Diehongqiao Scenic Area in Yiliang County, Kunming
Overview of Diehongqiao Scenic Area
Diehongqiao Scenic Area (叠虹桥风景区) is located in Kunming (昆明), Yunnan Province (云南省). The area stretches along the Maitian River (麦田河) from north to south and comprises four main scenic regions: Yincui Gorge (荫翠峡), Baixiang Cave (白象洞), Xianrendong Cave (仙人洞), and Wolong Cave (卧龙洞). Additionally, it features several other caves and attractions, including Zhushi Cave (珠石洞), Bat Cave (蝙蝠洞), Xiaogou Cave (小沟洞), Pianzui Cave (偏嘴洞), Zhangkou Cave (张口洞), Daku Pit (大窟坑), Upper Big Cave (上大洞), Lower Big Cave (下大洞), and Fangjia Stone Cave (方家石洞), covering an area of approximately 5 square kilometers.
Key Information
- Chinese Name: 叠虹桥风景区
- Geographic Location: Kunming City, Yunnan Province
- Climate: Subtropical plateau monsoon climate
- Ticket Price: 35 RMB
- Area: 5 km²
- Famous Attractions: Yincui Gorge (荫翠峡), Baixiang Cave (白象洞), Xianrendong Cave (仙人洞), Wolong Cave (卧龙洞)
Major Attractions
Yincui Gorge
Yincui Gorge (荫翠峡) is nearly 1,000 meters long, with 600 meters navigable by boat. The Maitian River flowing through Yincui Gorge originates from Malong County (马龙县) in Qujing (曲靖) and features ancient trees on both banks that remain evergreen throughout the seasons. The crystal-clear waters slowly overflow from the ancient riverbed, creating a picturesque and serene environment. It is a perfect destination for couples and lovers, praised by experts as “the first serene gorge of the Pearl River source” and also known as “the first serene gorge in central Yunnan.”
Baixiang Cave
Baixiang Cave (白象洞) features a natural bridge that spans across the Maitian River. The cave has multiple platforms, and beneath them are ancient caves with various layers, leading down to an underground river. The overlapping natural bridges extend up to 200 meters, with heights exceeding 100 meters, showcasing a magnificent and imposing view.
Xianrendong Cave
Xianrendong Cave (仙人洞) is another notable feature of the scenic area, distinguished by its unique geological formations.
Wolong Cave
Wolong Cave (卧龙洞) adds to the charm of the area, offering visitors a glimpse of its stunning natural beauty.
Other Caves
The scenic area also includes numerous other caves, such as Zhushi Cave (珠石洞), Bat Cave (蝙蝠洞), Xiaogou Cave (小沟洞), Pianzui Cave (偏嘴洞), Zhangkou Cave (张口洞), Daku Pit (大窟坑), Upper Big Cave (上大洞), Lower Big Cave (下大洞), and Fangjia Stone Cave (方家石洞).
Shentian
Shentian (神田), known as the “edge stone dam” in geology, is characterized by layers of rock that create shimmering waves, resembling terraced fields. This large Shentian is exceptionally unique, with the largest section spanning over 100 square meters and reaching depths of over 10 meters. It is formed by the gradual accumulation of minerals from the flowing water, creating a spectacular sight. After thorough investigations by domestic and international cave experts, it is recognized that the Shentian in the Jiuxiang Diehongqiao Scenic Area is the largest edge stone lake group among the more than 2,000 open karst cave scenic areas worldwide.
Lion Hall
Lion Hall (雄狮大厅) is an elliptical natural hall with a width and length of over 200 meters. It features a massive cave entrance, where a natural lion shape can be seen gazing upwards, giving the hall its name. Inside, there is a natural stage and audience area that can accommodate thousands of people for rest, entertainment, and performances.
Cimu Falls
Cimu Falls (雌雄瀑) features water cascading from two caves of different heights. The falls have a height of 30 meters, plunging into a clear pool that is over 10 meters deep. The roar of the water and the flying droplets create a breathtaking scene, located more than 100 meters underground.
Transportation
Visitors can reach the scenic area by taxi from Kunming Airport (昆明机场) or the train station (火车站), with round-trip fares ranging from 200 to 300 RMB. Alternatively, taking a bus from Kunming Train Station takes approximately 2 hours, with a fare of 15 RMB.
Minibuses are available near Kunming Train Station or Chayuan Hotel (茶苑宾馆) directly to Jiuxiang Scenic Area, with round-trip tickets priced between 30 and 40 RMB per person. From Kunming North Bus Station (昆明汽车北站), Juhua Village Bus Station (菊花村汽车站), and Eastern Bus Station (东部汽车站), minibuses to Yiliang County are available for about 8 RMB. After reaching Yiliang, visitors can transfer to another bus to Jiuxiang for an additional 6 RMB fare.
Accommodation and Dining
Within the scenic area, there are accommodations such as Jiuxiang Hotel (九乡宾馆) and Fulin Mountain Villa (富林山庄), both offering charming and elegant settings that blend harmoniously with the surrounding landscape. Standard room rates start at 80 RMB per night, while suites begin at 120 RMB.
