Luoxiagou Valley Scenic Spot of Dongchuan Red Land, Kunming

More Picture

Dongchuan in the northeast of Kunming is believed to hold the world’s most imposing red land and is even more magnificent than the one in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. It is the most massive red land with typical features of Yunnan plateau. With gorgeous and colorful hues, the red land is praised as a palette on earth, and is more and more favored by backpackers, hikers and photographers. The land with picturesque scenery is paradise for photography fans.

Dongchuan Red Land is located in the northeast of Kunming. Due to the high content of iron and aluminum in the soil, it has formed a brilliant reddish color. The vast land is divided into colorful patches by fields and crops, creating a vibrant view from a distance, especially spectacular when contrasted against the blue sky and white clouds. From May to the following February each year, some parts of the red land are tilled in preparation for planting, while others are filled with barley, wheat, and other crops, creating a beautiful and colorful scene. Especially on the third day after rain, the land, soaked with moisture, appears more vibrant. After heavy rain, as the mist dissipates and the sun shines brightly, the blue sky becomes even more enchanting, with clouds constantly changing, casting ever-shifting light and shadows across the fields; each moment is akin to a brand-new painting. Therefore, Dongchuan Red Land has become one of the favorite shooting locations for photographers.

Luoxiagou, also known as Xiantangdi, is a low-lying area surrounded by mountains, within which a small village is concealed. Although “Luoxia” means “setting sun,” this place not only offers stunning sunset views but is also an excellent spot for photographing sunrises. The golden sunlight in the morning bathes the red land, making it appear even more magnificent, while the opposite ridge is stained with layers of golden light. The village in the lowland is enveloped in the morning light, exuding tranquility and harmony. The rising sun paints this dreamlike land with vivid colors. Luoxiagou is surrounded by mountains, and a patch of fiery red land sits at the village’s center, making it one of the most striking landscapes in Dongchuan. The hard work of the villagers throughout the seasons causes the colors of the land to constantly change, showcasing different beautiful scenes.

The wonders of nature combined with the wisdom of hardworking people have created all of this. Appreciating these changes requires profound wisdom and courage to discern the hardships of the world.

The viewing platform at Luoxiagou is the largest, longest, and highest viewing platform. Compared to other platforms, its height is particularly striking, while the others appear more rugged. As you descend along the walkway, both sides of the path are lined with wild walnuts, wild fruits, wild peaches, yams, Sichuan red cedar, and other vegetation. Here you can find mountains, villages, fields, blue skies, purple taro, colorful wildflowers, and red earth, resembling a beautiful thin pancake.