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Visitors can enjoy walking around the serene pond, engage in birdwatching, or take part in local fishing activities. The surrounding nature is ideal for relaxation and photography.
Yiluo Pond is located in Longyang District, Baoshan City, Yunnan Province. Formerly known as Jiulong Pond and also as Longquan Lake, Jiulong Pond is named after Jiulong, the first king of the Ailao Kingdom before the Han Dynasty. The capital of the Ailao Kingdom was located at the foot of the Ailao Mountains east of present-day Longyang District. Its alternate name, Longquan Lake, stems from a historical record that states: "A spring gushed out at the foot of Taibao Mountain west of the city, gathering to form a pond. The elders passed it down as Longquan." The Longquan Temple, built in the Tang Dynasty near the pond, also derives its name from this source.
Whether it is Jiulong Pond or Longquan Lake, it was eventually renamed Yiluo Pond and has been used to this day. There are two theories: one is that there was a small pond of about dozens of square meters next to Jiulong Pond, which was originally called Yiluo Pond. Later, as the small pond gradually disappeared, the big pond expanded and the name of the small pond has been used to this day; the second is that Longquan Lake was renamed Yiluo Pond, which was related to Deng Zilong, a lieutenant general in the Ming Dynasty, who garrisoned the border and defended the country.
Out of admiration and remembrance for Deng Zilong's efforts to defend the border and protect the country, the descendants of Baoshan renamed Longquan Lake Yiluochi. Yi means modesty and peace, while Luo means arrangement and construction. This symbolizes the Baoshan people's remembrance of the deceased and their yearning for a better life in the future.
The subtropical monsoon climate is mild in summer and mild in winter, with little noticeable seasonal changes. It is suitable for travel in all seasons.
Yiluo Pond is primarily composed of a pond, a pavilion, and a tower. Surrounded by lush greenery and vibrant flowers, the scenery is tranquil and beautiful. The sky is azure, the water is crystal clear, the mountains are indigo, and the forests are filled with chirping birds. Flowers bloom in profusion along the lakeside, and paths lead to secluded areas where visitors gather in groups of three or two, enjoying a leisurely stroll. Osmanthus blossoms sway their sparse branches, exuding an intoxicating fragrance in the breeze. Koi fish race shoulder to shoulder in the lake, leaping and flying, vying for a "pie from heaven," transforming the tranquil, cloud-filled waters and blue skies into a vibrant, multicolored world.
It is recommended to play for about 1 hour.
free
Open all day
Yiluo Pond is a scenic area known for its natural beauty and tranquil environment. It's an important ecological site for local wildlife and provides visitors with a peaceful retreat away from city life.
Yiluo Pond is located in Baoshan, Yunnan. The most convenient way to reach it is by taxi or private vehicle. Public transportation options may be limited in the area.
The pond is open year-round, with the best time to visit being in the early morning or late afternoon, when the weather is cooler and the light is perfect for photography.
There is no entrance fee to Yiluo Pond, making it an affordable destination for nature lovers. Visitors can simply enjoy the natural beauty without having to buy tickets.
No booking is required in advance, as the pond is a free-access site. It’s a walk-in attraction with no ticket system.
Exploring Yiluo Pond takes about 1 to 2 hours, depending on how long you spend walking around or relaxing by the water.
The pond itself is the main attraction, but don’t miss the surrounding nature trails and the opportunity to relax by the water or spot local wildlife.
Guided tours are not typically available at Yiluo Pond, but visitors can enjoy self-guided exploration. English-language guides are unlikely, so it’s best to rely on local signs or information available in Chinese.
The best photography spots are around the pond’s edges, especially at sunrise or sunset. The reflection of the surrounding landscape in the water creates beautiful photos.
Start at the main entrance, then take a leisurely walk around the pond, stopping at various points to admire the view. There are small nature trails around the pond for a deeper exploration of the area.
There are no special night visits or light shows at Yiluo Pond. It is primarily a daytime attraction where visitors can enjoy the natural setting.
The pond is relatively peaceful, and crowds are minimal except during local holidays. Weekdays and early mornings are the best times to avoid crowds.
Basic facilities are available, including toilets and small rest areas. There are no major shops or food stalls at the pond, so it’s advisable to bring snacks and water.
The pathways around the pond are relatively flat, making it accessible for elderly visitors and families with children. However, some areas may be less suitable for those with mobility challenges due to uneven terrain.
Since the pond is free to visit and has limited facilities, cash is rarely needed. Mobile payments like WeChat Pay or Alipay are accepted at nearby shops and small eateries.
There are no restaurants or cafes directly at the pond, but local eateries in Baoshan offer a variety of Yunnanese dishes. A few small shops sell snacks near the entrance.
While local eateries in Baoshan offer some vegetarian options, vegan and halal food may be less common. It’s recommended to check with local restaurants beforehand.
There are several guesthouses and budget hotels in Baoshan, which is a short drive from Yiluo Pond. More upscale accommodations can also be found in the city center.
Other attractions in the area include Baoshan’s ancient town and nearby natural reserves. These can easily be combined in a day trip from Yiluo Pond.
There are no dedicated souvenir shops at Yiluo Pond, but small local vendors may sell snacks and trinkets. Typical souvenirs from the region include locally made handicrafts and Yunnan tea.
After visiting, taxis or private vehicles are the best transportation options to continue your journey. Public transportation options may be limited.
