Tanglangchuan River in Anning City, Kunming
Overview
Tanglangchuan River (螳螂川), a tributary of the Jinsha River (金沙江), is a vital waterway with a length of 252 kilometers, serving as the only outlet of Dianchi Lake (滇池). The river flows northwest from Dianchi Lake, passing through Anning (安宁), Fumin (富民), and Luquan (禄劝) in Kunming, Yunnan Province, before joining the Jinsha River at the border of Luquan and Dongchuan (东川).
The river’s upper reaches are known as Tanglangchuan (螳螂川), but downstream from Fumin, it is referred to as the Puduhua River (普渡河). While the sections around Anning and Fumin have broader riverbeds with slower currents and terraced floodplains, the Luquan section features steep gorges with fast-flowing waters and widespread “V-shaped” valleys.
In ancient texts such as Huayang Guo Zhi – Nanzhong Zhi (《华阳国志·南中志》), Tanglangchuan is described as a vital waterway, with historical references to Dianchi Lake, “a large body of water surrounded by mountains, narrowing as it flows downstream, resembling an inverted river.” This reflects the river’s geographical significance in the region.
Key Information
- Name: Tanglangchuan River (螳螂川)
- Location: Kunming, Yunnan Province, China
- Length: 252 kilometers
- Climate: Subtropical monsoon climate
- Ticket Price: Free entry
- Type of Attraction: Rock climbing, canyon landscapes
- Open Year-round: 24/7
- River Classification: Tributary of Jinsha River (金沙支流)
Scenic Description
Tanglangchuan River has nourished fertile fields and enriched local communities along its banks for centuries. The scenic landscape is renowned for its poetic beauty, with willow-lined villages and mountains illuminated by scattered pinewood lamps. A poetic description captures the charm of the river:
“Villages connected along the riverbanks, pines glowing in the night. In every household, people drink homemade wine and feast on fish stew.”
On sunny days, the river reflects the lush surroundings: “A stretch of Tanglangchuan water twists into the vast river, its verdant colors floating towards the sky, casting the reflection of Biji Mountain (碧鸡山) onto magnolia boats.” — Yuan Wenkui (袁文揆), Qing Dynasty
At night, the scene turns magical: “The moonlit night feels like day, the river flows without the chill of winter. Nets startle birds into flight, and cranes rise between the twin trees.” — Yang Shen (杨慎), Ming Dynasty
The banks of Tanglangchuan are home to several natural and cultural landmarks, attracting scholars and poets throughout history. Rowing along the river and hiking to destinations like Caoxi Temple (曹溪寺) became a beloved pastime for the literati. The renowned poet Yang Shen once praised the area in his verse:
“The water of Tanglangchuan is as green as moss, and the flowers of Caoxi Temple bloom red across the terrace. Let us not regret the fleeting springtime; come and take a boat to enjoy this beauty.” — Yang Shen (杨慎), Ming Dynasty
Hot Springs and Agriculture
Tanglangchuan is also known for its abundant hot springs. The history of hot spring bathing here dates back centuries, and during the Ming Dynasty, the Sichuan scholar Yang Sheng’an (杨升庵) even bestowed the title “The Best Hot Springs Under Heaven” (天下第一汤) on the area. Today, many hot spring resorts line the river, offering therapeutic experiences for visitors.
In addition to its natural beauty, the region surrounding Tanglangchuan is famous for its rapeseed oil production. While Luoping (罗平) is renowned internationally for its breathtaking rapeseed flower fields, the rapeseed fields along Tanglangchuan are also vast and impressive, providing a stunning backdrop during the blooming season.
Historical Significance and Recognition
In 2021, the Tanglangchuan section between Heshandong (河上洞) and Xiyi Village (西邑村) was selected for the list of Kunming’s Beautiful Rivers and Lakes of the Year. This recognition highlights the ongoing efforts to preserve and enhance the ecological and scenic value of the river for future generations.
Points of Interest
- Anning City (安宁): A key city along Tanglangchuan, known for its hot springs and scenic views.
- Fumin County (富民): Another location where the river broadens and flows more gently.
- Luquan County (禄劝): The river’s course becomes more rapid, carving deep valleys.
- Puduhua River (普渡河): The name of the river downstream from Fumin.
- Caoxi Temple (曹溪寺): A historic temple visited by poets and scholars.
- Yang Sheng’an (杨升庵): Ming Dynasty scholar who praised the hot springs of Tanglangchuan.
- Heshandong (河上洞): Scenic area listed in 2021.
- Xiyi Village (西邑村): Another scenic area recognized in 2021.
Visitor Information
Tanglangchuan is open year-round, and there is no entrance fee. Visitors can explore the river’s natural beauty, engage in rock climbing, and admire the scenic canyon views. The area is rich in cultural history and natural landscapes, making it a perfect destination for both adventure seekers and those looking to relax in its hot springs.
Whether you’re sailing the calm waters, exploring the historical sites, or enjoying the rapeseed fields in bloom, Tanglangchuan offers a unique blend of nature, culture, and tranquility.
