Longkan Village in Dali City
Overview
The Longkan Wharf (龙龛码头) at Erhai Lake (洱海) is located in Dali City (大理市), Yunnan Province (云南省), specifically in the Xiaguan District (下关区). This scenic spot, situated near the banks of the Mang River (芒市河), extends approximately 204 meters. Each structure at the wharf is supported by four concrete piles, featuring designs reminiscent of a dragon raising its head and a crane holding its head high.
The wharf is located in the western part of Erhai Lake and serves as an open attraction that boasts an ancient ferry port, seagulls, and the best sunrise viewing points, making it an ideal place for photography and enjoying beautiful landscapes. Just a few hundred meters to the south lies a picturesque water fir forest (水杉林).
Historical Significance
Longkan Village (龙龛村) is one of the closest villages to Dali Ancient City (大理古城), typical of the Bai ethnic group (白族) and situated about three kilometers east of the ancient city. Historically, Longkan Wharf was named after Wang Shilong (王蒙世隆), the eleventh king during the Nanzhao Kingdom (南诏), who lived here for eight years. To express gratitude to the local residents for their hospitality, he named the nearby village “Longkan,” meaning “the place where dragons once lived.”
From the sixteenth day of the first lunar month to the twenty-fifth day of the second lunar month, a pilgrimage festival takes place where worshippers gather at Haiyan Temple (海晏庵) and take boats from the ancient ferry to Guanyin Pavilion (观音阁) on Jizushan Mountain (鸡足山).
Cultural References
Dali Longkan Wharf was also a filming location for the movie “Breakup Buddies” (心花路放) directed by Ning Hao (宁浩). The movie highlights the area’s charm, making it a spiritual refuge for those seeking solace from life’s struggles.
If you’re a fan of the film, you may want to explore the fictional Wutong Inn (梧桐客栈) portrayed in the movie, although it does not actually exist. The area has seen changes since 2006 and is currently undergoing renovations, which sometimes results in temporary closures.
Environment and Activities
Longkan Village has a pleasant environment with clear waters from Erhai Lake and nearby wetlands, evidenced by the water birds that gather here. Although seasonal variations may affect birdwatching, this peaceful village offers a quiet retreat.
The village’s roads are well-maintained, making cycling along the lakeside an excellent choice. However, vehicles are not allowed within the village, so bicycles are the preferred mode of transport. Shared bicycles can be scarce, but the tranquil atmosphere and stunning scenery make the effort worthwhile.
Travel Guide to Longkan Wharf
Reasons to Visit
- Stunning Sunrise: The sunrise at Longkan Wharf is breathtaking, with the sky turning golden as the sun rises.
- Proximity: Located just 5.3 kilometers from Dali Ancient City, it’s easy to explore both locations in one trip.
- Water Fir Forest: After visiting the wharf, be sure to check out the vibrant water firs that create a beautiful contrast with the morning sky.
How to Get There
You can drive or take a taxi to Heku Inn (鹤居客栈). Be aware that vehicles cannot enter the alleyways, and the entrance near the stone archway can get congested.
Photography Tips
To capture stunning photographs, arrive by 6:40 AM. Position yourself slightly left of the water fir forest for fewer crowds and beautiful views. Wear light colors and bring a small flower basket and a wide-brimmed hat to enhance your photos.
Travel Tips
- Sun Protection: Dali has strong UV rays, so be sure to use sunscreen.
- Temperature Variations: There can be significant temperature changes between day and night, so pack a light jacket.
Additional Information
For more details, including visitor reviews and tips, check travel forums and social media platforms where travelers share their experiences. Enjoy your visit to Longkan Wharf and embrace the natural beauty and cultural richness of Dali!
