Overview

Xiao Putuo Island (小普陀岛) is situated on the eastern side of Erhai Lake (洱海) in Dali (大理市), Yunnan Province (云南省). Located at coordinates 25°42′23″N 100°14′05″E, this limestone island covers an area of approximately 100 square meters and rises 12 meters above the water surface. The island is said to resemble a golden seal floating on the water, believed to be the seal used by Avalokiteshvara (观音大士) to calm the sea in ancient times. Its shape and the surrounding pavilions remind one of the legendary Putuo Mountain (普陀山) in Chinese mythology, thus earning its name.

The pavilions on the island were built during the Ming Dynasty (明朝) and consist of two stories. The first floor features a statue of the Buddha (如来), while the second floor houses a statue of Avalokiteshvara (观音). The architecture is charming and intricate, shrouded in mist and imbued with a sense of serenity. Although the island is not large, it is dotted with unique rock formations and lush trees, creating a natural bonsai landscape.

Key Details

• Chinese Name: 小普陀岛 (Xiao Putuo Dao)
• Location: Dali (大理市), Erhai Lake (洱海) eastern side
• Area: 100 m²
• Type: Limestone island

History of Xiao Putuo Island

Origin

Xiao Putuo Island is often referred to as a “miniature island.” Despite its small size, it is quite famous and frequently appears in brochures introducing Dali. The island has a circumference of only 200 meters and is entirely made of limestone. Its shape resembles a round seal, leading to another name, Haiyin (海印). According to legend, the waters of Erhai are home to many dragons that often stir up storms. The rock formation is believed to be the great seal used by Avalokiteshvara to subdue the dragons.

During the Ming Dynasty, around the time of the Chongzhen Emperor (崇祯), local fishermen funded the construction of a two-story pavilion on Xiao Putuo Island to house a statue of Avalokiteshvara, leading to its local name, Guanyin Pavilion (观音阁).

Haiyin Village (海印村)

Located to the east of Xiao Putuo Island, near the natural fishing harbor called Baishi Qu (白石曲), Haiyin Village has developed around it. The village is nestled between Qigupeng (旗鼓峰) of Yuyan Mountain (玉案山) to the east and Erhai Lake to the west. With a population of over 400 households and nearly 2,000 residents, all belonging to the Bai ethnic group (白族), the village maintains rich Bai cultural traditions.

Haiyin Village has around 60 acres of arable land, and residents primarily engage in transportation, selling building materials, and fishing, with an annual catch close to 1,000 tons. The villagers, who are skilled swimmers, can easily reach Xiao Putuo Island in a few minutes. In the past, local fishermen mostly used sailboats or “mule boats” (用浆划的骡子船) for transportation. Haiyin Village exemplifies a traditional fishing village with Bai-style houses featuring white walls and blue tiles. During festive occasions, Xiao Putuo Island becomes a favored site for villagers to worship deities and enjoy leisure activities.

Cultural Significance

Name Meaning

The name “Putuo” (普陀) is derived from the Sanskrit word “Putuo Lujia Mountain” (普陀珞伽山), meaning “Small White Flower Mountain” or “Small Flower Tree Mountain,” believed to be a place where Avalokiteshvara practiced in India. As a result, many places associated with Avalokiteshvara are referred to as Putuo Mountain, such as the well-known Putuo Mountain in Zhejiang Province (浙江普陀山), one of China’s four sacred Buddhist mountains.

The Buddhism practiced in Dali has a notable characteristic of closeness to Bodhisattvas, particularly Avalokiteshvara, more than to the Buddha (释迦牟尼). The Bai people predominantly worship Avalokiteshvara in temples, where she is represented in both male and female forms. Xiao Putuo Island specifically features a female representation of Avalokiteshvara, contrasting with the Theravada Buddhism practiced in regions like Xishuangbanna (西双版纳) and Dehong (德宏).

Xiao Putuo Island is not only a picturesque spot but also a rich center of Buddhist culture.

How to Get There

• By Boat: Visitors can take a boat from Dali city center to Xiao Putuo Island, which is a scenic ride across Erhai Lake.
• Walking: If you are near Haiyin Village, you can easily swim or use a small boat to reach the island.

Travel Tips

• Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn are ideal for enjoying the pleasant weather and vibrant scenery.
• Photography: Don’t forget your camera to capture the stunning landscapes and cultural architecture.
• Local Cuisine: Explore nearby restaurants in Haiyin Village for authentic Bai cuisine after visiting the island.
• Cultural Etiquette: Be respectful of the local traditions and the peaceful environment when visiting the island.

