Lijiang Black Dragon Pool Park: The Best Strategy—Sunrise as Red as Fire

1. Located in Lijiang City, this park is an ancient garden built during the Qing Dynasty. Inside, you'll find inscribed steles, ancient trees, and historic pavilions. Its former name was Yuquan Dragon King Temple. 2. The entrance fee is 50 yuan (for the maintenance of the ancient city), but it's free for locals. Entry is free for everyone before 7:20 am. 3. Photographing the sunrise over Yulong Snow Mountain: On the west side of the park, there are several lakes with crystal-clear water. The ancient stage, Five-Hole Bridge, and Suocui Bridge are great spots to capture the reflection of the sunrise. Climbing Xiangshan Mountain offers an even clearer view of this stunning scene. 4. Xiangshan Mountain, a small hill within the park, can be climbed via stone steps from the west gate. The summit offers breathtaking views of the sunrise, the golden glow on Yulong Snow Mountain, and a panoramic view of Lijiang City and the ancient town. It takes about 40 minutes to reach the top. Check the sunrise time in advance and plan your departure accordingly. It's recommended for young women to climb with a partner, as Xiangshan Mountain is considered a sacred place with numerous ancient tombs. Near the top, there are two forks; take the left one to reach the highest point. There's a two-story pavilion where you can overlook Lijiang Ancient Town and Qingxi Reservoir, and enjoy the indescribable beauty of the rising sun over Yulong Snow Mountain in the distance. You can take a different route down the mountain; clear directions are available on navigation apps. 5. The Lijiang City Museum is located at the foot of the mountain, where you can delve deeper into Lijiang and Dongba culture. 6. The park also boasts beautiful natural scenery, with willows and flowers gracing the lakeside, and gulls and ducks soaring over the water. It's a picturesque scene of spring breezes, lakeside pavilions, and the lingering emotions evoked by willow branches and vines. 7. A mythical story about the Black Dragon adds a touch of mystery to the park.