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.

Chinese Name: 东川红土地花沟村
The village is about19.18 square kilometers, at an altitude of 2100m. The annual average temperature is about 14 ℃, and annual rainfall is1100 mm. It’s suitable for palnting crops, medicines and others. The total cultivated area of the village is 2270 mu, and the woodland area is about 10100 mu.In 2006, the total economic income of the village was 305,000 yuan.The village belongs to the poor village, and the farmer’s income is mainly from cultivating.

The red land in Huagou village is seen as the most magnificent place except the one in Rio DE janeiro. There are many photographers gathering here to seize the beauty of the red land. It’s the one of the main attractions of Dongchuan Red Land.

Location

Huagou Village is an administrative village under Hongtuzi Town in Dongchuan District, Kunming City, Yunnan Province. It is located 25 kilometers from the township government office and is accessible via paved and cement roads. The village is bordered to the east by Xundian Jinyuan Township, to the south by Xundian Fengyi Township, to the west by Xundian Lianhe Township, and to the north by Xintian Village within the same county. The village includes eight village groups: Dahongdi, Huagou, Xingu, Dapingtan, Dongguawan, Xintang, Luye, and Huashitou. The village has 495 households and a total population of 1,983, all of whom are engaged in agriculture. It has 1,499 laborers, all working in the primary sector.

Area and Climate

The village covers an area of 19.18 square kilometers, with an elevation of 2,100 meters above sea level. The average annual temperature is 14°C, and the average annual precipitation is 1,100 millimeters. This climate is suitable for growing grains, medicinal herbs, and other crops. The village has 2,270 acres of arable land, with a per capita arable land area of 1.17 acres, and 10,100 acres of forest land. In 2006, the village’s total economic income was 3.05 million yuan, and the per capita net income of farmers was 1,361 yuan. Huagou Village is classified as a poverty-stricken village, with the main source of income coming from agriculture.

Cultural and Geographical Features

Dongchuan Red Soil is renowned for its striking red land, which, apart from the red soil in Rio de Janeiro, is considered one of the most impressive in the world. Every year, many photography enthusiasts gather here to capture its breathtaking beauty. The term “Dongchuan Red Soil” generally refers to the red earth surrounding Huagou Village and Huashitou Village within a 20-square-kilometer area, with elevations ranging from 1,800 to 2,600 meters. Key scenic spots include the Colorful Slope, Jinxiu Garden, Luoxia Gorge, and Music Score Hollow. This red soil is rich in iron and aluminum, with low organic matter content, high acidity, and imbalanced clay composition. It is highly infertile, with underlying pebbles, and is suitable for growing cold-resistant and drought-tolerant crops like buckwheat and highland barley.

Awards

In November 2021, Huagou Village was included in the Yunnan Province 2021 Annual Beautiful Village Suggested List (Provincial Level).

How to Get There

• By Car: Drive from Kunming to Dongchuan District. The journey covers approximately 200 kilometers and takes around 4-5 hours. From Dongchuan, follow local signs to Huagou Village.
• By Public Transport: Take a bus from Kunming to Dongchuan. Upon arrival in Dongchuan, you may need to hire a local taxi or arrange transportation to the village.

Best Time to Visit

• Spring and Autumn (April to October): These seasons offer the best weather for exploring the red soil landscape and enjoying outdoor photography.
• Winter (November to February): Winter provides clear skies and a unique view of the red soil against the crisp, cold weather. However, be prepared for colder temperatures.

Travel Tips

1. Weather Preparation: Bring warm clothing and be prepared for cooler temperatures at higher elevations, even during summer. The temperature can drop significantly in the evening.
2. Photography Tips: The red soil landscape is best captured in the early morning or late afternoon when the light enhances the vibrant colors. Bring a good camera and tripod for the best shots.
3. Local Customs: Respect local customs and traditions. The area is largely agricultural, and interaction with local farmers can provide insights into traditional farming practices.
4. Accommodation: Accommodations may be limited in the village, so plan ahead and consider staying in nearby towns or Dongchuan for more options.
5. Health and Safety: Carry sufficient water and snacks, and be cautious of the uneven terrain when hiking or exploring the area.

Qicaipo七彩坡, also known as the Seven-Color Slope, is part of the Dongchuan Red Land in Kunming, Yunnan. It is renowned for its vibrant, multi-colored landscapes that resemble a vast palette of colors. The unique geological and climatic conditions of this area create a stunning visual effect where red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo, and violet hues are visible across the land. These colors shift and change with the seasons, light, and weather, creating a mesmerizing display that photographers and nature enthusiasts find captivating.

Highlights:

• Colorful Landscape: The slope displays a spectrum of colors including red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo, and violet, which shift depending on the time of day, weather, and seasonal changes.
• Visual Impact: The changing colors create distinct “color bands” that are especially striking. These variations are caused by the interplay of light and the natural elements of the land, creating an ever-changing, picturesque scene.
• Photography: The area is ideal for capturing the dynamic colors of the landscape. The best time for photography is in the afternoon when the light conditions enhance the colors.