Overview

Xihu (西湖), also known as Eryuan Xihu (洱源西湖) or Dali Xihu (大理西湖), is located in the western part of Dengchuan Bazi in Eryuan County (洱源县), Dali Bai Autonomous Prefecture (大理白族自治州), Yunnan Province (云南省). Nestled at the foot of Yunong Peak (云弄峰), the highest peak of Cangshan Mountain (苍山), it lies under the Fozhong Mountain (佛钟山) in the western part of Yousuo Town (右所镇). Xihu is over 40 kilometers from Dali Ancient City (大理古城), situated along the route from Dali to Lijiang (丽江).

Eryuan (洱源) is the source of the plateau pearl, Erhai Lake (洱海), which explains its name. Rich in natural resources, it has been praised as the “Land of Fish and Rice,” “Land of Plums,” “Land of Dairy Cows,” “Land of Hot Springs,” “Land of Orchids,” “Plateau Water Town,” and “Land of Suona” (唢呐之乡). Xihu is a national wetland park, a national AAA scenic area, and a provincial scenic spot in Yunnan. It is the second national wetland park in Yunnan, following the Yuanyang Hani Rice Terraces (元阳哈尼梯田), and the first natural national wetland park in Yunnan.

Geography and Features

Xihu is a freshwater lake situated on a plateau, covering an area of 5.5 square kilometers. It consists of three areas: Xihu, Jiangwei (江尾), and Luoping Mountain (罗平山), along with the Luosijiang (螺蛳江) scenic route. As a fault lake, it has an average depth of 1.8 meters and a maximum depth approaching 12 meters, making it an important water source for Erhai Lake.

Ecological Resources

The ecosystem of Xihu is remarkably diverse, featuring a natural ecological system that overlaps with artificial systems, including forest (shrub) areas, villages, farmlands, lakeside marshes, lake surfaces, and island villages. The wetland is home to unique fish species such as Erhai bighead carp (洱海大头鲤), gray loose-skin fish (灰裂腹鱼), and Dali loose-skin fish (大理裂腹鱼). It serves as a habitat for many wintering birds and hosts the largest population distribution of the rare purple swamphen (紫水鸡) in China.

Cultural Heritage

Xihu is home to six villages: Zhangjiadeng (张家登), Qingshuitang (清水塘), Dongdeng (东登), Zhongdeng (中登), Nandeng (南登), and Haitang (海塘), alongside an island, creating a picturesque landscape of villages within lakes and lakes within villages. In the Ming Dynasty, scholars like Yang Sheng’an (杨升庵), Li Yuanyang (李元阳), and Yang Nanjin (杨南金) often gathered for poetry and music on the lake.

In 1639, Xu Xiake (徐霞客) was enchanted by the beauty of Xihu, describing in his travel notes: “悠悠有江南风景，而外有四山环翠，觉西子湖又反出其下也。” (There are landscapes of Jiangnan, and outside are the four green mountains, reminiscent of the West Lake). In the Qing Dynasty, the scholar Yang Chengchun (杨承淳) praised the lake in his poetry: “湖光荡漾几回纹，渔父歌声闹水滨，信口舢敲湘汉句，断肠弄笛雁鸿云。”
(The lake’s surface ripples, the fisherman’s song stirs the waters, casually, a boat taps the verses of Xiang and Han, heartbreakingly, a flute plays the cries of wild geese.)

Bai Ethnic Cuisine

Visitors can savor authentic Bai (白族) cuisine at Xihu, including dishes like raw skin (生皮), lake-boiled fish (湖水煮活鱼), vegetable and bean soup (水菜豆米汤), claypot fish (砂锅鱼), stewed plums (炖梅), carved plums (雕梅), milk fan (乳扇), and three cups of tea (三道茶).

Transportation Guide

Xihu is located over 40 kilometers from Dali, along the route to Lijiang. Visitors can take a bus to Yuhu Town (玉湖镇) in Eryuan County and disembark at Yousuo Town, then walk north.

Recommended one-day itinerary: Dali — Eryuan County Town — Cibi Lake (茈碧湖) — Hot Springs — Dali (or onward to Jianchuan (剑川), Heqing (鹤庆), Lijiang, and Diqing (迪庆)).

Travel Tips

• Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn are ideal for enjoying the natural beauty and cultural activities.
• Local Etiquette: Respect local customs, especially in Bai ethnic areas.
• Wildlife Watching: Bring binoculars for birdwatching, particularly in winter when migratory birds are present.
• Food Recommendations: Try local specialties and ensure dietary restrictions are communicated clearly to vendors.

How to Get There

Xihu can be accessed via public transport from Dali, and it is advisable to check local bus schedules. For those driving, follow the main route to Eryuan County, with clear signage along the way.

