Yimen travel guide and discussion

Ladies! Who gets it? The August heat was driving me crazy, so I packed my bags overnight and escaped to Yimen, Yunnan. As soon as I got off the car, I was embraced by the coolness! It's not the cold of an air-conditioned room, but a refreshing feeling that seeps into your pores, carrying the scent of grass and trees. The perceived temperature stays around 22°C year-round; even fans are unnecessary. I didn't make a complicated plan this time, just wanted to find a quiet place to lie flat. Unexpectedly, I unlocked a hidden gem for summer retreats. Tested it myself—it's way less crowded than Dali or Lijiang, and the experience was top-notch! Speaking of where to stay, I have to give a special shout-out! I chose a mountain residence hidden halfway up the mountain. Pushing open the window, I was met with layers of green, as if wrapped by the forest. The room has large floor-to-ceiling windows—the lighting is amazing but not glaring. The bedding is soft and smells like sunshine; I didn't need a thick quilt at night, a thin blanket was just right. The biggest surprise was the huge viewing terrace. In the morning, I'd brew a cup of tea and sit there watching the sea of clouds roll by; in the evening, I'd wait for the sunset to paint the mountains gold. Even my breathing slowed down. There was absolutely no commercial noise, just the birds chirping and the wind blowing. This is what a vacation should be like! When you come to Yimen, don't just focus on checking off tourist spots. The essence here is "immersing yourself in mountain life." I highly recommend setting aside half a day to walk through the old streets of Lvzhi Town. It's not one of those renovated "influencer" streets, but a real old alleyway full of local life. The bluestone roads are polished shiny by time, flanked by mottled earthen walls and old wooden houses. Occasionally, you can see elderly people sitting at their doorways sunning themselves, waving palm-leaf fans, their eyes as gentle as the mountain mist. Strolling slowly along the old street, you'll pass an old bridge. The stream under the bridge is crystal clear. The moment I crouched down to wash my hands, the coolness traveled from my fingertips to my heart, washing away the irritability of the past few days. Remember to wear comfortable flat shoes; the roads here aren't suitable for high heels, but you can slow down and let time flow to the rhythm of the stream. If you like natural, wild fun, you must go to Longquan Forest Park! Don't be fooled by the word "park." This isn't a neatly trimmed garden like in the city, but an authentic, primitive forest area. Walking along the wooden boardwalk, the negative oxygen ions in the air are so thick you could almost wring them out. Every breath feels like a lung cleanse. On both sides of the boardwalk are towering ancient trees, their branches intertwined to block the sky, with sunlight leaking through the gaps, casting dappled light spots on the ground. Deep inside, there's a small waterfall. The flow isn't big, but it's exceptionally clear and cold. Standing next to it to take photos requires no filters; every shot is a forest-style masterpiece. A quick reminder: the temperature difference between day and night in the mountains is large. Even if you wear short sleeves during the day, be sure to bring a light jacket, or you'll feel chilly when the wind picks up in the evening. Don't ask me how I know! There's another hidden way to play that I must share—go to the local morning market! It's not a market specifically for tourists, but a place where locals do their daily shopping. It gets lively as early as 5 or 6 AM. The stalls are filled with freshly picked mushrooms, dew-covered vegetables, handmade tofu, and wild fruits whose names I don't even know, all in colors as bright as an overturned palette. You don't need to buy anything in particular; just stroll slowly with the crowd, listen to the vendors shouting in the local dialect, and watch the aunties bargaining. That vibrant, living atmosphere is more moving than any tourist attraction. I bought a string of local tamarind candy; it was sweet and sour, perfect for cutting through richness. Eating while walking, I felt like a real local, not just a passing traveler. Finally, a few heartfelt tips: Transportation in Yimen isn't particularly convenient, so driving yourself is the best option. There are many curves on the mountain roads, but the road conditions are good—just drive slowly if you're a new driver. If you take public transport, check the schedules in advance; don't end up waiting at the station for two hours like I did. You still need sun protection; even though it's not hot, the UV rays are strong. I didn't wear sunscreen on the first day, and my arms got sunburned and took two days to recover. Also, respect local customs. Greet the elderly when you meet them; they will really smile and respond to you. This kind of warmth is even more unforgettable than the scenery. In short, Yimen isn't the kind of place that makes you go "wow," but it is a place that makes you feel "at ease." If you also want to escape the heat and the crowds, come here for a few days. I guarantee you'll fall in love with this feeling of being gently wrapped by the mountains and wilderness~

Tucked away in the Yimen Canyon of Yuxi, little Lvzhi is truly an industrial town gently preserved by time 🌿 The Lvzhi River winds through the valley, its emerald waters hugging the steep cliffs. The 72-turn mountain road spirals through the mountains ⛰️, and every turn records the marks of past mining transport years. Driving up here is truly breathtaking! This place was once the famous Copper Capital of Central Yunnan. In its heyday, it was bustling and prosperous, earning the reputation of "Little Hong Kong" 🇭🇰~ Soviet-style old buildings, old cinemas, and tube-style apartments stand quietly, preserving the vivid memories of generations of miners 🔥. After the copper mining era ended, the town faded from the hustle and bustle, but it completely preserved its industrial ruins, becoming a secret place to touch the old times. Every May, the phoenix flowers bloom passionately throughout the town 🌺, a sea of fiery red flowers covering the streets and alleys, contrasting with the mottled red brick old buildings. The industrial charm and the romantic sea of flowers collide to create a unique atmosphere~ In the early morning, the red flowers bloom in the mountain morning light, as beautiful as a movie scene 🎬 Strolling by the river, the river breeze brushes your face. The old buildings, blooming flowers, and emerald river water intertwine, possessing both the weight of historical accumulation and the unique freshness of the mountains and wilderness 🍃. Every shot has a film-like quality! 📍Attraction: Lvzhi Town 🚗Address: Yimen County, Yuxi City, Yunnan Province 🏨Hotel Recommendation: Dilianya Boutique Hotel (Kunming Anning Golden Era Plaza Ninghu Park Branch) 📍Address: 1st Floor, Building A, Ninghu No. 1 ✨The hotel is located in a quiet spot amidst the hustle and bustle, with beautiful lake views nearby. It is convenient for travel, close to business districts and parks, and offers free parking~ The rooms are spacious and bright, the bedding is comfortable, the front desk service is warm, and it offers great value for money! 💡Travel tips: ✓Self-driving is recommended; the 72-turn mountain road is a scenic spot in itself ✓May is the best season to see the phoenix flowers in bloom, don't miss it ✓Wear light-colored clothes or retro-style outfits; they go perfectly with the old buildings

Yunnan's Hidden Gem of Forests and Springs | Yimen Longquan National Forest Park Travel Guide Longquan National Forest Park is located in the western suburbs of Yimen County, Yuxi City, and is a 4A-level ecological tourism scenic area. With a forest coverage rate of 99%, it boasts ancient springs, hidden temples, and a ten-mile-long corridor stretching over 3,000 meters along the stream. Integrating mountains, forests, clear springs, ancient architecture, and mushroom culture, it is a free treasure trove for escaping the summer heat and enjoying leisurely walks near Kunming. Basic Travel Information Opening Hours: 08:00-18:00 Admission: The main area of ​​the park is free; the Bird Park requires a separate fee, and the Wild Mushroom Museum is free. Suggested Visit Duration: 3-4 hours Best Time to Visit: All year round. July and August are ideal for escaping the summer heat and coinciding with the wild mushroom season; the misty atmosphere after rain creates the best ambiance for the water features; the soft morning light is perfect for taking photos. Transportation Guide By Car: Navigate to Longquan National Forest Park (East Gate Longquan Cultural Square). It takes approximately 1.5 hours from Kunming and about 1 hour from Yuxi city. Free parking is available within the scenic area, and road conditions are good. By Public Transportation: Take a bus to Yimen Bus Station. A 10-minute taxi ride will take you to the main entrance of the scenic area. Local buses also reach nearby areas. Key Attractions 1. Longquan Ten-Mile Corridor: 3160 meters long, known as the longest corridor in Asia. The corridor winds along the stream, adorned with murals and couplets, and built along the water's edge. Strolling along the corridor, the stream flows beneath your feet, ancient trees provide shade, and the entire walk is gentle and easy. The Nine Dragons Spitting Water sculpture is a landmark photo spot. 2. Dalongkou Spring: The source of the thousand-year-old Longquan Spring, the spring water flows continuously year-round, making it a source of mountain spring water in Yunnan. The area around the spring is tranquil and cool, with the sound of flowing water, the essence of the entire park. 3. Cascading Waterfalls: The stream cascades down the mountain rocks in layers, forming multiple waterfalls. In the early morning and after rain, the rising mist creates a refreshing coolness, making it a top choice for summer retreats. 4. Longquan Temple: An ancient temple from the Qing Dynasty, nestled deep in the greenery. The temple grounds retain an ancient stage, the "Moonlit Breeze Pavilion," and exquisitely carved wooden structures, exuding a timeless charm. The inscription "Jingmi Pingquan" on the stone wall is a well-known local cultural relic. 5. Wild Mushroom Museum: Yimen is known as the hometown of wild mushrooms in China. The museum displays various wild mushroom specimens, provides information on fungi, and also features dinosaur fossils, offering insights into the ancient geological history of this land. 6. Bird Park: Covering an area of ​​over 13,000 square meters, the park is home to thousands of birds, including peacocks and pheasants, allowing for close-up birdwatching and making it ideal for family visits. 7. Nantun Lake Lakeside Trail The lake water is crystal clear, and the metasequoia forest is lush. A leisurely stroll around the lake offers panoramic views of Yimen County, perfect for a relaxing end to your trip. Recommended Itinerary Enter the park at Longquan Cultural Square → Stroll along the Longquan Ten-Mile Corridor, taking photos of the Nine Dragons Spouting Water → Visit the Dalongkou Spring → Cascading Waterfall → Visit the Longquan Temple (ancient stage and cliff inscriptions) → Visit the Wild Mushroom Museum → Take a walk around Nantun Lake to conclude your trip. Travel Tips 1. The trails within the park are long; comfortable, non-slip flat shoes are recommended. The forest is dense with vegetation, so bring mosquito repellent. 2. The temperature in the forest is lower than in the city; even in the height of summer, a light jacket is recommended. 3. Only visit the established trails; do not enter undeveloped dense forests. 4. You can plan a one-day self-driving route through Yimen combining Longquan Forest Park and the Green Juice River. 5. Visitor numbers increase slightly during holidays; weekdays offer a quieter environment. Yunnan Central Forest and Spring Secret Realm | Yimen Longquan National Forest Park Travel Guide Longquan National Forest Park is located in the western suburbs of Yimen County, Yuxi City, and is a 4A-level ecological tourism scenic area. With a forest coverage rate of 99%, it boasts ancient springs, hidden temples, and a ten-mile-long corridor stretching over 3,000 meters along the stream. Integrating mountains, forests, clear springs, ancient architecture, and mushroom culture, it is a free treasure trove for oxygen-rich air, summer retreats, and leisurely strolls around Kunming. Basic Travel Information Opening Hours: 08:00-18:00 Admission: The main area of ​​the park is free; the Bird Park requires a separate fee, and the Wild Mushroom Museum is free. Suggested Visit Duration: 3-4 hours Best Time to Visit: All year round. July and August are ideal for escaping the summer heat and coinciding with the wild mushroom season; the misty atmosphere after rain creates the best ambiance for the water features; the soft morning light is perfect for taking photos. Transportation Guide By Car: Navigate to Longquan National Forest Park (East Gate Longquan Cultural Square). It takes approximately 1.5 hours from Kunming and about 1 hour from Yuxi city. Free parking is available within the scenic area, and road conditions are good. By Public Transportation: Take a bus to Yimen Bus Station. A 10-minute taxi ride will take you to the main entrance of the scenic area. Local buses also reach nearby areas. Key Attractions 1. Longquan Ten-Mile Corridor: 3160 meters long, known as the longest corridor in Asia. The corridor winds along the stream, adorned with murals and couplets, and built along the water's edge. Strolling along the corridor, the stream flows beneath your feet, ancient trees provide shade, and the entire walk is gentle and easy. The Nine Dragons Spitting Water sculpture is a landmark photo spot. 2. Dalongkou Spring: The source of the thousand-year-old Longquan Spring, the spring water flows continuously year-round, making it a source of mountain spring water in Yunnan. The area around the spring is tranquil and cool, with the sound of flowing water, the essence of the entire park. 3. Cascading Waterfalls: The stream cascades down the mountain rocks in layers, forming multiple waterfalls. In the early morning and after rain, the rising mist creates a refreshing coolness, making it a top choice for summer retreats. 4. Longquan Temple: An ancient temple from the Qing Dynasty, nestled deep in the greenery. The temple grounds retain an ancient stage, the "Moonlit Breeze Pavilion," and exquisitely carved wooden structures, exuding a timeless charm. The inscription "Jingmi Pingquan" on the stone wall is a well-known local cultural relic. 5. Wild Mushroom Museum: Yimen is known as the hometown of wild mushrooms in China. The museum displays various wild mushroom specimens, provides information on fungi, and also features dinosaur fossils, offering insights into the ancient geological history of this land. 6. Bird Park: Covering an area of ​​over 13,000 square meters, the park is home to thousands of birds, including peacocks and pheasants, allowing for close-up birdwatching and making it ideal for family visits. 7. Nantun Lake Lakeside Trail The lake water is crystal clear, and the metasequoia forest is lush. A leisurely stroll around the lake offers panoramic views of Yimen County, perfect for a relaxing end to your trip. Recommended Itinerary Enter the park at Longquan Cultural Square → Stroll along the Longquan Ten-Mile Corridor, taking photos of the Nine Dragons Spouting Water → Visit the Dalongkou Spring → Cascading Waterfall → Visit the Longquan Temple (ancient stage and cliff inscriptions) → Visit the Wild Mushroom Museum → Take a walk around Nantun Lake to conclude your trip. Travel Tips 1. The trails within the park are long; comfortable, non-slip flat shoes are recommended. The forest is dense with vegetation, so bring mosquito repellent. 2. The temperature in the forest is lower than in the city; even in the height of summer, a light jacket is recommended. 3. Only visit the established trails; do not enter undeveloped dense forests. 4. You can plan a one-day self-driving route through Yimen combining Longquan Forest Park and the Green Juice River. 5. The number of visitors increases slightly during holidays, while the environment is quieter on weekdays.

