Luocha Pavilion in Cangshan Mountain, Dali

Location and Geography

• Location: Luocha Pavilion is located at the foot of Lotus Peak in Cangshan Mountain, Dali Bai Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan Province. It is situated near Shangyangxi Village in Wanqiao Town, approximately 17 kilometers from Dali Ancient Town.
• Geographical Features: The pavilion is built on a large boulder on the south bank of Yangxi River, one of the eighteen streams of Cangshan Mountain. The boulder is about 6 meters high and over 10 meters wide, split into two halves with a narrow gap in between. Legend has it that the demon Luocha is locked within this stone crevice.

Historical and Cultural Background

• Legend of Guanyin Subduing Luocha: According to local legends, Luocha was a malevolent demon that wreaked havoc in the Erhai Lake area, bringing darkness and destruction. Guanyin Bodhisattva, disguised as an old monk, tricked Luocha into entering a magical palace, which then transformed into a huge stone and trapped Luocha beneath it. This legend reflects the historical and cultural significance of Guanyin’s victory over evil forces and is deeply ingrained in the local Bai ethnic culture.
• Historical Records: The story of Guanyin subduing Luocha is documented in local historical texts such as “Nanzhao Ye Shi” and “Yunnan Ye Shi,” and the site has been a place of pilgrimage and worship for centuries.

Architectural Features

• Structure: Luocha Pavilion is a small, single-story wooden structure built on the boulder. The pavilion features a traditional Chinese architectural style with carved wooden doors and a stone plaque inscribed with the words “Tian Chi Wu” (天尺五), which was said to have been written by the famous traveler Xu Xiake.
• Interior: Inside the pavilion, there is a statue of a male Guanyin with a white beard and mustache, known as “Guanyin Laodie” (观音老爹). This statue represents the monk who subdued Luocha and is an important cultural symbol for the local Bai people.

Cultural and Religious Significance

• Buddhist and Local Folklore: Luocha Pavilion is not only a Buddhist site but also a place where local Bai customs and Buddhism intertwine. The pavilion is associated with the Bai people’s worship of their “Ben Zhu” (本主), or local deities, and serves as a venue for various religious and cultural activities.
• Tourist Attraction: The pavilion and its surrounding area are popular among tourists and pilgrims. Visitors come to admire the scenic beauty, learn about the legends, and pay their respects at this historically significant site.

Surrounding Environment and Activities

• Natural Scenery: The area around Luocha Pavilion offers breathtaking views of Cangshan Mountain and Erhai Lake. The pavilion is surrounded by lush forests, clear streams, and expansive views of the Dali Basin.
• Nearby Attractions: Close to Luocha Pavilion are other attractions such as Yi’ai Temple and Baohe Temple, which are also rich in historical and cultural significance. These sites, along with the natural beauty of the area, make it a must-visit destination for travelers exploring Dali.