Nanhu Lake Park in Mengzi City, Honghe
Overview
Nanhu Lake (南湖) is located in the southern part of Mengzi City (蒙自市), Honghe Hani and Yi Autonomous Prefecture (红河哈尼族彝族自治州), specifically in the southern region of Wenlan Town (文澜镇). The lake was formed from rainwater and was previously known as Caohai (草海) or Caobei (草陂). In the Ming Dynasty (明代), it was developed into a reservoir, with three hills named Penglai (蓬莱), Fangzhang (方丈), and Yingzhou Island (瀛洲岛) constructed in the lake, becoming a gathering place for scholars. It is also famously known as the origin of Yunnan’s (云南) renowned crossing-the-bridge rice noodles (过桥米线), making it a great destination for leisure.
Geographical Location
Nanhu Lake is located just outside the southern gate of Mengzi County (蒙自县), hence its name. The scenic area covers an area of 408,700 square meters, with a water area of 299,400 square meters and a storage capacity of 450,000 cubic meters. The lake’s clear waters and lush willows along the banks create a picturesque landscape, dotted with historical sites and recorded in the “Dictionary of Chinese Scenic Spots” (中国名胜词典).
Main Attractions
Originally known as Caohai, the lake was improved by Governor Qian Bang (钱邦) in the Ming Dynasty. He led the people to dredge out the muddy waters and constructed three small hills named after the mythical mountains of Penglai, Yingzhou, and Fangzhang. The lake area is approximately 300,000 square meters, with willow trees planted along the banks and three islands connected by pathways. Notable architecture includes the majestic Yingzhou Pavilion (瀛洲亭), a hexagonal three-tier structure adorned with glazed tiles and exquisite carvings, complemented by the soothing sounds of wind chimes. Various pavilions and unique flora abound, making it a perfect retreat for scholars.
The western scenic area is spacious and features state-level cultural heritage sites such as the Revolutionary Martyrs Memorial (革命烈士纪念碑) and the Memorial of Wen Yiduo (闻一多纪念碑). Additional attractions include the various gardens and sculptures scattered around the park.
Natural Landscape
- Lakes The lake serves as the core attraction, with its clear waters reflecting the lush surroundings. Visitors can stroll along the banks, enjoy scenic views, and engage in fishing.
- Garden Scenery The park features exquisite landscaping, including lawns, flowerbeds, rockeries, and fountains, allowing visitors to appreciate both natural and artistic beauty.
- Ecological Scenery The park’s diverse ecological landscape includes wetlands, forests, and grasslands, providing opportunities to observe various birds and insects in their natural habitat.
Cultural Heritage
- Historical Culture Nanhu Lake Park is rich in historical and cultural significance. It was once a gathering place for Qing Dynasty officials and literati, leaving behind many historical relics such as the Long Bridge (长堤) and the Heart-of-the-Lake Pavilion (湖心亭).
- Ethnic Culture The park is a melting pot of various ethnic cultures. Visitors can enjoy performances of ethnic dances, music, and traditional crafts, as well as participate in cultural festivals such as the Torch Festival (火把节) and Water Splashing Festival (泼水节).
Tourism Services
- Visitor Center The park has a visitor center offering information, ticketing services, and luggage storage.
- Dining Facilities Various dining options are available, including Chinese and Western restaurants and snack stalls, serving authentic Yunnan cuisine.
- Accommodation Facilities The park offers diverse accommodation options, including standard hotels, vacation villas, and camping sites.
- Amusement Facilities The park includes various recreational facilities such as boats, bumper cars, and merry-go-rounds suitable for visitors of all ages.
Nanhu Lake Park attracts countless visitors with its beautiful natural landscapes and rich cultural heritage. The park provides a perfect setting for relaxation and cultural exploration. Whether you’re looking to unwind, appreciate nature, or learn about history and ethnic cultures, Nanhu Lake Park is a must-visit destination.
How to Get There
Mengzi City is accessible by taxi, walking, or public transport. Various transportation options are available to reach different scenic spots.
Travel Tips
- Check the weather forecast and dress appropriately, ensuring proper sun protection.
- Don’t miss local delicacies like fire-roasted house chrysanthemum rice noodles and other regional specialties.
- Consider staying at nearby hotels, such as the Helen Garden Hotel (海伦花园酒店), for a comfortable experience.
- Capture the beautiful scenery with your camera; the park is full of picturesque views!
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