Why is Green Lake so special?

Enjoying elegant sightseeing of trees, flowers, lakes, and animals, etc. make Green Lake very shining jasper, and that is why it gets the honorable name of the “Jade of Kunming City”. To provide a better place for visitors to enjoy the beautiful sightseeing, the Green Lake Kunming has been built as a garden with many charming natural sceneries, and it is being a great place to go for visitors in Kunming.

How to get to Green Lake:

1. History & Culture of Green Lake Park

The Ruandi Embankment across Green Lake from south to north was built by Ruanyuan, the governor of Yunnan and Guizhou, in 1834. And the Tangdi Embankment extending from east to west was built by Tangjirao in 1919.

2. Main Attractions in Green Lake

♦ Goldfish Island

Goldfish Island is a good place for walking, resting and tea tasting. There are cedar, camphor and other trees grow on the island. Flowers around the paths, birds singing and slow wind on the island are so pleased for visitors.

♦ Bamboo Island

Bamboo Island is full of bamboos on the island. Folk artisans and singers usually get together here. They sing songs, dancing, acting and do some improvisational performances, making the island very lively.

♦ Lotus Temple

Lotus Temple, built in 1867 during Qing Dynasty.

3. Activities

♦ Bird-watching in Winter

Each year, in November and December, groups of black-headed gulls fly from Siberia to Green Lake to spend the winter holiday here. It is a good time to do birdwatching in winter.

Recommended Green Lake Tours

Top 3 Green Lake tours chosen by most customers to explore Green Lake in the best way. Check the detailed itinerary, or tailor your own trip now with us. We provide you with some tour routes.

4 Days Best Kunming City Tour with The Stone Forest

5 Days Kunming Spring City Golf Course and Lake Resort Tour

Best Time to Visit Green Lake Park

It is suitable to visit the park all year round, especially in summer and winter. In summer, the lotus blossom very well. In winter, groups of gulls fly to the lake, which is very grand scene.

Nearby Attractions

Yuantong Temple (圆通寺)

Only several hundred meters away from Green Lake Kunming, Yuantong Temple is the biggest and one of the most ancient Buddhist temples in Kunming with a long history of over 1200 years. Visiting this sacred temple, you can not only appreciate the special buildings combined with Chinese garden styles, but also know about the three systems of Buddhism in China, which is unique in domestic. (Opening hour: 8:00-18:00; Fee: ￥ 6 / person)

Useful Travel Tips

There are lots of cafes and restaurants nearby, and at the central of the city, 500 meter far from the lake, many local famous and delicious foods are offered, you can taste these foods after you enjoy the picturesque park.
You can also take One Day Kunming Highlights Tour Including The Green Lake.

Accommodation

There is several hotels nearby Green Lake, such as Green Lake Hotel and Grand Park Hotel.

 

Why is Dianchi Lake so special?

Embraced by several peaks and alluring waters, Dianchi Lake is just like a sparkling jewel embedded in Kunming. The lake is crescent-shaped, stretching 24 miles (39 kilometers) from north to south and more than 8 miles (13.5 kilometers) from west to east. Occupying an area of 116 square miles (300 square kilometers), Dianchi Lake is the largest lake in China. More than 20 rivers converge into it.

The Dianchi Scenic Area is quite mesmerizing, where natural scenery and human landscape blend perfectly. It can be divided into two districts, namely West district and East district. What makes Dianchi Lake distinctive is that the color of its water changes with the clouds and sunshine of the day. Around Dianchi Lake also lie many places of interest, such as West Hill, Daguan Park, Yunnan Ethnic Village and so on. These featured attractions are all ideal getaways for visitors to get close to nature to relax.

Introduction

the History of Dianchi Lake

The Chinese character for the lake is a phonosemantic compound of the radical 氵 (“water”) and the character 真, whose current pronunciation is zhēn but whose Old Chinese pronunciation has been reconstructed as tin.

Dianchi Lake was the site of the capital of the independent kingdom of the Cuan (爨) during the first millennium AD. At that time, it was known as Kunchuan (昆川).

Biodiversity of Dianchi Lake

Together with other Yunnan lakes (Fuxian, Qilu, Yangzong, Xingyun, and Yilong), Dian Lake is recognized as an ecoregion. Among three major Yunnan lakes with a high number of endemics, the two other being Fuxian and Erhai, the most drastic loss of biodiversity has been seen in Dian. Of the 25 native fish species and subspecies in Dian Lake, 10 are endemic to the basin: Acheilognathus elongatus, Anabarilius alburnops, Anabarilius polylepis, Cyprinus micristius micristius, Liobagrus kingi, Pseudobagrus medianalis, Silurus mento, Sinocyclocheilus grahami, Sphaerophysa dianchiensis and Xenocypris yunnanensis. Today the only endemic fish known to survive in the lake itself is Anabarilius alburnops, but it is endangered. The remaining have not been recorded there since the 1990s or earlier, and most of these are likely extinct. Two other species, Schizothorax grahami and Yunnanilus nigromaculatus, are endemic to the general region, but have also disappeared from Dian Lake itself. Among the non-endemic natives, only gold fish and Asian swamp eel still live in Dian Lake. In contrast to the status of the natives, the lake is now home to more than 25 introduced fish species.

The Yunnan lake newt (Cynops wolterstorffi) was endemic to the lake, but it has not been seen since 1979 and is considered extinct. Many native hydrophytes have also disappeared from the lake.

Pollution Management of the Dianchi Lake

The pollution and the management of it is the eternal but sad topic of the province and government. Although the country and some global administrations like the World Bank have invested lots of money to help the progress of pollution management and have made some environmental improvement at Dianchi Lake, it can not completely solve the problems of pollution. Dianchi is still one of the most serious polluted lakes in the world, guests may find the water is of extremely green color in the lake.

Best Time To Visit Dianchi Lake

For the comfortable weather in Kunming, it is suitable to have trip here all the year round. What special in winter is that sea gulls will come to winter here and most of the local people will enjoy their time with sea gulls, such as taking photoes and feeding sea gulls.

How to Get here?

By Bus

Take Bus 24, 44, 73, 94, 135, 172 or 233, and get off at Haigeng Gongyuan (Haigeng Park) Station.

By Taxi

Take a taxi to the Haigeng Park (near Dianchi Lake)costs about RMB25 yuan, it is about 12 kilometers from the Nanping Pedestrian Street of Kunming.

Passenger car

There is special line for traveling to Dianchi, you can take that car in the city center.

Private Tour (Top Recommended)

If you want to get rid of hustle of public transportation and troublesome navigation, you can book a private tour package which covers sightseeing, dining and transfer from us. Our local tour guide and driver will escort you to Dianchi Lake with speed and convenience, and take care of all the details. You just need to focus on sightseeing.

Nearby Attractions

Tourists can not only visit Dianchi Lake, but also can visit some famous attractions near it, such as West Hill Forest Park, National Sport Training Centers, Yunnan National Museum, Yunnan Minorities Village, Daguan Park and other attractions, they are very close to the lake.
Yunnan Ethnic Villages ( 云南民族村)
The Yunnan Ethnic Village acts as a good shortcut to understand the social customs of the ethnic groups in Yunnan. It has a natural sun-bathing area where you can escape from the heat of summer. Twenty-five ethnic nationalities have their respective villages and conduct many activities to present their unique folkways and beautiful clothes. Also you can enjoy the water screen movie and an elephant performance, have a taste of the local dishes and buy pretty handicrafts.

Daguan Park (大观园)
Daguan Park is vibrant with rock gardens, pavilions, bridges and murmuring water. It is famous for the longest couplets in China on the Daguan Pavilion (dà guān lóu 大观楼). The Daguan Pavilion was built in the year 1828. It commands a lovely view. The couplet written in the Qing (qīng 清) Dynasty (1644-1911), contains 180 characters brimming with literary grace. During festival evenings, gatherings take place here

Baiyukou Park (白鱼口公园)
Baiyukou Park is on the west bank of Dianchi Lake. Here a small hill looks like a white fish opening its mouth to Dianchi Lake. Near the Irregular shore line, beautiful gardens are hidden among green trees. In spring, the cherry trees are in blossom, adding luster to this serene place. Overlooking Dianchi Lake, you can see white sails of boats on the glistening lake and gulls skimming over the waves.

Haigeng Bank (海埂)
Haigeng Bank is about four kilometers (2.5 miles) long while ranging in width from forty meters (131 feet) to three hundred meters (984 feet). The bank, like a floating jade belt, is in fact a watershed of the Dianchi Lake. Slender willow twigs sweep the lake in the gentle breeze. In the south is a wonderful natural swimming pool which is always crammed with people in midsummer.

Kwan-yin Hill(观音山)
Kwan-yin Hill is bordered by the vast lake and has an altitude of 2,040 meters (6,693 feet). Lofty peaks on this hill seem to thrust themselves straight towards the sky. A Kwan-yin Temple built here in the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) was once a popular resort of Buddhism. Remaining are a seven-tier brick pagoda, houses, and a gate to the Kwan-yin Temple.How to get there: A Taxi ride to the northern section of the lake near Daguan Tower lakeside from the city center should cost you a mere Y15. You can also take bus 24 , 44 and get off at Haigeng Bank.

