This 5-day tour takes you on a fascinating journey through Chuxiong, Lufeng, and Yuanmou in Yunnan Province, China. These areas are known for their rich prehistoric sites, unique geological landscapes, and deep-rooted local culture. From ancient dinosaur fossils to dramatic earth formations, this tour offers a complete Yunnan experience that combines nature, history, and local traditions.

The itinerary features visits to some of Yunnan’s top attractions, including the Lufeng World Dinosaur Valley, Yuanmou Earth Forest, and the Yuanmou Man Site, providing an unforgettable opportunity to explore the ancient history and cultural heritage of the region.

Tour Highlights

Kunming City Tour: Explore the vibrant capital of Yunnan Province, renowned for its parks, markets, and unique cultural history.
Lufeng World Dinosaur Valley: Visit one of the richest dinosaur fossil sites in the world, with well-preserved dinosaur skeletons and a museum showcasing the findings.
Yiren Ancient Town: Experience the culture and architecture of the Yi ethnic group, a local minority known for their rich traditions.
Ten-Month Solar Calendar Park: Understand the Yi ethnic group’s agricultural calendar system, which has been integral to their farming practices for centuries.
Yuanmou Earth Forest: Admire the striking earth pillar formations, a natural wonder created by erosion over millions of years.
Yuanmou Man Site: Explore the archaeological site where fossils of the Yuanmou Man, one of the earliest humans discovered in China, were found.

Tour Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Kunming

Arrival: Upon arrival at Kunming Changshui International Airport, your guide will greet you and assist you with the transfer to your hotel.

Kunming City Tour:

Green Lake Park (翠湖): Take a relaxing walk through this iconic Kunming park, known for its clear waters, willow trees, and traditional pavilions. It’s an ideal place to stretch your legs after your flight.

Flower and Bird Market（花鸟市场）: This bustling market showcases the local love for nature, with vendors selling birds, flowers, and a variety of plants. It’s a great place to pick up local souvenirs and enjoy the colorful atmosphere.

Evening: Check into your hotel in Kunming. You can either rest after the long journey or explore the local nightlife. The city has plenty of options, from street food stalls to trendy cafes and restaurants.

Meals: No meals included on Day 1 (meal recommendations available)

Day 2: Kunming – Lufeng World Dinosaur Valley – Chuxiong

Morning:

Depart Kunming for Lufeng (approx. 2.5-3 hours, 150 km).

Lufeng World Dinosaur Valley（禄丰恐龙谷）: Explore one of the world’s most important dinosaur fossil sites. You’ll visit the museum where the Lufeng Dinosaurus and other dinosaur species were discovered, as well as walking through an open-air fossil excavation site. The valley is filled with life-size replicas and exhibits showing the creatures that once roamed this area 100 million years ago.

Lunch: Enjoy a local meal at a restaurant near the Dinosaur Valley. Try traditional Yunnan dishes such as over-the-bridge rice noodles or wild mushroom hotpot.

Afternoon:

Travel from Lufeng to Chuxiong (approx. 1.5-2 hours, 90 km).

Yiren Ancient Town（彝人古镇）: This town is known for its historical value and its unique architecture, with buildings designed in the traditional Yi ethnic style. Walk along its narrow lanes, visit local handicraft shops, and interact with the local people to learn about Yi culture.

Ten-Month Solar Calendar Park（十月太阳历文化园）: Discover how the Yi ethnic group has long used the Ten-Month Solar Calendar, a traditional system that guides agricultural activities throughout the year. The park includes a range of informative exhibits and sculptures depicting the calendar’s role in Yi daily life.

Chuxiong Museum: If time permits, visit this small museum, which offers insights into the region’s rich prehistoric and cultural history. It houses artifacts from various historical periods and a collection of fossils from the area.

Evening: Check into your hotel in Chuxiong and enjoy a leisurely dinner in the city. You can opt for local dishes such as steam pot chicken or grilled fish, specialties of the region.

Meals: Breakfast at hotel, lunch and dinner on your own

Day 3: Chuxiong – Yuanmou

Morning:

Depart Chuxiong for Yuanmou (approx. 2.5 hours, 130 km).

Yuanmou Earth Forest: Upon arrival, you’ll visit this otherworldly landscape known for its earth pillars—tall, thin spires of earth that have been carved by centuries of erosion. The area is often called “the China’s Grand Canyon” for its similarly impressive formations, although on a smaller scale. Take a guided walk to explore the park, learn about the geological processes at work, and enjoy the stunning natural beauty.

Lunch: Enjoy a local lunch in Yuanmou, sampling grilled fish or rice noodles served with wild herbs and spices.

Afternoon:

Continue exploring the Yuanmou Earth Forest at your leisure. There are several viewpoints to take in panoramic vistas of the earth pillar formations. For those who are interested in photography, this is the perfect place to capture the unique landscapes.

