Dongchuan Red Land is a stunning destination that has captivated visitors with its vibrant red soil, picturesque landscapes, and unique natural beauty. Located in the eastern part of Kunming, this extraordinary region is a photographer’s paradise, where the land itself looks like a masterpiece painted by nature. With each season, the area reveals its magical charm, offering a feast for the eyes and an authentic taste of local culture. This guide will walk you through the must-visit attractions in Dongchuan Red Land, providing detailed travel tips, recommended activities, and local cuisine experiences.
1. Luoxia Valley (落霞沟)
- Recommended Duration: Half-day to a full day. If you plan to capture the sunrise or sunset, staying overnight is highly recommended, as the views during these times are exceptional.
- Cost: The area is free to visit, but if you choose to stay overnight, accommodation prices range from ¥100-¥300, depending on the season and facilities.
- Local Cuisine: In the surrounding area, you can taste authentic Dongchuan dishes such as Dongchuan noodles, which are smooth and chewy, and Tang Dan Xiaoba (汤丹小粑), a soft, delicate snack with a refreshing flavor. Don’t miss the seven-colored peanuts, which can be eaten raw, boiled, or fried for various flavors.
- Accommodation: Luoxia Ju Inn (落霞居客栈) is a popular choice for its scenic rooms that offer incredible views of the sunrise and sunset, making it an ideal place to stay for photography enthusiasts.
2. Thousand-Year-Old Dragon Tree (千年老龙树)
- Recommended Duration: Half-day. You can visit in either the morning or afternoon, spending about 1-2 hours.
- Cost: Free to visit. The accommodation and meal prices in the area are similar to those of other attractions in the region, with overnight stays ranging from ¥100-¥300.
- Local Cuisine: Try local specialties made from fresh ingredients, like the sweet Red Soil oranges and the fragrant rice cooked with Wulong rice, which has a soft texture and delightful taste.
- Accommodation: Consider staying in Huashitou Village (花石头村), which has several inns and guesthouses such as Hongjingxuan and Senye Resort (红景轩・森野度假民宿), offering good facilities and a cozy atmosphere for travelers.
3. Lepu Ao (乐谱凹)
- Recommended Duration: Half-day. It’s best to visit in the afternoon for optimal light.
- Cost: Free entry. You’ll likely spend around ¥50-¥80 on food and local products.
- Local Cuisine: There are a few local snack stalls where you can enjoy unique dishes like fried potatoes. These simple snacks are flavorful and popular with both locals and tourists.
- Accommodation: Stay in a nearby guesthouse to experience the local lifestyle and convenience.
4. Jinxiuyuan Seven-Colored Slope (锦绣园七彩坡)
- Recommended Duration: Half-day, with the afternoon being the best time for photography.
- Cost: Free. You can also browse small souvenir stalls nearby for unique mementos.
- Local Cuisine: Enjoy roasted corn and sweet potatoes, local specialties that offer a unique flavor and provide a perfect snack while exploring.
- Accommodation: Returning to Huashitou Village for the night is ideal, allowing for easy access to nearby attractions the following day.
5. Dama Kan (打马坎)
- Recommended Duration: Half-day. It’s best to visit early in the morning to catch the breathtaking sunrise.
- Cost: Free. If you choose to hire a car to take you to Dama Kan for the sunrise, the cost for a car rental is around ¥200-¥300 (excluding toll fees).
- Local Cuisine: Local breakfast spots serve traditional items like soy milk and fried dough sticks, giving you an authentic taste of the area.
- Accommodation: Stay in Huashitou Village the night before to ensure a convenient early-morning trip to Dama Kan.
6. Moonlit Fields (月亮田)
- Recommended Duration: Half-day.
- Cost: Free. Dining in the area usually costs around ¥40-¥60 per person.
- Local Cuisine: Experience fresh, local farm dishes made with the finest ingredients, providing a true taste of rural life.
- Accommodation: Depending on your itinerary, you can stay in either Huashitou Village or closer to other attractions to ensure a comfortable visit.