A Sapphire at the Foot of the Holy Mountain: The Dreamlike Turquoise Waters of Blue Moon Valley

The Lost Horizon Found

1.Deep within the embrace of the majestic Jade: Dragon Snow Mountain, lies a valley so surreal it feels like a scene from a fantasy novel. Blue Moon Valley (Lanyue Gu), located in the Yulong Naxi Autonomous County of Lijiang, is widely believed to be the prototype for the "Blue Moon Valley" described in James Hilton's famous novel The Lost Horizon,. Sitting at an altitude between 2,800 and 3,000 meters, this valley is a masterpiece of nature where glacial meltwater cascades through lush forests and settles into a series of crystal-clear pools. From a distance, the valley resembles a blue moon inlaid at the foot of the towering snow peaks, giving rise to its poetic name.

The Legend of the White Water River

2.The water flowing through Blue Moon: Valley originates from the ice and snow melting off the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. As this water rushes down the valley, it is blocked by mountains and slowed by the terrain, forming four distinct and beautiful lakes. The riverbed consists of white limestone and marble formed by the deposition of calcium carbonate over thousands of years. In the past, this area was known as the Baishui River (White Water River). On rainy days, the mud and limestone churn up, turning the water a milky white color, resembling a river of milk flowing through the valley. However, on sunny days, the water transforms into an astonishing shade of turquoise or sky blue, creating the mesmerizing "Blue Moon" effect that captivates visitors today.

A Chain of Jewels: The Four Lakes

The valley is divided into four main lakes, each with its own unique charm. Yuye Lake (Jade Liquid Lake) is often the first stop and offers perhaps the most spectacular views, where the water is so clear it looks like a giant piece of jade mirroring the snowy peaks above. Further down is Jingtan Lake (Mirror Pond), a smaller, quieter pool that reflects the surrounding forest and sky like a perfect mirror, creating a mysterious and serene atmosphere. Lanyue Lake (Blue Moon Lake) and Tingtao Lake (Listening to Waves Lake) complete the chain. At Tingtao Lake, the water cascades over a waterfall, creating a crisp sound that contrasts with the silence of the upper pools.

The Science of Color

The mesmerizing blue color of the water has a scientific explanation. The water is rich in copper ions, which absorb red light and scatter blue light, giving the lakes their distinctive hue. Additionally, the white calcified riverbed acts as a reflector, enhancing the brilliance of the blue water under the sunlight. This unique geological and chemical combination ensures that the water remains a stunning visual spectacle, changing shades from Tiffany blue to deep emerald depending on the weather and the angle of the sun.

Cultural Significance

3.For the local: Naxi people, this valley is not just a scenic spot but a place of spiritual significance. It is considered a holy site where lovers would come to pray for eternal love, believing that the holy mountain would protect their union. The water is also deemed sacred; legends say that washing one's hands in the river can wash away bad luck. Standing on the wooden boardwalks or the white terraces, with the imposing snow mountain in the background and the vibrant water below, visitors can feel the deep connection between the local culture and this pristine environment.