August 8, 2026. Driving through the mountains under the scorching sun, I finally arrived at the Lvzhi Slope Observation Deck! The moment I first saw Little Lvzhi, all the bumps along the way were worth it. Standing on the observation deck and looking out, the mountain road winds like a giant dragon through the hills, and the Lvzhi River flows quietly, like an emerald ribbon winding between the mountains. There are no crowds here, only the quiet and magnificence of nature. With the mountain breeze on my face and the symphony of birds and wind in my ears 🎵, I feel completely healed~ 📍Check-in Tips: Lvzhi Slope Observation Deck Address: X313, Yimen County, Yuxi City, Yunnan Province Opening hours: Open all day, all year round Navigation: Search for "Lvzhi Slope Observation Deck" in your navigation app to get here. The road conditions are good, but there are many curves, so it is recommended for experienced drivers. If you also want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and take a spontaneous, off-the-beaten-path trip, Lvzhi Town is definitely your best choice! There is no commercial hustle here, only a pristine landscape painting.

Starting from Jinda Hotel✨ A travel photo diary of our trip to retro Lvzhi📸 ▪️🌙 Stayed at Jinda Hotel the night before. The comfortable room helped wash away the daily fatigue, leaving me well-rested and full of energy for the next day's trip to Lvzhi. Parking was convenient, making the self-driving trip stress-free🚗 ▪️⛰️ Drove from Yuxi, winding along the mountain roads toward the retro town of Lvzhi hidden in the canyon. The mountains stretched endlessly along the way, offering healing views of the wilderness, with the mountain breeze blowing through the car window🌬️ ▪️📌 Arrived at the Lvzhi Slope Observation Deck to check out the 72 Bends. The winding mountain roads spread out across the valley. Overlooking the magnificent canyon landscape, the winding roads make for atmospheric road trip photos, with the mountain and river scenery in full view🌄 ▪️🏭 Stepped into the old town of Lvzhi and instantly traveled back to the 70s and 80s. Once a bustling copper capital in central Yunnan, the mottled red brick buildings and old residential blocks are filled with a retro, nostalgic industrial vibe. Every street corner is perfect for photos📷 ▪️📻 Visited the popular Tape Recorder Cafe. Filled with vintage items from the past, the retro atmosphere is spot on. Sat down to rest, felt the slow and relaxed pace of the town, and immersed myself in the romance of the old days☕ ▪️🎞️ Strolled through the old streets, visited the old supply and marketing cooperative and the vintage cinema. With old walls and retro slogans, the traces of time are everywhere. It's easy to take Hong Kong-style or retro photos and feel the unique, down-to-earth charm of the town ▪️🌊 Walked to the Lvzhi River, stepped onto the Sanjiachang Suspension Bridge. The river breeze blew gently. Looking at the emerald green water and the green mountains on both sides, the canyon scenery was open and healing. With the landscape as a backdrop, I captured some gentle and unique travel photos ▪️🍜 Tasted authentic local home-cooked dishes in the town. The simple, down-to-earth flavors let me experience the slow-paced life of the locals. Leaving behind the hustle and bustle of the city, I enjoyed a cozy short getaway ▪️🌇 After a fun day, returned to Jinda Hotel, ending a fulfilling one-day trip. Back in the comfortable room to rest, I cherished the wonderful memories of the journey❤️

Honestly, before going to Yuxi, I thought it was just a small city you'd overlook while passing through Kunming. After staying for 4 days, when friends asked me where the most fun place in Yunnan is, I blurted out: Yuxi. It's not that Dali isn't good, it's just that Yuxi is too underrated. ① Fuxian Lake · Luchong | 15 yuan for a piece of glass sea 🌊 📍 Luchong Village, Chengjiang City, Yuxi City 🎫 15 yuan/person (Free entry before 8:00 AM or after 6:00 PM) Fuxian Lake is the third-largest deep-water lake in Yunnan. The water is so clear you can see the white sand and stones at the bottom; it's no exaggeration that locals call it "glass water." Luchong is the most classic entrance on the west bank. Pay 15 yuan to enter, climb up Bijia Mountain to overlook the entire lake surface—that blue isn't something you can get with a filter. Boxi Bay has fewer people and clear water. Rent a paddleboard by the lake and paddle out; looking down at the water, which is over 10 meters deep, is both scary and fascinating. Must-eats: Copper pot potato rice is 10 yuan a bowl, with crispy scorched rice and fragrant ham; copper pot fish is 30–50 yuan per person, and the fish cooked in lake water is incredibly fresh. ② Ailao Mountain · Sea of Clouds Sunrise Viewing Platform | Is it worth waking up at 4:00 AM 🌄 📍 Yaonan Village, Gasa Town, Xinping County, Yuxi City, Sea of Clouds Sunrise Viewing Platform 🎫 Free (Parking is about 10 yuan/day) This was the most hesitant part of my trip. Leaving Gasa Town at 4:00 AM to drive up the mountain road in total darkness, I was nervous. But the moment the sun burst through the clouds, all my sleepiness vanished. The sea of clouds isn't static; it surges forward in waves, with distant mountains peeking out and then retreating back into the clouds. The best viewing period is from November in autumn/winter to March of the following year; whether you'll see it in summer depends on luck. Practical advice: The mountain roads are narrow, so don't drive yourself if you're a beginner; booking a local car is safer. It's cold on the mountain, so bring a jacket. ③ Chengjiang Fossil Site Museum | This is what "we" looked like 530 million years ago 🦐 📍 No. 14 Cambrian Avenue, Huanhu North Road, Yousuo Town, Chengjiang City, Yuxi City 🎫 Free (Reservation required in advance, closed on Mondays) Honestly, I didn't have high expectations for the museum. After entering and standing in front of that fossil wall, I fell silent. Cambrian creatures from 530 million years ago—trilobites, anomalocaris—were densely sealed in the stone, preserved as if they had just died yesterday. There's an interactive area where you can use tools to simulate fossil excavation; I squatted there playing for almost half an hour. When I came out, I kept thinking: Did we really evolve from these things? Note: Last entry at 4:00 PM, don't go too late. The museum has paleontology-themed ice cream, which is great for photos. ④ Tonghai Xiushan | Explore a "mountain of plaques and sea of couplets" for 10 yuan 📜 📍 No. 49 Wenxianli, Xiushan Town, Tonghai County, Yuxi City 🎫 10 yuan/person Xiushan is less than 1,800 meters above sea level, so it's not hard to climb, but what's on the mountain is not simple. The Ming and Qing dynasty ancient building complex is layered and hidden among ancient cypress trees, with so many plaques and couplets that it's called a "mountain of plaques and sea of couplets." What impressed me most was the platform behind Yongjin Temple; looking down, the entire Tonghai Basin and Qilu Lake spread out before you, and the view opens up instantly. The ancient town of Tonghai at the foot of the mountain doesn't charge an entrance fee either. There are few tourists on the bluestone roads, and the scallion pancakes sold by the grandma on the street are crispy and fragrant. ⑤ Yimen Lvzhi Town | Accidentally wandered into the 80s, no one will rush you away 🏚️ 📍 Lvzhi Town, Yimen County, Yuxi City 🎫 Free The last spot goes to this place because it's so special. Lvzhi Town is an old copper mining base. The entire street of Soviet-style old factories, old cinemas, and old guesthouses has been preserved. Walking on the street feels like traveling back to the 80s. When the phoenix flowers bloom from May to June, the red flowers cover the rusty factory area, and that contrast between "flowers and steel" looks great in any photo. If you come in autumn or winter, wake up early and drive up the 72-turn mountain road to the Lvzhi Slope Viewing Platform to see the sea of clouds filling the valley; it's more stunning than many paid scenic spots. Reminder: The mountain roads have many curves and are not suitable for beginner drivers. There are guesthouses and inns in the town, so you can stay for a night and explore slowly. A few final sincere words: Yuxi is not for rushing. You need to soak in Fuxian Lake slowly, wait for the clouds at Ailao Mountain, calm your mind to see the fossil site, and climb Xiushan layer by layer. Each place isn't expensive, but the experience they provide is much more substantial than many internet-famous spots.

My business trip to Yuxi was truly healing! No rushing through the itinerary. I stayed at Jinda Hotel to rest and took some time to visit Yimen Longquan Forest Park. It’s half poetic ancient architecture, half lush forest green✨. I turned a hectic business trip into a short getaway~ Whenever I travel for work, I prioritize accommodation comfort! I really have to praise Yuxi Jinda Hotel💼. The location is super convenient, and the drive to Yimen has great road conditions the whole way. The room is clean and tidy, and the soundproofing is excellent—it's super quiet when I return after a busy day. The bedding is soft and fluffy; I shed my fatigue the moment I lie down. The amenities are also very complete, with a gym, sky garden, and laundry room. It's suitable for both business and leisure, making the stay experience top-notch! After resting, I set off for Yimen Forest Park, which is truly a hidden gem in central Yunnan🌿. It's free to enter! It’s uncrowded and beautiful, so there’s no need to worry about crowds. It’s open all day from 8:00 AM–6:00 PM, perfect for light hiking and slow wandering. I've put together a super stress-free itinerary👇 Longquan Square > Nine Dragons Spouting Water > Dieshui Waterfall > Ten-Mile Waterfront Corridor > Longquan Temple > Nantun Lake Walking slowly along the bluestone path, the lush forest fills your eyes, and the air is so fresh it feels like an oxygen boost. The strontium-rich water flowing from the thousand-year-old spring is crystal clear. The mist-shrouded Dieshui Waterfall after the rain is incredibly atmospheric. The Qing Dynasty Longquan Temple is antique, and the wooden carved ancient architecture is full of charm. The corridor is built along the water, and every photo you take looks like a forest-style blockbuster📸. No need to rush to attractions. Just enjoy the mountain breeze, listen to the tinkling of the stream, and find a sense of quiet relaxation near the city. The best part of a business trip is staying comfortably and relaxing. If you come to Yuxi for travel/business, I highly recommend booking Jinda Hotel, visiting the hidden forest gem in Yimen, and unlocking a slow, healing experience~