Evening: Check into your hotel in Yuanmou for a restful night. If time permits, explore the local markets and try some of the local snacks like dried fruits or roast sweet potatoes.

Meals: Breakfast at hotel, lunch and dinner on your own

Day 4: Yuanmou – Kunming

Morning:

Yuanmou Man Site and Museum: Visit this important archaeological site where the earliest fossils of Yuanmou Man were discovered. These fossils are among the oldest evidence of human presence in China, dating back over 1 million years. The museum offers detailed exhibits on the history of these prehistoric humans, the tools they used, and the environment they lived in.

Yuanmou Earth Forest (optional second visit): If you want to explore more of the Earth Forest, you can return to the park for additional time to hike and photograph the landscape.

Lunch: Enjoy a simple lunch before departing for Kunming.

Afternoon:

Transfer back to Kunming (approx. 3 hours, 170 km).

Depending on the time of arrival, you may have the option to visit other attractions like Yunnan Nationalities Village（云南民族村）, which offers a rich experience of the province’s diverse ethnic cultures.

Evening: Arrive in Kunming and check into your hotel. The evening is free for you to explore more of the city or relax.

Meals: Breakfast at hotel, lunch on your own

Day 5: Departure from Kunming

Morning:

You’ll have some leisure time for shopping or optional activities in Kunming. Consider visiting the Stone Forest（石林）, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its towering limestone formations, or simply enjoy a relaxed breakfast in one of Kunming’s charming cafes.

Transfer to Airport: Your guide will assist you with your transfer to Kunming Changshui International Airport for your departure flight.

Meals: Breakfast at hotel

Service Included:

Admission fees for all of the sightseeing spots listed in the itinerary;
Meals as listed in the itinerary;
Hotels as listed in the itinerary;
Private English-speaking tour guide;
Private vehicle for transfers & sightseeing with skilled driver;
Service charge & government taxes;
Luggage transfers between airports and hotels;
Service charge and all government taxes;
Travel Agency’s Responsibility Insurance coverage.

Service Excluded:

Any arrival and departure international airfares or train tickets;
Chinese visa fees;
Excess baggage charged by Airlines;
Single room supplement;
Tips to guides and drivers;
Personal expenses and gratuities to service staff;
Personal travel accident insurance;
All optional programs.

The Red River (Honghe): A Vital Asian Waterway Connecting China and Vietnam

Known as the Honghe in Chinese, the Red River is a significant Asian river originating in Yunnan Province, China, flowing through Vietnam, and emptying into the Gulf of Tonkin. It holds profound geographical, historical, economic, and cultural significance for both nations.

I. Geographical Overview: A Natural Artery Across China and Vietnam

Origins and Main Stream

The river begins in the mountains south of Dali, Yunnan, formed by the confluence of tributaries like the Leqiu, Xi, and Juli Rivers, which merge to create the Lishe River—the official start of the Red River.
Flowing southeast, it traverses ethnic minority regions in Yunnan (home to the Yi and Dai peoples) before entering Vietnam’s Lào Cai Province at Hekou Yao Autonomous County.
In Vietnam, it joins the Da River (Black River) and Lô River near Việt Trì City in Phú Thọ Province, then flows through Hanoi and into the Gulf of Tonkin. Total length: ~1,140 km (692 km in China).

Basin Characteristics

Chinese Section: Mountainous and gorged, rich in hydropower potential, with 湿润 (humid) climates; 70% of annual water flow occurs in the rainy season (June–October).
Vietnamese Section: The 中下游 (mid-lower reaches) form the vast Red River Delta, a crucial agricultural heartland for Vietnam.

II. History & Transportation: The Rise and Fall of a Trade Route

19th-Century Golden Trade Corridor

French explorers used the river to access China; in 1873, Paul Doumer navigated to Manhao Town (Gejiu City), opening Sino-Vietnamese trade.
As the core commercial route between French Indochina and Yunnan, goods like tea, minerals, and opium were transported via junks (dry season, November–May) and steamers (rainy season, when higher water levels allowed navigation up to Manhao).
Its role declined after the 1910 opening of the Kunming–Haiphong Railway, though it remains vital for local transportation.

Key Hubs

Haiphong Port: The closest seaport to Kunming in the early 20th century, linking Southwest China to Southeast Asia.
Manhao Town: Historically the northernmost navigable point, serving as a land-sea transit hub for 19th-century Sino-French trade.

III. Hydraulic Projects: Harnessing Water for Power and Ecology

Chinese Section: A Hub for Hydropower Development

Major Dams (for power generation and flood control):
- Da Wan Dam, Dachunhe I/II Dams
- Nansha Dam (in Yuanyang County, creating a large reservoir)
- Madushan Dam (a key project in cascade hydropower development)
Tributary Development: Dams on the Lixian and Tengtiao Rivers complement main-stream projects, boosting Yunnan’s clean energy sector.

