Laojun Mountain (老君山), located at the intersection of Lijiang, Jianchuan, and Lanping counties, is part of the Yunnan-Guizhou Plateau within the Hengduan Mountain Range. It is bordered by the Jinsha River on the left and the Lancang River on the right. The mountain’s ridges form a semi-circular shape, resembling a horseshoe, which is how it got its name, meaning “Laojun’s Alchemy Furnace.”
Spanning hundreds of kilometers, Laojun Mountain features a series of layered peaks, with its main summit reaching an elevation of 4,240 meters. It has been historically referred to as “the ancestor of all mountains in Yunnan” and is a significant part of the Three Parallel Rivers scenic area.
The Danxia landform area of Laojun Mountain is primarily located within the Liming Dai Autonomous Township, encompassing the administrative villages of Liming, Liguang, and Meile. This region is known for having the largest and most well-developed Danxia landforms in China. According to legend, the supreme deity Taishang Laojun practiced alchemy on a mountain nearby, and the flames spread to Laojun Mountain, turning the rocks a brilliant red. The striking red sandstone, set against the backdrop of lush green forests, creates a stunning visual contrast, making the area exceptionally captivating.
Travel Information about Laojun Mountain
Tickets and Opening Hours
Ticket Price: The entry fee for the Liming Danxia landform scenic area is 70 yuan.
Opening Hours: The area is open all day.
Best Time to Visit
The ideal season to visit Laojun Mountain is during May and June when the rhododendrons bloom in vibrant colors, creating a stunning visual spectacle against the lush greenery.
Transportation to the Scenic Area
Location: The Danxia scenic area is situated in Liming Township, with the main area of Laojun Mountain located around Qunlong Mountain Villa in the southern part of Yulong County.
From Lijiang to Liming Township: There are two daily bus departures from the Shenyun Parking Lot on Minzu Road in Lijiang to the Liming scenic area, at 12:00 and 13:00. Return buses leave Liming at 7:00 the next day. In addition to regular buses, there are many private vehicles operating between Lijiang and Liming during peak tourist seasons.
From Lijiang to Laojun Mountain: You can hire a car in Lijiang to travel along the village road from Shigu to Qunlong Mountain Villa, heading to the center of Laojun Mountain. Alternatively, you can take the direction toward Lijiang Coal Mine, then follow the forest road for an additional three to four kilometers to reach the area near the Jiujiulong Pool.
Attraction Ratings
- Cultural Significance: ★★★
- Unique Features: ★★★★
- Leisure Activities: ★★
- Scenic Beauty: ★★★★
- Romantic Atmosphere: ★★
- Adventure Level: ★★★
Highlights of Laojun Mountain
Jiujiulong Pool (Ninety-Nine Dragon Pool)
Jiujiulong Pool is one of the main attractions in the Laojun Mountain scenic area. Local residents believe that there are indeed 99 glacial lakes in Laojun Mountain, each exhibiting unique colors and characteristics. Compared to the fairy-tale-like “Jiuzhaigou,” Jiujiulong Pool offers a more grand and natural ambiance, devoid of any artificial embellishments.
In particular, during May and June, the mountains are adorned with blooming rhododendrons under a nearly transparent sky, resembling a vibrant and picturesque landscape painting from a distance.
The waters of Jiujiulong Pool flow through dense, untouched forests, cascading down rocky cliffs to become the primary source of the Shigu River. Along the way, the region features stunning scenery, with crystal-clear waters and many Bai and Naxi villages dotted along both banks of the river, evoking the poetic charm of “little bridges and flowing water.”
Rhododendrons of Laojun Mountain
When visiting Laojun Mountain, one cannot overlook the stunning rhododendrons. Globally, there are around 960 species of rhododendrons, with approximately 570 found in China, primarily distributed in the Yunnan-Guizhou Plateau. The Jiujiulong Pool area of Laojun Mountain boasts nearly a hundred species, four of which are extinct in other locations. From April to July each year, rhododendrons bloom sequentially, starting from the lower river valleys and moving up to the colder high-altitude regions.
In addition to rhododendrons, various other flowers such as primroses, gentian, orchids, and green velvet plants flourish on Laojun Mountain, creating a vibrant tapestry of color. As visitors wander through the forests and alongside streams, they are often greeted by the sight of unknown flowers scattered throughout the landscape, providing delightful surprises at every turn.
Liming Danxia Scenic Area
Liming Danxia Scenic Area is located in the heart of Laojun Mountain, approximately 120 kilometers from Lijiang City. This region is rich in tourism resources and features a stunning landscape dominated by Danxia rock formations. Spanning over 200 square kilometers, these formations are composed of vibrant red sandstone, showcasing dramatic cliffs, peaks, and sheer walls that create a breathtaking sight.
Beyond its natural beauty, Liming is an ideal destination for experiencing ethnic cultural tourism. Entering Liming feels like stepping into a magical world, where the local customs and traditions blend seamlessly with the stunning scenery. The concentration of Danxia landforms in a compact area also leads to a unique astronomical phenomenon, allowing visitors to witness the sun rise and set three times in a single day. The Lisu people proudly refer to Liming as “the place where the sun always shines,” highlighting the area’s enchanting allure.
Lisu Ethnic Customs
The Lisu people cherish folk songs as one of their most beloved artistic activities. As they express in their own words, “salt is essential, and singing is equally vital.” Folk songs have essentially become a “second language” for the Lisu community. Their unique style of singing features deep, resonant tones that convey a profound inner strength.
