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Visitors to Yuanlong Pavilion should explore the stunning views it offers of the surrounding landscape and the Baoshan area. The pavilion itself is a great spot for photography, especially at sunset. Don't miss walking along the ancient stone paths that lead up to the pavilion, offering a peaceful and reflective experience. The surrounding park area is also ideal for leisurely walks and relaxation.
Yuanlong Pavilion is located in Shuidui Village, Heshun Township, 4 kilometers southeast of Tengchong County. Beside the village lies a dragon pond, surrounded on three sides by mountains and a levee that serves as a corridor. Ancient banyan trees shade the levee, while the water in the pond washes over white clouds, creating a breathtakingly beautiful scene. Yuanlong Pavilion is built alongside the water and against the mountain, gradually ascending.
The halls, pavilions, and terraces rise gradually with the mountain's slope, creating a majestic presence. Flanking them are symmetrically arranged side rooms, pavilions, and terraces. The main structure, Kuixing Pavilion, is a hexagonal, pointed-roof, double-eaved wooden structure, with intricately carved and painted columns and beams beneath. In front of the pavilion, a stone railing protects the clear, mirror-like waters of the Dragon Pond. Gazing at the reflections of the halls and pavilions from the railing, it feels like a dragon's palace.
Built in 1762, the 27th year of Emperor Qianlong's reign in the Qing Dynasty, Yuanlong Pavilion boasts exquisitely carved beams and painted buildings. Nestled against the mountain and facing the water, it offers captivating scenery, creating a picturesque experience. In 1984, it was listed as one of the first batch of county-level key cultural relics protection sites.
Located in the tropical monsoon climate zone, it combines the advantages of continental and maritime climates. Winter and spring are sunny and warm, while summer and autumn have a mix of sunny and rainy weather and are cool and pleasant. All four seasons are suitable for travel.
Yuanlong Pavilion houses the Dragon King Hall, the Three Officials Hall, the Jade Emperor Hall, the Kui Pavilion, the Guanyin Hall, and the Hundred-foot Tower. The main building, Kuixing Pavilion, is a wooden structure with a hexagonal pointed roof. The eaves are decorated with intricate carvings and paintings on the columns and rafters. The double-story building's window lattices are decorated with round flowers and are inscribed with the powerful calligraphy of the Chinese character "Kites Fly and Fish Leap." The lower floor's facade features a beautiful carving of two dragons playing with a pearl.
Yuanlong Pavilion, nestled against green mountains and facing a deep pond, is surrounded by towering ancient trees and a profusion of wildflowers. The waters of the pond are as clear as a mirror, protected by a stone railing. Gazing at the reflection of the pavilion from the railing, one feels as if they were part of a dragon's palace. In front of the pond stands a spacious platform, dotted with two majestic trees—a camphor and a banyan—whose canopies cast a shadow over the platform like two umbrellas. Beneath the platform lies a lotus pond. In midsummer, the graceful lotus blossoms bloom, adding a touch of beauty to the pavilion's landscape.
It is recommended to play for about 1 hour.
Included in the Heshun Ancient Town ticket (55 yuan/person)
Open all day
Yuanlong Pavilion is an ancient structure that holds cultural and historical significance in the Baoshan region. The pavilion has long been a place of admiration, symbolizing peace and prosperity. It is closely associated with local folklore and has served as a venue for cultural events and gatherings. Its strategic location offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Yuanlong Pavilion is located in Baoshan, Yunnan. The easiest way to get there is by taxi or private car from the city center of Baoshan. It is also accessible by local buses, although taxi or car hire is more convenient for direct access. Walking up to the pavilion from the base is a common option for those who enjoy hiking.
The pavilion is open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily. The best times to visit are in the early morning or late afternoon, when the weather is cooler and the pavilion is less crowded. The views at sunrise and sunset are particularly beautiful, making these times ideal for photography.
The entrance fee to Yuanlong Pavilion is approximately ¥30. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance of the pavilion, and there are no online ticketing systems available for individual visitors. Group bookings may be available through local travel agencies.
Booking tickets in advance is not necessary for individual visitors, as tickets can be purchased on-site. However, if you are visiting as part of a group, it’s advisable to book tickets a few days in advance to ensure availability.
A visit to Yuanlong Pavilion typically takes about 1 to 2 hours. This allows time to explore the pavilion, enjoy the scenic views, and walk around the surrounding park area. If you plan to hike up to the pavilion or relax in the area, you may want to allocate more time.
The must-see highlights include the pavilion itself, with its traditional architecture, and the panoramic views from the top, which offer a spectacular vista of the Baoshan valley and surrounding mountains. The ancient stone paths leading to the pavilion are also worth exploring for a more immersive experience.
Guided tours are available at Yuanlong Pavilion in Mandarin. These tours provide insights into the history, architecture, and cultural significance of the pavilion. Audio guides may also be available, though it's recommended to check in advance for language availability.
The best viewpoints are from the top of the pavilion, where you can capture breathtaking panoramic views of the Baoshan area. The surrounding park area also offers excellent spots for photographing the pavilion against the backdrop of mountains and valleys.
Start by walking along the stone path leading to the pavilion, taking in the natural beauty along the way. Upon reaching the pavilion, spend time exploring the architecture and enjoying the views. Afterward, you can relax in the surrounding park or take a leisurely walk around the base of the pavilion.
Night visits are not currently offered at Yuanlong Pavilion, and there are no light shows or special evening tours. However, visiting at sunset provides a stunning view of the pavilion and the surrounding landscape in the evening light.
The pavilion can get crowded during peak tourist seasons, especially on weekends and public holidays. The least crowded times to visit are early in the morning or on weekdays, particularly during the off-peak season.
Basic facilities such as toilets, rest areas, and drinking water are available at the pavilion. There is a small shop selling souvenirs and local products. However, there are limited food options on-site, so it's recommended to bring snacks or visit nearby restaurants before or after your visit.
Yuanlong Pavilion is accessible for elderly visitors and families with children, with well-maintained paths leading up to the pavilion. However, there are steep areas that may not be fully accessible for disabled visitors, especially those with mobility challenges.
While cash is accepted, mobile payments via WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely used at Yuanlong Pavilion. Credit cards are not commonly accepted on-site, so it is advisable to use mobile payment methods or cash for purchases.
There are several local restaurants nearby that offer Yunnan cuisine, including rice noodles, hot pots, and grilled dishes. Many of these restaurants provide a cozy atmosphere with views of the surrounding mountains and valley.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available in some local restaurants near the pavilion. Halal food options may be found in specific restaurants catering to Muslim visitors in Baoshan.
There are several hotels and guesthouses near Yuanlong Pavilion, ranging from budget options to more upscale accommodations. Some recommended hotels include Baoshan Garden Hotel and Baoshan International Hotel, both of which offer comfortable stays and convenient access to the pavilion.
Nearby attractions include the Baoshan Ancient Town and the Meili Snow Mountain, which are both easy to visit within a day trip. These sites offer a great combination of cultural history and natural beauty.
Yes, there are souvenir shops near Yuanlong Pavilion that sell traditional Yunnan handicrafts, including wood carvings, embroidered textiles, and local tea. You can also find items related to the pavilion's history and local culture.
After visiting Yuanlong Pavilion, taxis and buses are available for further exploration in Baoshan. For longer trips, consider taking a bus to nearby cities or renting a car for a more flexible schedule.
