East Lake in Eryuan County, Dali
Overview
East Lake (东湖) is located in the eastern part of Yousuo Township (右所乡), Eryuan County (洱源县), covering an area of 6 to 10 square kilometers. It mirrors the beauty of West Lake (西湖), while the Mijia River (弥苴河) flows like a dragon from the northwest of East Lake towards Erhai Lake (洱海), adding stunning riverside views. Known as the “Hometown of Lotus Flowers” (荷花之乡) in Eryuan County, the area is dotted with four villages, creating a picturesque landscape where lakes and villages coexist. The lake is filled with vast patches of lotus flowers, surrounded by lush willows and reeds, forming a beautiful harmony of nature. In summer, East Lake transforms into a stunning sight, with thousands of lotus blossoms blooming in a riot of colors, creating the majestic view of “万朵莲花开海市，一天星斗下人间” (“Ten thousand lotus flowers bloom in the sea city, under the stars in the sky”). Rowing on the lake during midsummer reveals vibrant lotus flowers, playful fish, and the aroma of ripening rice, making it feel like a paradise.
Scenic Features
The crystal-clear springs at East Lake create another unique scene. These springs gushing from the foot of the eastern mountain form a large pond of over 1,500 square meters, surrounded by temples and pavilions, with ancient pines and cypress trees covering nearly a square kilometer. This sets the stage for East Lake’s distinctive “lake within a lake” landscape. The largest ancestral temple of the Bai ethnic group (白族) in the Dongchuan Basin (东川坝子) is located here. Each year from July 23 to 25, worshippers from Dongchuan and surrounding areas gather at Longtan Benzhumiao (龙潭本主庙) for lively ceremonies and prayers.
East Lake’s beauty lies in its rich lotus flowers and the charm of its highland water town, allowing visitors to feel the close bond between life and nature, as well as a sense of tranquility and simplicity.
Geography and Accessibility
East Lake is located in the eastern part of Yousuo Town in Eryuan County and is separated from West Lake by the Mijia River. The lake is directly connected to Erhai Lake via the Yong’an River (永安江). With an area of approximately 4.7 square kilometers, the lake’s layout creates the scenic blend of “a village within a lake, and a lake within a village.”
Cultural Heritage
Eryuan, the source of Erhai Lake, was known as Langqiong (浪穹). In 1530, during a plague in Yunnan, the scholar Yang Sheng’an (杨升庵), also known as Yang Shen (杨慎), came to Dali and Eryuan. The stunning scenery made him forget his troubles, as expressed in his poem about Langqiong:
远梦似曾经此地，
游子恍疑归故乡。
谁道洱河千胜景，
源头此处更澄清。
From the mountain foot to the shores of Erhai, this fertile land has always been known for its fish and rice, a paradise since ancient times. The Mijia River snakes like a dragon from north to south into Erhai, dividing the region into two, with ancient trees and verdant plants lining the riverbanks for miles. East Lake, with its stunning views, is indeed a treasure.
There are many great spots to enjoy lotus flowers in Eryuan, such as Cibi Lake (茈碧湖), Caohai Wetland (草海湿地), Yousuo West Lake, and of course, East Lake.
Seasonal Beauty
The lotus flowers of East Lake are most magnificent from June to August. Walking through the lake during the peak summer months, one can see vast lotus fields displaying vibrant red and white blossoms. The scene is breathtaking, reminiscent of “万朵莲花开海市，一天星斗下人间.”
Scenic Descriptions
As you enter the “Hometown of Lotus,” you’re greeted by a sea of flowers. Different varieties sway in the wind, embodying the elegance of “the gentlemen of flowers.” After a summer rain, the waters of the dawn-soaked cypress trees are clear, and the lotus leaves and flowers are unblemished, creating a picturesque view that resembles “惟有绿荷红菡萏，卷舒开合任天真” (“Only the green lotus and red flowers roll and unfold, free and innocent”). These blooming flowers appear as delicate spirits beneath the sky, untainted and ethereal.
Poetry and Prose
In July, the best time to admire the lotus flowers is highlighted by a quote from the Ming Dynasty scholar Ai Zixiu (艾自修) from Dongchuan, who praised East Lake:
烟渚渔歌，柳湾荻岸，
渔舟连浦，两两歌来。
游人听之，每担酒换鱼，
烹鲜对酌。
Another poem by Yang Chengchun (杨承淳) from the Ming Dynasty reads:
湖光荡漾几回纹，
渔父歌声闹水滨。
信口舫敲湘汉句，
断肠笛弄雁鸿云。
三三对曲烟蓑合，
两两归帆荻岸分。
最趁夕阳含缺处，
前村沽酒带余醺。
Unique Flora and Fauna
The beauty of East Lake lies in its multitude of lotus flowers and its pristine, natural state. The local Bai people have cared for every flower and leaf in the area for generations, embodying a love for lotus flowers in their hearts. The area has historical significance, with figures like Lady Bai Jiefu (白洁夫人) from the Tang Dynasty and Gao Shanggui (高上桂) in the Qing Dynasty contributing to its cultural legacy.
How to Get There
Transportation
- By Bus: From Dali, you can take a bus from the Dali Xiaguan North Station (大理下关市客运北站) to Eryuan, getting off at either Dengchuan (邓川) or Yousuo (右所).
- Local Transport: Small electric tricycles (小三轮) can take you to East Lake for about 5 yuan. Locals, especially the Bai people, are friendly and can help with directions.
- Self-Driving: If driving, take the Dali Highway (大丽高速) to the Dengchuan exit, then continue along National Highway 214 (214国道) towards Eryuan. After reaching Dengchuan Town, turn right towards Tenglong Village (腾龙村) to arrive at the Dengbei Bridge Wetland.
Travel Tips
- Best Time to Visit: The prime time for lotus flower viewing is from June to August.
- Nearby Transportation: Many local vehicles are available; just ask the friendly Bai locals for assistance.
- Accommodation: The area is not fully developed for tourism yet, but there are several hotels in Dengchuan and Yousuo with decent conditions, averaging around 100 yuan per night. For better accommodations, try the hot spring hotels in the nearby area, ranging from 200 to 300 yuan. Pu Tuo Spring Resort (普陀泉度假村) is a good option.
- Local Cuisine:
- Water Vegetables (水菜): Known as “sea vegetables,” a local delicacy that can be stir-fried or used in soups.
- Raw Skin (生皮): The most authentic version is found in Yousuo; “Red Star Restaurant” (红星饭店) and “Yuchun Garden” (榆春园) are recommended.
- Wild Crucian Carp (野生鲫鱼): Fresh and tender; try the sour and spicy fish.
- Dengchuan Milk Fan (邓川乳扇): A product made from fresh milk, unique in flavor.
Experience the charm of East Lake and immerse yourself in its natural beauty and cultural richness!