Recommended Dianchi Lake Tours:

Top 3 Dianchi Lake tours chosen by most customers to explore Dianchi Lake in the best way. Check the detailed itinerary, or tailor your own trip now with us. We provide some tour routes for tourists to choose.

1 Day Kunming Cycling Tour Around Dianchi Lake
6 Days Northeast Yunnan Winter Birding Tour to Dianchi Lake, Nianhu Lake and Dashanbao
9 Days Yunnan-Guizhou Winter Birding Tour with Dianchi Lake, Caohai Lake, Nianhu Lake and Dashanbao Nature Reserve

Travel Tips:

1.Recommended travel itinerary in Kunming including the Dianchi Lake: Visitors can firstly go to the West Hill Forest Park for a visit, then take the cable car from Longmen (the gate of the dragon) to Dianchi lake (Ticket price at RMB30).

2.There is no entrance fee charged at the Dianchi Lake, the entrance fee for Haigeng Park is RMB8 yuan. If guest do not want to take boat during the visit, a half day is enough for a visit to Dianchi Lake. If you want to explore the lake further, you can rent a bicycle and spend two days to cycle around the Dianchi, it is about 200 km.

Chinese Name:宁洱县东洱河水库
English Name: Dong’er River Reservoir in Ninger County, Puer

Location and Overview

Dong’er River Reservoir is situated in Ninger County, Puer, within the Lancang River Basin. Constructed in 1959, the reservoir is positioned on a secondary tributary of the Dong’er River. It spans a catchment area of 49.6 square kilometers and has a total storage capacity of 10.7 million cubic meters.

Emergency Management and Infrastructure

Ninger County is located approximately 2 kilometers downstream from the reservoir dam. During the flood season, which begins in June, there is a heightened risk to the local population. Ensuring the safety of the reservoir and dam is crucial, especially during flood events like those in 2007. Immediate emergency measures and effective reservoir management are essential to protect residents’ lives and property.

The reservoir’s infrastructure includes:

• Weir Dam: A homogeneous earthfill dam with a crest elevation of 1348.00 meters and a maximum height of 26.43 meters.
• Spillway: The spillway entrance has a bottom elevation of 1337.58 meters, with a maximum discharge capacity of 60 cubic meters per second.
• Low-Level Conduit: A steel pipe with a diameter of 0.6 meters and an inlet elevation of 1328.00 meters, designed for a maximum flow rate of 3 cubic meters per second.
• Middle-Level Conduit: A conduit with a diameter of 0.8 meters and an inlet elevation of 1334.62 meters, with a designed flow rate of 0.3 cubic meters per second.

Park and Scenic Area

Located about 2 kilometers east of Puer County on the Kunluo Highway, the Dong’er River Reservoir has been developed into a park. The tranquil lake, bordered by lush willows, features a natural island at its center, which resembles a turtle and is named “Turtle Mountain.” The island is adorned with traditional pavilions showcasing elegant and intricate architecture.

The reservoir park offers a picturesque environment with clear waters and a landscape dotted with verdant pine and cypress trees. It is a popular destination for summer relaxation and leisure activities, with its spacious and tranquil lake ideal for boating and sightseeing.

In 1981, a pavilion and a gallery were constructed on the island, featuring traditional architectural styles and surrounded by rare flowers such as cherry blossoms. The lush surroundings, including Taiwan acacia trees and grassy lawns, make the reservoir a perfect spot for swimming and picnicking.

Poetry and Cultural Significance

The name “Puer” in the Hani language translates to “Bay Village,” combining the words for “village” and “bay.” In 1991, a poem was inscribed that reads: “East Er River Bay turns to a green lake,
Red pavilions and green islands shine like pearls.
The sluice gates stir silver waves,
Nourishing the embroidered landscapes of Fengyang.”

The reservoir’s scenic beauty, characterized by its lush greenery and tranquil waters, makes it a cherished location for both locals and visitors.

Chinese Name:昆明九乡明月湖景区

English Name: Mingyue Lake Scenic Area in Yiliang County, Kunming

Location:Beigu City Town, Yiliang County, Kunming City

Ticket Price: Free

Opening Time: 9:00-18:00

Overview

Transportation:

1. Tourists can take a taxi from Kunming Airport or the train station to the scenic area, with a round-trip fare of 200-300 RMB. If traveling by bus from Kunming train station, it takes about 2 hours, and the fare is 15 RMB.
2. From Kunming train station or near the Chayuan Hotel, there are minibuses that go directly to the Jiuxiang Scenic Area, with a round-trip ticket price of 30-40 RMB per person.
3. Minibuses heading to Yiliang County depart from Kunming North Bus Station, Juhua Village Bus Station, and Dongbu Bus Station, with a fare of 8 RMB. Upon arriving in Yiliang, you can transfer to another bus to Jiuxiang for an additional fare of 6 RMB.

Food and Accommodation:

Within the scenic area, there are Jiuxiang Hotel and Fulin Mountain Villa, which are simple and elegant, blending harmoniously with the surrounding scenery. Standard room rates start at 80 RMB per room, and suites start at 120 RMB per room.

Most of the food in the Jiuxiang Scenic Area is mainly based on wild mountain plants, which become more diverse with the changing seasons. In spring, when everything comes back to life, you can taste flowers like wild pear blossoms, sand pine tips, bitter thistle flowers, and dragon claw vegetables.

During the summer and autumn, you can enjoy over 20 varieties of wild mushrooms found in the mountains, such as chicken mushrooms, dried mushrooms, porcini, and butter mushrooms.

In winter, you can savor rural-style dishes such as cured meats, barbecued meats, smoked meats, and beef jerky, as well as the ever-popular Yiliang roast duck.

Shopping:

Here, you can also purchase Jiuxiang Scenic Area specialty embroidery, featuring designs such as Yincui Gorge, Shentie, and the Male and Female Waterfalls, framed in rosewood, which looks very ancient and elegant. Prices vary based on size, generally around 600-800 RMB.

Related Attraction

Jiuxiang Scenic

The Jiuxiang Scenic Area in Kunming is located in the Jiuxiang Yi and Hui Autonomous Township of Yiliang County, Kunming City. The planned area of the scenic spot is 167.14 square kilometers. It features geological relics and landscapes formed by the uplift of plateau structures, karst hydrological geology, and river geological actions. It is characterized by typical cave and canyon landscapes, centered around karst cave scenery, integrating natural landscapes, cultural sites, and ethnic customs into a comprehensive scenic area.

Chinese Name: 玉溪澄江县新河口湖滨公园
English Name: Xinkekou Lakeside Park, Chengjiang County, Yuxi
Location: North Bank of Fuxian Lake, Chengjiang, Yuxi City
Openning Time: Open Year-Round, 24 Hours a Day
Playing time: 2 hours

Overview

Xinkekou Village is a lakeside tourist town on the north bank of Fuxian Lake. Here, you’ll find expansive lakeside wetland scenery, characteristic boutique inns, and local specialty dining snacks. In the summer and autumn, visitors can swim, boat, and admire the lotus flowers. In the winter and spring, large flocks of seagulls come to winter, and there is a lakeside walkway for enjoying views of the lake. The lakeside park covers an area of 92 acres, with 63 acres of land, more than 30 acres of lawn, and a 15-acre sandy swimming area. The total building area exceeds 600 square meters. The lake embankment encloses three inner lakes and features a lotus pond, cherry blossom island, maple tree island, rockery, and pavilion. Speedboats and cruise boats are available for visitors, with boat trips leading directly to the Gushan Scenic Area via the Haimen Yudai River. There are over 100 sets of stone tables and benches for visitors to rest. In Xingyun Lake, a solitary island of nearly 2 acres has been created, providing a serene fishing spot as well as a place to enjoy the lake’s scenery and mountains.

Within the park, winding paths laid with rocks, along with lush green hedges and flower trellises, connect yet separate areas like the bonsai garden, flower garden, stele pavilion, tea room, reading room, and children’s playground, creating a harmonious blend of openness and enclosure. More than 100 species of precious flowers, grasses, and trees are planted in the park, including Mexican cypress, dragon claw locust, cedar, maple, camphor tree, camellia, cherry blossom, dawn redwood, sweet osmanthus, southern magnolia, plane tree, and oleander, with various plant viewing points established according to the design plan.

key features

Lakeside Wetlands

• The park features extensive lakeside wetland scenery, providing a beautiful natural environment rich in wildlife.

Recreational Activities

• Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, such as swimming, boating, and viewing lotus flowers in the warmer months, as well as birdwatching, particularly watching migratory seagulls in the winter and spring.

Scenic Walkways

• The park includes a lakeside promenade or boardwalk that allows visitors to take in the stunning views of the lake and surrounding landscapes.

Park Size and Amenities

• Covering 92 acres, the park includes 63 acres of land, over 30 acres of lawn, a 15-acre sandy swimming area, and more than 600 square meters of built-up space featuring various amenities.