Vietnamese Section: Integrated Water Management

Thác Bà Dam (1972): Vietnam’s first major hydropower project, forming Thác Bà Lake (the country’s 2nd-largest reservoir) for electricity and irrigation.
Downstream Dikes: Protect the Red River Delta from floods and support agricultural irrigation, critical for Vietnam’s rice production.

IV. Towns & Cities Along the River: Ties of Civilization and Development

Key Towns in Yunnan, China

Hekou Yao Autonomous County: A vital Sino-Vietnamese border town with a Class-I national port, directly connected to Vietnam’s Lào Cai via rail and road.
Nansha Town (Yuanyang County Seat): Located near the Nansha Dam reservoir, in the heart of the UNESCO-listed Honghe Hani Rice Terraces, blending mountain scenery and ethnic culture.
Manhao Town (Gejiu): A historic shipping hub with century-old docks and French colonial architecture, preserving the legacy of Sino-Vietnamese trade.

Core Regions in Vietnam

Hanoi: Built along the river, featuring landmarks like the Long Biên Bridge and Hoàn Kiếm Lake; 80% of the city’s water supply relies on the Red River.
Red River Delta Provinces:
- Phú Thọ Province: Việt Trì City, where the Red River meets the Lô River, a major industrial center.
- Hải Dương & Thái Bình Provinces: Agricultural powerhouses, producing 1/3 of Vietnam’s rice.
- Lào Cai Province: Borders Yunnan’s Hekou, thriving on cross-border trade and tourism.

V. Epilogue: A River of Culture and Future Prospects

The Red River is more than a geographical feature; it’s a millennium-old bridge between China and Vietnam. From ancient caravan routes to modern hydropower projects, and from border towns to bustling cities, it has witnessed regional transformation. Today, under the Belt and Road Initiative, the riverfront is evolving into a new frontier for ecological conservation and economic cooperation, connecting Southwest China with Southeast Asia.

楚雄州禄丰县舍资镇彝族医药 Traditional Medicine of Yi Ethnic Minority in Lufeng County, Chuxiong

Why is Heijing Ancient Town So Special

Heijing Ancient Town has a long history. The unearthed relics of stones, potteries, and bronze wares have proved that as early as 3,200 years ago, ancestors of some minority groups already worked and multiplied on the land. During the Yuan, Ming and Qing Dynasties, 56 temples and nunneries were built, and steles of high historic and artistic values have been maintained. With traditional folk residences, archways, and religion architectures, Heijing Ancient Town is well conserved in a traditional style as others do in China. Among them, 27 have been listed as county-level cultural relics protection units, and are known as “the treasure house of historical relics – the living fossil of Ming and Qing Dynasties”.

Where is Heijing Ancient Town

Heijing Ancient Town is located in the northwest of Lufeng County, Chuxiong Prefecture, 200 kilometers from Kunming and 75 kilometers from Chuxiong.

How to Get There

In Chuxiong Passenger Station, there are buses to Heijiang Town.
It is very convenient to Heijing Station by train from Kunming Railway Station.
After arriving in Lufeng County, car rental or self-driving is the recommended way to get to Heijing Ancient Town.

Introduction of Heijing Ancient Town

It was because of the salt that Heijing had become a well-known place. Its economics thrived; it became a trading hub luring people from different areas. Central mainland Chinese cultures and frontier ethnic cultures merged here. It became a cultural kaleidoscope representing diverse historical relics, ethnic cultures, architectural cultures, religious cultures, and cuisine which probably can be seen anywhere.

Now, the Heijing Ancient Town has long lost her glory of being the predominant salt provider of Yunnan Province. However, there are streets and alleys that still maintain a touch of the Tang and Song Dynasties. The residential architecture, stone inscription, carvings, pagodas, dolmens, performance stages, temples, and salt well are well preserved from the Ming and Qing Dynasties three to four hundred years ago. The Grand Courtyard of the Wu Family especially represents the perfectly preserved typical architectures of the Ming and Qing Dynasties. People from all over China as well as around the world come here.

Unlike the Lijiang Ancient Town with bridges and streams scatted all over in an orderly manner, the Heijing Ancient Town, which is less known, presents itself with an atmosphere of tranquility and slowness, bringing you back in history and escaping from this busy, bustling world.

Best Time to Go

The Heijing Ancient Town is suitable for tourism all year round. The area belongs to the subtropical monsoon climate, with warm spring and heavy drought, no summer heat, cool autumn, no cold in winter, small annual temperature difference, large daily temperature difference, and obvious dry and wet seasons. The annual rainy season is from May to October, and the annual average temperature is 15-21 °C.

Nearby Attractions

The Grand Courtyard of Wu Family
The Grand Courtyard of Wu Family is a typical Ming and Qing architecture that has been preserved to now. The Grand Courtyard of Wu Family was built in the 16th year of Daoguang in Qing Dynasty. It was expended in the 7th year of Xianfeng in Qing Dynasty and was built along the mountain. It is a “王(Wang)-shape”, with a unique layout. It consists of four patios with 99 houses. It, with a building area of 10,000 square meters, is well-connected and is one of the rare ancient residential buildings in Yunnan.