Best Time to Visit:

• Seasonal Changes: The colors are most vibrant during different seasons, so visiting in various times of the year can provide different visual experiences.
• Time of Day: Afternoon is generally the best time for photography due to optimal lighting conditions.

Getting There:

• Contact: For information on transportation to Dongchuan Red Land, you can refer to local travel guides or contact the destination directly at 0871-63998000.

Entrance Fees:

• Details: For specific ticket prices and booking information, please consult the local tourist information center or the official website of the attraction.

Opening Hours:

• Daily Access: The Seven-Color Slope is open year-round from January 1 to December 31, Monday to Sunday.

Visit Duration:

• Recommended Time: Plan to spend 1 to 3 hours exploring the area to fully appreciate the colors and landscape.

Additional Tips:

• Photography Gear: Bring a good camera and tripod to capture the vibrant colors and changing light conditions.
• Dress Appropriately: Wear comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for walking and hiking in the area.

Enjoy your visit to the Seven-Color Slope, where nature’s artistic palette offers a breathtaking experience!

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.

Transportation in Yunnan:

Yunnan Travel by Air

• Airlines in Yunnan
• Flights to Yunnan
• Airport Transfer
• International Flights to Yunnan
• Airports in Yunnan

Rail Transport in Yunnan

• High-speed Rail in Yunnan
• Railway Stations in Yunnan
• Railways in Yunnan
• Trains to Yunnan
• Trans Asia Railway
• Metro in Yunnan

Roads in Yunnan

• Bridges in Yunnan
• Freeways in Yunnan
• Highways in Yunnan
• Roads to Yunnan
• Trans-Asia Roads
• National Roads in Yunnan

Geographic Coordinates

Dongchuan District is located in the northeastern part of Yunnan Province, at the northernmost edge of Kunming City. The geographic coordinates of Dongchuan are approximately:

• Latitude: 26°00′ N
• Longitude: 103°00′ E

Surrounding Regions

Dongchuan District is bordered by the following areas:

• East: Huize County (会泽县), Qujing City, Yunnan.
• South: Xundian County (寻甸县), Kunming City.
• West: Luqiao County (禄劝县), Kunming City.
• North: Qiaojia County (巧家县), Zhaotong City, Yunnan.
• To the north, across the Jinsha River, it faces Huili City and Huiedong County in Liangshan Prefecture, Sichuan Province.

Geographical Features

Dongchuan is situated on the northern edge of the Yunnan-Guizhou Plateau. It has a highly varied topography, with an elevation difference of 3,649.1 meters:

• The highest point is 4,344.1 meters above sea level.
• The lowest point is 695 meters above sea level.

This elevation difference contributes to Dongchuan’s unique natural landscapes and climatic conditions, which make it an interesting destination for travelers and nature enthusiasts.

Kunming Tailong Business Hotel(昆明东川泰隆商务大酒店) is located in the business area of Dongchuan District and the junction of Gutong Road and Kantong Road. The location is excellent. The hotel is furnished with various rooms with elaborate elegant-design, luxurious decoration. The bedroom is capacious with perfect bathing facilities and high-class supplies. The hotel offer considerate services that will make you feel the warmth of home.

Address: Kantong Road, Dongchuan District(东川区凯通路30号)

Tele: 0871-62569999

The Location of Tailong Business Hotel, Dongchuan

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

Sheyingzhijia Hotel in Red land tourism center(昆明东川红土地旅游中心摄影之家) is located in the turning of Huashitou village, Dongchuan Red Land District. It’s a perfect location because spots have higher concentration degree. Parking is also convenient. The hotel  considerately provides inclusive services such as pick-up, car rental, tour guide, free parking and Internet services. Besides, the hotel Facilities is so perfect as to guarantee you a comfortale stay.

Address:  turning of Huashitou village, Dongchuan Red Land District(东川红土地景区花石头村岔路口处)

Tele: 0871-2568617

The Location Map of Sheying Zhijia Hotel, Dongchuan

Kunming Family Hotel(昆明一家人酒店) is with a good location and convenient traffic. There are all kinds of rooms in the hotel which is quite clean and with good lighting and ventilation. You will enjoy the superior survice. It’s constructed in a simple style. It’s a warm and comfortable hotel for all visitors.

Address: No. 4, Chunxiao Road, Dongchuan District(东川区春晓路下段4号）

Tele: 0871-62150988

The Location of Kunming Family Hotel( Dongchuan Red Land)

Dongchuan Red Land boasts the most typical and featured red soil in Yunnan highland. Experts regard it as the second marvelous red land in the world following the one in Rio Brazil. People who have been the first time to visit this land will be deeply impressive by the gorgeous scenes. Lands in deep red, purple, bright red, etc… cover thousands of mountains. When wind blows, the plants in fields wave tenderly. It is a colorful picture drew by the nature. Viewing it from away, it looks like a oil painting more than a Chinese painting.

