Yuxianhu Lake in Yanshan County, Wenshan
Chinese Name: 砚山县浴仙湖
English Name: Yuxianhu Lake in Yanshan County, Wenshan
Overview
Yuxianhu Lake is situated in Yanshan County, Wenshan Zhuang and Miao Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan Province. It is approximately 296 kilometers from Kunming and is accessible via National Road 323 (Dian-Gui Highway). The scenic area, spanning 109 square kilometers, includes the main Yuxianhu Lake area and four additional regions: Tinghu, Ashe, Ameng, and Longsuo. The lake is nestled among mountains, offering picturesque landscapes and is ideal for tourism, vacation, and relaxation.
Scenic Features
- Lake: Yuxianhu Lake features clear, emerald-green waters that beautifully reflect the surrounding peaks.
- Longshan Mountain: Located on the southern shore, Longshan Mountain resembles a dragon lying beside the lake. A winding path leads to the top, providing panoramic views.
- Tongtian Cave: Situated over 200 meters up Longshan Mountain, the cave showcases impressive karst rock formations.
- Islands: The lake is dotted with small, emerald-green islands, including:
- Large Pearl Island and Small Pearl Island: These islands appear mystical and are covered with lush vegetation.
- Whale Island: Known for its green trees, mountain flowers, and birds.
- Carp Island: A haven for carp and water birds, with scenic views of white egrets, wild ducks, and geese, particularly lively in late autumn.
Cultural and Seasonal Activities
- Ethnic Villages: The lakeside villages—Haizi Bian, Xintang, and Jieyinpo—are home to the Yi, Miao, and Zhuang ethnic groups.
- Festivals: Local festivals include:
- Miao Flower Mountain Festival: Held in January.
- Zhuang March Festival: Celebrated in March.
- Yi Torch Festival: Takes place in June.
- Grass Horse Festival: Occurs in September. During these festivals, locals wear traditional costumes and engage in song and dance.
Transportation
- By Bus: Take a bus from Kunming to Yanshan or Qiubei, and get off at the Haizi Bian toll station. The lake is located south of the highway.
- Local Transport: A tourism dock at the lake offers boat rides. Additionally, minibuses from Yanshan to Pingyuanjie provide local transport options.