you can also take or share a taxi to the Red Land.

Bus Schedule from Dongchuan to Kunming

At the Qingzhen Laodifang(清真老地方) of Dongchuan Red Land, there are several buses running back to Kunming, respectively to Kunming (Nanyao) Bus Station(昆明南窑汽车客运站) and Kunming South Bus Station(昆明南部客运站) at 08:00, 10:00, 12:00, 14:00, 16:00, 18:00.

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Chinese Name: 昆明东川红土地落霞沟春秋大酒店
English Name: Luoxiagou Chunqiu Hotel in Dongchuan Red Land, Kunming
Address in English:
Address in Chinese: 昆明 东川区 新田乡水冬瓜湾新杨线公路边 红土地景区

Kunming Spring and Autumn Hotel

Spring and Autumn Hotel(昆明红土地落霞沟春秋大酒店） is located in the center of the Red Land. It’s about 800m away from the most beautiful spot-Luoxiagou which is a must for photpgraphers. You can enjot the charming sunset in 4-5pm and the thrilling sunrise at 7am. The hotel is equipped with 31 rooms with different level. The hot water is available in 24 hours. All rooms is equipped with independent  bathroom. The hotel also offer customers three meals, car rental, tour guides who can meet your different needs like driving or take photos for you.

Address : the side of Xinyang road, Xintian Township, Red Land Tourism Area, Dongchuan District（东川区红土地景区新田乡水冬瓜湾新杨线公路边）

Tele: 13987076918

The Location of Spring and Autumn Hotel,Dongchuan

Chinese Name: 东川红土映像客栈
English Name: Hongjingxuan Hotel in Dongchuan Red Land, Kunming
Address in English:
Address in Chinese: 昆明 东川区 昆明东川区红土地镇杨家湾段旁边
Impression Hongtudi Inn（印象红土地客栈） is located in the Impression tourism town of Huagou village. It’s in a good location and with convenient traffic. It’s equipped with good lighting and ventilation. The rooms are clean and tidy and equipped with Infrastructure facilities. You will enjoy the Considerate service in the hotel. It’s a paradise for photographers and backpackers.

Address: the Impression tourism town, Huagou village，Dongchuan(东川区花沟村印象旅游小镇）

Tele: 15025148811

Dongchuan District Travel Guide

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