Feilaisi Temple
Feilaisi Temple is located at the hillside. Because of the steep mountain, looking from the bottom of the mountain, the whole temple is like a big bird entwined in the mountain. It seems to be flying and it also seems to have just landed from the sky. Therefore, Feilaisi Temple got its name. Looking down from the temple, the Longchuanjiang River(龙川江) passes through the deep canyon, and the town’s buildings are dotted on both sides of the river.

Heijing Confucius Temple
The Heijing Confucian Temple is located in the Longchuanjiang River Gorge(龙川江峡谷), Lufeng County, Chuxiong Prefecture. The Heijing Confucius Temple was built in the 45th year of Ming Wanli (1617). It was repeatedly destroyed by mudslides in the Qing Dynasty and was repeatedly rebuilt. The Confucius Temple is large in scale. There were 13 scholars (进士), which could show the prosperity of Heijing culture education.

Lufeng Yipinglang Railway Station introduces the location, profile, maps, travel tips, normal trains and high speed trains schedule, train tickets booking, transportation, layout, facilities and servive, travel guide of Lufeng Yipinglang Railway Station.
Station Name (EN): Yipinglang Railway Station in Lufeng County
Station Name(CN): 禄丰县一平浪火车站/Yipinglang Huochezhan
Address(EN): Yipinglan Town, Lufeng County, Chuxiong, Yunnan
Address(CN): 云南省楚雄州禄丰县一平浪镇

Guangtong North Railway Station introduces the location, profile, maps, travel tips, normal trains and high speed trains schedule, train tickets booking, transportation, layout, facilities and servive, travel guide of Guangtong North Railway Station.
Station Name (EN):Guangtong Bei Railway Station / Guangtong North Railway Station
Station Name(CN): 楚雄广通北站/Guangtong Bei Huochezhan
Address(EN): North of Longchuan Town, Nanhua County, Chuxiong, Yunnan
Address(CN): 云南省南华县城龙川镇北侧

Guangtong North Railway Station (Chinese: 广通北站) is another railway station located in the Chuxiong Yi Autonomous Prefecture of Yunnan Province, China. Here’s some basic information about the station and how to get there:

Introduction to Guangtong North Railway Station (Chuxiong):

Guangtong North Railway Station is likely to be a part of China’s extensive high-speed railway network. Stations with “North” in their name are often newly built to accommodate high-speed trains and are usually located a bit outside the main urban area.

Train Schedule:

To find the train schedule for Guangtong North Railway Station, you can:

Visit the official China Railway customer service website or the 12306.cn platform.
Check with travel service platforms that are popular in China, like Ctrip (Trip.com), Qunar, or similar apps.
Look at the departure and arrival boards at the station for real-time information.

How to Get to Guangtong North Railway Station (Chuxiong):

Depending on your starting point, there are several ways to reach Guangtong North Railway Station:

From Chuxiong City: If you’re coming from Chuxiong city center or another nearby area, you can take a taxi, which is the most straightforward method. There might also be dedicated shuttle buses or local bus services connecting the city with the station.
From Other Areas in Chuxiong Prefecture: For those coming from other parts of the prefecture, buses or taxis are the primary options. Some areas may have direct bus services to the station.
From Other Cities: If you are traveling from a different city, you can take a long-distance bus or a train to Chuxiong first and then transfer to local transportation to reach Guangtong North Railway Station.

General Travel Tips:

Plan Ahead: Always check the latest train schedules and transportation options well in advance of your trip.
Know the Station Name: Be aware that there may be more than one station in the area (for example, a regular Guangtong Station and a Guangtong North Station). Make sure you know the exact name of the station you are traveling to.
Language Barrier: If you don’t speak Mandarin, have your destination written in Chinese to show to taxi drivers or when asking for directions.
Extra Time: Allow plenty of time for travel to the station, especially during peak hours or holidays when traffic can be heavier.

Remember to stay updated on local travel advisories and check if there are any specific requirements or changes to travel due to special events, weather conditions, or construction activities.

Lufeng South Railway Station introduces the location, profile, maps, travel tips, normal trains and high speed trains schedule, train tickets booking, transportation, layout, facilities and servive, travel guide of Lufeng South Railway Station.
Station Name (EN):Lufeng Nan Railway Station/ Lufeng South Railway Station
Station Name(CN): 禄丰南站/Lufeng Nan Huochezhan
Address(EN): Jinshan Town, Lufeng County, Chuxiong, Yunnan
Address(CN): 楚雄彝族自治州禄丰县金山镇

Lufeng (Chuxiong) South Railway Station is located in Lufeng County, Chuxiong City, Yunnan Province, China. It is a railway station on the Dali–Lufeng Railway.