Landscape Features

• The park is designed with landscaped areas that include a lotus pond, cherry blossom island, maple tree island, rockeries, and pavilions for relaxation and viewing.

Recreational Facilities

• There are speedboats and cruise boats available for hire, allowing visitors to explore nearby scenic areas, including the Gushan Scenic Area.

Rest Areas

•  The park provides over 100 sets of stone tables and benches for visitors to take a break and enjoy the surroundings.

Isolated Island:

• An island within Xingyun Lake offers a tranquil spot for fishing and enjoying the natural beauty of the lake and mountains.

Floral and Plant Diversity

• The park features more than 100 species of ornamental plants, including exotic trees and flowers such as Mexican cypress, cedar, cherry blossom, and camellias, enhancing the park’s ecological diversity and beauty.

Serene Atmosphere

• The park’s design integrates quiet pathways and lush greenery, creating a serene atmosphere that encourages relaxation and enjoyment of nature.

Transportation 

Self-Driving from Kunming

• Plan 1: 1 hour and 10 minutes, approximately 72.9 kilometers.
• Plan 2: 1 hour and 11 minutes, approximately 78.7 kilometers.
• Plan 3: 1 hour and 17 minutes, approximately 76.1 kilometers.

Climates of Chengjiang County

The climate within Chengjiang County belongs to four climatic types: central Asian subtropical, northern subtropical, southern temperate, and central temperate. The annual average temperature ranges from 11.9 to 17.5℃, with an extreme maximum temperature of 33.7℃ and an extreme minimum temperature of -3.9℃. The number of frost days varies from a maximum of 46 days to a minimum of 9 days. The total annual sunshine hours amount to 2,172.3 hours, with a sunshine rate of 50%. The total annual radiation is 122,210 calories per square centimeter.

Chinese Name:昆明莲花池公园

Egnlish Name:Lianhuachi Pond Park in Kunming

Overview of Lotus Flower Pool

Location and Historical Background

• Location: Situated in the northern part of Kunming city, to the northwest of Yuantong Mountain, and at the foot of Shang Mountain. The pool has a water inlet on its side, and when full, the water flows into the Panlong River.
• Historical Origins: The history of Lotus Flower Pool dates back to the Tang Dynasty. By the early Ming Dynasty, it was already celebrated as one of the “Six Scenic Spots of Dianyang” and was renowned for the nickname “Dragon Pool Leaps Golden.” The pool has five dragon eyes, and its clear springs have flowed continuously for centuries.

Major Attractions

Eight Sceneries of Dragon Pool

• Anfu New Charm: Layout inheriting the classical garden style.
• Wuhua Gathering Elegance: Showcasing the beautiful scenery of Wuhua Mountain in Kunming.
• Four Directions Lotus Breeze: Natural scenery of the lotus flower pond.
• Makeup Tower Reflection: Reflection of classical architecture in the water.
• Shang Mountain Dream Trace: Historical relics at the foot of Shang Mountain.
• (Hong) Corridor of Smoke and Willow: Picturesque corridor and willow trees.
• Dragon Pool Leaps Golden: Beautiful sight of the pool water reflecting the sunlight.
• Cold Spring Moon Imprint: Scenic view of cold spring and moonlight.

Features of Lotus Flower Pool Park

• Designed in the Jiangnan garden style with a “collection-style” garden technique.
• The central building of the park is the eight-sided Lotus Flower Pavilion, serving as the theme and landmark building of the park.
• New attractions include Yushi Linglong, Cuihai Makeup Tower, Dragon Pool Leaping Fish, Lotus Pool Fragrance, Highland Peach Forest, Yongli Tomb, Long Bridge Waves, Lotus Moon Dusk, and Flourishing Flower Tide.

Historical Evolution and Cultural Background

• Ming Dynasty Records: According to the “Yunnan Gazetteer,” Lotus Flower Pool is located at the foot of Shang Mountain, with clear spring water believed to have healing properties.
• Historical Relics: The pool once had historical relics such as Chen Yuanyuan’s dressing table and Yongli Emperor’s tomb. Wu Sangui built “Anfu Garden” at Lotus Flower Pool for his favorite concubine Chen Yuanyuan. The garden featured pavilions, water pavilions, rockeries, and rare flowers. Wu Sangui also constructed a plank road from Wuhua Mountain directly to Lotus Flower Pool for easier access to both political duties and his beloved.

Current Status and Reconstruction

Environmental Issues

• In recent years, the Lotus Flower Pool has been affected by surrounding environmental pollution, losing much of its former glory.

Reconstruction Plan

• Design Concept: Designed by Yunnan Provincial Urban and Rural Planning Design Institute, aiming to restore the Ming Dynasty landscape, combining historical anecdotes of Lotus Flower Pool, and using “scenic-title” techniques.
• Scale of Reconstruction: The lake area will be expanded from 30 acres to 40 acres. The park’s overall style will be based on Jiangnan garden aesthetics, highlighting the cultural landscape of “Dragon Pool Leaps Golden.”
• Construction Progress: The reconstruction project started in December 2006, construction began in August 2007, and the park reopened on September 29, 2008. The entire reconstruction took one year and cost over 50 million yuan.

Culture and Famous Scenery

• Dual Landmark: Lotus Flower Pool is famous not only for its natural scenery but also for its historical connections with famous figures like Wu Sangui and Chen Yuanyuan, making it a “dual landmark” of Kunming.
• Literary Praise: Historically, Lotus Flower Pool was known for its picturesque scene described as “Ten Acres of Lotus Flowers and Fish World, Half City of Willows by the Tower.” The clear and turbid waters and historical context make it a renowned scenic spot in Kunming.

Summary

Lotus Flower Pool has been one of Kunming’s famous scenic spots since ancient times, with its natural beauty and historical background contributing to the cultural value of this garden. The newly rebuilt Lotus Flower Pool Park will restore its former charm, offering citizens a cultural destination that combines historical significance with natural beauty.

Why is Lugu Lake So Special?

It is the native place of “The Females’ Kingdom” composed of the Mosuo people, a branch of the Naxi nationality. “Lugu” means “falling into the water” in the Mosuo language (“hu” means lake in Chinese.) Hence the name of the lake.

Lugu Lake is surrounded by high and sublime mountains and is snowbound for over 3 months. Since the lake is rather deep, a definite regulating influence is exerted on the temperature of the lake shores. Therefore the surrounding mountains abound in forest resources which afford an exquisite beauty, much fresh air and charming scenery. At present it is one of the places in China which is least damaged by human efforts and best preserved in its natural features.

Where is Lugu Lake?

Lugu Lake is located between Yunnan’s Ninglang County and Sichuan’s Yanyuan County, with a total area of 77,700-odd mu, the space within the precincts of Yunnan being 41,400 mu. It is 2,685 m. above sea level, counting from the surface of the water, and is therefore the lake with the highest altitude in the province. Its average depth of water is 40 m., the greatest depth being 90 m. Among Yunnan’s lakes it stands only second to Fuxianhu Lake in terms of depth of water. The water of the lake is generally clean and green, with different shades of colour: now turquoise blue, now sapphire blue, now white-gray, simply beyond one’s imagination. On the lake are the “pig-trough boats” (“zhucaochuan”) specific to the place. Teeming in the lake are fine-scaled fish, carps and other species. The lake waters flow eastwards to the Yalong River and finally into the surging Jingshajiang River.

How to get to Lugu Lake

Lugu Lake is located on the border of Yunnan and Sichuan, so travelers can visit Lugu Lake from Yunnan or from Sichuan. At present, there are three highway leading to Lugu Lake, one is from Xichang (Sichuan) to Lugu Lake for 258 kilometers, one is from Panzhihua to Lugu Lake for 220 kilometers and the third is from Lijiang to Lugu Lake for 230 kilometers.

Luguhu Airport, opended in October 2015, has limited flights from/to Kunming, the capital of Yunnan. The airport is about 25 kilometers from Lugu Lake with airport shuttle linked each other.

1. From Lijiang:
1) Transport Service Center Bus Station to Daluoshui Village:
Departure Time: 09:00, 10:00.
Ticket Price: CNY 65
Duration: around 7 hours
2) Take tourist bus arranged by local travel agencies:
Departure Time: unfixed
Ticket Price: CNY 140 to 200 for a round-trip
Duration: around 7 hours
Notice:
1). Departure time is changeable. Usually, the bus driver informs the tourists of departure time and pick-up location in advance.  
2). Most hostels help their guests to book the bus tickets. Visitors can ask the hostel owners if they provide this service. The reservation should be made one day in advance.
3). Visitors who take tourist bus might be arranged to go shopping, visit a Mosuo family, go boating or take part in a bonfire party. Undoubtedly, they need to pay extra money for these activities.

2. From Xichang, Sichuan Province: 
1). Take regular bus from Xichang Tourist Transport Center Bus Station to Lugu LakeTown (also called Zuosuo Town).
Departure Time: 08:10, 09:30
Ticket Price: CNY 95
Duration: 7 to 8 hours
2). Take regular bus from Xichang to Yanyuan, change bus to Zuosuo Town.
 

