Changhu Lake Scenic Spot in The Stone Forest, Kunming
Overview of Changhu Lake (长湖)
Changhu Lake (长湖) is located 26 kilometers from the Stone Forest Scenic Area (石林风景区) in Changhu Town (长湖镇), Weize Village (维则村). Nestled at an altitude of 1,907 meters, the lake is surrounded by mountains. Its long, slender shape is said to resemble a graceful maiden, and legend has it that Changhu Lake is the hometown of Ashima (阿诗玛), a famous figure in local folklore. Due to its remote location, hidden among the green hills, the lake was historically less frequented by tourists and was often referred to as the “Hidden Lake” (藏湖).
Changhu Lake offers visitors stunning natural scenery, featuring open lakeside views, mountainous forests, and karst landscapes. Additionally, the rich Sani ethnic culture (撒尼民族风情) of the surrounding area adds to its charm. As an essential part of the Stone Forest Global Geopark (石林世界地质公园), Changhu Lake’s late development has preserved its pristine natural vegetation and landscape, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers.
Scenic Highlights of Changhu Lake (长湖风景)
Geography and Attractions
Changhu Lake (长湖) lies at an altitude of 1,700 meters, surrounded by picturesque mountains and scenic spots, including Yuanhu Lake (园湖), Dajianshan Mountain (大尖山), Erjianshan Mountain (二尖山), Sanjianshan Mountain (三尖山), Dushishan Mountain (独石山), and Mopan Mountain (磨盘山). The primary protected area extends north to Zumo Village Road (祖莫乡村公路), south to the line of Dajianshan Mountain and Xiaojian Mountain (大小尖山), east to Xiaotuanshan (小团山), and west to Jiushi’a Road (九石阿公路). This area covers key scenic spots like Mopan Mountain (磨盘山), Changhu Lake, and Dajianshan Mountain, with a total area of 5.12 square kilometers.
Changhu Lake, formed by tectonic movements, is a karst lake. The lake, named after its long, narrow shape, has a circumference of about 5.5 kilometers, a width of over 300 meters, and a depth of up to 24 meters. Its waters, supplied by underground rivers, are clear and transparent. The surrounding mountains boast over 95% vegetation coverage, with various plant zones ranging from grassy plains to pine forests and oak woodlands.
Surrounding Mountains
To the north of Changhu Lake stand the connected peaks of Dajianshan, Erjianshan, and Sanjianshan mountains. These lush, green mountains offer breathtaking views. To the south lies Mopan Mountain (磨盘山), with its flat summit resembling a millstone. A peninsula formed by the foothills of Mopan Mountain extends into Changhu Lake, creating a unique “lake within a lake” landscape, with small, tree-covered islands scattered across the water.
Unique Karst Islands
One of the most enchanting features of Changhu Lake is the scattering of three small islands on the lake’s surface. Covered with lush trees and dotted with unusual rocks, these islands are reminiscent of the legendary Isles of the Immortals (蓬莱仙境).
Ethnic Culture and Local Festivals
The area around Changhu Lake is home to the Sani people (撒尼族), a subgroup of the Yi ethnic group (彝族). Known for their rich traditions of song and dance, the Sani people celebrate unique cultural events, especially during the Torch Festival (火把节). On festival days, locals gather to hold bullfighting competitions and perform the “Big Three-String Dance” (大三弦舞), a traditional Sani dance.
Activities at Changhu Lake
Visitors can enjoy a wide variety of outdoor activities at Changhu Lake, including:
- Boating: Paddle around the serene waters of the lake.
- Fishing: Try your hand at catching fish in the calm waters.
- Hiking and Climbing: Explore the surrounding mountains and forests.
- Archery: Practice your skills with traditional Sani crossbows.
- Camping: Spend the night in one of the available tents along the lakeshore.
Camping equipment, including tents and sleeping bags, is available for rent. A night at the lake, under the stars, with the moonlight reflected on the water, is a magical experience. You can also enjoy a traditional bonfire party (火把晚会), complete with dancing and singing under the moonlight. The night boating experience here is often compared to the famous “Night Excursion at Red Cliff” (夜游赤壁) by Su Dongpo (苏东坡).
Famous Folklore
Legend has it that Changhu Lake was where Ashima (阿诗玛) washed clothes and bathed. Every year, on the 24th day of the sixth lunar month, the Sani people gather at the lake to celebrate the Torch Festival (火把节). During this time, the area becomes a sea of flowers, songs, and celebrations, featuring wrestling matches, bullfighting, and the Big Three-String Dance.
Historical Sites
Yuanhu Lake (圆湖)
Located just 2 kilometers south of Changhu Lake, Yuanhu Lake is accessible by a large vehicle road. Though smaller than Changhu, it features crystal-clear waters and is surrounded by lush green mountains, offering a more intimate lakeside experience.
Dushishan Mountain (独石山)
Dushishan Mountain (独石山) is located in Weize Village (维则村) and is known for its steep cliffs and historical significance. During the Qing Dynasty, the Yi rebel leader Zhao Fa (赵发) camped here for several years, and remnants of his encampment, including stone wells, prisons, and walls, can still be found. In 1938, historian Wu Han (吴晗) visited the site and inscribed a poem on the mountain’s rock face:
Poem by Wu Han (吴晗题诗):
“逢山开路遇水桥，磨盘山下水泱泱。 长湖美景无须夸，春来赛过百花香。”
Practical Information
Entrance Fee and Rentals
- Changhu Lake Entry Fee: 10 RMB per person
- Bamboo Raft Rental: 30 RMB per hour
Camping and Accommodations
Tents come in three sizes—large, medium, and small—available at a rate of 20 RMB per person, per night. The tents are raised on thick wooden boards to prevent dampness, and sleeping bags and cushions are provided. Large tents can accommodate 3-4 people.
Suggested Itinerary
For visitors with ample time, it is recommended to explore the Stone Forest Scenic Area (石林景区) in the morning, then take a vehicle to Changhu Lake in the afternoon. Spend the night by the lake, enjoying the moonlit boat ride and bonfire party. You can return the following day around noon.
Travel Tips
- Bring mosquito repellent or essential oils to prevent insect bites.
- Make sure to enjoy a night by the lake, as the moonlight boating experience is particularly enchanting.
Changhu Lake offers a blend of natural beauty, ethnic culture, and historical significance, making it a must-visit destination in Yunnan Province.