The train schedule and timetable for Lufeng (Chuxiong) South Railway Station can be found on the China Railway 12306 website or app.

There are several trains from Kunming to Lufeng County daily, including high-speed trains and ordinary trains. The travel time varies from about 2 hours to over 4 hours depending on the type of train and the schedule.

Here is a sample train schedule from Kunming to Lufeng County as of March 2023:

High-speed train G2882: Leaves Kunming South Railway Station at 08:26 and arrives at Lufeng (Chuxiong) South Railway Station at 10:48. Travel time: 2 hours 22 minutes.
High-speed train G2884: Leaves Kunming South Railway Station at 11:15 and arrives at Lufeng (Chuxiong) South Railway Station at 13:37. Travel time: 2 hours 22 minutes.
Ordinary train T9022: Leaves Kunming Railway Station at 16:45 and arrives at Lufeng Railway Station at 20:52. Travel time: 4 hours 5 minutes.
Ordinary train T9024: Leaves Kunming Railway Station at 21:32 and arrives at Lufeng Railway Station at 00:53. Travel time: 3 hours 21 minutes.

Please note that the train schedule and timetable may change from time to time, so it’s always a good idea to check the latest information on the China Railway 12306 website or app before traveling.

Lufeng County Bus Station introduces bus schedule, bus travel, bus tour, bus tickets booking, how, when and where to buy bus tickets, buses timetable to popular attractions and the location, profile, maps, travel tips, layout, facilities and servive, travel guide of Lufeng County Bus Station.

Yizhousaurus is a genus of basal sauropodiform dinosaurs which existed in what is now Lower Lufeng Formation, Yunnan Province of southern China during the lower Jurassic period. Identified from a nearly complete and exquisitely preserved skeleton, it is the most complete basal sauropod currently known with intact skull. Although its name was revealed in a 2010 Geological Society of America abstract by Sankar Chatterjee, T. Wang, S.G. Pan, Z. Dong, X.C. Wu, and Paul Upchurch, it wasn’t validly named and described until 2018. The type species is Yizhousaurus sunae.

Discovery and Naming

Discovery: Fossils of Yizhousaurus were discovered in the Lower Jurassic-aged rock formations of Yunnan Province, China.
Name Origin: The genus name “Yizhousaurus” is derived from “Yizhou,” referring to the region where it was discovered, and “saurus,” meaning lizard in Greek.

Physical Characteristics

Anatomy: Yizhousaurus is known from partial skeletons, including elements of the skull, vertebrae, ribs, and limbs.
Size: It was a medium-sized prosauropod dinosaur, comparable in size to other early prosauropods, reaching lengths of about 4–6 meters (13–20 feet).

Classification

Prosauropod Dinosaur: Yizhousaurus belongs to the prosauropods, a group of herbivorous dinosaurs characterized by their bipedal stance and semi-grasping hands.
Position: It is considered an early member within the prosauropods and shares characteristics with other basal prosauropods from the Early Jurassic period.

Paleoecology

Habitat: During the Early Jurassic period, Yunnan was characterized by a warm, humid climate with lush vegetation. Yizhousaurus would have inhabited this terrestrial environment.
Contemporary Fauna: Yizhousaurus coexisted with other dinosaurs such as Lufengosaurus, Xingxiulong, early theropods, and various other herbivorous and carnivorous dinosaurs.

Significance

Early Prosauropod Diversity: Yizhousaurus contributes to our understanding of the early diversification of prosauropod dinosaurs. Its discovery in Yunnan expands the geographic range and temporal distribution of early prosauropods.
Paleontological Importance of Yunnan: The discovery of Yizhousaurus in Yunnan highlights the region’s significance in preserving Early Jurassic dinosaurs. It provides insights into the evolution and ecology of prosauropods during this period.

Yizhousaurus is an important fossil find that adds to our knowledge of prosauropod dinosaurs and the ancient ecosystems of Yunnan Province, China.

Xixiposaurus is a genus of prosauropod dinosaur which existed in what is now Lower Lufeng Formation, China during the lower Jurassic period.^[1] It was first named by Sekiya Toru in 2010 and the type species is Xixiposaurus suni.

Where was it found?

The remains of Xixiposaurus were found in 1984 at the Yujingzi Basin in China. These fossils were uncovered within layers of rock known as the Early Cretaceous Huiquanpu Formation, which has proven rich in specimens. Thanks, to preserved findings of Xixiposaurus scientists have gained valuable insights into its anatomy and behavior.

Located in Chinas Gansu Province these creatures roamed the Earth 160 million years ago during the Jurassic period. Belonging to the Oviraptorosauria family this dinosaur was estimated to reach a height of, around 1 meter and a length of 2 meters. It had a diet that consisted of plants possibly supplemented with insects or animals.