Notice:
1). Lugu lake is about 3 miles (5 kilometers) from Lugu Lake Town. After arriving in the town, visitors need to charter a car to reach the village where they plan to stay. The fare is around CNY 20 to 40.  
2). Bus schedules and ticket prices might be adjusted without prior notice.
3). Extra buses from Xichang to Lugu Lake Town will be provided during the high season (May to October).
4). Visitors are suggested to buy return bus tickets upon arrival in case the tickets are sold out quickly.

What are the features of Lugu Lake?

Lugu Lake, at an altitude of 2690 meters, is located on the border of Yunnan Province and Sichuan Province. There are many ethnic minority groups inhabited around the lake, such as the Mosuo, Norzu, Yi, Pumi and Tibetan. The most numerous of these are the Mosuo people, a sub clan of the Naxi people, which considered as “a live fossil for researching the marital development history of Human beings” and “the last quaint Realm of Matriarchy”. Hence, Lugu Lake is called the “mother lake” by the Mosuo people and it becomes “The Kingdom of Women” and “Home of the Matriarchal Tribe”.

Traveling to Lugu Lake not only takes you step into a mysterious land to explore the matriarchal society and know its “visiting marriage”, but also feast your eyes with beautiful scenery of the Pearl of Plateau.

Main Highlighted Tourist Spots in Lugu Lake

Lugu Lake is an alpine lake located in a relatively low basin of the Hengduan Mountain System which caused for crustal movement to form a plateau karst downfaulted lake. With an area of 58.8 square kilometers, Lugu Lake is in a shape of horseshoe which can be divided into Liang Lake Scenic Area and Cao Lake Scenic Area with one third in Yunnan Province and two thirds in Sichuan Province. The lake is composed of 5 independent islands, 4 peninsulas, 1 long island with sea dyke, 14 bays, 17 sandbanks and 21 bajadas.

Caohai Lake & Walking Marriage Bridge

Caohai Lake, also Grass Sea, is jade located in the southeast of Lugu Lake. It is a happy land of aquatic plant, waterfowl, fish, shrimp, cowry, spiral shell, frog…The Mosuo girls in red and white taking the boat sailing through the reeds. And you can hear they sing merrily. How pleasant to relax on the clear water and under the blue sky.

Walking Marriage Bridge is a romantic bridge across on Caohai Lake area. It is the place where Mosuo people date each other. In the daytime, young men and women express affection through dancing or singing if you are interested on someone. The young men call his beloved one “Axia” and the young women call her beloved guy “Azhu”. When the night falls, the “Azhu” come to Walking Marriage Bridge to meet their girls. Today, the used bridge is 300 meters long where you can take a walk with your darling hand in hand.

Three Magical Islands – Lige, Liwubi & Xiwae

Lige Island, Liwubi Island and Xiwae Island (Lock Island) are called the three magical islands of Lugu Lake.

Most travelers regard Lige Island as the most beautiful island which is situated at the foot of the Gemu Goddess Mountain, embraced by water on three sides. Climb up to the observation deck that travelers can enjoy panoramic view of Lige Island stretching into Lugu Lake.

Liwubi Island is located in the south central of Lugu Lake where the Mosuo dwelled on during their earliest years. There is a lama temple of Yellow sect called Liwubi Monastery here. Mosuo people will come to Liwubi Island to chant scriptures every lunar June 4th.

Xiwae Island, also called Tusi Island or Lock Island, is located in the northwest of Lugu Lake. In history, it was island with high military value for the great location and fenced walls, watchtowers to prevent the attract from bandits. In the 1920s, Joseph Lock who wrote “The Ancient Na-Khikingdom of South-West China” came to Xiwae Island and lived for a long time.

Gemu Goddess Mountain

Gemu Goddess Mountain, also called Lion Mountain, at an altitude of 3450 meters, is the holy mountain for Mosuo people. In the lunar calendar of July 25th, the local Mosuo people gather together to pay worship to this holy mountain which lasts for more than 1000 years. To get up Gemu Goddess Mountain, travelers can hike up or take cable car from Nisai Village. The highlight of Gemu Goddess Mountain is the Goddess Cave facing with Lugu Lake, offering an observation deck to have panoramic view of Lugu Lake.

Famous Mosuo Villages

There are many beautiful villages surrounded the lake. Travelers can pay a visit to Luoshui Village with many wooden houses around the lake. Here, you can enjoy the bonfire camp organized by the local Mosuo people. Going ahead to the north is Lige Village embraced by water on three sides which is a fantastic place to watch sunrise. Next to Lige Village is Nisai Village which is famous for the Sweetheart Trees. The Little Luoshui Village is the last tribe of Mosuo with only 24 households. It is the last village of Yunnan Province. It is traditional, primitive and keeps the original lifestyle of Mosuo people.

Mosuo Museum

Mosuo Museum, next to Mosuo Tusi Palace, is facing with Lugu Lake with beautiful environment. It is the only museum in China to present Mosuo people’s history, culture and folk customs. Opened in 2013, it shows the Tusi System, Lamaism, Mosuo Intangible Cultural Heritage and the cultural treasures include stoneware, bronze ware, pottery, Tusi remains and Mosuo folk objects, etc.

Zhamei Monastery

Zhamei Monastery, 13 kilometers from Lugu Lake, is the Lama monastery of Gelugpa which was built in Ming Dynasty. It is also the largest lama monastery for Mosuo people and Pumi group. The main building is composed of the main hall and two side halls in wooden structure, yellow tiles, gilded roof. In the side hall, there is a 12-meter-tall Maitreya Buddha, the clay sculpture in Tibetan style. There are six mural painting with exquisite line, bright color, vivid modeling.

About Mosuo People

The shores of the lake is inhabited by the Mosuo people who have peculiar customs and ways, up to now still retaining remnants of matriarchal society. Men and women are not united by wedlock, each living at the mother’s home respectively, yet keeping a casual cohabitation relationship. Thus the place is called “A Quaint Realm of Matriarchy”.

The male and female youth of the Mosuo people, having fostered mutual love in the long period of productive labour and social activities, begin to reciprocate “tokens”. The male party, in accordance with his economic conditions, presents the female party with gold or silver ornaments, jade bracelets, beads and silk threads, etc. The “tokens” returned by the female party are generally some personal accessories which the other party likes. Given such an affection on both sides, the seniors of the male party would bring some “loquat meat”, and some tea, sugar or wine to pay a visit to those of the female party. Once agreement is obtained from them, an axia (spouse) relationship is established for the two. However, such relationship can also be fixed without going through the above procedure.

After this the two parties continue to live in their own homes. The male “axia” labours for his home in the daytime, and goes to the female “axia” at night for cohabiting with her in her home. The family of the female “axia” looks upon the male as one of its own members. During the rush farming season, the male “axia” goes to the home of the other party to help with work. Those who have fixed their “axia” relationship call each other “azhu”, which means “dear companion”, but never husband or wife. Therefore, it is not appropriate to speak of “father”, who instead is only referred to as “maternal uncle”. The female is predominant and is therefore the leader of a family. With the Mosuos goddess worship and the remnants of the matriarchal period, the Luguhu Lake area is indeed one of the rare specimens of “The Female’s Kingdom” in the world and a ‘living fossil of the matriarchal society hard to come by”.

Recommended Visiting Route

Travelers usually spend 2 or 3 days visiting Lugu Lake area. On the first day, you may arrive in Lugu Lake at late afternoon, and you can take a canoe sailing on Lugu Lake to visit the islands (Liwubi Island, Princess House Island, Lise Island or Xiewae Island) and enjoy sunset on the boat which offers you fantastic opportunity to take some gorgeous pictures. At night, attend bonfire party to have fun with the local Mosuo people. On the second day, traveling around Lugu Lake to visit some of the featured villages and spots (Lige Village, Nisai Village, Little Luoshui Village, Dazu Village, Zuosuo Town and Caohai Lake) is the must-do activity. You can spend one day either by biking or renting a car (or use our private car) to cycle around. You’ll have the chance to pay a family visit to Mosuo’s home to experience their living traditional culture, also visit Mosuo Museum to know more history and culture about Mosuo people. On the third day, visit Zhamei Monastery when you leave Lugu Lake.

Recommended Tour with Lugu Lake
2 Days Lijiang Lugu Lake Tour and Matriarchal Society Discovery

Best Time to Visit Lugu Lake

Lugu Lake is surprising beautiful place which can be visited all year round. Flowers are blossom in different season, presenting you a charming painting scenery. The best time to visit Lugu Lake is from March to November and as for photographers, come from March to May and September to October that you will shoot brilliant pictures.

Spring: it is a land of idyllic beauty – emerald lake like a clear mirror with the surrounding peach flowers and pear flowers blossom happily, mountains reflecting in water, boats sailing quietly on the tranquil lake…
Summer: it is a summer resort – pleasant and cool weather with gentle breezes blowing, mist floating in the midair after rainy, azalea in pink and white blossom in the mountain…
Autumn: it is a fairyland as beautiful as Jiuzhaigou – the surrounded mountains turn into a red and golden world with leaves changing, the glittering lake, the gorgeous sunglow, geese chirping in the sky that you can image how beautiful the scene is.
Winter: it is a world of waterfowl – different kinds of wild ducks playing on the water.