🗺 Basic travel information 📍 Location: Lvzhi Town, Yimen County, Yuxi City (National industrial heritage · Yimen copper mine) 🎫 The whole town is free to enter 🆓, no main ticket required ⏰ Best travel periods ✅ Mid-May to mid-late June: phoenix flowers in full bloom, peak beauty of the year ✅ Oct–Dec: early mornings often have canyon sea of clouds, comfortable climate ❌ Jul–Aug rainy season, frequent showers, watch for falling rocks 💌 Recommended duration: day trip|2 days 1 night if time allows 🚗 Transportation guide (self-driving preferred) ✅ About 2h from Kunming; 1.5h from Yuxi city center Two route options: 1. For photography lovers: highway → Lvzhi slope viewing platform (overlooking the full 72 bends) → descend the winding mountain road into town ⚠️ Continuous sharp turns, nearly 1,000m elevation drop, prone to motion sickness! No stopping on curves 2. Motion sickness friendly route: highway all the way to Lvzhi town center, no 72 bends descent ✅ Public transport: buses run from Yimen county bus station to Lvzhi town, limited frequency and flexibility 📸 Must-visit spots 1. Lvzhi slope viewing platform 🔥 top photo spot Overlooks the 72 bends mountain road and Lvzhi River canyon panorama. Stunning sea of clouds after rain in the early morning, perfect for drone shots; sunrise and sunset lighting create great atmosphere. 2. Phoenix avenue (May–June only) The entire street is covered with blooming phoenix trees, fiery red flowers paired with red brick Su-style old buildings. The main filming street for "Good Times." Still great for vintage street photography outside flower season. 3. Industrial heritage vintage district ▫️ Soviet expert building (Dian Copper culture museum): learn about the century-old copper mine history ▫️ Lvzhi old cinema, workers’ club: well-preserved 1980s mining cinema ▫️ Red brick miner dormitories, old supply and marketing cooperative site, giant retro radio installation, period slogans everywhere 4. Sanjia factory suspension bridge & Muben bridge Crosses the Lvzhi River, the rusty iron bridge has a strong ruin vibe, cool river breeze, great for photos by the river. 5. Lvzhi park & Liberation old street Local residential area, retains old shops and Xinhua bookstore, full of simple everyday life atmosphere. 🗺 Two travel routes ▫️ Route ① [One-day simplified|suitable for same-day return] Depart Kunming → check in at Lvzhi slope viewing platform for 72 bends → enter town Photo at Phoenix avenue → stroll old cinema and Su-style buildings → Sanjia factory suspension bridge Lunch in town, return in the afternoon as needed ▫️ Route ② [2 days 1 night deep slow travel] Day 1: arrive in town, explore vintage old street, Phoenix avenue, Dian Copper culture museum; evening riverside walk, stay overnight in town Day 2: early morning wait at viewing platform for sea of clouds sunrise → Muben bridge → leisurely return 🍜 Local food recommendations ✔ Copper pot sour soup pig’s feet (Lvzhi specialty) ✔ Beef soup pot, Yimen wild mushroom hot pot (must-eat in rainy season) ✔ Cold rolled rice noodles, cold rice noodles, potato cakes ✔ Pubei fermented black beans, Dini ham make good souvenirs ✨ Outfit and photo tips ▪️ Style recommendations: Hong Kong style, vintage workwear, denim, simple light-colored long dresses ▪️ Phoenix flower season: white and beige clothes contrast strongly with red flowers, very photogenic ▪️ Essentials: sunscreen, sun hat; big temperature difference between day and night in the mountains, bring a light jacket; carry mosquito repellent in summer 💡 Practical tips to avoid pitfalls 1. 72 bends are numerous, drive carefully and slowly, no overtaking on curves! Bring motion sickness medicine if prone 2. Limited parking at viewing platform, try to start early on weekends and flower season 3. The town still has indigenous residents, do not enter private homes without permission, visit old buildings respectfully 4. Some old factory areas are overgrown with weeds, watch your step, do not climb abandoned buildings 5. Sudden showers common in rainy season, carry rain gear; strong river winds, stay safe 6. No large supermarkets, prepare supplies in advance 🌟 Summary Once a bustling "Central Yunnan copper capital," now a mining town frozen in the 1980s 🏭 On one side is the breathtaking canyon mountain road, on the other the red brick old street and phoenix flower sea, a treasure destination for vintage lovers and photographers!

Has the August heatwave already baked you? 🔥 Stop hiding in the air-conditioned room all day. These 5 summer-only magical destinations are each breathtaking. Pack your bags and go now! 👇 📍 Liaoning · Dalian — the romantic seaside city with 25℃ breeze Surrounded by sea on three sides, Dalian, the "Pearl of the North," has an average summer temperature of about 25℃! The sea breeze instantly cools the heat away. 🌟 Top 4 must-dos: ① Xinghai Square (free) — Asia’s largest city square. Feed seagulls at dusk and watch the sunset over the cross-sea bridge for maximum romance! ② Bangchuidao Island (20 CNY) — crystal-clear waters, known as "Little Sanya of Dalian." ③ Laohutan Ocean Park (220 CNY) — watch beluga and dolphin shows, a must for family trips. ④ Jinshitan National Geopark (60 CNY) — capture stunning coastal erosion landscapes. Sightseeing bus 20 CNY saves your feet. 🍴 Top 3 must-eats: sea urchin dumplings (40 CNY per person), spicy stir-fried clams (50 CNY per person), teppanyaki squid (20 CNY per person) — seafood feast guaranteed! 🏠 Accommodation: luxury options near Xinghai Square/East Port with sea views (600–1,200 CNY/night); budget-friendly quick hotels in Qingniwa Bridge area (200–400 CNY/night). 🚄 Transport: high-speed train to “Dalian Station” or “Dalian North Station” (about 4.5 hours from Beijing); self-drive via Shenhai Expressway about 8 hours. · -- 📍 Gansu · Shandan — 10,000-acre rapeseed flower sea under Qilian Mountains August exclusive! Shandan Military Horse Farm in Hexi Corridor is blooming with 10,000 acres of rapeseed flowers! Golden flower sea + Qilian snow mountains + galloping horses — the scene is unreal. 🌟 Top 4 must-dos: ① Shandan Military Horse Farm (ticket with sightseeing bus 75–95 CNY) — Asia’s largest military horse farm, filming location of "Wolf Totem," horseback riding from 100 CNY! ② Viewing platform No. 2 (included in ticket) — widest view, perfect for panoramic shots. ③ Yanzhishan Forest Park — pristine forest on Qilian’s northern slope, hiking and fresh air therapy. ④ General Biaoqi’s camp (included in ticket) — watch the spectacular scene of thousands of horses drinking water. 🍴 Top 3 must-eats: hand-pulled lamb (60 CNY per person), yak yogurt (15 CNY per person), Shandan stir-fried pasta (30 CNY per person) — authentic northwest flavors! 🏠 Accommodation: luxury at Huai Creek Town Resort Hotel in the horse farm area (400–800 CNY/night); budget at farm guesthouse or town homestays (100–200 CNY/night). 🚄 Transport: high-speed train to “Shandan Horse Farm Station” (about 2.5 hours from Lanzhou), then carpool to the park; self-drive via Lianhuo Expressway about 4 hours. · -- 📍 Sichuan · Liangshan — the “Oriental carnival” of the Torch Festival The hottest destination in August! Liangshan Yi Torch Festival features thousands holding torches parading and dancing around bonfires, an electrifying scene that gives you goosebumps! The event lasts until mid-August, with a massive torch carnival in Xichang on August 8. 🌟 Top 4 must-dos: ① Torch Square (free to join Torch Festival events) — live drama "A Je Niu," intangible cultural heritage displays, bonfire celebrations. ② Qionghai Wetland — drift on bamboo rafts through lotus ponds in this dreamlike water town, the breeze carries the lotus fragrance for a refreshing experience. ③ Lushan Mountain — panoramic view of Qionghai, pray at the thousand-year-old Guangfu Temple. ④ Jianchang Ancient City — 600-year-old historic city, stunning nighttime lighting atmosphere. 🍴 Top 3 must-eats: Yi-style tuotuo meat (50 CNY per person), Xichang firepot barbecue (70 CNY per person), Jianchang smoked duck (40 CNY per person) — big bites of meat for full satisfaction! 🏠 Accommodation: luxury lakeside resorts by Qionghai (500–1,000 CNY/night) with lake views; budget quick hotels in the city center (200–400 CNY/night). 🚄 Transport: high-speed train to “Xichang West Station” (about 3 hours from Chengdu); self-drive via Yaxi Expressway about 5 hours. · -- 📍 Yunnan · Yimen — dive into the forest for a “mushroom blind box” experience August in Yimen, Yunnan’s “mushroom hometown,” is the freshest season of the year! Follow a guide into the mountains to pick mushrooms — dried mushrooms, matsutake, boletus… a basket full of wild mountain flavors! 🌟 Top 4 must-dos: ① Mushroom picking experience (100–200 CNY per person including guide) — immersive mushroom hunting, learn to identify wild varieties. ② Longquan National Forest Park (free) — hike through the primeval forest, see cascading waterfalls, a natural oxygen bar for lung cleansing. ③ Yimen Wild Mushroom Museum (free) — visit over 290 wild mushroom specimens, unlock mushroom knowledge. ④ Wild mushroom market (free) — browse the unique mushroom market, buy fresh mountain delicacies until you drop. 🍴 Top 3 must-eats: dried mushroom fried rice (35 CNY per person), wild mushroom stewed native chicken (60 CNY per person), full mushroom banquet (80 CNY per person) — unbelievably fresh! 🏠 Accommodation: luxury at Kailong Smart Hotel or Botao Choice (300–500 CNY/night); budget local inns and homestays (100–200 CNY/night). 🚄 Transport: high-speed train to “Kunming Station” then bus to Yimen (about 1.5 hours from Kunming); self-drive via Kunmo Expressway about 1.5 hours. · -- 📍 Guangdong · Yangjiang Hailing Island — affordable “Oriental Hawaii” Don’t want to squeeze into Sanya? Check out Yangjiang Hailing Island in Guangdong! Clear water, white sand, affordable seafood, short high-speed train ride — perfect for a spontaneous weekend trip! 🌟 Top 4 must-dos: ① Shili Silver Beach (free) — fine sand, gentle waves, barefoot water walking is super comfortable. ② Beiluo Secret Mountain Park (80 CNY including cliff pool sightseeing) — cliff pool with stunning sea views, free entry with hotel stay in the scenic area. ③ Mawei Island (free) — best spot to watch the sunset, the sun casting over the sea is breathtaking. ④ Dajiao Bay (about 50 CNY) — beach and water park, top choice for kids to play in the water. 🍴 Top 3 must-eats: pig intestine roll (15 CNY per person), seafood platter (80 CNY per person), goose rice (25 CNY per person) — affordable seafood feast to the point of bursting! 🏠 Accommodation: luxury at Beiluo Secret Resort Hotel (500–900 CNY/night); budget homestays in Zha Po Town (150–300 CNY/night). 🚄 Transport: high-speed train to “Yangjiang Station” (about 1.5 hours from Guangzhou), taxi 50 minutes to the island; self-drive via Shenhai Expressway about 3 hours. · -- If not leaving in August, when else?! Tag your travel buddy and pick one to go! 💨

Who knows! Discovered a hidden gem in Yunnan with few people, beautiful scenery, and free admission! It has the vicissitudes of a national industrial heritage and the passionate romance of May's phoenix flowers. Perfect for self-driving, photography, and nostalgic check-ins all in one place✨ 🔥Five irresistible reasons 🏭 National Industrial Heritage · Dian Copper Ancient Town Once known as the "Copper Capital of Central Yunnan," the old site of Yimen Copper Mine is very significant! Soviet-style old buildings, mottled red brick walls, old factory buildings, old cinemas... Every corner is engraved with the time marks of the 1980s, instantly transporting you back to the passionate era. 🌺 May Exclusive · Phoenix Flowers in Full Bloom May to June is the highlight season of Lvzhi Town! Phoenix flowers bloom passionately all over the streets, their red reflecting the valley, warm and healing. The bright red petals fall on retro buildings, a gentle clash between industrial toughness and a sea of flowers, every shot is a masterpiece📸. 🛣️ 72 Turns · The Ultimate Self-Driving Road An incredibly stunning mountain road with 72 turns and 108 bends! Drive along and overlook the canyon and sea of clouds, surrounded by green mountains and rolling mist, the view is breathtaking. The curves are thrilling but the scenery is stunning, a must for self-driving enthusiasts! 🏘️ Retro Atmosphere · Instantly Travel Back to the 1980s The whole street is full of nostalgic vibes, with supply and marketing cooperatives, old shops, retro slogans... Authentic vintage feel, no commercialization, perfect for photography. Filming location of "Good Times," the atmosphere is fully immersive! 🌿 Lvzhi River · Tranquil Mountains and Waters The Lvzhi River winds gently, embraced by green mountains on both sides, peaceful and serene. Feel the river breeze and see the mountains reflected in the water, full of healing vibes. 📍 Practical Tips ✅ Address: Lvzhi Town, Yimen County, Yuxi, Yunnan ✅ Transportation: About 2h direct drive from Kunming, good road conditions ✅ Best Time: May-June (Phoenix flowers), October-December (sea of clouds) ✅ Admission: Free! Free! Free! ✅ Dress Code: Retro style, Hong Kong style, workwear style, very fitting Avoid the crowds, come to Lvzhi Town Experience the industrial heritage and the romance of the flower sea Unlock the unique charm of Yunnan's lesser-known secret spots🌺