Among the instruments popular in Lisu culture, the pipa (a traditional Chinese lute) and the mouth harp are prominent. Lisu dances often reflect the cheerful spirit of their daily labor and lifestyle, accompanied by the melodic sounds of the pipa and mouth harp. These vibrant performances not only showcase their musical talents but also serve as a cultural expression of their community’s joy and resilience.
Xinzhu Botanical Garden
The Xinzhu Botanical Garden is a treasure trove of plant life, showcasing a rich variety of flora, including the rare yellow rhododendron, which can only be found in a few places in China. Visitors can vividly experience the diverse vegetation zones and their dynamic changes throughout the seasons. The garden features ice-eroded lakes, expansive snow-capped flower meadows, and a plethora of rare and endangered plant species, making it a truly enchanting destination.
With over 280 species of seed plants, many of which are classified as rare or endangered, the Xinzhu Botanical Garden is often referred to as a “plant refuge.” It encompasses nearly all plant varieties native to the Hengduan Mountain Range, earning its reputation as one of the most picturesque places in Yunnan, rich in natural resources and unique cultural heritage.
Beyond its natural beauty, Xinzhu is also known as the “Hometown of Dongba,” reflecting its vibrant ethnic customs and traditions. The dense primeval forests, stunning landscapes, and quaint local culture create a captivating atmosphere that enchants visitors. Among its highlights is a colossal cedar tree estimated to be 5,000 years old, known as the “Xinzhu Sacred Tree,” which stands as a marvel in the botanical world.
Lijia Yunnan Golden Monkey Reserve
The Lijia Yunnan Golden Monkey Reserve is located in the Jinsichang area, which is the highest point in the Laojun Mountain Scenic Area and the source of the Lijiang River. This area is named after the historical gold mining activities of the Lijiang Mu family, who extracted gold silk from the region. The reserve is known for its extensive distribution of glacial lakes, featuring notable ones such as “Seventy-Seven Fairy Lake,” “Stone Man Lake,” and “Double Sea Lake.”
Surrounded by dense primordial fir forests and clusters of rhododendrons, the area blooms with vibrant colors in late spring and early summer, enhancing its natural beauty. The Lijia Yunnan Golden Monkey Reserve is a rare habitat for the endangered Yunnan golden monkey. Within this region, two active wild populations of these monkeys total over 300 individuals, accounting for about one-fifth of the global population.
Visitor Guide for Laojun Mountain
Transportation within the Scenic Area
Laojun Mountain Boardwalk: The boardwalk near the Qunlong Mountain Villa connects to the Jiushi Longtan Scenic Area, leading to several major lakes. Along the way, visitors can enjoy beautiful views of rhododendron flowers.
Liming Ganguishan Boardwalk: The Qian Gui Mountain boardwalk is 2,710 meters long, with a round-trip exploration time of approximately 2.5 hours. This route features numerous stunning Danxia landforms that captivate visitors.
Liming Anqini Boardwalk: The Anqini boardwalk stretches for 3,000 meters, with a round-trip exploration time of about 3 hours.
Liming Scenic Area Shuttle: The Liming Scenic Area offers electric sightseeing vehicles with two routes available for visitors to choose from, making it convenient to explore the scenic highlights.
Accommodation near Laojun Mountain
Given the distance from Lijiang and the expansive area of Laojun Mountain Scenic Area, it’s advisable to stay overnight nearby for a more leisurely exploration over two days.
Yulong Shihong Inn: Located in Shigu Town, close to Shigu Pavilion, this inn offers quiet rooms equipped with comfortable beds, clean bathrooms, air conditioning, and TVs. It combines modern amenities with a warm atmosphere.
Liming Scenic Area Accommodations: Within the Liming Scenic Area, options such as Liming Youth Hostel, Gela Dan Tent Hotel, and Anqini Tent Hotel provide basic lodging. These accommodations are suitable for budget travelers looking to experience the natural beauty of the area.
Two-Day Itinerary for Laojun Mountain
Day 1:
- Travel from Lijiang to Qulong Mountain Villa: Depart Lijiang by car for a 3-hour journey to Qulong Mountain Villa.
- Lunch: Enjoy a meal at Qulong Mountain Villa.
- Afternoon Activities: Explore the stunning Ninety-Nine Dragon Pools. Focus on the scenic boardwalk, visiting major lakes including Three Talents Lake, Sisters Lake, Mother Lake, and Black Dragon Pool.
- Overnight: Stay at Qulong Mountain Villa for the night.
Day 2:
- Travel to Liming Scenic Area: Depart from Qulong Mountain Villa for a 2.5-hour drive to Liming Scenic Area.
- Lunch: Have lunch at Hongshi Street.
- Afternoon Activities: Visit the Thousand Tortoise Mountain Scenic Area to enjoy the unique landscapes and natural beauty.
- Return to Lijiang: In the evening, take a 2.5-hour car ride back to Lijiang.
Useful Tips for Visiting Laojun Mountain
Altitude Awareness: The elevation of Laojun Mountain is over 3,000 meters, so be mindful of altitude sickness. Wear comfortable sports shoes and long-sleeved clothing for warmth.
Photography Spots: For the best opportunities to capture photos, visit Ninety-Nine Dragon Pools and the Golden Monkey Observation Station near the Jin Si Factory, where you’ll find the most rhododendrons in bloom.
Hiking Guidance: The hiking trails on Laojun Mountain can be challenging. If you plan to trek, it’s advisable to hire a local guide for assistance.