If you interested in the grandest festival of Mosuo people, come to the lunar July 25 that you can see Mosuo people dressed in traditional festival to pay a worship to Gemu Goddess Mountain.

Luguhu Lake Accommodation

In the Lugu Lake tourist area, there are more than 400 hotels and rooms ranging from inns and guesthouses to five-star hotels. The accommodations are mainly located in Caohai village, Dazshui village, Sanjia village, Lige village and Dazui village. If you have a fixed budget, it is recommended to live in local dwellings and experience local Mosuo’s customs. Here we list some of the accommodations for your reference.

Hotel Name	Rating	Add.	Tel.
Lijiang Lugu Lake Daughter States Hotel(丽江泸沽湖女儿国大酒店)	3 star	Daluoshui Village, Lugu Lake, Ninglang County, Lijiang	0888 – 5881266
Lijiang Lugu Lake Nagu Hotel(丽江泸沽湖纳古大酒店)	3 star	Daluoshui Village, Lugu Lake, Ninglang County, Lijiang	0888 – 5881076
Valley Inn(宁蒗阿夏谷梦家园客栈)	3 star	Sanjia village, Lugu Lake, Ninglang County, Lijiang	15108864818
Lugu Lake Bishuiyuntian Inn(泸沽湖碧水云天客栈)	3 star	200 meters to the entrance of Sanjia village, Lugu Lake, Ninglang County, LIjiang	1309997618
Lige Holiday lnn(泸沽湖里格假日酒店)	3 star	Lige Bay, Lugu Lake, Ninglang County, LIjiang	15708898820
Lugu Lakeside Apu Guest House(泸沽湖阿普驿馆)	3 star	In the middle of Lige village, Ninglang County, LIjiang	0888-5881366
Lugu Lake Mosuo Hotel(泸沽湖摩梭大酒店)	4 star	Daluoshui Village, Lugu Lake, Ninglang County, Lijiang	13988821439
Bai Ge Lian Diao Hotel(安驿客栈)	4 star	Crossroad of Daluoshui Village, Lugu Lake, Ninglang County, Lijiang	1810888712
Lugu Lake Biyunju Inn(泸沽湖碧云居客栈 )	4 star	Near Ninglu Road, Sanjia village, Lugu Lake, Ninglang County, Lijiang	0888-3011555
Qingfeng Yard(宁蒗彝族自治县泸沽湖清枫别院)	4 star	Near Ninglu Road, Sanjia village, Lugu Lake, Ninglang County, Lijiang	1886908708
Lige Half Insland, No.7 Inn(泸沽湖里格半岛7号客栈)	4 star	Near Lige Pier, Lugu Lake, Ninglang County, Lijiang	1889599110
Traveller＇s house(泸沽湖旅行者之家)	4 star	Near intersection of Lige Half Island	0888-5881196
Comfort Home Hotel(良宿观景客栈)	5 star	No.5, Daluoshui New Village, Lugu Lake, Ninglang County, Lijiang	13980836403
Manidui Hotel(泸沽湖玛尼堆精品酒店 )	5 star	Daluoshui pier, Lugu Lake, Ninglang County, Lijiang	0888-5881234
Ting Yuan Ge(泸沽湖庭缘阁店)	5 star	Daluoshui pier, Lugu Lake, Ninglang County, Lijiang	18869083251
Yi cloud unadorned Hotel Lugu Lake(泸沽湖逸水云缦酒店)	5 star	Near S307, between Daluoshui village and Sanjia village	18288891866
Yonsamity Inn Lugu Lake()	5 star	No.4 Sanjia village, Lugu Lake, Ninglang County, Lijiang	1318775972
Lu Gu Lake Qian Wang Hotel(泸沽湖里格半岛浅忘小筑  )	5 star	Lige Half Island, Lugu Lake, Ninglang County, Lijiang	0888-5822400
Island Sunsine Holiday(泸沽湖里格半岛阳光会所)	5 star	Near Lige Pier, Lugu Lake, Ninglang County, Lijiang	0888-5881677, 15368608177

Useful Travel Tips

1. What to Pack

Lugu Lake is situated at 2690 meters high and ultraviolet ray is strong. The lowest temperature is 4 ℃ and the highest temperature is around 19 ℃ and the rainy months are from June to August. Sun-blocking scream and sunglasses are needed in four seasons. When visit in Summer, bring a light jacket and umbrella.

2. Accommodation

You are guaranteed to enjoy comfortable stay when visiting Lugu Lake. You can choose your accommodation from luxury hotels to budget but featured hostels. All the hotels and hostels are facing with Lugu Lake which means you can enjoy the lake scenery on the deck or in your room.

3. Food & Dining

Muosuo people offers you good meal and fine wine. You can try Preserved Pork, Roast Fish and Suluma Wine (low alcohol, taste sour and sweet with faint scent).

4.Be cautious about the “visiting marriage”

Know the rules and customs about “visiting marriage” and think again when someone shows his affection to you.

Introduction

History

Erhai Lake has been famous and recorded in the history as early as the Han dynasty. In 122 BC, Zhangqian was sent on a diplomatic mission to the western regions and back to Changan, when he reported to the emperor Wu of the western regions, he said that in Balkh (now Afghanistan) he had seen Shu cloth which was brought via Sindhu (India). He strongly advised: going to Sindhu from Shu county is convenient and shortcut that it gains everything and lose nothing. According to Zhangqian’s advice, the emperor sent messengers to southwest to seek the road to Sindhu. Roads were blocked by Kunming tribe near Erhai Lake, eventually failed to connect to Sindhu. In 120 BC, due to Kunming tribe blocked the way, emperor Wu decided to call up manpower in the capital Chang’an and dug a man-made lake, called “Kunming Lake” for training of water army, in order to conquest Kunming tribe of Erhai Lake region. Of course, the water army in Chang’an “Kunming Lake” that the emperor Wu trained to conquer the Yunnan plateau could not have come in handy. However, this story was recorded in Selections from Records of the Historian by Sima Qian.

In the history there is record that on the east and west side of delta there is grassy shallow bay, where is a good place for fish breeding, and the aquatic products are rich in there, local called “fish soil pot”.” According to the “West Erhai Lake Record”: there are a lot of fishes and they are in good quality compared with the fishes in other water area. Emperor Weiwu ate it in four seasons and said: “the fish from Dianchi Lake is extremely tasty in winter”.

The Legend of Mt. Cangshan and Erhai Lake

Emperor’s daughter had just married and then her husband went out to war and did not return more than ten years. People who came back said that her husband was dead, the princess began to cry day and night, finally her tears became the Erhai Lake and the princess life was depleted. At that time her husband returned, but it was farewell and her husband was overwhelmed with sorrow and solemnly loudly swore that he would turn into mountain and keep the sea mountain, thus there came the Mt. Cangshan and Erhai Lake. When the fishermen fishing see above features two clouds winding when it should be home to draw back and forth, because it was the princess and her husband together, they will be delighted to cry because of short meet, while the erhai lake will become a baffling craze, ethos cloud chung, very afraid, every time holed up in erhai lake people around this time, till the end.

Main Attractions

1.Nanzhao Folk Island (南诏风情岛)

Nanzhao Folk Island, also called Nanzhao Love Island, is one of the three islands in Erhai Lake. It is about five minutes from Shuanglang by cruise. Besides the hills, threes, beach, there are eight man-made sights to see – the Statues of “Mother Shayi”, the Seascape Villas, the Guanyin Acuoye Statue on the Luck of Yunnan Square (Fuxing Square), the big hotel called the Nanzhao Summer Palace, the Square of the Patron Gods, a small amusement part on the beach, the Taihu Rocks and a View of Fishing Families. Travelers who visit Nanzhao Folk Island need to pay 50 Yuan and you’d better spend about 2 hours there.

2.Little Putuo Island (小普陀)

Little Putuo Island is the smallest island located in the east of Erhai Lake, close to Wase Village. This island is like a seal floating in Erhai Lake and the Ming-dynasty Little Putuo Temple is situated on the island. The temple has two floors, one is for worshiping Buddha Bodhisattva and the second is for worshipping Avalokiteshvara (KWAN-YIN). The best time to enjoy great scenery of Little Putuo Island is in the morning, showing you misty and mysterious island. Photographers can catch the chance to take fantastic pictures of Little Putuo Island either from afar or on the island.

