The Secret Realm of Millennia-Old Grass Mounds! A Fairytale Wetland Adventure at Yangchang River
by MADELINE MOSES
Jun 24, 2025
Hidden in Fengning Bashang lies a magical world overlooked by 99% of visitors—Yangchang River Wetland! This pristine alpine wetland at 1,600m elevation maintains a cool 17.4°C even in midsummer. A true hidden gem with breathtaking scenery, it feels like stepping into an untouched fairytale world.
✅Geological Wonder: 10,000-Year-Old "Grass Towers"
At Golden Lotus Lake in the western section, witness nature's masterpiece—ancient grass mounds formed through millennia of ecological cycles. These moss-covered towers (some over 100,000 years old!) stand like earth's breathing fossils, with each 60cm-diameter mound requiring a millennium to form.
✅Four Seasonal Zones:
1️⃣ East·Yangchang River Valley
Wander along prehistoric riverbeds where emerald meadows roll toward Sleeping Beauty Mountain, its silhouette resembling a goddess's portrait.
2️⃣ West·Golden Lotus Lake
Nature's golden floral spectacle! In July, the lake shimmers with blooming lotuses framing the mysterious grass towers. Though we arrived early for the blossoms, we discovered dewdrop-kissed dandelions instead.
3️⃣ South·Golden Drop Meadow
Enter China's northernmost golden drop flower groves, where locals call these sunshine-yellow blossoms "flowers of happiness."
4️⃣ North·Botanical Garden
Boardwalks weave through rainbow-hued fields where poppies, cosmos, and native shrubs create living impressionist paintings.
✅Wildlife Surprises
This ecological ark shelters rare species—spot golden lotuses at your feet while wild creatures dart through forests. Friendly livestock herds often make appearances too.
📜 Travel Tips
🎫 Tickets: Adult ¥80 | Student/Senior half-price | Free under 1.2m/over 70yo
⏰ Season: May 30-Oct 7 (8:00-18:00)
📍 Navigate: Baili Sky Road South Gate (near entrance)
🚙 Pro Tips:
✅ Wear waterproof hiking shoes—wet boardwalks get slippery
✅ Pack layers for unpredictable alpine weather
✅ Bring snacks/water (no vendors inside)
✅ Protect the ecosystem—don't step on grass mounds or pick flowers
While cities swelter, this 17°C oasis whispers nature's oldest secrets through rustling flower fields, babbling streams, and those ancient grass towers standing sentinel over time.
Post by MADELINE MOSES | Jun 24, 2025