Overview

Yunnan Eryuan West Lake National Wetland Park (云南洱源西湖国家湿地公园) is a national-level wetland park located at the northern foot of Yunong Peak (云弄峰), one of the nineteen peaks of Cangshan Mountain (苍山), within the territory of Yousuo Town (右所镇), Eryuan County (洱源县), Dali Bai Autonomous Prefecture (大理白族自治州), Yunnan Province (云南省). Situated at the source of Erhai Lake (洱海), it serves as an important source of water for Eryuan, belonging to the Lancang River (澜沧江) watershed.

The geographical coordinates of Yunnan Eryuan West Lake National Wetland Park are between 100°4′E and 100°45′E longitude, and 25°59′N and 26°21′N latitude. The park covers a total area of 1,354.07 hectares, with the lake surface at an elevation of 1,967.8 meters above sea level. The average water depth is 1.8 meters, with a maximum depth reaching 8.3 meters. It is classified as a fault lake, featuring six large islands and 88 smaller islands (at normal water levels).

Geographic Environment

Yunnan Eryuan West Lake National Wetland Park is uniquely positioned at the source of Erhai Lake, making it a vital ecological zone. The landscape comprises a rich diversity of natural ecosystems, including forests, shrubs, farmlands, lakeshores, marshes, lakes, islands, and villages. This variety creates a typical basin-lake structure that encapsulates all aspects of the region’s scenic diversity, including local customs, historical culture, fishing villages, island water towns, and geothermal hot springs.

Biodiversity

The wetland of Eryuan West Lake boasts rich biodiversity. A scientific investigation conducted by the Southwest Forestry University/National Plateau Wetland Research Center in 2009 documented the presence of 18 species of mammals, 16 species of reptiles, 14 species of amphibians, 26 species of fish, and 76 species of birds, with 39 of these being aquatic birds. Additionally, there are 306 species of vascular plants, including 115 wetland plants.

Among these, two species—wild water chestnut (Trapa ncise) and water lily (Ottelia acuminata)—are classified as nationally protected level II plants. Eight species of animals are also classified as nationally protected level II, including the tiger-striped frog (Rana rugulosa), common house gecko (Gekko gecko), gray goose (Anser anser), common buzzard (Buteo buteo), and others. The wetland is notable for its high conservation value, serving as the largest population distribution site in China for the rare purple swamphen (Porphyrio porphyrio) and a habitat for many wintering birds. Additionally, the outflow of the lake is a migratory route and spawning area for the unique Dali splitfin (Schizothorax taliensis).

Development and Establishment

In December 2009, the State Forestry Administration approved the pilot construction of the national wetland park. By December 2015, the park successfully passed the assessment and verification by the State Forestry Administration and was officially named Yunnan Eryuan West Lake National Wetland Park.

How to Get There

To reach Yunnan Eryuan West Lake National Wetland Park, visitors can travel to Eryuan County from Dali City (大理市). The best option is to take a bus from Dali to Yousuo Town. Upon arrival in Yousuo, follow the local signs to the wetland park.

Travel Tips

• Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn are ideal for enjoying the natural beauty and observing wildlife.
• What to Bring: Binoculars for birdwatching, a camera for photography, and appropriate clothing for outdoor activities.
• Local Cuisine: Don’t miss trying local dishes in nearby villages, particularly those featuring fresh fish and Bai ethnic specialties.
• Respect Nature: Follow park guidelines to protect the natural environment and wildlife.

With its rich biodiversity and stunning landscapes, Yunnan Eryuan West Lake National Wetland Park offers visitors a unique glimpse into the natural and cultural beauty of the region.

Location:

Overview

• Chinese Name: 洱源县海西海
• English Name: Haixihai Lake in Eryuan County, Dali
• Location: Eryuan County, Dali, Yunnan Province

Introduction

Haixi Sea is a natural highland reservoir in Eryuan County. According to historical records: “Haixi Sea was originally known as Miqing Pool, but overnight it transformed into a sea, spanning approximately ten li… Surrounded by lotus blooms, it resembles a scene of a beauty gazing into a mirror.” Encircled by distant mountains with lush peaks, the serene waters reflect the cliffs, ancient temples, caves, and vibrant flowers, creating a breathtaking and picturesque sight known as the renowned “Mountain Reflection in the Sea” spectacle.

Every year on the 25th day of the sixth lunar month, the traditional Haixi Sea Song Festival is held. People gather in droves, and young men and women row boats on Haixi Sea, singing love songs to the accompaniment of the three-stringed instrument, picking water chestnuts, and collecting lotus flowers. This event is famously described as “Conveying love through songs with the three-stringed instrument, joyfully tying the knot at Haixi Sea.”