3.Jinsuo Island (金梭岛)

Looking from the sky, there is a small island like a shuttle lying in the Erhai Lake. That’s Jinsuo Island which means golden shuttle English. It is located in the southwest of Haidong Town, 250-600 m from east bank of Erhai Lake, facing Qiliqiao Village in the west across Erhai Lake. There are over 200 Bai households living on the island. Travelers can wander through Bai minority houses, fertile fields, beautiful flowers, green trees…Also, relax yourselves down to taste Bai Ethnic Minority’s “Three Courses of Tea” and local food and enjoy beautiful scenery of Cangshan Mountain and Erhai Lake quietly. Travelers need to pay 20 Yuan to visit Jade Dragon Palace. To the southeast of Jinsuo Island is situated a smaller island called Yinshuo Island (silver shuttle), the sister island of Jinsuo Island.

4.Luoquan Peninsula (罗荃半岛)

Luoquan Peninsula is situated in the east bank of Erhai Lake, facing Dali Old Town across the lake. It is an ideal place to view Silver Cangshan Mountain and Jade Erhai Lake. Several Buddhist sites are worth exploring on the island, including one temple called “Luoquan Temple”, one pavilion called “Guanyin Pavilion” and one pagoda called “Luoquan Pagoda”. The ticket of Luoquan Peninsula is 30 Yuan.

5.Erhai Park (洱海公园)

Erhai Park, located in the southern tip of Erhai Lake, is the best site to view beautiful scene of Erhai Lake and Cangshan Mountain. Standing at the lake edge, it is a steady climb up with 270 stone steps leading to two viewing decks – the Observation Pavilion and Long Corridor where stunning Erhai Lake vistas await. When you first reach Dali in Xiaguan, you can pay a visit to Erhai Park, either have leisurely walk or take cruise at Erhai Lake Port to other islands of Erhai Lake. No entrance fee is needed to visit Erhai Park.

6.Xizhou Ancient Town (喜洲古镇)

Xizhou Ancient Town, located about 18 kilometers north from Dali Old Town, is a typical town with Bai’s characters with over 1000 years’ history. Taking a visit to Xizhou, you’ll catch the best chance to enjoy Bai’s typical architectures and houses as well as taste the Bai People’s “Three Courses of Tea”. To have full understanding of Bai’s architecture, it is recommended to visit Yan Family’s Courtyard to know more about “Three Rooms and a Wall Screening”, “Four Joints and Five Courtyards” which are decorated with woodcarvings, colored patterns, marbles and wash drawings.

7.Zhoucheng (周城)

Zhoucheng is located in the north of Xizhou Ancient Town, west side of Erhai Lake. It is called the “Land for National Tie-dye” where travelers can learn how to make a tie-dyed cloth. Visit one of Bai’s family workshops and see the local Bai people use traditional tie-dye techniques to make cloth. In the family workshop, you’ll appreciate colorful tie-dyed clothes, caps, bags, etc. Bright colors, an unlimited variety of patterns and color combinations, and the simplicity of the techniques contribute to its enduring appeal.

8.Shuanglang Town (双廊)

Shuanglang, the most scenic town around Erhai Lake, is located in the north of Dali and the northeast of Erhai Lake. For over a thousand years, the local Bai ethnic people here made their living fishing in the lake. And now the small tranquil village is popular with visitors unwinding and enjoying a slower tempo. Enjoy several hours or a peaceful night here to explore among the old alleys and traditional architecture or take a boat out on Erhai Lake or kick back and do very little.

Recommended Route for Tourists

Cruise Around Erhai Lake

Type One: Erhai Lake Long Cruise
1. Depart from Erhai Lake Pier (Xiaguan Pier) around 08:00~09:00, visit Nanzhao Folk Island and enjoy Bai People’s Three Courses of Tea and arrive at Taoyuan Pier;

2. Depart from Taoyuan Pier around 13:30~14:00, visit Nanzhao Folk Island, enjoy Bai People’s Three Courses of Tea and arrive at Longkan Pier around 17:30~18:00.

Type Two: Erhai Lake Ecological Cruise

1. Depart from Longkan Pier around 09:00~10:00, visit Longquan Peninsula or Jinsuo Island, enjoy Bai’s three Courses of Tea and arrive at Taoyuan Pier around 12:30~13:00;

2. Depart from Taoyuan Pier around 14:00~14:30, visit Nanzhao Folk Island and enjoy Bai’s Three Courses of Tea and arrive at Longkan Pier around 17:30~18:00.

The cruise information may adjust based on the season, weather and number of travelers, etc. To inquiry more Erhai Lake cruise itineraries and tickets, please feel free to contact our professional travel consultants and they are here to help give you suggestions and book the cruise for your Dali tour.

Cycle around Erhai Lake

Route One: Cycle on the west bank of Erhai Lake, 46 KM for One Day
Your biking tour begins Dali Old Town, pass Three Pagodas and stop to explore Xizhou Old Town , continue to head to Zhoucheng and drive back via the same route. You need to drive about 23 kilometers for one way and 46 kilometers altogether.

Route Two: One Circle around Erhai Lake, 128 KM for Two Days
Day 1: around 50 Km for 4 hours’ riding. Dali Old Town – Three Pagodas – Xizhou Town – Zhoucheng Village – Taoyuan Dock – Shangguan Town – Shuanglang Village (Nanzhao Island).

Day 2: around 80 km for 6 hours’ riding. Shuanglang Village – Wase Town (Little Puto Island) – Haidong Village – Jinsuo Island – Huanhai Road – Airport Road – Erhai Dock – Haixi Village Highway – Caicun Dock – Dali Old Town.

Recommended Tours

1 Day Dali City Highlights Group Tour

2 Days Dali Pilgrimage Hiking Tour from Erhai Lake to Jizu Mountain

2 Days Dali Cycling Tour around Erhai Lake

6 Days Kunming-Dali-Lijiang-Shangri-La Group Tour

Best Time to Visit Erhai Lake

The best time to visit Erhai Lake should be from June to August, during that time is very comfortable. The seasonal variation of Dali is not obvious, there is no obvious hot summer and bitter winter. And the weather in Dali is spring all the year round.

Nearby Attractions

Useful Travel Tips

When you are at Erhai Lake, it is advisable to visit the fishing villages of Bai people nearby, which is the few fishing villages on the altiplano. The famous movie of 1950s, the Five Golden Flowers, reflected the life here. Erhai Park in Xiaguan was designed and built for tourists to sea Erhai Lake. You can get there from any place in the city proper by taxi and that will only cost you 5 yuan. If you are interested, you can take ships there to visit Erhai. There are wooden ships and yachts. Remember to bargain before you get aboard. Ordinary boats do not go to the Nanzhao Love Islands. They usually come back after arriving at Golden Shuttle Island, Small Putuo Island and Kwan-yin Pavilion. If you rent boats, safety is the most important. When it is summer and autumn, especially when Husband Awaiting Clouds turn up on the Cangshan Mountain, it is better for you not to go on the sea.

Recommended Cycling Route for Tourists
1. Dali Ancient City Yuer Road—Mt. Cangshan West Gate—No.214 National Road—Chongsheng Temple Three Pagodas—Erhai Ring Road—Xizhou– Shuanglang
2. Dali Ancient City Yuer Road—Mt. Cangshan East Gate—Dali Road—Caicun Village—Erhai Ring Road—Xizhou—Shuanglang
3. Shuanglang—Wase—Small Putuo—Haidong Town—Jinsuo Island—Xizhou back to Shuanglang
4. Shuanglang—Xizhou—back to Shuanglang

Best Time to Travel Erhai Lake
The best time to visit Erhai Lake should be from June to August, during that time is very comfortable. The seasonal variation of Dali is not obvious, there is no obvious hot summer and bitter winter. And the weather in Dali is spring all the year round.

Clothing
Erhai Lake is in Yunnan, the weather is pleasant. Tourists can bring the spring clothing and do not need to bring the thick clothes. In addition to it is a little bit cold at night, the temperature is suitable during other time.

Why is Luchong Scenic Area So Special?

Luchong Scenic Area禄充景区 is located at the west bank of Fuxian Lake. There are beautiful Fuxian Lake, Bijia hill, Yusun hill玉笋山 and ancient banyan trees in the scenic area. It is a perfect scenic spot for leisure vacation. Fuxian Lake is one of the cores in Luchong Scenic Area, there are various outdoor activities along the Fuxian Lake. Rowing boat in Fuxian Lake, accompanied by blue sky and green water, is very comfortable. Bijia Mountain笔架山 is a good viewing point. Climbing up to Bijia Mountain and overlooking the whole Fuxian Lake, the scenery is unique. It is also one of the photography lovers’ favorite shooting spots.

Luchong Scenic Spot is the most beautiful scenic spots on the west bank of Fuxian lake, 19 kilometers away from Chengjiang county. Important attractions of Luchong scenic spot include Jianshan mountain尖山, Qilin mountain麒麟山, Wenchang palace文昌宫, Grand Buddha temple大佛寺, Laoyu village老渔村, Dadong Cave大洞, golden beach, Bosiwan波息湾, Biyan park笔砚公园 and Bijia hill笔架山. With the completed tourist facilities and colorful entertainment projects of the scenic area, Luchong Scenic Area is an ideal place for sightseeing and leisure.

