Chiwen Islet of Erhai Lake in Dali
Overview
Chiwen Islet (赤文岛), commonly known as Lue Mountain (鹿峨山), is one of the famous three islands in Erhai Lake (洱海) and is located within Wase Town (挖色镇) in Dali City (大理市). This picturesque peninsula sits between Wase Village (挖色村) and Kangle Village (康廊村). The islet is renowned for its beautiful landscapes, featuring ancient altars for sky worship at its peak, with striking views of Haoyin Xiaopu Tu (海印小普陀) across the lake. The waters here are clear and bright throughout the year, with rugged rocks, abundant flowers, and lush greenery all around.
Natural Beauty
The islet is alive with schools of fish swimming in the water and various aquatic birds nesting along the shores. The atmosphere is filled with the sounds of chirping birds and fluttering butterflies, while fishing boats glide gracefully by, making it one of the main tourist attractions along the Erhai Lake shoreline. Chiwen Islet is situated to the west of Shuanglang Ancient Town (双廊古镇) in the northeastern part of Erhai Lake, stretching approximately 1,100 meters in length and 600 meters in width.
The breathtaking scenery includes a seamless blend of sky and water, ancient banyan trees with sprawling branches, and a labyrinth of ancient caves such as “Big Fishing Cave” (大渔洞), “Sea in Sea” (海中海), “Island in Island” (岛中岛), “Conch Stone” (海螺石), “Jade Floating Rock” (玉浮岩), and “Tiger Watching the Tide” (虎观潮).
Archaeological Findings
During the development of Chiwen Islet, Neolithic relics and ancient tombs were uncovered, including stone knives, stone axes, stone chisels, fishing net weights, bronze-handled knives, boot-shaped axes, and clay molds. The islet’s surroundings boast clear beaches and white sands, epitomizing the phrase, “Mountains and people are harmonious, waters and feelings are eternal.”
Notable Features
Among the treasures of the islet is a 500-year-old banyan tree, the oldest on the island. Its unique form has a crown of leaves that covers over 600 square meters, with aerial roots that cascade down like a waterfall, hence named the “Root Waterfall” (根瀑). If the renowned scenery of Cangshan and Erhai is likened to a dazzling multi-colored crown, then Chiwen Islet is undoubtedly a jewel embedded within it.
Surrounded by water, the islet is bordered by steep cliffs, with waves crashing against the shore, creating a picturesque scene. The area is rich in both cultural and natural landscapes. To the east lies the famous Buddhist holy site, Jizu Mountain (鸡足山); to the north is the precious gem mountain, Shibao Mountain (石宝山); to the south, the historic cultural city of Dali; and to the west, the majestic Cangshan (苍山) and Erhai. The islet enjoys a unique geographical advantage, earning it the reputation of being a pearl in the crown of Dali’s scenic beauty.
Cultural Recognition
Famous writer Su Tong (苏童) composed a poem after visiting Chiwen Islet, praising:
“留下吧，留下吧，在苍山洱海怀抱里做个好梦，滞宿小岛对我们今后的回忆，将留下一个永生难忘的华彩乐章。”
(“Stay, stay, and dream sweetly in the embrace of Cangshan and Erhai; memories of our stay on this little island will leave an unforgettable masterpiece in our lives.”)
Visiting Information
- Suggested Visit Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Location: Chiwen Islet, Dali City, Dali Bai Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan Province (近大西线鹿鹅山遗址)
- Admission Fee: For specific details, please consult the scenic area.
How to Get There
- By Car: Start from Dali City Passenger Station, take Huanghai East Road (环海东路), and then Dali-Lijiang Expressway (大丽高速) to reach your destination.
Travel Tips
- It’s advisable to check the weather before your visit, as conditions can affect visibility and enjoyment.
- Bring water and snacks, as amenities may be limited on the islet.
- Consider visiting during weekdays to avoid crowds and have a more peaceful experience.