Dongchuan International Autocross

Dongchuan Red Land Travel Guide

Things To Do

• Dongchuan Red Land Overview
• Dongchuan Red Land Attractions
• Dongchuan Red Land Tours
• Dongchuan Red Land Shopping
• Dongchuan Red Land Culture
• Festivals and Activities

Travel Information

• Dongchuan Red Land Travel Tips
• Dongchuan Red Land Climate
• Dongchuan Red Land Transportation
• Dongchuan Red Land Maps
• Dongchuan Red Land Photos
• Dongchuan Red Land Dining
• Dongchuan Red Land Accommodation
• Dongchuan Red Land Education
• Dongchuan Red Land Travel blog
• Dongchuan Red Land Travel News
• Administrative Divisions

Create My Trip

You Might Like

• 8 Days Malaysia-Yunnan Tour from Kuala Luampur to Lijiang
• 1 Day Mekong River Speedboat Cruise Tour from Xishuangbanna to Chiang Saen
• 1 Day West XishuangBanna Tour to Ethnic Villages and Jingzhen Octagonal Pavilion
• 9 Days Lijiang and Shangrila Adventure Tour with Tiger Leaping Gorge Trekking and Haba Snow Mountain(5396M) Climbing
• 1 Day Kunming Jiaozi Snow Mountain Tour
• 1 Day Dali Birding Tour to Cangshan Mountain and Erhai Lake
• 9 Days Yunnan Tour From Chengdu
• 1 Day Kunming City Highlights Tour with Yunnan Ethnic Villages and Western Hills

Dongchuan Red Land

Gongwangshan Mountain Ranges in Kunming

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....

Attractions    Veiw

• Dongchuan District
• Dongchuan Red Land
• Kunming
• Luquan County
• Mountains and Hills

Huagou Village of Dongchuan Red Land, Kunming

Chinese Name: 东川红土地花沟村 The village is about19.18 square kilometers, at an altitude of 2100m. The annual average temperature is about 14 ℃, and annual rainfall is1100 mm. It’s suitable...

Attractions    Veiw

• Ancient Villages
• Dongchuan Red Land
• Ethnic Villages
• Ethnic Villages in Kunming
• Kunming
• Traditional Ethnic Villages in Kunming

Qicaipo (Seven-Color Slope) of Dongchuan Red Land, Kunming

Qicaipo七彩坡, also known as the Seven-Color Slope, is part of the Dongchuan Red Land in Kunming, Yunnan. It is renowned for its vibrant, multi-colored landscapes that resemble a vast...

Attractions    Veiw

• Dongchuan Red Land
• Kunming

Transportation in Dongchuan Red Land

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...

Transportation    Veiw

• Dongchuan District
• Dongchuan Red Land
• Kunming

Location Map of Dongchuan District in Yunnan

Geographic Coordinates Dongchuan District is located in the northeastern part of Yunnan Province, at the northernmost edge of Kunming City. The geographic coordinates of Dongchuan are approximately: Latitude: 26°00′...

Maps    Veiw

• Dongchuan Red Land
• Kunming

How to Get to Dongchuan District from Kunming

...

Maps    Veiw

• Dongchuan Red Land
• Kunming

Tailong Business Hotel in Dongchuan District, Kunming

Kunming Tailong Business Hotel(昆明东川泰隆商务大酒店) is located in the business area of Dongchuan District and the junction of Gutong Road and Kantong Road. The location is excellent. The hotel is...

Accommodation    Veiw

• Dongchuan Red Land
• Kunming

Luoxiagou Chunqiu Hotel in Dongchuan Red Land, Kunming

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...

Accommodation    Veiw

• Dongchuan District
• Dongchuan Red Land
• Kunming

Sheying Zhijia Hotel, Dongchuan

Sheyingzhijia Hotel in Red land tourism center(昆明东川红土地旅游中心摄影之家) is located in the turning of Huashitou village, Dongchuan Red Land District. It’s a perfect location because spots have higher concentration degree. Parking...

Accommodation    Veiw

• Dongchuan Red Land
• Kunming

Kunming Family Hotel ( Dongchuan Red Land)

Kunming Family Hotel(昆明一家人酒店) is with a good location and convenient traffic. There are all kinds of rooms in the hotel which is quite clean and with good lighting and...

Accommodation    Veiw

• Dongchuan Red Land
• Kunming

The Photos of Dongchuan Red Land in Kunming

Dongchuan Red Land boasts the most typical and featured red soil in Yunnan highland. Experts regard it as the second marvelous red land in the world following the one...

Photos    Veiw

• Dongchuan Red Land
• Kunming
• Photos of Sunrise and Sunset Views
• Photos of Tourist Attractions

Dongchuan International Autocross

Dongchuan International Autocross...

Festivals and Events    Veiw

• Dongchuan Red Land
• Kunming