Features of Luchong Scenic Area

The most eye-catching view of Luchong is the dense banyan trees along the lake. The youngest banyan trees among them are about seventy or eighty years old, and the majority of banyan trees are “centenarians” which have flourishing branches. At the foot of the Bijia Hill笔架山, there are two trees sharing one same root. You even can not tell they’re one tree or two trees, therefore local people call them “Albizzia tree合欢树”. 

The scenic area provides the scenery of the scenic Fuxian Lake, Bijia Hill, Yusun Hill, ancient banyan trees and revolving water wheels, of all the scenery make up a picturesque painting.

There is a Luchong big hole禄充大洞 in the south of Luchong village禄充村, which is rich in underground springs. The water temperature maintains around 24 ℃, flowing into Fuxian Lake constantly. In the summer and autumn, spinning the water wheels to catch Kanglang fish here has been a great wonder.

Nearby Attractions

1. Hu Pan Sheng Shui湖畔圣水

Located in the northeastern side of Fuxian lake, Hu Pan Sheng Shui is 11 kilometers from Chengjiang county. A comprehensive international leisure resort integrates hotel rooms, special catering, Spa, leisure entertainment and wetland park. The scenic area consists of Fuxian lake Yuechun resort Hotel and Yueliang bay ecological wetland park.

2. Cherry Blossom Valley樱花谷

3. Mingxing Scenic Spot明星景区

Mingxing scenic spot includes Mingxing fish cave明星鱼洞 and Biyun mountain碧云山 two major scenic spots. Mingxing fish cave is located on the west bank of Fuxian lake, about 1 km from Mingxing village, Jiangchuan district, Yuxi city.

4. Gushan Mountain Scenic Spot孤山景区

Gushan scenic spot is the earliest scenic spot developed by Fuxian lake and the first provincial scenic spot in Yunnan province. A number of high-end hotels, including Sunshine Coast, Ruiwen Hotel and Yuboyuan Hotel, as well as rural featured farmhouses, ruby beach and Qinjiawan beach, all of these constitute a tourism service system integrating food, accommodation, travel, shopping and entertainment.

Best Time to Visit

Enjoying a subtropical monsoon climate, tour is possible all the year round. With warmest sun, softest beach and clearest water, Luchong Scenic Area, the most beautiful scenic spot in the west bank of Fuxian Lake, is a excellent place to escape the heat in summer.

Fuxian Lake Overview

Located in Chengjiang county, which is 52 kilometers away from Kunming, Fuxian lake is 5 kilometers away from the county seat of Chengjiang county. It is the deepest plateau fresh water lake in China, with an area of about 212 square kilometers and a maximum depth of 155 meters, with an average depth of 95 meters and a maximum transparency of 8 meters. The lake is 1722.5 meters above the sea level. The water quality is national class water, the net purity of the lake is more than 99%, and the water storage is extremely large.

The beauty of Fuxian lake cannot be separated from the limpid water of Fuxian lake. As early as the late Ming dynasty, traveler Xu Xiake in his Travels of Xu Xiake noted that “the mountains of Yunnan are rich in soil, therefore, obstructing the flow into the sea, and the flow is turbid, but Fuxian lake is the clearest”.

Features of Fuxian Lake

Fuxian lake is a holiday paradise! Authority personage evaluated Fuxian lake like this, she is big outdoor bathing place, a big oxygen bar! There are 42 tourism enterprises with a set of tourism, scientific research, entertainment, meeting and holiday reception. Part of the lakeside resort tourism facilities set hotels, beaches, entertainment, such as Xiangshan Hotel象山宾馆, transport training center, Yurong resort玉融度假区, Bijia mountain笔架山, Boxiwan resort波息湾度假区 and so on. Fuxian Lake is the first choice for vacation leisure and conference.

The water temperature of Fuxian lake changes little in summer and winter, and with good water quality, it is an excellent place to swim. It attracts thousands of people to play here every year. Warmest sun, softest beach and clerest water make Fuxian Lake’s summer become people’s favorite. More than 100 kilometers of road around the lake has been repaired, which is the best place to start walking, cycling and driving around the lake. There are various water sports in Fuxian Lake, such as diving, water cycling, kayaking, sailing, single boat.

How to Get There

Bus is the main means of transportation to Fuxian Lake. Surely, you can also drive.

Kunming-Chengjiang County

There are midibuses from Kunming South Bus Station to Chengjiang County. It takes about 1 hour and a half to Chengjiang Bus Terminal. Ticket price is about 20 yuan each person. The phone number of Kunming South Bus Station is 0871-67361722.

Chengjiang-Fuxian Lake

In Chengjiang county, you can take No.2 bus and No.8 bus to reach the scenic spots along Fuxian lake respectively. Or there are buses in Chengjiang bus terminal, you can see them when you get off the midibus. You can ask the driver who can tell you the detail information.

Main Attractions in Fuxian Lake

1. Hu Pan Sheng Shui湖畔圣水

Located in the northeastern side of Fuxian lake, Hu Pan Sheng Shui is 11 kilometers from Chengjiang county. A comprehensive international leisure resort integrates hotel rooms, special catering, Spa, leisure entertainment and wetland park. The scenic area consists of Fuxian lake Yuechun resort Hotel and Yueliang bay ecological wetland park.

2. Cherry Blossom Valley樱花谷

3. Luchong National AAAA Scenic Spot禄充国家AAAA级景区

Luchong Scenic Spot is the most beautiful scenic spots on the west bank of Fuxian lake, 19 kilometers away from Chengjiang county. Important attractions of Luchong scenic spot include Jianshan mountain尖山, Qilin mountain麒麟山, Wenchang palace文昌宫, Grand Buddha temple大佛寺, Laoyu village老渔村, Dadong Cave大洞, golden beach, Bosiwan波息湾, Biyan park笔砚公园 and Bijia mountain笔架山.

4. Mingxing Scenic Spot明星景区

Mingxing scenic spot includes Mingxing fish cave明星鱼洞 and Biyun mountain碧云山 two major scenic spots. Mingxing fish cave is located on the west bank of Fuxian lake, about 1 km from Mingxing village, Jiangchuan district, Yuxi city.

5. Gushan Mountain Scenic Spot孤山景区

Gushan scenic spot is the earliest scenic spot developed by Fuxian lake and the first provincial scenic spot in Yunnan province. A number of high-end hotels, including Sunshine Coast, Ruiwen Hotel and Yuboyuan Hotel, as well as rural featured farmhouses, ruby beach and Qinjiawan beach, all of these constitute a tourism service system integrating food, accommodation, travel, shopping and entertainment.

More scenic spots include Taiyang mountain international landscape resort太阳山国际山水度假地, North Fuxian Lake Ecological Wetland and Haimen Gehe Scenic Spot海门隔河景区.

Recommended Hotels in Fuxian Lake

Here below are some hotels you can choose when you are traveling in Fuxian Lake.

1. Fuxian Lake Taiyangshan Resort Hotel抚仙湖太阳山度假酒店

Address: No.10, Huanhu East Road, Chengjiang County, Yuxi玉溪市澄江县环湖东路10号

Tel: 0877-6688706

Starting Price: 410 CNY

2. Fuxian Lake Guanlan Resort Hotel抚仙湖观澜度假酒店

Address: No.8, Huanhu North Road, Chengjiang County, Yuxi玉溪市澄江县环湖北路8号

Tel: 18108879725

Starting Price: 129 CNY

3. Fuxian Lake Junlin Holiday Hotel抚仙湖君临假日酒店

Address: No.8, Huanhu North Road, Chengjiang County, Yuxi玉溪市澄江县环湖北路8号

Tel: 0877-6222077

Starting Price: 128 CNY

Best Time to Visit

Enjoying a subtropical monsoon climate, tour is possible all the year round. With warmest sun, softest beach and clearest water, Fuxian Lake is a excellent place to escape the heat in summer.

Recommended Tour

When you traveling Yuxi, Fuxian Lake is the best choice to enjoy yourself. Tours in Fuxain Lake are always related to the hot destinations in Yunnan, like Kunming, Jianshui, Yuanyang and so on.

8 Days Deluxe Kunming, Shilin, Mile Jianshui Photo Tour with Yuanyang Rice Terraces and Fuxianhu Lake

Useful Travel Tips

1. Sunscreen

Fuxian Lake is a plateau lake, and it is popular in summer. Ultraviolet ray is strong in summer, when you travel Fuxian Lake in summer, remember to bring sunglasses, sun cream, sunhat or other sunscreen products.

2. Safety

The water in Fuxian Lake is deep, with 155 meters of its greatest depth. Therefore, if you are not good at swimming, please wear the life vest when you are doing some water sports.

3. Tickets

For admission fee, some scenic spots are free of charge, while some are charged.

Luchong Scenic Spot: 15 Yuan each person
Gushan Scenic Spot: 15 Yuan each person
Yueliangwan Wetland Park: 30 Yuan each person
Maotianshan Geopark: 20 Yuan each person
Xinhekou Lakeside Park: Free
Cherry Blossom Scenic Spot: Free
Fuxian Lake Rare Stone Museum: Free

Why is Napahai Lake So Special?

