Yulong Pond and Black Dragon Pool in Fengqing County, Lincang
Yulong Pond (玉龙池) and Black Dragon Pool (黑龙潭) are situated on the mountaintop at the junction of Xiaowan Town (小湾镇) and Fengshan Town (凤山镇), with elevations ranging from 2,400 to 2,860 meters. They are approximately 10 kilometers from the new town of Xiaowan and are part of the Lancang River Provincial Nature Reserve (澜沧江省级自然保护区).
Yulong Pond
Yulong Pond originally was a natural water pool. According to legend, it is home to a small white dragon that, during droughts, would summon rain and direct water flows to irrigate fields in nearby areas such as Azhao Mountain (阿早山), Shitou Zhai (石头寨), Juecao Ba (蕨草坝), and Agu Village (阿古村). In the early 1970s, to promote water conservation efforts, the pond was transformed into a small reservoir capable of holding over 1.2 million cubic meters of water.
Scenic Features
Yulong Pond is characterized by lush vegetation and clear waters. The pond contains several small islands, and its banks are lined with wild rhododendrons that stretch over hundreds of acres. The area is rich in biodiversity, with numerous species of bamboo and precious wildlife such as white pheasants (白鹇) and wild chickens. The air is fresh, and the scenery is enchanting.
Future Developments
To support the construction of the Xiaowan Hydropower Station and the development of ecological tourism, relevant authorities plan to build a Luo Ethnic Group (倮族) themed resort in the nearby mountains. This resort will showcase the customs and lifestyle of the Luo people, allowing visitors to experience their ancient traditions, culture, and rituals. Plans also include the creation of a “Rhododendron Garden” (映山红杜鹃园), a “Rare Plant Garden” (珍稀植物花卉园), a “Four Seasons Tea Garden” (四季香茗园), and two observation pavilions (观池亭) to provide panoramic views of Yulong Pond.
Black Dragon Pool
The Black Dragon Pool has a legendary aura, having once served as a vital horse path for people from Xiaowan, Shangda, Panxiang, and Zhengyi to reach the county seat. Entering the forested area of Black Dragon Pool can create a sense of being “shrouded in darkness.” It is said that those with good hearts who pass by the pool will emerge refreshed and safely from the woods, while those with ill intent may fall into the pool and struggle to escape. While this remains a local myth, the area continues to be a pristine environment where the characteristics of ancient forests are preserved.
How to Get There
To visit Yulong Pond and Black Dragon Pool, consider the following travel options:
- By Bus: Local buses run from Lincang City (临沧市) to Xiaowan Town. From Xiaowan, you can take a taxi or arrange for a local vehicle to the site.
- By Taxi: Taxis are available in Lincang for direct transport to the ponds.
- Self-Driving: If you have a vehicle, you can navigate local roads to reach the ponds, with parking facilities available.
Travel Tips
- Best Time to Visit: Spring and summer offer the best conditions for enjoying the lush scenery and clear waters.
- Dress Appropriately: Given the elevation, be prepared for cooler temperatures and potentially changing weather conditions.
- Respect Nature: As a protected natural area, ensure you follow local guidelines to preserve the environment.
- Bring Snacks and Water: Facilities may be limited, so pack refreshments for your visit.
- Explore Nearby Attractions: Take the opportunity to explore the local flora and fauna, as well as the cultural aspects of the Luo people.