🏷 Tags: 72 Turns Devil’s Road | Phoenix Flower Avenue | Diantong Vintage Industrial Town 📍 Location: Lvzhi Town, Yimen County, Yuxi City 🎫 Free admission at all spots ⏰ Best time to see phoenix flowers: mid-May to late June 🅿 Free parking available in town and at the viewing platform 1. Self-driving routes (two main navigation options) What to see in Lvzhi in August? ✅ Still worth visiting, just change your flower viewing target: 1. Sunflower fields (open in late August) Along the main road in Dalvzhi Village, vast sunflower fields create a golden valley perfect for photos 2. Vintage industrial town check-in Lvzhi old cinema, Soviet expert building, supply and marketing cooperative, old red brick buildings—vintage atmosphere unaffected by flower season 3. 72 Turns viewing platform open as usual Overlook the valley, Lvzhi River Bridge, and the winding mountain road canyon scenery, which is not limited by season 4. Lush greenery during the rainy season, with wide river views August travel tips 1. If you’re not chasing phoenix flowers, feel free to visit; to see the fiery phoenix flowers, wait until May–June next year 2. August is the rainy season, with frequent showers in the mountains—bring rain gear 3. For those prone to motion sickness, it’s best to navigate directly to Lvzhi Grand Hotel to avoid the 72 turns 4. Large temperature differences between day and night; evenings by the river can be cool—bring a light jacket About 1 hour 45 minutes from Kunming, all on the highway ✅ Option A (for those wanting a full view of the 72 turns, photography enthusiasts) Navigate to: Lvzhi Slope Viewing Platform From the platform, overlook the entire 72-turn mountain road, Lvzhi River Bridge, and get a panoramic view of Lvzhi Town ⚠️ Downhill from here is the continuous sharp turns of the 72 turns, with dense curves and steep drops—very likely to cause motion sickness! Not recommended for those prone to it. Bring motion sickness medicine. Drive slowly and do not occupy other lanes or park randomly on the roadside ✅ Option B (best for those prone to motion sickness) Navigate directly to: Lvzhi Grand Hotel Take the highway straight to town, avoiding the dangerous mountain curves, arriving comfortably in town—suitable for elderly and those prone to motion sickness 💡 Loop suggestion: enter town via highway, return via the 72 Turns viewing platform for a downhill view and better experience 2. Must-visit spots 1. Lvzhi Slope Viewing Platform Top photo spot! Perfect for aerial shots and photos. The winding road looks like a giant dragon coiled in the valley. After morning rain, you might see a sea of clouds in the mountains. 2. Phoenix Flower Avenue (main street of the town) During flower season, the entire street blooms with fiery phoenix flowers, paired with 1980s vintage red brick buildings. Industrial style plus flower sea makes for great photos. Recommended to wear white or light colors. 3. Vintage industrial check-in spots Giant radio installation, old supply and marketing cooperative site, old mining bureau building, Soviet expert building, Lvzhi cinema—all full of nostalgic vibes. 4. Sanjia Factory Suspension Bridge Spanning the Lvzhi River with wide river views. A less crowded photo spot. The bridge can be windy—walk slowly and stay safe. 3. One-day itinerary recommendations Route 1 | Comfortable version for those not prone to motion sickness Depart Kunming → highway straight to Lvzhi Grand Hotel → stroll and take photos on Phoenix Flower Avenue → check in at vintage old street and industrial sites → lunch with local home-style dishes → Sanjia Factory Suspension Bridge → return at a suitable time Route 2 | Full version for photography enthusiasts Depart Kunming → Lvzhi Slope Viewing Platform (shoot panoramic 72 turns) → drive down the mountain road to Lvzhi Town → Phoenix Flower Avenue and vintage factory area → riverside suspension bridge → wait for sunset at the viewing platform 4. Food recommendations Local specialties: Pubei lamb, farmhouse dishes, cold rice noodles, wild mushrooms (rainy season) Recommended old shops in town with affordable prices 5. Important travel tips 1. The 72 turns are continuous sharp curves. If prone to motion sickness, prioritize the highway route straight to town. Avoid forcing the mountain road. 2. Strong UV rays in the mountains—bring sunscreen and a hat. Summer has lots of vegetation—bring insect repellent. 3. Drive slowly and carefully on curves. Safety first. Parking at the viewing platform is limited—arrive early on weekends. 4. Phoenix flowers only bloom in May and June. No flower sea in other seasons—plan your trip accordingly. 5. Large temperature differences between day and night. Evenings by the river can be cool—bring a light jacket.

Two-Day Itinerary Day 1 09:00 Arrive at Yimen Wild Mushroom Museum, visit the giant mushroom installation and wild mushroom specimen exhibition hall, and learn about fungi. 12:00 Enjoy wild mushroom cuisine in Yimen. 14:30 Proceed to Yuxi city center, visit Nie Er Square, and take photos of the Nie Er violin sculpture. 16:00 Stroll along Xiaomiao Street, visit Wenxing Pavilion, and take photos along the old street. 18:30 Explore local snacks on Xiaomiao Street, and stay overnight in the city center. Day 2 09:00 Proceed to Hongtashan (Hongta Park), visit the ancient red pagoda and the landmark of "Hometown of Chinese Tobacco," and visit the tobacco science exhibition area. 13:00 Dinner near Hongtashan. 15:00 After the tour, you can drive to Fuxian Lake for further exploration. Food, Drinks, and Entertainment ✅Local Delicacies: Wild mushroom hot pot, Yimen braised tofu, Yuxi cold rice noodles, iced rice porridge, eel rice noodles, candied winter melon; Xiaomiao Street is a hub for various local snacks, making it convenient for shopping and eating. ✅Shopping Souvenirs: Yimen dried mushrooms, Yuxi pastries. ✅Leisure: The large lawn in Hongta Park is suitable for casual picnics; Xiaomiao Street has a strong local atmosphere and is suitable for city walks. Accommodation Recommendations 1. Hotels in the city center of Hongta District: Close to Nie Er Square and Xiaomiao Street, convenient for dining and transportation, the first choice. 2. For those seeking a quieter environment, consider boutique guesthouses nearby; for short trips, staying in Yimen is not recommended as it is a long drive to and from the city center. Avoidance Guidelines 1. When tasting wild mushrooms, always choose reputable restaurants and do not eat unknown mushrooms; safety first. 2. The Yimen Wild Mushroom Museum is about a 40-minute drive from Yuxi city center; plan your journey accordingly and allow ample time for sightseeing. 3. Hongta Park is free to enter; do not trust those offering paid directions on the street. 4. Xiaomiao Street is crowded and parking is limited during holidays; prioritize public transportation. 5. UV radiation is strong in the mountains and parks during the day; take precautions against sunburn. Yunnan experiences large temperature differences between day and night; bring a light jacket. 6. Do not climb on historical buildings (Wenxing Pavilion, Hongta) when taking photos; abide by park regulations. Spotlights in the map: Yimen Wild Mushroom Museum, Giant Mushroom Exhibition Hall, Wild Mushroom Specimen Exhibition Area; Nie Er Square; Xiaomiao Street, Wenxing Pavilion; Hongta Park, Hongta Ancient Pagoda, Tobacco Science Popularization Exhibition Area, China's Tobacco Hometown Scenic Spot.

Finally got to eat at this restaurant in Cuihu Park! Perfect for dates and gatherings. No need for further explanation, every corner of the restaurant is photogenic. The lights along the lake gradually illuminate, like a scene from a movie. The swaying lotus blossoms of Cuihu Park, combined with the century-old Yunnan Military Academy, create a picturesque scene. · Their wild mushrooms are sourced daily from Yimen, Fumin, and Dongchuan. The porcini mushrooms are tender and meaty, while the termite mushrooms are uniquely sweet. Freshly sliced ​​beef, cooked to perfection in a mushroom broth, is creamy and flavorful. The Cantonese chef's braised baby squid with green-headed mushrooms is light yet incredibly fresh. The dried mushroom and pork chop rice is irresistible with its aroma. The cheese pull is incredibly comforting; I ate two bowls first! The jasmine handmade yogurt is made fresh with Dali water buffalo milk; the thick, rich, and silky milk skin is amazing! Everyone enjoyed a cup of hot pot, and couldn't put it down! Quiet and elegant atmosphere, excellent service, around 200+ RMB per person. The private rooms offer views of lush greenery, perfect for bringing parents or elders… Don't miss this meal when you're in Kunming! Remember to call ahead to book. · 📍: Nanshan Nan · Yunnan Wild Mushroom Hot Pot

When it comes to Yunnan, everyone rushes to Dali and Lijiang. But locals who know the area love heading to Yuxi on weekends—Kunming is only a 30-minute high-speed train ride away. It’s home to China’s deepest freshwater lake, Fuxian Lake (with water so clear you can see 7 to 8 meters down), the “natural oxygen bar” Ailao Mountain, and it’s the hometown of the people’s musician Nie Er. The best part is the low cost of living and uncrowded spaces, making a few relaxed days here especially enjoyable. Location: Yuxi is in central Yunnan (central Dian), governing Hongta District, Chengjiang, Jiangchuan, Tonghai, Huaning, Yimen, Xinping, and Yuanjiang. The main attractions focus on two large areas: **Fuxian Lake (Chengjiang) and Ailao Mountain (Xinping)**. 1. Best season March–May / September–November: Most comfortable, clear skies and blue water, avoiding the rainy season. Ideal for cycling around the lake, hiking, and watching the sea of clouds. June–August: Yuxi is cooler than Kunming, and Ailao Mountain is about 10℃ cooler than the city, making it a great summer retreat. However, there is more rain, and occasional landslides may block mountain roads, so check the weather before you go. Winter: Yuanjiang’s “Sun City” is warm like spring, perfect for enjoying fruit and hot springs. Caution: July–August is cool but rainy. Drive carefully on the winding mountain roads of Ailao Mountain and Nanno terraced fields during rain. 2. How to get there High-speed train: About 30 minutes from Kunming South Station to Yuxi Station. To reach Fuxian Lake, take the train from Kunming South to Yuxi and then transfer by car, or take the high-speed train toward Chengjiang from Kunming. Check 12306 for specific schedules and times. Self-drive: About 1 hour from Kunming to Yuxi city or Fuxian Lake. Driving around the lake and into the mountains offers the most freedom. Local transport: Renting an electric scooter around Fuxian Lake is recommended (much better than taxis). Attractions in the Ailao Mountain area are spread out, so consider chartering a car or driving yourself. 3. Where to stay Want lake views: Stay at a guesthouse or inn by Fuxian Lake (around Luchong, Xiaowan Village, Mafang Village), with lake views from your window and the sound of waves at night. For convenience: Stay in downtown Hongta District, close to dining, shopping, Nie Er’s former residence, and Qinghua Street. Taxis are also affordable. Mountain activities: Ailao Mountain (Jiasa in Xinping) has resort guesthouses and a hot pot street, perfect for a relaxed overnight stay. Budget reference: Guesthouses by Fuxian Lake cost 200–400 CNY per night, budget hotels downtown 150–250 CNY per night, generally affordable for Yunnan. Prices vary by booking platform and time. 4. How to plan your trip Route A | 2 days 1 night classic (must-do for first-timers) Day 1: Kunming → cycle around Fuxian Lake → hike Bijiashan in Luchong for panoramic views → watch sunset by the lake → copper pot fish dinner → stay lakeside. Day 2: Morning hike at Ailao Mountain’s Shimen Gorge (cool and refreshing) → afternoon visit Nie Er’s former residence + Qinghua Street in Yuxi city (try pottery making) → eat iced rice porridge and pounded chicken feet on Xiaomiao Street → return. Route B | 3–4 days slow travel (in-depth) Day 1: Cycle around Fuxian Lake (Luchong + Gushan Island + Moon Bay Beach) + stay lakeside. Day 2: Chengjiang Fossil Site World Natural Heritage Museum (500 million-year-old Cambrian fossils, a must for families) → hike Hongta Mountain for city views → Nie Er Square night scene. Day 3: Ailao Mountain day trip (Shimen Gorge + Nan’en Waterfall + Tea Horse Road) → Jiasa Huayao Dai village + hot pot. Day 4: Tonghai Xiushan + Tonghai Ancient City (Ming and Qing dynasty old streets, famous for rites and music) → return, with stops to buy Huaning citrus and Tonghai bean sugar. Tip: Most attractions like Fuxian Lake, Hongta Mountain, Nie Er’s former residence, and Tonghai Ancient City are free. Activities like sailing, boat tours, and Shimen Gorge have separate fees, priced on-site or officially. 5. Budget reference (per person) 2 days 1 night: about 500–800 CNY (including accommodation, meals, and transport; most tickets are free, sailing and boat tours extra). Meals: Eel rice noodles cost about 10 CNY per bowl, copper pot fish 50–60 CNY per person, wild mushroom hot pot 80–120 CNY per person. Overall, prices are budget-friendly. Transport: High-speed train round trip from Kunming costs a few dozen CNY, local electric scooter rentals cost a few dozen CNY per day. 6. Pitfall guide Ailao Mountain roads: Drive cautiously during rainy or foggy seasons; mountain roads are narrow and winding. Wear non-slip shoes for hiking, as stone steps get slippery after rain. Choose reputable restaurants for lake fish: Fuxian Lake restaurants serve fresh fish but vary in quality. Stick to official fishing farms and avoid roadside stalls to avoid risks. Sun protection + hydration: The highland lake has strong UV rays. Apply sunscreen and bring water when cycling around the lake. Don’t buy “antiques” in scenic spots: Qinghua Street offers pottery experiences, but so-called “old porcelain” and “antiques” are mostly replicas. Treat it as a fun experience. Altitude sickness: Ailao Mountain’s elevation is not very high, so altitude sickness is rare. Pace yourself when hiking. 7. What to bring Sunscreen, sunglasses, hat (essential for cycling around the lake) Non-slip sports shoes (for hiking Shimen Gorge / Xiushan) Light jacket (for mountains and cool mornings/evenings) Camera / phone with wide-angle lens (Fuxian Lake’s blue is stunning and photogenic) travel Lake Mountain off-the-beaten-path nearby trips Er hometown guide Yunnan trips lakes true colors