Characteristic and Behavior

One of the characteristics of Xixiposaurus is its feathered body. Chinese paleontologists discovered this in 2012 when they unearthed the dinosaur’s remains. Recent research has confirmed that this dinosaur was indeed covered in feathers making it one of the known feathered dinosaurs.

Another intriguing feature of Xixiposaurus is its slender snout indicating that it may have been selective in its omnivorous diet choices. Its teeth were serrated, suggesting it possessed a biting force and could consume vegetation.

How do Feathers develop?

The finding of this dinosaur has provided insights into dinosaur evolution. Its feathered body suggests a link to birds as an ancestor. Scientists believe it offers a glimpse, into how dinosaurs developed feathers during their early stages. Interestingly the fossils of Xixiposaurus contained the remains of dinosaurs suggesting that it might have lived in groups or packs similar, to how many modern birds exhibit behaviors.

What did it look like?

The Xixiposaurus was a dinosaur measuring around six feet in length. It had a body, and a tail and stood on two legs. Its front limbs were shorter than its hind limbs allowing it to move swiftly on two legs. Its skull was. Featured a snout. Interestingly it possessed a beak without teeth that it used for consuming vegetation.

Physical Characteristics of the Xixiposaurus

This creature was classified as a dinosaur with an approximate length of 6.5 feet. It had a head, a neck, and a relatively short tail. The dinosaur had a physique. It is categorized as an ornithopod dinosaur due to its bird-like hip structure.

Diet and Behavior of the Xixiposaurus

Scientists deduce from the shape of its teeth that the Xixiposaurus was an herbivore primarily relying on plants, for sustenance. The dinosaur likely utilized its beak to consume vegetation while using its molars to grind it up. Not much information is available, about the behavior of this dinosaur. It is believed that this dinosaur was a creature that lived in groups.

What did it eat?

As mentioned before the Xixiposaurus was a dinosaur that primarily consumed plants. Its beak, which lacked teeth suggests that it used its mouth to trim vegetation. During the period the Yujingzi Basin was rich with forests and abundant plant life for the Xixiposaurus to feed on.

Significance of the Xixiposaurus

The discovery of these dinosaurs carries importance for many reasons. Firstly it contributes to our knowledge of the range of dinosaur species that thrived during the Mesozoic era. Additionally, it offers insights into the evolution of dinosaurs which were among the most successful dinosaur groups. Moreover finding Xixiposaurus fossils in the Lianmuqin Formation indicates that this region experienced levels of dinosaur diversity during the Cretaceous period.

Despite its stature, It holds value within scientific circles. As an unearthed species it enhances our understanding of dinosaur evolution and diversity throughout the period. Through analyzing its anatomy we can gain insights, into how ornithopods adapted to their changing environment over time.

Future of Xixiposaurus Research

Similar to dinosaur species there are still many unknowns, about the Xixiposaurus. Scientists will continue examining these fossils to gain insights into the traits, behaviors, and ecological roles of this dinosaur. This research has the potential to unveil revelations about the path of ornithopod dinosaurs and deepen our understanding of biodiversity during the Mesozoic era.

Respiratory Adaptation

Belonging to the sauropod group renowned for their necks and tails one distinctive feature of this dinosaur was its adaptation. It possessed breathing tubes that extended from its nostrils to its lungs functioning as a snorkel that allowed it to breathe while submerged in water.

Close Relationship

It shared a kinship with another sauropod called Mamenchisaurus. Both dinosaurs exhibited characteristics such as necks, tails, and dentition.

Communication:

Like dinosaurs, it is speculated that these creatures utilized vocalizations as a means of communication with other members of their species. However, due to the preservation of tissues, in dinosaur fossils determining what these vocalizations sounded like remains challenging.

Discovery and Naming

The genus Xixiposaurus was named in 1983 by Dong Zhiming. Fossils were found in the Lower Lufeng Formation of Yunnan, which dates to the Sinemurian stage of the Early Jurassic.

Description

Xixiposaurus is characterized by its medium size and typical features of basal sauropodomorphs. It likely had a bipedal stance, though some remains suggest it might have been capable of quadrupedal locomotion.

Paleobiology

Like other sauropodomorphs of its time, Xixiposaurus was herbivorous and would have grazed on vegetation. Its skeletal structure indicates adaptations for supporting its body weight and efficient locomotion.

Paleoecology

The Lower Lufeng Formation in Yunnan, where Xixiposaurus fossils were found, is known for its rich dinosaur fauna. It includes other sauropodomorphs like Lufengosaurus, Yunnanosaurus, and Jingshanosaurus, as well as various theropods and early mammals.

Significance

Xixiposaurus contributes to our understanding of the early evolution of sauropodomorph dinosaurs in Asia, particularly in the context of the diverse fauna of the Early Jurassic Yunnan ecosystem.

