Xinzhu Botanical Garden in Ludian Town, Lijiang

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Xinzhu Botanical Reserve in Lijiang新主天然植物园
ADDRESS:Xinzhu Village, Lijiang丽江鲁甸乡新主村后云岭东麓

Xinzhu Botanical Reserve (新主天然植物园) is located in Xinzhu Village (新主村), Ludiān Township (鲁甸乡), Lijiang (丽江), on the eastern slope of Houyunling (后云岭) in Yulong Naxi Autonomous County (玉龙纳西族自治县), Yunnan Province (云南省). Situated at coordinates 99.5°E and 27.22°N, the reserve is approximately 165 kilometers from the city center of Lijiang. The terrain of the reserve varies from 2,350 meters to 3,850 meters in elevation, featuring diverse landscapes, including sunny and shady slopes, ravines, and grasslands.

Natural Environment

The Xinzhu Botanical Reserve boasts an abundant and varied landscape with rolling hills, deep pools, and intersecting streams. Despite its compact size of less than 10 square kilometers, the reserve is home to nearly every plant species found in the Hengduan Mountains. Due to this, it is often referred to as a “plant sanctuary” and a “natural botanical garden.”

Flora and Plant Species

The reserve houses over 1,000 plant species across 176 genera, including many rare and protected plants. Notably, it is home to over 10 nationally protected species.

Giant Hemlock Tree: The reserve’s crown jewel is the “King of Hemlocks” (铁杉王), a 5,000-year-old tree standing at an impressive 37 meters tall, with a trunk diameter of 3.7 meters and a crown that covers an area of 100 square meters.

Yew Trees: The reserve also features the yew tree (红豆杉), famous for its ability to produce paclitaxel, a compound known for its anti-cancer properties.

Rhododendrons and Magnolias: Various species of rhododendrons (杜鹃花) and magnolias (木兰) thrive in the reserve, including 5 genera and 30 species of rhododendrons alone.

Microtropis: Another rare plant species found in the reserve is the Microtropis (徽金腰), a tiny woody plant, just 2 cm tall.

Ecological Importance

The Xinzhu Botanical Reserve plays a vital role in maintaining the ecological balance of the Jinsha River (金沙江) region. Beyond being a tourist destination, it serves as a critical location for botanical research and plant conservation. The unique phenomenon of “trees growing on trees and stones” (树上长树，石头上长树) further highlights the reserve’s rich biodiversity. This phenomenon occurs because moss and other plants grow on tree trunks and rocks, creating fertile conditions that allow seeds to take root and thrive.

Cultural and Historical Significance

Connection with Local Communities

The Xinzhu Botanical Reserve is deeply ingrained in local culture, with generations of people admiring and protecting the ancient plants. The 5,000-year-old “King of Hemlocks” is particularly revered by the local people, who have passed down stories and legends about this ancient giant.

The local community celebrates the historical and ecological importance of this botanical wonder, with its continued preservation serving as a testament to local traditions and nature’s power.

A Fascinating Legend

The “King of Hemlocks” has been a focal point of many local legends. It is said that the tree has witnessed centuries of life and change, with the elderly locals reminiscing about seeing the tree’s towering form when they were children, knowing that its majesty has remained largely unchanged through the generations.

Historical Milestones

In June 2024, the Xinzhu Botanical Reserve held its official unveiling ceremony, solidifying its status as a protected site. This event marked a significant step in ensuring the continued conservation of the area’s unique flora.

Visitor Experience

Location and Accessibility

Location: Xinzhu Village, Ludiān Township, Lijiang, Yunnan Province.

Accessibility: Reaching the reserve involves a challenging but rewarding 5.5-hour trek from the Xinzhu Village Committee headquarters. The journey leads visitors through scenic landscapes, offering the chance to witness the “King of Hemlocks” and other ancient trees up close.

Activities for Visitors

Visitors can explore the diverse flora, enjoy breathtaking natural scenery, and engage in scientific research or educational activities related to botany.

Guided Tours: Knowledgeable guides offer insights into the reserve’s rich biodiversity and the cultural significance of its ancient trees.

Eco-tourism: The reserve promotes eco-tourism with a focus on sustainable practices, allowing visitors to appreciate the beauty of the environment without disturbing its delicate balance.

Special Features of the Reserve

“Trees Growing on Trees”: One of the reserve’s most unique features is the natural occurrence of trees growing on other trees and rocks, creating an incredible ecosystem that is home to diverse plant species.

The “King of Hemlocks”: This giant tree is the most famous attraction of the reserve, towering at 40 meters and with a trunk circumference of over 10 meters. Visitors can marvel at the ancient tree and learn about its 5,000-year-old history.

Travel Tips

Recommended Attractions

Puzhe Black Waterfall Scenic Area: A stunning waterfall and karst landscape, perfect for photography and relaxation.

Xianren Cave Village: A traditional village that showcases the local Zhuang culture and offers an authentic glimpse into rural life.

Recommended Foods

Zhuang Glutinous Rice Cake (壮族花糯米): A traditional dessert made from glutinous rice flour.

Fish with Pickled Cabbage (酸菜鱼): A savory dish featuring fresh fish and pickled cabbage.

Chicken Stewed with Mushrooms (野鸡炖蘑菇): A flavorful dish made with wild mushrooms and free-range chicken.

Important Notes

Respect local customs and traditions during your visit.

Protect the environment by not littering and following eco-friendly practices.

Follow all regulations in the scenic areas to ensure the preservation of the delicate ecosystem.

Transportation Information

By Car

From Lijiang, drive along Provincial Highway S240 to the Puzhe Black Waterfall Scenic Area, and continue on County Road X044 to Xinzhu Village. The entire journey takes around 5.5 hours.

By Public Transport

Take a bus from Lijiang to Puzhe Black Waterfall Scenic Area, and then transfer to a bus heading to Xinzhu Village. The journey takes approximately 5.5 hours.