Who's still flocking to Dali and Xishuangbanna for summer relief? Just a two-hour drive from Kunming to Yimen, the average summer temperature is 6°C lower than in the city. Enjoy fresh forest air, cool waterfalls, and the freedom to enjoy wild mushrooms. Less crowded, beautiful scenery, and most attractions are free. Perfect for families, friends, and road trips – this is the ultimate summer destination in central Yunnan! 🌿 Day 1: Cool and Relaxing in the County Town | Fresh Air, Museum Visits + Mushroom Delicacies (Easy and Relaxing) 1. Longquan National Forest Park 🌳 (Free) With nearly 99% forest coverage, this is a natural giant air conditioner. A 3-kilometer-long, ten-mile-long waterfront promenade winds along the stream, with babbling water beneath your feet and ancient trees providing ample shade. Deeper in, visit Pearl Waterfall, where the mist washes over you, allowing you to cool off in the water without climbing. Hidden within the park is the century-old Longquan Temple, a tranquil spot for photos. The lawns and open spaces are perfect for picnics and relaxation. A one-stop destination for seniors to stroll and children to play in the water. 2. Wild Mushroom Museum 🍄 (Free) A must-visit in Yimen this summer! Over 400 varieties of wild mushroom specimens are neatly displayed, clearly distinguishing between edible and poisonous mushrooms. You can learn something new and eat mushrooms with peace of mind. The mushroom-shaped photo wall is perfect for pictures, and it's a great place to teach kids about nature, so they'll never have to worry about confusing different mushroom species again. Evening: Stroll along the Longquan River + Night Market in the County Town A gentle breeze ripples across the river, locals gather to chat, and the night market is filled with local snacks. Dinner is all about wild mushroom and chicken hot pot! Termitomyces, porcini, and milk cap mushrooms are cooked together in one pot. The broth is so delicious you'll want to drink three bowls! This is a long-established local favorite with excellent value; you can eat your fill for just 60 RMB per person. Day 2 Retro Hidden Gem + Rural Water Fun | Unlock Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences Morning: Lvzhi Dian Tong Ancient Town 📸 Just an hour's drive from the county seat, this town boasts old Soviet-style factories, a winding mountain road with 72 bends, and a suspension bridge-filled canyon atmosphere. The old cinema and red-brick buildings have an 80s retro filter, perfect for effortless film shots. Climb to the viewing platform for panoramic views of the canyon and sea of ​​clouds; the summer mist creates an immersive atmosphere. Afternoon: Xiajiangkou Lotus Wetland & Water Park 💦 Summer-limited lotus flowers bloom in abundance. Enjoy lotus pond fashion shows, muddy water fishing, water splashing fun, kayaking, and fishing. After a day of fun, enjoy a special lotus feast, with the gentle breeze and lively atmosphere of the lotus pond providing a refreshing and joyful experience. Lunch: Pubei Black Goat Feast 🐐 A century-old local specialty, featuring steamed goat with rice flour, cold goat slices, and goat offal hot pot. The meat is firm and without any gamey taste, perfectly complemented by Yimen fermented black beans—a must-try with rice. Many diners drive specifically to try it. Must-Try Food List (Local Secrets) 1. Wild Mushroom Hot Pot: Chicken/Old Goose broth, seasonal fresh mushrooms all in one pot. 2. Pubei Black Goat Feast: Multiple ways to enjoy goat meat, a safe bet. 3. Yimen Fermented Black Beans, Potato Cakes: Authentic street food. 4. Fried Chicken with Mushrooms, Dried Beef: Excellent souvenirs. Travel Tips (Real and Avoidable Mistakes) 📍Transportation: Approximately 2 hours drive from Kunming. Attractions in the county are concentrated, so driving is highly recommended. Convenient 💰Tickets: Longquan Park, Mushroom Museum, and the ancient town are all free; only amusement park rides are charged. ⏰Best Time: July-August, the rainy season, when the mushrooms are freshest and the summer heat is at its best. ⚠️Mushroom Eating Reminder: Make sure to cook mushrooms thoroughly. Do not eat wild or unidentified mushrooms. 🏨Accommodation: Stay at a hotel by the Longquan River; convenient for walks and dining. This summer, avoid the crowds and come to Yimen Mountain Forest for cool off, mushrooms, and water activities. Do you prefer a leisurely county tour or a retro ancient town visit? Share your summer travel preferences in the comments!

If you are visiting Yunnan in July and August, you are arriving right at the peak of the wild mushroom season! Yunnan is a true paradise for food lovers, and exploring its vibrant mushroom markets is an absolute must-do. Here is your featured guide to the 5 biggest and most worth-visiting wild mushroom markets across Kunming and nearby regions—covering wholesale, retail, and local tourist favorites so you can explore like a pro without any guesswork! 1. Mushiwa Wild Mushroom Trading Center | Kunming (木水花野生菌交易中心) What Makes It Special: Recognized as the largest wild mushroom distribution centreer in all of Asia. Location: No. 8, Fufa Road, Guandu District Best Time to Visit: 6:00 AM – 10:00 AM (for the absolute freshest catch) Highlights: The variety here is unmatched. It caters to both wholesale and retail buyers, and almost all vendors support vacuum-sealed cold chain shipping straight to your home across the country. 2. Nanhua International Wild Mushroom Trading Center | Chuxiong (南华国际野生菌交易中心) What Makes It Special: The single largest individual mushroom market in the country. Location: East side of the Nanhua Expressway Toll Station Best Time to Visit: 7:00 AM – 11:00 AM (direct supply from local mushroom farmers) Highlights: Source-origin pricing means mushrooms are remarkably fresh and affordable. This is the ultimate spot to achieve "mushroom freedom" on a budget. 3. Beiyuan Wild Mushroom Wholesale Market | Kunming (北苑野生菌批发市场) What Makes It Special: A hidden wholesale gem heavily favored by locals. Location: Beiyuan Market, Panlong District Highlights: High cost-performance ratio. It's a fantastic one-stop shop for both fresh mushrooms and dried mushroom goods, making it ideal for picking up unique edible souvenirs. 4. Yimen Wild Mushroom Market | Yuxi (易门野生菌市场) What Makes It Special: Located in the celebrated "Hometown of Wild Mushrooms in China." Location: Longquan Town, Yimen County Highlights: Specializes heavily in prized matsutake and porcini (bolete) mushrooms. Because it is a direct production source with zero middlemen, the prices are exceptionally sweet. 5. Zhuanxin Farmers' Market | Kunming (篆新农贸市场) What Makes It Special: The ultimate tourist-friendly market packed with local atmosphere. Location: Xinwen Road, Wuhua District Highlights: Overflowing with authentic local everyday life ("yan huo qi"). The mushrooms are neatly displayed, clearly priced with transparent tags, and perfect for travelers looking to buy smaller, curated quantities while sampling Kunming’s street food classics all in one go. ✨ Pro-Tips for Mushroom Hunting in Yunnan Peak Season: June to September, with July and August being the most abundant months. Go Early! Always aim for the morning hours when the mushrooms are at their freshest. Safety First: Wild mushrooms must be cooked thoroughly before eating, and remember: never mix wild mushrooms with alcohol! Easy Shipping: Nearly all of these markets offer on-site vacuum packaging and courier services so you can easily ship your finds home. #YunnanTravel #KunmingTravel #JaceOnTheMove #WildMushrooms #FoodieGuide #SummerInChina #TravelTips #MarketExplore

