Cuihu Dragon Pool in Yongsheng County, Lijiang

Chinese Name:永胜县金官镇翠湖龙潭（九龙潭）
English Name: Cuihu Dragon Pool in Yongsheng County, Lijiang

The water here neither comes from the surface nor from rivers; instead, it slowly seeps out from the dark limestone beneath, crystal clear and pure. The Jiugu Spring flows day and night, creating pools, gathering into lakes, and forming rivers. Its flow remains consistent throughout the year, spanning about four to five thousand acres of grassland between the Cuihu, Zhongzhou, Pufeng, and Xihu village committees in Sanchuan Town. This grassland produces an abundance of lotus roots, sedge, reeds, scale fish, loaches, and yellow eels.

When the thousands of acres of lotus flowers bloom, a gentle breeze brings the leaves to dance and the branches to sway, filling the air with the fragrance of lotus. Visitors often linger in this enchanting setting. Most men, women, and children in Cuihu Village are skilled swimmers, frequently rowing small boats through the lush lotus fields, whether picking lotus flowers, harvesting lotus seed pods, fishing, or catching loaches, all in a blissful and carefree manner.

During the Ming Dynasty, County Magistrate Luo Junmin praised the scene with a poem:

“Jiulong Lake’s waters lie still and serene,
On the banks, the homes all cultivate lotus green.
The morning sun reflects softly on the bay,
While floral scents waft gently, brightening the day.
Sand gleams, algae sway, in shades of blue and green,
Seagulls rest, fish swim, as white herons preen.
A scene like a new brocade from Wu’s grand halls,
With echoes of Yue maidens’ songs as beauty enthralls.”

In addition to the picturesque farmland of Sanchuan Ba, which stretches flat for thousands of acres, the breathtaking pastoral scenery and the rich cultural heritage found in Zhongzhou, Jinguang, Yangwu, and Zhangfei reveal the immense tourism development potential of Cuihu Jiulong Lake.

Key Features:

  • Water Source: The water is not from surface sources or rivers but slowly seeps from the limestone underground, resulting in exceptionally clear and pure water.
  • Natural Springs: Jiugu Spring flows continuously, creating pools, lakes, and rivers, covering around 4,000 to 5,000 acres of grassland.
  • Flora and Fauna: The area is rich in biodiversity, producing lotus roots, sedge, reeds, scale fish, loaches, and yellow eels.
  • Lotus Blossoms: During the blooming season, the landscape transforms with thousands of acres of lotus flowers, enhancing the scenic beauty.

Travel Tips:

  • Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit is during the lotus blooming season, typically in summer, when the flowers create a breathtaking landscape.
  • Activities: Visitors can enjoy boating, flower picking, fishing, and relaxing in the beautiful surroundings.
  • Accessibility: The area is accessible by road from Lijiang and other major towns in Yunnan.

How to Get There:

Cuihu Dragon Pool is located near Sanchuan Town in Yongsheng County. Visitors can drive or take a bus from Lijiang City. There are parking facilities available near the entrance.

Nearby Attractions:

  • Cultural Heritage: Explore nearby villages such as Zhongzhou, Jinguang, Yangwu, and Zhangfei, which are rich in local culture and traditions.
  • Natural Scenery: The surrounding landscape features picturesque farmlands, terraced fields, and beautiful mountain views, offering ample opportunities for hiking and exploration.

Historical Significance:

The area has been celebrated in poetry, notably by Ming Dynasty County Magistrate Luo Junmin, who praised the tranquility and beauty of Jiulong Lake. His poem captures the enchanting scenery and cultural richness of the region.

Accommodation:

While there are limited accommodations directly at Cuihu Dragon Pool, visitors can find various options in Yongsheng County and nearby Lijiang. Consider booking in advance during peak tourist seasons.

Weather:

The climate in Yongsheng County is mild, with pleasant temperatures during spring and autumn. Summers can be warm, making it an ideal time to enjoy outdoor activities.

Cuihu Dragon Pool in Yongsheng County offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural richness, making it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking to explore the serene landscapes of Yunnan Province. Whether you’re boating through lotus fields or soaking in the tranquil atmosphere, it promises an unforgettable experience.