Beneath Guanyin Mountain to the north of Haixi Sea, there is a cave called Sleeping Dragon Cave. Inside, stalactites of various shapes and sizes abound, with two stones resembling a woman’s full breasts. It is said that during the Ming Dynasty, Emperor Jianwen took refuge here for several years, sustaining himself on the milk that dripped from these stones, hence the name Sleeping Dragon Cave. On the stone arch outside the cave, there is a couplet written by a revered monk: “The dragon rests in this heavenly cave, weary from its journey, while the stone milk fails to quench the master’s thirst, leaving an eternal sorrow.” Standing outside Sleeping Dragon Cave, one can enjoy a panoramic view of Haixi Sea’s natural scenery, including the shimmering water and leaping fish.

Nearby Attractions

• Cibi Lake: Cibi Lake is bordered by mountains to the east and north, connected to fields in the southwest, and stretches lengthwise from north to south. It is a natural freshwater lake formed by a collapsed and eroded highland depression, and is one of the main lakes upstream of Erhai Lake. The lake is abundant with Cibi flowers, which bloom in summer and resemble lotus pods.
• Liyuan Village: Liyuan Village, located on the shores of Cibi Lake, is named for the pear trees that grow throughout the village. The only way to access the village is by boat across Cibi Lake. The houses are nestled among pear trees, making it a typical Bai ethnic ancient fishing village with distinctive settlement characteristics.
• Dali Geothermal National Park: Dali Geothermal National Park is a leisure and vacation tourist attraction known for its hot spring bathing culture. It is located near the shores of Cibi Lake. The park blends Yunnan’s ethnic minority cultural atmosphere with unique romantic charm, making it a popular spot for both locals and tourists to relax and unwind.

Travel Tips

• Boat Rental: Boats are available for rent at Haixi Sea, allowing visitors to row across the lake, observe wild ducks in flight, and watch cattle play in the water.
• Transportation: Take a bus from Xiaguan North Passenger Station, with departures every ten minutes between 6:40 AM and 6:30 PM. The fare is 20 yuan per person, and the journey takes about fifty minutes.
• Local Specialties: Eryuan plums, Eryuan carved plums, Dali green plums, Eryuan garlic, Eryuan milk fan cheese, carved plum wine, and plum wine.
• Local Cuisine: Eryuan raw skin (a type of dish), bean soup rice noodles, fire-roasted pork, and hot spring vegetables.

Yunnan Travel Guide

Things To Do

• Yunnan Overview
• Yunnan Attractions
• Yunnan Tours
• Yunnan Shopping
• Yunnan Culture
• Festivals and Activities

Travel Information

• Yunnan Travel Tips
• Yunnan Climate
• Yunnan Transportation
• Yunnan Maps
• Yunnan Photos
• Yunnan Dining
• Yunnan Accommodation
• Yunnan Education
• Yunnan Travel News
• Administrative Divisions

Create My Trip

You Might Like

• 1 Day Jade Dragon Snow Mountain Hiking Tour (4642 Meters) from Wenhai Lake
• 9 Days South China Rice Terraces and Ethnic Culture Tour to Yuanyang and Longji Rice Terraces
• 1 Days Dali Buddhist Culture Tour to Jizu Mountain
• 8 Days Kunming-Dali-Lijiang-Shangri-La Overland Tour
• 4 Days Lijiang Golf and Sightseeing Tour with Jade Dragon Snow Mountain Golf Club
• Half Day Lijiang Helicopter Tour and Aerial Close-ups
• 13 Days Best Yunnan Flowers Trip to Snow Mountains between May and June
• 7 Days Best Yunnan Golf Tour to Kunming, Dali and Lijiang

Lakes and Ponds in Dali

Lakes and Ponds in Dali, Main Lakes in Dali, Famous Lakes in Dali

XiaoPutuo Island of Erhai Lake in Dali

Overview Xiao Putuo Island (小普陀岛) is situated on the eastern side of Erhai Lake (洱海) in Dali (大理市), Yunnan Province (云南省). Located at coordinates 25°42′23″N 100°14′05″E, this limestone island...

Attractions    Veiw

• Dali
• Dali City
• Lakes and Ponds in Dali
• Lakes in Yunnan

West Lake (Xihu) in Eryuan County, Dali

Overview Xihu (西湖), also known as Eryuan Xihu (洱源西湖) or Dali Xihu (大理西湖), is located in the western part of Dengchuan Bazi in Eryuan County (洱源县), Dali Bai Autonomous...

Attractions    Veiw

• Dali
• Eryuan County
• Lakes and Ponds in Dali
• Lakes in Yunnan
• Pools and Reservoirs

Haixihai Lake in Eryuan County, Dali

Overview Chinese Name: 洱源县海西海 English Name: Haixihai Lake in Eryuan County, Dali Location: Eryuan County, Dali, Yunnan Province Introduction Haixi Sea is a natural highland reservoir in Eryuan County. According...

Attractions    Veiw

• Dali
• Eryuan County
• Lakes and Ponds in Dali
• Lakes in Yunnan
• Pools and Reservoirs