Foreword: A 3,000-Year Rendezvous with Copper When we think of Yunnan, we are often swept away by its snow-capped mountains, rainforests, ancient towns, and the fragrance of tea. Yet, few realize that this red soil, so favored by the Creator, also conceals an epic civilization with "copper as its veins." From the very first copper axe unearthed at Haimenkou in Jianchuan dating back to the late Shang and early Zhou dynasties, to the world-renowned Ox and Tiger Bronze Altar of the Warring States period; from the legendary copper merchants of the Ming and Qing dynasties who managed the "Ten-Thousand-Mile Capital Transport," to the creative copper pieces blossoming in the hands of modern intangible cultural heritage artisans—the story of Yunnan's copperware spans over 3,100 years without interruption. It is not merely a collection of cold artifacts sitting in a museum; it is the cultural DNA flowing through Yunnan's veins. It represents the daily life scenes engraved on bronze by the ancestors of the ancient Dian Kingdom, the legendary footprints of Ming and Qing copper merchants crossing mountains and rivers, and the dedication and innovation passed down by contemporary craftsmen. Unlike a superficial check-in tour, I spent 8 days on this in-depth Yunnan copperware journey. My footsteps covered the three core areas of Huize in Qujing, Jiangchuan in Yuxi, and Guandu in Kunming. I ventured into ancient mine ruins, artisan workshops, and museums, conversing with both veteran craftsmen and young inheritors. This was an immersive unlocking of the entire process—from raw ore to the finished product—exploring the origin codes, manufacturing ingenuity, and modern revival of Yunnan copperware. This post is over 7,000 words long and packed with valuable insights. It features deep historical tracing, highly practical travel guides, and untold stories of artisans. From the weathered remains of millennia-old mines to the clinking hammer strikes in manual workshops; from the civilization codes hidden in museum treasures to the trendy expressions of creative copperware, I will take you on a comprehensive journey to experience the charm of Yunnan copperware. This unlocks a whole new way to travel in Yunnan, perfect for in-depth travelers who love history, intangible cultural heritage, and artisanal culture. 📜 Origins: The 3,000-Year Cultural Thread of Yunnan Copperware — From Raw Ore to National Treasures To truly understand Yunnan copperware, one must trace its origins and development. The story begins with exceptionally rich mineral resources, flourishes through the integration of diverse cultures, prospers amid the bustling trade of copper merchants, and is carried forward by the perseverance and innovation of artisans. Flowing through 3,000 years, it formed the unique "Dian Copper Culture," becoming an indispensable and vital branch of China's bronze civilization. The history of Yunnan's copperware dates back over 3,100 years to the late Shang and early Zhou dynasties. Though slightly later than the zenith of the Central Plains' bronze culture, it carved out a uniquely local developmental path. The 1957 archaeological excavation at the Haimenkou site in Jianchuan unraveled the mystery of its origins—fifteen copper artifacts were unearthed here, including axes, battle-axes, knives, chisels, rings, and fishhooks, along with a stone mold for casting copper coins. Tests revealed that 10 were tin-bronze and 5 were red copper. Coexisting with numerous stone tools, they showcased an early "chalcolithic" (copper-stone age) phase. This is currently the earliest bronze relic discovered in Yunnan, confirming the historical fact that Yunnan's bronze culture originated during the late Shang and early Zhou dynasties. It is worth noting that Yunnan's copper resources were utilized by the Central Plains as early as the Shang Dynasty. Metallurgical historians analyzing the bronzes buried in the Shang Dynasty Tomb of Fu Hao found indicators tracing back to the Dongchuan mining area in eastern Yunnan. This means that before Yunnan's local bronze culture fully matured, its raw copper was already being transported to the Central Plains via trade routes, serving as a crucial material pillar for their bronze civilization. The reason Yunnan itself delayed large-scale utilization of its copper was closely tied to regional developmental constraints at the time. It wasn't until the late Shang and early Zhou dynasties that direct local use of copper ore gradually began, forging its own bronze culture path. The development of Yunnan's bronze culture generally went through three key stages: the Formative Period (Late Shang/Early Zhou to Spring and Autumn), the Zenith Period (Warring States to Mid-Western Han), and the Decline Period (Late Western Han to Early Eastern Han). The Formative Period, represented by the Jianchuan Haimenkou site, featured simple varieties and rough craftsmanship, mostly focusing on practical tools without a mature casting system. The Zenith Period was centered around the ancient Dian Kingdom's bronze culture, represented by artifacts from tombs like Shizhaishan in Jinning, Lijiashan in Jiangchuan, and Tianzimiao in Chenggong. With exquisite craftsmanship and unique shapes, it reached the pinnacle of bronze culture in Southwest China. The Decline Period occurred as the King of Dian submitted to the Han Dynasty and the commandery system was implemented. As iron tools became popular, the native bronze culture took a hit and gradually declined. However, copper-making techniques did not perish; instead, they shifted toward practical everyday items, continuing to this day. The ancient Dian Kingdom's bronze culture is the most brilliant chapter in Yunnan's copper history. According to the *Records of the Grand Historian: Biographies of the Southwestern Barbarians*, during the late Warring States period, Chu general Zhuang Qiao led his army to the Dianchi Basin. With his return route cut off by Qin troops, he stayed, adopted local customs and dress, established the Dian Kingdom, and proclaimed himself king. In the second year of Yuanfeng under Emperor Wu of the Western Han Dynasty (109 BC), the King of Dian submitted to the Han. Emperor Wu "bestowed the King of Dian an imperial seal," making Dian a vassal state of the Western Han. Afterward, the Dian Kingdom gradually faded into the river of history until the 1950s, when a gold seal with a snake knob reading "Seal of the King of Dian" was unearthed at the Shizhaishan tombs in Jinning, bringing this ancient kingdom, which had slumbered for over 2,000 years, back into the light. The allure of ancient Dian bronzes lies in their unique realistic style and rich ethnic characteristics. Unlike Central Plains bronzes, which emphasized the divine, heavy rituals, and abstract patterns, Dian bronzes were mostly practical tools or items serving both practical and ritual purposes. They were vividly shaped and beautifully decorated, primarily using techniques like carving in the round, bas-relief, and line engraving. Their themes mostly depicted ancient Dian life, agricultural production, religious sacrifices, wars, and hunting scenes, serving as an authentic "bronze-cast historical record of Dian." Among them, the Ox and Tiger Bronze Altar unearthed at Lijiashan in Jiangchuan is hailed as one of the "Twin Gems of Chinese Bronze" (north and south), famous alongside Gansu's Galloping Horse Treading on a Flying Swallow. With its unique design of a fierce tiger biting a large ox while a small calf stands peacefully beneath its belly, it showcases a perfect balance of mechanics and aesthetics. Rich in cultural significance, it represents the absolute peak of ancient Dian bronze artistry. Beyond the glory of the ancient Dian Kingdom, another legend of Yunnan copperware is the "Ten-Thousand-Mile Capital Transport" during the Ming and Qing dynasties. Over these two dynasties, Yunnan became the most important copper-producing region in the country. Especially during the prosperous Kangxi and Qianlong eras, over 60% of the capital's copper originated from Huize, Yunnan, and 73.6% of minting was completed there, earning Huize the title of "Hometown of the Coin King." At that time, after Huize's copper ore was mined and smelted, caravans transported it along the "Ancient Capital Copper Road" to Beijing. The journey covered thousands of miles across mountains and rivers, taking several months, creating the spectacular "Ten-Thousand-Mile Capital Transport" and forging the prosperous copper merchant culture of Huize. This history not only propelled the development of Yunnan's copper-making techniques but also fostered cultural and commercial exchanges between the Central Plains and the Southwest, allowing Yunnan copperware to walk out of the deep mountains and reach the whole nation. Flowing through 3,000 years of history, the craftsmanship of Yunnan copperware has never been interrupted. From ancient stone mold casting and the lost-wax method to Ming and Qing forging and gilding, and now to modern intangible cultural heritage preservation and innovation, every generation of artisans has held fast to tradition while innovating. This has transformed Yunnan copperware from ancient sacrificial vessels and farming tools into items that seamlessly blend practicality with aesthetics, tradition with modern trends, allowing the 3,000-year-old copper rhythm to radiate new vitality in the contemporary era. The foundation of all this stems from Yunnan's exceptionally blessed natural conditions. Located on the Yunnan-Guizhou Plateau, it is rich in mineral resources, particularly copper reserves, which rank among the top in China. Areas like Dongchuan, Huize, Yimen, and Dayao are famous copper-producing regions, providing abundant raw materials for copper crafting. Meanwhile, Yunnan is home to many ethnic groups. The intertwining cultures of the Yi, Hani, Bai, Naxi, and others have provided endless inspiration for the shapes and patterns of copperware, forming a diverse yet unified copper culture landscape. Furthermore, Yunnan's unique geographical advantage meant its indigenous copper culture was influenced by Northern Steppe, Southeast Asian, Ba-Shu, and Yue cultures, further enriching the cultural depth and artistic style of Yunnan copperware. 📍 Stop 1: Kunming | First Encounter with Copper Rhythm, Unlocking Intangible Heritage Crafts and Museum Treasures Kunming, the capital of Yunnan, acts as the "display window" for Yunnan's copper culture. It hosts museums preserving the pinnacle of ancient Dian bronzes, century-old intangible cultural heritage copper workshops, and traces of copperware woven into everyday street life. As the starting point of this in-depth tour, the Kunming itinerary focuses on an "initial acquaintance with the copper rhythm." From museum masterpieces to living crafts, we step into the world of Yunnan copperware one foot at a time. Day 1: Arrive in Kunming → Guandu Ancient Town, A First Taste of Street Copper Rhythm 🚗 Transport: Fly from anywhere in the country to Kunming Changshui International Airport. Upon landing, take a taxi to Guandu Ancient Town (approx. 40 minutes, around 80 RMB). Alternatively, take Metro Line 6 to Line 3, transfer at Dongfeng Square Station to Line 8, and get off at Guandu Ancient Town Station (total time approx. 1.5 hours). 🏨 Accommodation: We recommend B&Bs around Guandu Ancient Town for great value. They are within walking distance to the ancient town, making sightseeing easy (approx. 150-200 RMB/night per person). You can also choose hotels in downtown Kunming for convenient transport and easier onward travel (approx. 200-300 RMB/night per person). Guandu Ancient Town is one of Kunming's most lively, down-to-earth ancient towns and an essential hub for preserving Yunnan's copper-making heritage. Here, you'll find not only ancient temples and theatrical stages but also numerous heritage copper workshops. Strolling through the town, you'll frequently hear the rhythmic clinking of hammers striking copper, and the air carries a faint, distinct copper scent. It feels like stepping back a thousand years to experience the seamless blend of copperware and bustling street life. The copper workshops in the ancient town are mostly family-run, with skills passed down through several generations. They focus primarily on practical copperware, such as copper pots, kettles, bowls, and spoons. These items boast minimalist designs and exquisite craftsmanship, perfectly balancing utility with beauty as daily essentials for local residents. The most representative among them is the "Guandu Copper Crafting Technique," recognized as an intangible cultural heritage of Kunming, which has been passed down for

After planting grass for a long time, I came to Cui Lake to eat mushrooms🍄, and this time I finally booked a terrace seat in Nan Shan Nan. The terrace boasts a first-line lake view, exquisite high-end dining space. The lotus flowers 🪷 in Green Lake are in full bloom, and you can see the yellow wall of the Army Lecture Hall. It's raining outside, the pot on the dining table is boiling chicken soup🐔, the aroma of wild mushrooms 🍄 mixed with the summer evening breeze - this kind of experience is probably the top choice for Kunming people in summer. The four-person meal ordered this time is extremely well-matched✓. Yimen's beef liver mushrooms are thick and tender, Fumin's chicken joints have their own sweetness, and Dongchuan green head mushrooms are all fresh mushrooms with very good quality this year. The timer is 20 minutes, the time is up to move the chopsticks🥢. The original mushroom soup, fresh off the eyebrows. Freshly cut Wuding chicken, crispy skin and tight meat, fresh and fresh after being rolled in mushroom soup. The freshly cut beef is also very tender after being cooked. In addition to hot pot, the stewed tube with green head mushrooms is an unexpected surprise. The Cantonese style makes the mushrooms and seafood collide wonderfully. Dry Ba Mushroom Pork Chop Rice The cheese is rich and stringy, fragrant to the next table probe to see, the handmade yogurt just relieves the thirst. For a pre-meal snack, you must try the same crispy almond slices from Shin Wing Kee. 📌Tips: There are only a few tables in the view, be sure to make an appointment in advance. In the afternoon, you can enjoy both the lake and night views, and you can also eat exquisite wild mushroom hot pot, which is too suitable for a banquet. 📍Nanshan Nan Yunnan Specialty Hot Pot (Cuihu Park Branch) 4F, No. 100, Cuihu North Road, Wuhua District (top of Xilou)

In June, the phoenix flowers in Lüzhi Town are in full bloom, a vibrant red. This old copper mining town, nestled in a mountain valley, was once home to tens of thousands of people in the 1990s, though most have since moved away. The red-brick factories, old cinema, and guesthouse remain, and the streets are clean, giving a feeling of stepping back into the 1990s. The most spectacular time is May and June, when the streets are ablaze with vibrant red phoenix flowers. The quiet town paired with the fiery red sea of ​​blossoms creates a striking contrast, perfect for stunning photos. 📍One-Day Itinerary: · Morning: Stroll along the main street of Lüzhi Town, admiring the red-brick factories and old-fashioned cinema, feeling as if you've stepped back in time. · Noon: Enjoy an authentic Yimen wild mushroom hot pot at a local restaurant; June is mushroom season. · Afternoon: Take some nostalgic photos under the phoenix trees, then head home in the evening. 🍴Must-Try: Yimen wild mushroom hot pot, copper pot rice, sour soup fish, and farmhouse cured pork. Average cost: 40 RMB per person. ⚠️Avoid these pitfalls: · The best time to see the phoenix flowers is from late May to mid-June, so don't go there empty-handed. · The town is small; you can explore it in half a day. · Wearing light-colored clothing will make for better photos; a white dress against the backdrop of red flowers is a perfect match. 🚗Transportation: Take the high-speed train to Kunming South Station, transfer to a bus to Yuxi, and then take a taxi to Lvzhi Town (about a 1.5-hour drive). Lvzhi in June is a treasure trove for photography enthusiasts. Have you ever been to this kind of nostalgic town? Let's chat in the comments!

