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At Ninety-nine Dragon Pond, visitors can enjoy scenic views of the ponds, surrounded by the majestic mountains. It's an ideal place for hiking, nature walks, and photography. The ponds themselves, with crystal-clear waters and lush surroundings, offer a peaceful environment to explore. A must-see is the ancient temple near the ponds, which holds cultural and spiritual significance. Visitors can also enjoy boat rides and take in the beauty of the place from different angles.
Located at the foot of the main peak on the north side of Laojun Mountain, southwest of Lidong County, Yunnan Province, 80 kilometers from the county seat, it belongs to the 16th forest block of the Laojun Mountain Forest District. At an altitude of 4,247 meters, it boasts nearly a hundred crystal-clear ponds of various sizes, forming a scenic area of ​​considerable size, hence the name "Ninety-nine Dragon Ponds."
On the way to Jiujiu Longtan, you'll see nine magnificent boulders, each with its own unique shape and a mysterious aura. Locals call them the "Nine Stones." Because the three pools of Jiujiu Longtan are intertwined, it's also known as the "Three-Eyed Pool." It's a prime spot to admire the pristine ecological landscape, the mysterious beauty of the dragon pools, and the dazzling azalea forest. In winter, Jiujiu Longtan is covered in icy ridges, creating a natural world of ice sculptures of unparalleled beauty.
The pond is surrounded by dense, pristine fir forests intermingled with clumps of azaleas. In late spring and early summer, the azaleas bloom in a dazzling array of colors, creating a tranquil and picturesque setting. The pond's waters, the main source of water flowing into the river, represent a relatively intact and precious alpine coniferous forest resource in Lijiang.
The temperate climate makes travel suitable all year round.
2 days
80 yuan/person
9:00-17:30
Ninety-nine Dragon Pond is a sacred site for the local Naxi people. The pond is named after the 99 watercourses that flow into it, with the number nine being symbolic in Chinese culture. The site is also home to several ancient temples and pagodas, making it a center for local religious practices. The area is also known for its unique ecological environment and stunning natural beauty.
Ninety-nine Dragon Pond is located in Lijiang, Yunnan Province. The site is around 30 kilometers from Lijiang Old Town. The best way to reach it is by taxi or private car, though public buses can also take you to the nearby area. Once you're close, walking around the ponds is a relaxing experience.
Ninety-nine Dragon Pond is open year-round, typically from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best times to visit are during the spring and autumn months when the weather is most comfortable. Early morning or late afternoon visits are recommended to avoid the midday crowds.
The entrance fee is generally around 80-100 CNY, depending on the time of year. Tickets can be purchased on-site, but some tour agencies may offer the option to buy tickets online in advance.
It is not mandatory to book tickets in advance unless you are visiting during the peak tourist seasons (such as Chinese New Year or the summer months). If you prefer, booking tickets a day or two before your visit online can help avoid long queues at the entrance.
You should plan to spend about 2 to 3 hours at Ninety-nine Dragon Pond to fully enjoy the scenic areas, temples, and take a leisurely walk around the ponds. If you're planning on hiking, allow an additional hour.
The must-see highlights include the tranquil ponds themselves, surrounded by lush greenery, the ancient temples and pagodas nearby, and the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. The reflection of the mountains in the water is a photographer's dream.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and some tours may offer English-speaking guides. Audio guides are not widely available, but local guides can provide insightful information about the cultural and natural significance of the site.
The best viewpoints are around the main pond, where you can capture the reflection of the mountains in the water. The area near the ancient temples also provides great shots of the landscape. Early morning or late afternoon provides the best lighting for photos.
Start by visiting the temples and pagodas near the entrance to get a sense of the site's cultural significance. Then, take a leisurely walk around the ponds, stopping at various points to take photos. If you're interested in hiking, follow the marked trails for a more immersive experience in nature.
Night visits are not generally available at Ninety-nine Dragon Pond, and there are no regular light shows. However, the site offers a peaceful atmosphere during the day, especially in the early morning and late afternoon.
The site can get crowded, especially on weekends and holidays. To avoid the crowds, visit early in the morning or during weekdays, outside of peak tourist seasons (such as the summer months and Chinese New Year).
There are basic facilities such as toilets and rest areas available at the site. However, food and drink options are limited, so it's a good idea to bring your own snacks and water. Small shops selling souvenirs and snacks are available near the entrance.
The main areas of Ninety-nine Dragon Pond, such as the temples and ponds, are relatively accessible for elderly visitors and children. However, some of the hiking trails and steep areas might be challenging for those with mobility difficulties.
Cash is still commonly used at Ninety-nine Dragon Pond, but mobile payments such as WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely accepted. Credit cards may not be accepted at smaller shops, so it's a good idea to bring cash or use mobile payment apps.
There are limited dining options directly at Ninety-nine Dragon Pond. However, there are several restaurants and cafes in Lijiang Old Town, about a 30-minute drive away, where you can enjoy traditional Yunnan cuisine.
Vegetarian options are available in most restaurants near the pond and in Lijiang. Halal food may be available in specific restaurants in Lijiang Old Town, catering to the local Muslim community.
There are several hotels and guesthouses in Lijiang Old Town, offering a variety of options ranging from budget accommodations to more luxurious hotels. You can easily find places to stay about 30 minutes from Ninety-nine Dragon Pond.
Nearby attractions include Lijiang Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. Both are great options for combining in a day trip with Ninety-nine Dragon Pond.
There are small souvenir shops near the entrance, selling traditional Naxi handicrafts, embroidered textiles, silver jewelry, and Yunnan tea. Lijiang Old Town also offers a wider selection of souvenirs.
After visiting Ninety-nine Dragon Pond, taxis or private cars are the best way to continue your trip. Lijiang Old Town is a popular destination and can be reached in about 30 minutes by car. If you're traveling further, Lijiang has a bus station and an airport for your convenience.
