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Recommended activities at Nanhu Yingzhou Pavilion include:
Yingzhou Pavilion, located in Nanhu Park in Mengzi City, Honghe Hani and Yi Autonomous Prefecture, is a prominent historical structure within the park. Nanhu Lake covers an area of 410,000 square meters, with a water surface area of 320,000 square meters and an average depth of 1.5 meters. In the 29th year of the reign of Emperor Kangxi of the Qing Dynasty (1690), Wang Laigui, the prefect of Ami Prefecture, served as acting governor of Mengzi County. He donated funds to dredge the Guoquan Spring, divert water into the lake, and build the northern dike. In gratitude, the people built a pavilion on the east side of the lake, named Yingxian Pavilion. It was renovated in the 14th year of the reign of Emperor Guangxu (1888) and renamed Yingzhou Pavilion. It was designated a Yunnan Provincial Cultural Relics Protection Site in 1987.
Located in the subtropical monsoon climate zone, it is spring-like all year round with plenty of sunshine, no severe cold in winter and no scorching heat in summer, making it suitable for travel in all seasons.
The Yingzhou Pavilion at Nanhu Lake stands 22.4 meters tall, a three-story wooden structure with a hexagonal, pointed roof and double-eaved eaves. It features 30 columns, six of which are through-beams, forming a bucket-shaped beam structure. The roof is covered with yellow and green glazed tiles, with ridge ornaments of beasts, and a towering pagoda. Its interior and exterior decorations are ornate, with painted beams and flying eaves, and its overall form is elegant and well-proportioned. It is a masterpiece of Qing Dynasty garden architecture and has been included in the "Complete Collection of Chinese Art: Garden Architecture Volume."
It is recommended to play for about 30 minutes.
free
Open all day
Nanhu Yingzhou Pavilion is an important cultural and historical site located by Nanhu Lake. The pavilion has become a symbol of the region’s cultural heritage and is historically associated with local legends and architectural achievements. It offers a glimpse into the architectural style of the Ming and Qing Dynasties.
Nanhu Yingzhou Pavilion is located in the Red River area of Yunnan. It can be accessed by taxi or private car from nearby towns or the city center. Public transport may be limited, so it’s advisable to use a taxi or private car. Walking is also possible if you're staying nearby.
The pavilion is open to visitors all day, but the best time to visit is in the early morning or late afternoon when the weather is cooler and the pavilion is less crowded. Spring and autumn are ideal for visiting due to the pleasant weather.
Entrance to Nanhu Yingzhou Pavilion is free. However, some nearby areas or attractions may charge a small fee for entry. Tickets can generally be bought at the entrance on-site.
No advance booking is required for Nanhu Yingzhou Pavilion itself. However, if visiting during peak seasons or special events, it may be a good idea to check for ticket availability for other attractions in the area.
A visit to the pavilion itself can take about 1-2 hours, especially if you enjoy taking photos or leisurely exploring the surroundings. If you plan to explore the nearby lake and park, you may need another 1-2 hours.
The main highlight is the pavilion itself, with its stunning architectural features and great views of the lake. The surrounding gardens and the nearby Nanhu Lake are also must-see areas for a complete experience.
Guided tours may be available in Mandarin. It's advisable to check with local tourism services. Audio guides are typically not available, but there are usually local guides available for hire who can explain the historical significance in basic English.
The best viewpoint for photos is from the pavilion itself, especially from the higher levels where you can capture the entire lake and surrounding landscape. The bridge near the pavilion also offers excellent photo opportunities.
Start by exploring the pavilion, taking in the views from the top. Then take a walk around the nearby lake or through the gardens. Finish with a relaxing boat ride if available, which offers another perspective of the pavilion and surrounding scenery.
Night visits are not typically available, but the pavilion is beautifully illuminated in the evenings, providing a serene atmosphere. Special tours may be offered during peak tourist seasons or holidays.
The pavilion can get crowded during weekends and public holidays. It’s best to visit on weekdays, particularly in the early morning or late afternoon, for a more peaceful experience.
There are basic facilities available, including toilets and rest areas. Food and water are available at local shops near the pavilion, and there are small food stalls offering snacks and drinks.
The pavilion and surrounding areas are relatively accessible, but there may be some uneven paths or stairs that could be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors. Children can enjoy the open spaces and views, but it’s important to supervise them around the lake.
Cash is accepted, but mobile payments like WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely used. Credit cards may not be accepted in smaller shops, so it’s best to use mobile payment apps or carry cash.
There are a few local restaurants and food vendors nearby offering traditional Yunnan cuisine, including noodle dishes and grilled meats.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available in some of the nearby eateries, but halal food options may be harder to find in this area.
There are several guesthouses and budget hotels in the surrounding area. For more upscale options, visitors can find hotels in larger towns or cities nearby, such as in the Red River region.
Nearby attractions include the Red River Seven-Arch Bridge and Yuanyang Rice Terraces, both of which are accessible by taxi or private car and can easily be visited in a day trip.
There are local souvenir shops selling traditional Yunnan handicrafts, such as woven textiles, ethnic jewelry, and teas. You can also find art pieces depicting local culture and landscapes.
The best way to continue your trip after visiting is by taxi or private car to nearby attractions. Public transport is limited, so private transport is recommended for further travel.