Who understands, family! Staying in a retro homestay converted from an old granary in Lvzhi Town, Yimen, Yunnan, with windows opening to a sea of phoenix flowers and an 80s industrial old street. This time-traveling feeling is truly magical! Stop squeezing into Dali and Lijiang; this national industrial heritage town is just 2 hours from Kunming, featuring 72 twists cloud sea, phoenix flower sea, and prices back to the 1980s. No commercialization, no crowds, healing and perfect for photos! 📻 Time Rewind Lvzhi Town is a national industrial heritage site, thriving because of copper, historically known as the Copper Capital of Central Yunnan. Copper mining dates back to the Han Dynasty, and it was an important copper casting base during the Ming and Qing Dynasties. In 1953, as a key national project, the Yimen Copper Mine was officially established. At its peak, over 30,000 people gathered here, bustling like a small Hong Kong. In 2020, it was listed as a national industrial heritage site. The national industrial heritage area fully preserves the 1980s style, including the Yimen Copper Mine site, Soviet expert buildings, old cinema, workers' club, red brick tube buildings, Xinhua Bookstore, and the mining bureau guesthouse. Each place engraves the passionate memories of the industrial mining era, holding the youth and glory of a generation. The old cinema is showing "Shaolin Temple," evoking many friends' memories. Experience the "time market" with a retro barbershop, convenience store, and more. Artistic street signs printed with "The wind of memories blows back to 1953" and retro 3D murals make every check-in spot unique. The weathered red brick factory buildings and rusted mining machinery are full of vintage charm. Prices on Lvzhi Old Street take you back to childhood: rice noodles for 6 yuan, haircuts for 7 yuan. Old shops, vegetable markets, and snack stalls are full of local life, and the locals are super friendly. Visit the Fushan Market, a century-old market with over 500 years of history, bustling with folk customs and local life on the 3rd, 6th, and 9th days of the lunar month. · -- 🎞️ Retro Blockbuster From mid-May to early June is the peak blooming season for phoenix flowers. Phoenix Avenue is the town’s main street, lined with clusters of phoenix trees. The red flowers and green leaves against the blue sky make every photo a masterpiece. On the wide Phoenix Avenue, the branches intertwine to form a corridor, with layers of bright red flowers covering the branches. When the wind blows, shadows sway and petals fall, creating a sky full of red hues. The old factory buildings and mining area, with weathered red bricks and rusted mining machinery, contrast sharply with the bright red petals, creating a strong retro industrial vibe. Phoenix flowers love high temperatures; the hotter it is, the more vibrant the blooms. After rain, the petals with dew are even more charming. Avoid peak times; weekends and holidays are busiest. For quiet photos, weekdays are recommended for a better experience. The Sanjia Factory Suspension Bridge was designed and built by Yimen Copper Mine in the 1980s and is a landmark industrial check-in spot in Lvzhi Town. Muben Bridge is a century-old steel cable bridge with river breezes, combining industrial style with river views, perfect for portraits and panoramas. The phoenix tree in the courtyard of the Lvzhi Police Station is in full bloom. This station is called the "most boundaryless" police station, where visitors can rest and take photos. The Tape Recorder Café is a popular riverside spot in Lvzhi. Order a coffee and take a photo next to the giant old-school phone installation at the entrance, full of 1980s nostalgia. At Lvzhi Department Store, you can buy a Lvzhi cultural creative ice cream and take photos holding it at the store entrance—delicious and photogenic. Outfit suggestions include workwear style or vintage dresses with Martin boots; Hanfu or light-colored holiday-style long dresses also photograph well. · -- 📸 Cloud Sea Canyon Lvzhi Slope Viewing Platform is the top spot for cloud seas, stunning from 6 to 8 AM. After rain clears, the cloud sea fills the valley, sunlight sparkles through the clouds, overlooking the 72 twists and Lvzhi River—perfect for drone shots, with free parking and great photo spots. From the platform, you see the rushing Lvzhi River below, like a green ribbon winding through the valley; ahead is a vast sea of clouds extending to the horizon. The 72 Twists 108 Bends is a devilish mountain road with nearly 1,000 meters of elevation difference, a bend every 100 meters, green mountains on the left and cloud sea on the right. Driving or cycling here is thrilling; take photos on the bends but prioritize safety by driving slowly and not overtaking. Although called "72 twists," it actually has 108 bends, stretching about 24 to 26 kilometers with a vertical climb over 1,200 meters. It was manually carved in 1958 by 5,600 workers without machinery, completed in one year. The vantage point near Lvzhi River Bridge offers a lesser-known perspective. Standing here, the cloud sea seems within reach, mist swirling around the bridge. Vehicles passing look like they are driving through the clouds, making every shot a stunning "car in the cloud sea" scene. Enjoy water play and camping in the Lvzhi River Canyon; the water is emerald green, with shallow areas for playing, riverside camping, barbecues, and summer rafting. The view is wide and the breeze refreshing. Remember to camp without a trace and take your trash. The best viewing period is from October to December. It’s recommended to visit on a clear morning after rain; leaving around 6 AM lets you catch the densest cloud sea and witness the breathtaking color changes at sunrise. The mountain has a big day-night temperature difference, so bring a light jacket even in summer and wear lightweight, non-slip sports shoes for hiking and viewing. · -- 🍜 Food & Tips Wild mushroom hotpot or mushroom rice noodles are so fresh they’re intoxicating, a local specialty. Lvzhi mutton soup pot and ham stewed with chicken mushrooms are rich and warming, must-eats in autumn and winter. River fish, grilled skewers, cold rice noodles, and fried potatoes are street snacks you can enjoy blindly. Copper pot sour soup pig’s feet is a miner’s traditional cold-weather remedy, and cold rolled noodles with litsea cubeba oil are refreshingly soul-stirring. The beef soup pot long street feast features local ecological yellow cattle slow-cooked with flavorful dipping sauces, very authentic. Riverside barbecue at Lvzhi Xiaozhu offers self-service grilling, perfect for friends gathering, eating while enjoying river views. Souvenirs include Dini ham, oil chicken mushrooms, traditional brown sugar, Pubei fermented soybeans, and creative fridge magnets, all available at the Copper Capital Post Station and vacuum-packed. For self-driving, start from Kunming via Kunmo or Yuchu Expressway to Yimen, then to Lvzhi Town, about 2 hours with good road conditions. The ideal route is highway there, G357 National Road with 72 twists on the return, hitting Lvzhi River Bridge, 72 twists with 108 bends, and the cloud sea viewing platform without detours. Public transport: from Kunming South Bus Station to Yimen County takes 1.5 hours, then transfer to Lvzhi tourist bus or shuttle for 1 hour. Bring a jacket year-round due to big temperature differences and strong mountain winds. Golden photo times are 6 to 9 AM and 5 to 7 PM for the best light and shadows. Drive slowly on the many bends of 72 twists, don’t occupy lanes or park on bends—safety first. Check water levels before crossing Lvzhi River water sections; never force crossing. The town has low prices, no overcharging, so eat and shop with confidence. Respect old buildings and do not graffiti. · -- Accommodation 🏨 Old Granary Inn Industrial heritage converted homestay with retro 1980s style, windows open to phoenix flower sea, immersive time travel experience 🏨 Hengchun Resort Hotel High-end hotel in town center, newly renovated, clean and comfortable, walking distance to attractions, attentive service 🏨 Lvzhi Grand Hotel Cost-effective choice, window views of the canyon, fully equipped, suitable for family trips 🏨 Yimen Mushroom Town Grand Hotel Core hotel in the county, near Longquan Park, convenient travel, quality assured · --

Half of Yunnan’s romance is in its flowers💜. From late spring to early summer, jacarandas, flame trees, roses, and peonies bloom in succession, turning every street and alley into a sea of flowers. Every snap feels like a cinematic masterpiece. This flower-viewing guide will take you through Yunnan’s “world of flowers”~ 1️⃣ Jacaranda|Fall into a purple dreamlike sea of flowers💜 Blooming period: Mid-April to late May (peak bloom in early May) Key spots: Jiaochang Middle Road, Kunming: Kunming’s top jacaranda avenue, 1.4 km lined with 551 jacaranda trees, creating a romantic purple floral canopy. The pedestrian bridge offers a stunning panoramic shot. Yilong Lake Ecological Corridor, Shiping County, Honghe: The heart of the wetland and Xiaoruicheng Village are ablaze with jacarandas, their purple flowers reflected in the lake, creating an immersive atmosphere. Downtown Yuxi: Streets and alleys are covered in blue-purple hues, strolling here feels like entering a dreamy secret realm. 2️⃣ Flame Tree|Encounter the fiery red blaze of summer❤️ Blooming period: May to July, peak in early summer Key spots: Jinghong City, Xishuangbanna: Alongside the Dai water town and Mengla Old Road, flame trees blaze like fire and clouds, full of tropical vibes; inside the tropical flower garden, the flowers sway like dancers in floral skirts. Luzhi Town, Yimen County, Yuxi: Flame trees along the Luzhi River shine bright red, the river paired with red flowers is both passionate and healing. Shilong Road, Simao District, Pu’er: Flame trees bloom like flames, the most flamboyant scenery of early summer. 3️⃣ Roses|Unlock gentle summer love letters💗 Blooming period: March to November, peak bloom in early summer Key spots: Jicheng Garden Rose Base, Awu Village Committee, Mile, Honghe: Layers of roses cover the branches, filling the air with fragrance, like a romantic summer letter. Xiaoshaba Rose Manor, Lushui, Nujiang: Pink and yellow roses blanket the manor, overflowing with romance. Fangshan Rose Garden, Yongren, Chuxiong: Colorful roses compete to bloom, fragrant and enchanting like a fairyland. 4️⃣ Peony|Encounter a classical and charming sea of flowers💖 Blooming period: Around May (best viewing during the start of summer) Key spots: Lion Mountain, Wuding, Chuxiong: Tens of thousands of peonies bloom in competition, with large and delicate flowers. From afar, it looks like a rosy cloud; up close, countless blossoms reveal classical charm. 5️⃣ Bougainvillea|Meet the passionate and vibrant floral waterfall🧡 Blooming period: April to June, peak bloom with clusters of flowers Key spots: Bougainvillea Garden, Taiping Lake Forest Town, Mile, Honghe: Bougainvillea blooms brilliantly, branches swaying gracefully in the wind, like falling into a sea of flowers. Bougainvillea Park, West Ring Road, Linxiang District, Lincang: Layers of flowers form a beautifully staggered floral cloud, stunning early summer. 7️⃣ Dounan Flower Market|Bring Yunnan’s romance home🌸 After exploring the natural flower seas, don’t miss Asia’s largest fresh flower market — Kunming Dounan Flower World. Address: Ruixiang West Street, Chenggong District, Kunming Transport: Exit B at Jinguijie Station on Metro Line 4 (do not get off at Dounan Station) Opening hours: Retail 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM; Night market 8:30 PM - 2:00 AM (lower prices) Must-visit: Super cheap fresh cut flowers on the 1st floor, succulent potted plants on the 2nd floor, plus flower cakes and floral art creative gifts. Outfit: Light-colored dresses or traditional Hanfu, perfect for all flower seas, 100% photo-worthy. In summary, Yunnan’s flowers bloom all year round, hiding a unique kind of romance. This early summer, pack your bags and come to Yunnan to experience an everlasting “world of flowers”~

Yimen Phoenix Flowers in Yunnan are in full bloom! 🌟Passionate and fiery, a sea of blooming orange flowers! ✨ Yes, this is the legendary "Little Sanya of Yunnan" — Lvzhi Town in Yimen! 🌸The phoenix flowers bloom all over the hills like an overwhelming orange fire sea, immersing the entire town in a romantic ocean! 📍Address: Lvzhi Town, Yimen County, Yuxi City, Yunnan Province 🚗Transportation: Depart from Kunming, all on highways, super convenient! 🅿️Parking: Plenty of parking spaces in the scenic area, free parking! 💰Admission: Free to visit! 🎉Highlights: 1️⃣ Fiery red phoenix flower trees, every shot looks like a masterpiece! 2️⃣ The unique charm of Lvzhi Town, like a paradise on earth! 3️⃣ Rich local cuisine, be sure to try Yimen’s specialty foods! 📸Photo tips: It’s recommended to wear light-colored clothes (white, beige, etc.) to look better with the phoenix flower trees! 💕Recommended route: A must-choose self-driving route — depart from Kunming, take the Kun-Chu Expressway then transfer to the Yiwu Expressway, directly to Lvzhi Town. All highway, less than two hours driving! 📌Tips: If it’s your first time visiting Yunnan, prepare sunscreen, sunglasses, sun hats, and other sun protection items in advance~🔥 Best viewing time: May to June is the phoenix flower blooming season, now is the best time to enjoy it~ Friends, hurry up and plan your trip! 👍 Recommended food: Yimen specialties — copper pot dishes, copper pot rice, purple rice eight-treasure rice... be sure to try them!

