Qujiang River in Yuxi and Honghe
Chinese Name:玉溪和红河曲江
Qujiang River, a tributary of the Pearl River system, is located at the border of Yuxi City in Yunnan Province and the Honghe Hani and Yi Autonomous Prefecture. It is a primary tributary on the west bank of the Nanpan River. The river originates in the southwestern part of Jiangchuan County, flows through the urban area of Yuxi City, Eshan County, Gaoda Township in Tonghai County, and Qujiang Town in Jianchuan County, and then merges with the Nanpan River at Fangna Village in Panxi Town, Huaining County. It has a total length of over 160 kilometers and a drainage area of approximately 4,100 square kilometers.
The Qujiang River Valley boasts picturesque landscapes and charming scenery, attracting numerous tourists. The riverbanks are shaded by lush trees, and the clear water allows for views of the varied shapes of the riverbed stones, adding to the area’s appeal. Strolling along the Qujiang River, one can experience the tranquility and beauty of nature, providing a refreshing and serene escape.
Location and Origin:
- River System: The Qujiang River is a first-level tributary of the Nanpan River, part of the Pearl River Basin.
- Region: It is situated at the boundary between Yuxi City and the Honghe Hani and Yi Autonomous Prefecture in Yunnan Province, China.
- Source: The river originates in the southwest of Jiangchuan County and flows through several areas including Yuxi City, Eshan County, Tonghai County’s Gaoda Township, and Qujiang Town in Jianshui County. It eventually flows into the Nanpan River at Fangna Village in Panxi Town, Huaining County.
- Length: Over 160 kilometers.
- Drainage Area: Approximately 4,100 square kilometers.
Scenic Features:
- The Qujiang River valley is renowned for its picturesque scenery and pleasant environment, attracting many visitors.
- The riverbanks are lush with greenery, and the clear waters reveal a variety of interestingly shaped stones on the riverbed.
- Walking along the Qujiang River offers a peaceful and beautiful natural experience.
Current Conditions and Conservation:
- The Qujiang River, as a major tributary of the Nanpan River, has a length of 15 kilometers within Qujiang Town’s jurisdiction.
- The surrounding lands are used for agriculture, with local residents relying on the river for irrigation.
- In early spring, villagers like Li Ruying in Shandian Village harvest mature Chinese cabbage, reflecting the benefits of improved irrigation.
Historical Changes:
- Previously, the Qujiang River had low water levels and was overgrown with weeds, with serious sedimentation issues.
- Yang Hongying, a local resident from Shandian Village, noted that before river management efforts, wells had to be dug 13 meters deep to find water, but now 5 meters suffices.
- Since the implementation of river management measures, five sand-trapping dams have been built, and 22,000 cubic meters of sediment have been cleared, which has improved water retention in the river and raised the water table in surrounding farmlands.
River Systems and Tributaries in Yunnan:
- Qujiang River: Originates from the eastern foothills of Dajian Mountain in Yuxi City, flows through Eshan and Tonghai counties, and meets the Nanpan River at the boundary of Honghe Prefecture.
- Lujiang River: Begins at the northwest foot of Baoxiu Mountain in Shiping County, flows through Chi Rui Lake, Yilong Lake, and Haikou River, with two segments of subterranean flow (Yan Cave and Swallow Cave), and enters the Nanpan River in Kaiyuan.
- Dianxi River: Formed by the confluence of Yumen River, Baima River, and Huakou River near Pulong Village in Mile County, flows south through Mile, Xinshao, Zhuyuan, and Pengpu basins, and merges with the Nanpan River near Nilujiang Village.
- Xi Da River (downstream known as Xiaojiang): Originates in Dashawan, Shizong County, flows into Honghe Prefecture near Wulang Village, passes through Yigu Basin and Luxi County, and joins the Nanpan River at Xiaheqing Village after emerging from Moya Cave.
