White Water River (Baishuihe) in Lijiang

Overview

The Baishuihe River (白水河) is located at the foot of Yulong Snow Mountain (玉龙雪山) in Yunnan Province, China, beside the Yunshuping (云杉坪) area. This river is formed from the meltwater of the glaciers on Yulong Snow Mountain, cascading down through the valleys. The water is crystal clear with a dark green hue, and the riverbed consists of sedimentary limestone fragments that appear gray-white. As the clear spring water flows over these stones, it creates the illusion of a white river, hence its name.

The two main rivers on Yulong Snow Mountain are Baishuihe River and Heishuihe River (黑水河). The scenic area of Baishuihe is adjacent to Yunshuping, where visitors can enjoy the beauty of the water and the landscape.

Description

Baishuihe River leaves a pure and refreshing impression. The river’s water, filtered through rock layers after melting from snow on the mountain, emerges as spring water, eventually forming this river. Even in summer, when you wade barefoot through the river, the chilling sensation will remind you of the quality of this snowmelt spring water. The river’s water quality is pristine and uncontaminated, with smooth pebbles glistening at the bottom, enhancing the clarity of the water above.

The second impression of Baishuihe River is its enchanting beauty. Along the river, cascades and waterfalls create a stunning visual effect, with lush vegetation lining the banks.

Attractions

The beautiful Baishuihe River, also known as the Milk River (牛奶河), is surrounded by various natural wonders, including the magical fairy water, the mysterious Chami water, deep caves, blooming rhododendrons, the naturally formed Longkou Waterfall (龙口水瀑布), and other captivating landscapes. American botanist Joseph Rock extensively documented these sights, leaving behind numerous writings and photographs that inspired British author James Hilton to create the term “Shangri-La” in his novel “Lost Horizon” (《消失的地平线》).

Heishuihe River (黑水河)

The Baishuihe River flows beneath a bridge, continuing eastward where it converges with another river fed by melting snow from the mountain. This river, also originating from melted snow, is characterized by its clear water and a riverbed primarily composed of dark pebbles, giving it a black hue, thus named Heishuihe River. The confluence of Baishuihe and Heishuihe forms the Heibaihe River (黑白水河). The Naxi (纳西) people have a special emotional connection to this black and white water, reflecting their beliefs in the harmony of yin and yang, as described in the Dongba classic “Luban Lurao” (《鲁般鲁饶》), emphasizing that a world where black and white are integrated brings peace and safety during travels.

Blue Moon Valley Scenic Area (蓝月谷)

The Blue Moon Valley Scenic Area (蓝月谷), formerly known as the Baishuihe scenic area, features waters originating from the ancient glaciers of Yulong Snow Mountain. As the melted ice flows down the cliffs, it gathers to form streams and ultimately results in a crystal-clear river in the deep valley of Blue Moon Valley. The riverbed consists of white limestone, giving the water a pure, white sheen, hence its name “Baishuihe.”

The area is called “Blue Moon Valley” because, on clear days, the water appears blue, and the valley takes on a crescent shape, resembling a blue moon set at the foot of Yulong Snow Mountain. Within Blue Moon Valley, the flowing water is interrupted by mountain barriers, creating four larger water surfaces known as “Yuye” Lake (玉液湖), “Jingtan” Lake (镜潭湖), “Lan Yue” Lake (蓝月湖), and “Tingtao” Lake (听涛湖). The lakes are surrounded by lush vegetation and backed by snow-capped peaks, with the water appearing transparently blue, almost solidified, with hints of green.

Transportation Information to Blue Moon Valley and Baishuihe Scenic Area

Public Transport

• Bus: Take Bus No. 7 from Yuyuan Bridge (玉缘桥) in Lijiang Ancient Town to Ganhai Zi (甘海子) for about 15 yuan, with a bus every 30 minutes.

Private Transport

• Carpool: Sharing a van from Lijiang to Yulong Snow Mountain costs approximately 200 yuan for a round trip.

Direct Bus

• Buses: There are direct buses to Yulong Snow Mountain available every morning. Tickets can be purchased online, and the departure location will be confirmed the night before. Round trip tickets cost around 40 yuan.

Taxi

• Taxi Fare: A one-way trip by taxi costs approximately 80-100 yuan.

Travel Tips

• Best Time to Visit: Spring and summer offer the best views and pleasant weather, perfect for exploring the scenic areas.
• Recommended Duration: Allocate a full day to fully enjoy the beauty and activities available in the area.
• What to Bring: Wear comfortable walking shoes, carry water, and have a camera ready for the stunning scenery.