🏭 National Industrial Heritage, the ancient copper town of Yunnan full of timeless charm 🌺 Phoenix flowers bloom in May, their red petals healing the valley 🛣️ 72 winding mountain switchbacks, drive to overlook the canyon sea of clouds 🏘️ Weathered Su-style old buildings, a time travel back to the 1980s in a second 🌿 Lvzhi River meanders gently, surrounded by serene green mountains ✨ Just 2 hours from Kunming, the top choice for a niche vintage check-in spot Black Diamond Release

🌸 Phoenix flowers reflect on red bricks, instantly enhancing the atmosphere 🛤️ 72 winding mountain roads, self-drive to overlook the magnificent canyon 🏘️ Su-style old buildings stand densely, a moment to travel back in time 🎬 A popular filming location, easily capture vintage-style masterpieces 🌿 Few people, beautiful scenery, a niche spot to unlock a different charm of Yunnan 📍 Lvzhi Town, Yimen, Yuxi, Yunnan Black Diamond Release

Explore the "Central Yunnan Water City" of Yimen, Yuxi with this half-day tour guide to Longquan Park Ecotourism Scenic Area: 🌊 Key Attractions: The scenic area is located west of Yimen County town, combining forest, water scenery, and culture. Don’t miss the cascading waterfall inside the National Forest Park, known as a "natural oxygen bar" with extremely high negative oxygen ions, making it a great spot for photography and lung cleansing. The iconic "Nine Dragons Spitting Water" view and the Wild Mushroom Museum, featuring four major sections including the "Mystery of Mushrooms," are also must-sees. 🚶 Cultural Exploration: Visit the main attraction, Dalongkou, which has strontium-rich spring water flowing since the Tang Dynasty. Stroll along the Longquan Ten-Mile Corridor and Nantun Lake to enjoy the water scenery, or explore the Longquan Temple, founded in the Qing Dynasty, to experience ancient history. 🌿 Best Experience: The park is free to enter (8:00 AM - 6:00 PM). It’s recommended to visit the cascading waterfall early in the morning or after rain when the mist creates a more enchanting atmosphere. The scenic area has a high forest coverage, perfect for leisurely walking or cycling on the bluestone paths. Special tip: If you visit in July or August, you can catch the Wild Edible Mushroom Trade Fair, where you can taste the freshest mushrooms and enjoy the lively long street banquet.

Hidden in Yuxi, Yunnan, there is an absolutely stunning fairyland! The small pavilion here is unbelievably beautiful~ 🏯 Timeless Water Ancient Architecture! The Shuixin Pavilion in Longquan National Forest Park is simply stunning! Built above the water, it features a multi-layered eaves design with red pillars and colorful paintings that are truly eye-catching~ The flying eaves and upturned corners paired with a green vegetated roof blend perfectly with the surrounding forest✨ Every snapshot looks like a classic ancient-style masterpiece! 🌿 A Natural Oxygen Bar! The forest coverage here reaches 99.1%!! The air is filled with the fresh scent of trees~ Walking here feels like a forest bath spa🧖 With so many negative ions, it’s great for lung cleansing~ The best choice for a weekend escape from the city! 🏞️ A Living Landscape Painting! The pavilion is nestled between Longquan River and Nantun Lake, creating a stunning ecological scene of "the city within the forest, the water within the city"! On sunny days, the lake surface is like a mirror☀️ On rainy days, it evokes the misty charm of Jiangnan~ Every step is a visual feast! 🎭 Rich Cultural Experience The park features a super fun Wild Mushroom Museum!🍄 It also preserves the unique "February 2nd" Dragon Worship Festival~ Here, you can not only enjoy the scenery but also experience local traditional culture~ Tips: ✔️ Perfect for photo check-ins ✔️ Different charms in sunny and rainy weather ✔️ Recommend wearing comfortable shoes ✔️ Bring some snacks for a picnic Such a fairy-like place, it’s a pity not to save and check in!💕

Yuxi City is launching nearly 90 cultural and tourism activities during the "May Day" holiday, featuring full-region coordination, all-age coverage, and exciting events throughout the day. These activities cover five major areas: cultural and museum exhibitions, intangible cultural heritage experiences, integration of culture, sports, and tourism, folk festivals, and parent-child study tours, providing visitors with immersive, diverse, and high-quality holiday options. 【Cultural and Museum Exhibitions】 Yuxi Museum presents "Colorful Bagui — Guangxi Ethnic Costume Culture Exhibition," "Yuxi Has Good Things — Yujian Intangible Cultural Heritage & Cultural Creativity Renewal Theme Exhibition," and "Auspicious Blessings — Tengzhou Wanglou Woodblock New Year Paintings Exhibition." The Yunnan Lijiashan Bronze Museum hosts "Spring Breeze and Joyful Horses — The Year of the Horse History, Culture, and Children's Painting Exhibition." Huaning Pottery Museum opens with interactive activities such as treasure hunts, DIY painting, and photo likes collection. Yuxi Library showcases intangible cultural heritage paper-cutting art offline and launches the AI exhibition "Under the Text — A Brief History of Book Evolution" online. Lvzhi Town in Yimen County simultaneously exhibits Yuxi Museum's art collections and cultural relic protection achievements, engaging in deep dialogue with industrial heritage. 【Intangible Cultural Heritage Experiences】 Eshan County's Yao'e Ancient Town holds nighttime ethnic square dances and intangible cultural heritage performances. Yuntea Villa hosts the first Bamboo Charm Cultural Tourism Festival in the ten-thousand-mu bamboo sea. Hetang Night Market offers nightly lotus appreciation with dance. Tonghai Xiushan features stele rubbing and intangible cultural heritage lacquer fan making. Huaning Wanyao Village holds a series of kiln-related activities, including kiln opening, folk parades, and ancient pottery markets. During the Chengjiang Lixia Festival and Nuo Opera cultural series, intangible cultural heritage enters scenic spots and markets. Lvzhi Town's lighted stadium hosts an intangible cultural heritage tour exhibition combining static displays, live interactions, and science popularization. 【Integration of Culture, Sports, and Tourism】 On May 2, the Yunnan Yukun team hosts Beijing Guoan at home; on the same day, the Qilu Lake cycling race begins, accompanied by cycling tours and paragliding shows. Tonghai Xiushan holds a mountain climbing health run, Lvzhi Town hosts outdoor hiking and 3-on-3 basketball games, and Huaning holds a youth football invitational tournament. Evening concerts, campus singer competitions, "Four Seasons Village Evenings," Lvzhi summer village evenings, and drone shows take place at Nie'er Square, Wanda Plaza, and other locations. Half-day Island Coffee and Zizai Xi'an host sunset concerts and sing-along performances. Qinghua Street morning market runs for seven consecutive days, while Sanqian City Yue Ronghui, Tonghai Caiyun Market, Chengjiang Guanglong Town Starlight Night Market, and Yuanjiang Night Banquet Music BBQ Festival activate the nighttime economy. 【Scenic and Rural Experiences】 Huaning Elephant Trunk Hot Springs promotes a hot spring season series of activities. Cambrian Town Happy World features a pet park, dolphin house, and fire dance performances. Hilton Hotel at Fuxian Lake offers the "Hi Feast Starry Night" food experience. Shanse Fei Datian hosts a rose-themed banquet and bonfire party. Anhua Xianghua Mangguang Mountain offers succulent picking and a pet park. Jianshan Batang Coffee lets visitors enjoy the wild mountain charm. Jiuxi Xile Village offers mulberry picking and mulberry banquets. Qianwei Xiaojie Village opens starry sky camping and boat fishing. Lvzhi Town's Phoenix Flower Season activities last 20 days from May 1, including flower viewing, rafting, camping, and exhibitions. 【Folk Festivals】 Hongta District's intangible cultural heritage rice noodle street opens, featuring long street banquets and intangible cultural heritage workshops. Xinping holds the "Xinping Pickled Vegetable" Cultural Festival and Mosha and Jiasa Flower Waist Dai ethnic style series activities (fish catching and duck trapping, Dai Di carnival). Yuanjiang Mili Township's wine song contest combines beer competitions and mountain product check-ins. Huajianli features ten thousand bougainvillea plants with ethnic dances and rice noodle banquets. 【Parent-Child Study Tours】 Yuxi Library hosts the 9th "Love Reading" parent-child picture book reading contest. The City Museum offers "Spring Break Fun Learning · May Day Labor" social education experiences, including cultural relic searches and archaeology DIY. Chengjiang Fossil Museum creates a fossil exploration theme integrating 3D/4D cinema and VR/AR interactions. Huaning Wanyao Village runs the "Explore · Huaning Pottery" intangible cultural heritage inheritance camp. Tonghai Sijie Town offers "Little Farmer" farming study tours, Wenmiao Temple's "First Writing Ceremony," Xiushan couplet appreciation, and stories of Zhu De's former residence. Jiangchuan Houwei Village hosts joyful singing and rabbit catching, and a double-dragon copper pot banquet. Lijiashan Bronze Museum launches "View the Exhibition, Know the Horse, and Idiom Challenge." Come to Yuxi and start your unique journey!

Hidden deep in the mountains of Yimen, Yuxi, Xiaoluzi is a niche secret spot favored by time. Once a bustling "Little Hong Kong of Central Yunnan," it has shed the noise of industrial prosperity, leaving behind streets full of vintage charm, retro riverside buildings, and winding, majestic mountain roads. It has become a private favorite check-in spot for countless travel photography enthusiasts. No need for elaborate setups—every casual shot tells a story, each photo narrating the gentle passage of time. Stepping into Xiaoluzi Town feels like instantly traveling back to the 1970s and 1980s. Along the straight streets, Soviet-style red brick buildings are arranged in a staggered fashion, their weathered walls covered with green vines. Old supply and marketing cooperatives, vintage cinemas, faded workers' clubs, and brick walls printed with slogans of the era—all corners replicate the look of bygone days. Wearing simple retro shirts, denim skirts, or solid-colored long dresses, strolling through the quiet streets, leaning against wooden doors marked by the traces of time, or standing by old shop windows, sunlight filtering through the leaves creates dappled shadows. Without posing deliberately, the lazy and casual atmosphere is fully captured, making every frame a perfect vintage artistic scene. Walking toward the banks of the Luzi River reveals another breathtaking view. The emerald river winds through the canyon, flanked by continuous green mountains. The river breeze carries the freshness of the wild. Riverside walkways, old bridges, and hillside houses blend with the magnificent canyon scenery. Standing by the river and looking into the distance, the mountains, river, and ancient streets complement each other beautifully. Photos taken here capture both the ethereal beauty of nature and the lively spirit of the town, healing and photogenic. The must-see highlight of Xiaoluzi is the mountain road that has amazed countless visitors. With 72 bends winding through the mountains, the road looks like a ribbon wrapping around the canyon when viewed from the summit. When the sea of clouds swirls, it resembles a fairyland. Driving to the viewing platform and standing high with the road and mountains as the backdrop, the photos are grand and stunning. Whether it’s atmospheric silhouettes, dramatic road shots, or casual walking captures, they easily go viral on social media. Here, there are no crowded crowds, only slowed-down time and pristine scenery. Weathered old walls, vintage road signs, tranquil riverbanks, and majestic mountain roads—all scenes come with their own natural filters. You can shoot vintage artistic portraits or grand, expansive landscape documentaries. Whether traveling solo, as a couple, or with friends, you’ll find exclusive inspiration for your photos. No need to travel far—right here in Xiaoluzi, Yimen, immerse yourself in the past, capture the tenderness of time through your lens, and freeze your own unique niche travel memories. In this retro town nestled in the canyon, leave behind an undisturbed romantic journey of light and shadow. Kingda Hotel|TRANQUILELEGANCE·KINGDA (Yuxi Wanda Plaza Taobao Street Night Market Branch)