Xingxiulong (meaning “Xingxiu Bridge dragon”) is a genus of bipedal sauropodiform from the Early Jurassic of China. It contains a single species, X. chengi, described by Wang et al. in 2017 from three specimens, two adults and an immature individual, that collectively constitute a mostly complete skeleton. Adults of the genus measured 4–5 metres (13–16 ft) long and 1–1.5 metres (3 ft 3 in–4 ft 11 in) tall. Phylogenetic analysis suggests that Xingxiulong is most closely related to its contemporary Jingshanosaurus, although an alternative position outside of both the Sauropodiformes and Massospondylidae is also plausible.

Despite their close relationship, Xingxiulong prominently differs from Jingshanosaurus – and from most basal sauropodomorphs – in having a number of sauropod-like traits. These include a sacrum containing four vertebrae; a pubis with an exceptionally long top portion; and the femur, the first and fifth metatarsals on the foot, and the scapula being wide and robust. These probably represent adaptations to supporting high body weight, in particular a large gut. Unlike sauropods, however, Xingxiulong would still have been bipedal.

Description

Xingxiulong was a medium-sized sauropodiform, with an adult length of 4–5 metres (13–16 ft) and a height of 1–1.5 metres (3 ft 3 in–4 ft 11 in) at the tip. The two larger specimens, LFGT-D0002 and LFGT-D0003, are adults judging by the complete fusion in their skull; the third specimen, LFGT-D0001, is 14% smaller and probably represents a subadult judging by the incomplete fusion in the vertebrae.

Skull and jaw

Unlike the contemporary Lufengosaurus, Xingxiulong does not have a ridge on the side of its maxilla. Eleven tooth sockets are preserved along the length of the maxilla. Further back, in front of the eye socket, the lacrimal bears a prominent projection near the top of its front end, which is also seen in Lufengosaurus, Adeopapposaurus, Massospondylus, and Riojasaurus, but not Yunnanosaurus, Jingshanosaurus, or subsequent sauropodiforms. The contact surface between the jugal bone and postorbital bone is fairly long, like Lufengosaurus but not Yunnanosaurus. Among the three branches of the jugal, the backwards-directed branch forms an angle of 80° with the upwards-projecting branch, which is similar to Plateosaurus and Thecodontosaurus but much larger than other sauropodomorphs.

At the base of the skull, the quadratojugal bears two branches, one pointing forwards and one upwards; they are roughly perpendicular to each other, unlike Lufengosaurus (angle of 45°), Yunnanosaurus (angle of 60°), and Jingshanosaurus (angle of 110°). Above the quadratojugal, the quadrate has two articulating condyles, a subtriangular one facing outward and a more rounded one facing inwards; the latter condyle is placed closer to the bottom, like Lufengosaurus and Yunnanosaurus but not Plateosaurus. At the back of the skull, between the parietals and supraoccipitals, there is a prominently developed postparietal fenestra; the supraoccipital itself slopes forwards at its bottom end so as to round off the base of the skull. The basipterygoid processes are long, slender, and project downwards and outwards like Plateosaurus and unlike Lufengosaurus and Jingshanosaurus, forming an angle of 80° with each other.

Compared to Lufengosaurus, Yunnanosaurus, and Jingshanosaurus, the angular and surangular extend much further in front of the mandibular fenestra in Xingxiulong, which is closer to Adeopapposaurus and Plateosaurus. The articular bears an inward-projecting and pyramidal process as an extension of the jaw joint; at its back end, it also possesses an upward-directed and tab-like process, which is also seen in Coloradisaurus, Jingshanosaurus, and an as-of-yet unnamed sauropodomorph.

Paleobiology

The overall robustness of the skeleton of Xingxiulong, especially in the hip, femur, and foot, are convergent upon sauropods, and collectively suggest that it had a relatively large gut and overall high body mass. However, unlike sauropods, Xingxiulong would have been bipedal; it lacks sauropodan adaptations to quadrupedalismincluding relatively longer forelimbs, the ulna bearing a prominent process on the front of its side, and the femur having a relatively straight shaft.^[19] Instead, its ulna and femur are overall more reminiscent of the typical basal sauropodomorph. The large and robust scapulae of Xingxiulong, Jingshanosaurus, and Yunnanosaurus may have increased the mobility of the forelimb during bipedal browsing, but this trait was later adopted as an adaptation to quadrupedality in sauropods.