With a total area of 31.25 square kilometers and an elevation of 3266 meters, the state-designated wetlands area Napahai Nature Reserve is located in Shangri-la city, Yunnan province. Established in 1984, it is a wetland ecosystem protection zone to plateau seasonal lakes and marsh meadows. The natural reserve is flat, surrounded by mountains. When October steps in, flocks of black-necked cranes, bar-headed geese, white cranes, sheldrakes regularly come here looking for food and for fun.

Where is Napahai Lake – Location

Situated in north latitude 27 ° 49 ‘~ 27 ° 55’ and east longitude 99 ° 37 ‘~ 99 ° 40’, it is some 8 kilometers northwest of Shangri-La, Yunnan. It is about 400 km northwest of the capital, Kunming as the crow flies, and about 100 km northwest of the city of Lijiang as the crow flies.

Natural Resources

Grassland: Napahai Grassland is the largest one in Shangrila. Due to the humid climate, the local grass grows faster than other areas. Every year in May, Napa grassland is green while that in other area just begins to sprout. At the beginning of June, a variety of wild flowers open and flocks and herds have fun on the grassland.

Animals: Napahai Lake is a true paradise for all types of birds, most especially for water fowl, such as the black-necked cranes, the bar-headed goose – as well as a number of other species of geese – the common mallard, the Himalayan griffon, the egret and the white-tailed eagle.

How to Get to Napahai Lake?

►By Bus: Regular buses to Yila Grassland serve this route, departing for the nature reserve from the Dukezhong Ancient Town carpark, running between 9:00~18:00.

►By Car Rental: Tourists can rent a car to visit Napahai Lake which is very convenient to enjoy the scenery along the ring road and back to Shangri-La.

► By Bike: Rent a bike to ride along the ring road is also very popular and a good way to appreciate the scenery.

Main Attractions

► Napahai Lake

The verdant grasses sprawl on the earth like a greenish felt, flocks and herds here and there leisurely eating grasses on Napahai Lake.You find they mix with each other, and a flower of life is in blossom. In the west stand three snow mountains, they are not only a part of charming scene of southwest China, but also sign of tremendous vitality.

► Yila Grassland

In winter and spring, when the lake of the Napa sea shrank, it became a vast swamp meadow, of which the Yila grassland,  is the largest spring pasture in Yunnan.

► Gunyin Temple

Gunqin Temple Ruins is nestled among the tall old trees of one of the mountain peaks to the northwest. Gunqin Temple was built in the late Yuan dynasty and destroyed in the early Qing dynasty. Overlooking from the temple, you can have a panoramic view of Napahai grassland.

► Tibetan villages

There are a number of small to medium-sized Tibetan villages scattered around Napahai Lake where you can have a close-up view of life as it is lived today in a Tibetan village.

Recommended Visiting Route

Napahai Lake is not far from Shangri-la city including Songzanlin Monastery. If tourists want to travel there by car-rental, Napahai Lake could be one of the stops along with other scenic spots. Besides, another major way to visit the lake is to cycle around, which is about 40 kilometers long. It takes about three or four hours to complete one circle. The grassland, lake and snow mountain scenery along the road is very beautiful.

Note that one must ride along the lake clockwise, so that the west side of the ring road around the lake will be downhill, which can be easy for the cyclists. There will be some long uphill on national highway 214 back to Shangri-La city, so a multi-speed mountain bicycle can make the ride easier.

Best Time to Go

The best seasons for traveling to Napa Lake are summer and autumn. Every year in May and June, lush green pasture, various wild flowers blossoming, and yaks, horses roaming leisurely. When autumn and winter comes, the prairie is golden with snowcapped peaks of the distance reflected in the lake. The black-necked crane, yellow duck, bar-headed goose and other large birds circling above the surface of the lake and frolicking in the grass.

Attractions Nearby

► Songzanlin Monastery

Built in 1679, the monastery is the largest Tibetan Buddhist temple complex in Yunnan province and one of the famous monasteries in the Kang region, which belongs to the Yellow Hat sect of Tibetan Buddhism of the Gelukpa order of the Dalai Lama. It is reputed as the Little Potala Palace due to its complex of Potala Palace in Lhasa, Tibet. Located in the capital of Diqing Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, it is also the most important monastery in southwest China.

► Dukezhong Ancient Town

As one of the largest and best-preserved Tibetan residence groups in China, the 1300-year-old Dukezong Ancient Town, situated at Shangri-la County, Deqing Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, not only plays an important role in the Old Tea – Horse Road, but also serves as a corridor connecting Chinese and Tibetan language, people, religion and cultures. Until the fire disaster damaged the most of Tibetan dwellings in 2014, it still remains the traditional Tibetan architectural style.

►Pudacuo National Park

Pudacuo National Park is a 1,300-square-kilometre (500-square-mile) national park located in Shangri-La County, Yunnan. It is notable as the first national park in China to meet International Union for Conservation of Nature standards. As such they are part of the Three Parallel Rivers of Yunnan Protected Areas World Heritage Site.

Useful Travel Tips

► Please bring altitude sickness medicine with you in case that you could not acclimatize to the high plateau when you are at Napahai Lake.

► Renting a bike to cycle around Napa Lake will be wonderful cycling trip for you.

► High uv on the plateau, if you ride along the lake, be sure to wear light, long-sleeve tracksuit and pay attention to sun protection.

► It will take a long time to ride, and there will be small shops on the road for supplies, but it will be more expensive. It is suggested to take water and solid food with you.

► Grassland is the collective property of Tibetan people. Don’t step on the grassland without permission, so as not to cause unnecessary trouble.

► There are a number of horse – riding routes for about 1 hour. 

Tours including Napahai Lake

1 Day Napahai Lake Cycling Tour with Tibetan Village and Songzanlin Monastery

6 Days Kunming-Dali-Lijiang-Shangri-La Group Tour

11 Days Northwest Yunnnan Bird Watching Tour

14 Days Yunnan Cycling Tour from Shangrila to Lijiang and Dali

Xiaowan Hydropower Station

Xiaowan Hydropower Station is located in the middle and lower reaches of the Lancang River in Fengqing County and Nanrun County of Yunnan Province, 49 km from  the county seat. Lancang River and Heihui River rush to the station, forming the fantastic landscape on the bank. It offers the sights of clusters of peaks, deep valley and rare animals in the forest. With a thin double curved arch concrete dam and a maximum height of 292m, Xiaowan is the important place of Lancang River.

Where is Xiaowan Hydropower Station?

Electricity Landmark Pojects

Xiaowan Hydropower Station on October 25, 04 one year ahead of schedule to achieve in damming the river. This marks the Xiaowan Hydropower Project has entered the 292 meters of concrete arch dam hyperbolic excavation and pouring the foundation stage.

The Xiaowan Hydropower Station is planning steps Lancang River in the middle and lower reaches of the second level, power plants built 4.2 million kilowatt capacity, the generating capacity of 18.853 billion, according to the State Development Planning Commission and the request of the Government of Yunnan Province, in 2005 damming the river, by the end of 2010 the first generating unit.

Xiaowan Hydropower Station started on January 20, 2002, power plants will be built a capacity of the reservoir 14.914 billion cubic meters, and power generation based both flood control, irrigation, shipping, such as sediment and Comprehensive Utilization of the effectiveness of the Lancang River lower reaches of the “leading reservoir.” Here Dam geological conditions favorable terrain, suitable for the construction of the high dam library, 292 meters long and the Xiaowan Hydropower Station, a multi-year regulating water resources, and is all the cascade hydropower stations in the middle and lower reaches of the highest one, by the concrete dam hyperbolic Gong dam, the dam toe plunge pool and two bars, the left bank of the right bank of a spillway and underground water power station.

What to See

Xiaowan Town is rich in natural resources. The main economic crops are tea, walnut, pepper, apple, persimmon, jujube, etc. There are the world’s most tea tree kings in the world, the ancient road Qinglong Bridge, and three small reservoirs, namely Huangcaoba Reservoir, Ganshaba Reservoir amd Fanxinhe Reservoir.

Ethnic Culture

Associated with the modern architecture, Xiaowan enjoys the unique and full-featured ethnic culture. It is the representative of high-quality and full-featured construction of small towns in Lincang, also the cornerstone for the development of Xiaowan tourism and the development of private economy. As the predecessor of the Xiaozu Township of the Yi nationality, it has a long history of Yi culture. Some villages still use Yi language, wear costumes, and the Yi people’s torch festival is a relatively grand festival. The Miao ethnic minority is a relatively characteristic ethnic minority living in the territory. They retain the traditional costumes and customs, use their own language and believe in Christianity.

Useful Travel Tips

To the natural scenery of Xiaowan Power Station, you should have an understanding of the natural landscape of Xiaowan Power Station before the departure of Fengqing Scenic Spot. If you follow the tour group, the tour guide will explain the human geography of the natural landscape of Xiaowan Power Station. If it is a self-guided tour, you must refer to the natural scenery of Xiaowan Power Station. Finally, it is essential to travel with friends and relatives, and use photos to record the joyful mood of the natural scenery in Xiaowan Power Station.