Lashi Lake and the Ancient Tea Horse Road in Lijiang

Lijiang, Yunnan, a place filled with romance and mystery, where every piece of scenery seems to be a masterpiece of nature, leaving visitors enchanted. Among the many attractions in Lijiang, Lashi Lake Scenic Area stands out as a dazzling gem, shining with captivating brilliance. Lashi Lake, located about 10 kilometers west of Lijiang city in the middle of Lashi Dam, is not only the first nature reserve in Yunnan Province named after a 'wetland,' but also a place full of legendary charm. The name 'Lashi,' derived from ancient Naxi language, means 'new barren dam.' It was once part of the ancient geosyncline in northwest Yunnan and, after billions of years of geological movements, has formed the current highland basin. At the center of this basin lies a clear lake, vast and boundless, with an altitude of 2,437 meters, offering a breathtaking beauty. In this inland province of Yunnan, such a large lake is affectionately called 'sea' by the locals, hence the name Lashi Lake. It is not only a place of natural beauty but also rich in cultural history. One of the main attractions for visitors here is the horseback riding experience on the Ancient Tea Horse Road. This ancient trade route witnessed the hardships and legends of countless caravans. Today, visitors can retrace this ancient path, riding horses through the mountains and forests, experiencing the culture of the caravans. The rugged mountain roads and the careful steps of the horses make every slip and misstep a thrilling experience, allowing visitors to deeply appreciate the resilience and perseverance of the caravan people. Besides horseback riding, the unique landscape of Lashi Lake Wetland Park is another highlight. Within the park, large swathes of reeds sway in the wind, aquatic plants grow abundantly, and the vast marshlands create a unique lake and wetland scenery. Here, visitors can fully enjoy the beautiful landscape of lakes and mountains, feeling the magical charm of nature. During the bird-watching season, it becomes an important habitat for many migratory birds, such as black-necked cranes, egrets, and herons, providing a visual and spiritual feast for visitors. On this beautiful land, there is also a hidden and stylish club—the Youyiju Private Club. Located in the picturesque Shuhe Ancient Town of Lijiang, this club covers a large area and is renovated from three connected Naxi houses. The club is well-equipped, including uniquely designed guest rooms, a self-service kitchen, a restaurant, a tea bar, a book bar, a wine cellar, a spa, and a home theater, providing a comfortable and leisurely space for visitors. Here, visitors can escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy a rare moment of tranquility and comfort. Of course, a visit to Lashi Lake Scenic Area would not be complete without experiencing the unique 'lake porridge sharing.' In the lakeside restaurants, visitors can taste delicious porridge made from local specialty ingredients. The host will serve the fragrant porridge in small bowls and hand them out to the visitors one by one. This unique way of sharing porridge not only allows visitors to feel the warmth and simplicity of the locals but also gives them a deeper understanding of Lijiang's food culture. The Lashi Lake Scenic Area in Lijiang, Yunnan, is a tourist destination that combines natural beauty, cultural history, and leisure experiences. Whether it's appreciating the beautiful lake and wetland scenery, experiencing the ancient Tea Horse Road culture, or tasting the unique lake porridge, visitors can leave with unforgettable memories. The presence of the Youyiju Private Club adds a touch of mystery and style to this beautiful land, attracting countless visitors to explore and experience.