Paleoecology

The Lufeng Formation contains mudstones and siltstones from lakes, rivers, and overbank deposits. Many sauropodomorphs asides from Xingxiulong are known from the Lufeng Formation, including Lufengosaurus huenei, L. magnus, Yunnanosaurus huangi, “Gyposaurus” sinensis, Jingshanosaurus xinwaensis, Chuxiongosaurus lufengensis, Xixiposaurus suni, “Yizhousaurus sunae”, and Pachysuchus imperfectus. Also present are the theropods Sinosaurus triassicus, Lukousaurus yini,Shidaisaurus jinae, and Eshanosaurus deguchiianus; the ornithischians Tatisaurus oehleri and Bienosaurus lufengensis; the crocodylomorphsDibothrosuchus elaphros, Platyognathus hsui, Microchampsa scutata, and Dianosuchus changchiawaensis, and Dianchungosaurus lufengensis; the indeterminate archosaur Strigosuchus licinus; the sphenodontians Clevosaurus petilus, C. wangi, and C. mcgilli; the tritylodontid cynodonts Bienotherium yunnanense, B. minor, B. magnum, Lufengia deltcata, Yunnanodon brevirostre, and Dianzhongia longirostrata; the mammals Sinoconodon rigneyi, Morganucodon oehleri, M. heikoupengensis, and Kunminia minima; proganochelyid turtles; and a “labyrinthodont” amphibian.

Discovery and Naming

Discovery: Fossils of Xingxiulong were discovered in the Lower Jurassic-aged rock formations of the Lufeng Basin in Yunnan Province, China.
Name Origin: The genus name “Xingxiulong” combines “Xingxiu,” referring to a renowned geologist in China, and “long,” meaning dragon in Mandarin Chinese.

Physical Characteristics

Anatomy: Xingxiulong is known from a partial skeleton, including elements of the skull, vertebrae, ribs, and limbs. It represents a relatively small ceratopsian dinosaur.
Size: The size of Xingxiulong is estimated to have been comparable to other small ceratopsians, likely reaching a length of several meters.

Classification

Ceratopsian Dinosaur: Xingxiulong belongs to the Ceratopsia, a group of herbivorous dinosaurs characterized by their beaked skulls and often elaborate frills and horns.
Basal Position: It is considered a basal member within Ceratopsia, indicating it represents an early stage in the evolution of this dinosaur group.

Paleoecology

Habitat: During the Early Jurassic period, Yunnan was characterized by a warm, humid climate with lush vegetation. Xingxiulong would have inhabited this terrestrial environment.
Contemporary Fauna: Xingxiulong coexisted with other dinosaurs such as prosauropods like Lufengosaurus, early theropods, and various other herbivorous and carnivorous dinosaurs.

Significance

Early Ceratopsian Diversity: Xingxiulong contributes to our understanding of the early diversification of ceratopsian dinosaurs. Its discovery in Yunnan expands the geographic range and temporal distribution of early ceratopsians.
Paleontological Importance of Yunnan: The discovery of Xingxiulong in Yunnan underscores the region’s significance in preserving Early Jurassic dinosaurs. It highlights the diversity of dinosaurs during this period and provides insights into their evolution and ecology.

Xingxiulong represents an important discovery in the study of Early Jurassic dinosaurs, particularly within the Ceratopsia. Its fossils contribute valuable information about the early stages of ceratopsian evolution and the ancient ecosystems of Yunnan Province, China.

Tatisaurus is a genus of ornithischian dinosaur from the Early Jurassic from the Lower Lufeng Formation in Yunnan Province in China. Little is known as the remains are fragmentary.

Discovery and species

In 1948 and 1949 Father Edgar Oehler, a Catholic priest working for the Fu Jen Catholic University at Beijing, excavated fossils near the village of Da Di in Yunnan. Among them was the jaw bone of a herbivorous dinosaur. In 1965 David Jay Simmons named and described it as the type species Tatisaurus oehleri. The generic name is derived from Da Di, then more usually spelled as “Ta Ti”. The specific name honours Oehler. The holotype, FMNH CUP 2088, was found in the Zhangjiawa Beds of the Lufeng Formation, dating from the Sinemurian. It consists of a partial left mandible with teeth. The lower jaw bone fragment is, lacking the tip, six centimetres long. The teeth are eroded. It is the only specimen known of the species.

Simmons assigned Tatisaurus to the Hypsilophodontidae, though this group was seen by him as an evolutionary grade of “primitive” Ornithopoda, ancestral to several ornithischian groups. He felt that Tatisaurus’ affinities were with Scelidosaurus or the Ankylosauria. Later, in 1990, the specimen was reviewed by Dong Zhiming, who noted it had similarities with Huayangosaurus. He placed the two genera in the same subfamily, the Huayangosaurinae, within the Stegosauria.

Later still, in 1996, Spencer Lucas reclassified Tatisaurus oehleri as a species of Scelidosaurus, S. oehleri, in order to use Scelidosaurus for a biochron. In 2007, David B. Norman and colleagues regarded this as unfounded. They instead found Tatisaurus to be a dubious basal thyreophoran, showing a single thyreophorean synapomorphy; a ventrally deflected mesial end of the dentary. If considered a thyreophoran, it would be one of the oldest known members of the group.

Tatisaurus is a genus of early thyreophoran dinosaur that lived during the Early Jurassic period. Its fossils were discovered in the Lufeng Formation in Yunnan Province, China.