The Green Lungs of Erhai: Sunrise, Water Forests, and Bai Culture at Caicun Wetland

The Emerald of the West Bank

Located just about 3 kilometers northeast of Dali Ancient City, Caicun Wetland lies at the harmonious intersection where the majestic Cangshan Mountain meets the vast Erhai Lake. As a shining pearl on the ecological corridor of Erhai's west bank, this wetland is not an isolated wilderness but a vibrant "green lung" that breathes life into the region. Covering an area of several thousand mu at an altitude of approximately 1,970 meters, it serves as a vital natural freshwater lake wetland ecosystem. Unlike heavily manicured tourist spots, Caicun Wetland preserves a sense of "wild interest," presenting the authentic beauty of the highland lake in its most pristine form. It is a sanctuary where travelers can escape the urban hustle and immerse themselves in a world where the water is dyed green by lush vegetation and the air is filled with the scent of nature.

A Canvas of Mountain and Water

1.The visual experience at Caicun: Wetland is defined by its stunning dual perspective. To the east, the wetland opens up to the boundless expanse of Erhai Lake, creating a mirror-like surface that reflects the changing sky. To the west, the towering peaks of Cangshan rise majestically, often shrouded in a belt of clouds that look like an ink wash painting come to life. This wetland serves as a perfect transition zone, connecting the solid earth with the fluid water. Walking along the ecological trails, visitors are enveloped by a "green tunnel" formed by tall reeds and trees, offering a secluded and mysterious water corridor effect. It is a place where one can simultaneously witness the grandeur of the mountains and the gentleness of the lake.

The Water Forest and Biodiversity

One of the most distinctive features of Caicun Wetland is its "Water Forest." Here, species like the Dawn Redwood (Taxodium distichum) grow directly in the water. In spring and summer, they form a lush green canopy, but in autumn and winter, their needles turn a vibrant rusty red, creating a striking contrast against the blue water and sky. This unique landscape feels like a scene from a fairytale. The wetland is also a haven for biodiversity, hosting aquatic plants like the famous Ottelia acuminata (Seaweed Flowers), known as the "Water Fancy." It acts as a sanctuary for birds such as egrets, herons, and wild ducks. In winter, it becomes a lively playground for thousands of black-headed gulls migrating from Siberia, making it a prime spot for birdwatching and ecological photography.

Rooted in Bai Culture

The soul of the wetland is deeply intertwined with the adjacent Caicun Village, a traditional Bai settlement with a history rooted in gardening and fishing. The name "Caicun" implies a village of talent and wealth. For generations, the villagers have lived by the water, practicing a lifestyle that harmonizes with nature. The wetland was once part of their fishing grounds and today stands as a testament to their ecological wisdom. The local Bai culture treats the lake as a "Mother Lake," and traces of this reverence can be seen in their festivals and daily life. The wetland connects directly to the Caicun Pier, a hub of local life where one can witness the hustle and bustle of boats and the tranquil scenes of villagers tending to their flower fields nearby.

A Journey of Light and Shadow

Caicun Wetland is celebrated as one of the best locations in Dali to watch the sunrise. In the early morning, as the sun emerges from the mountains on the opposite shore of Erhai, the water surface transforms into a shimmering field of gold. Conversely, in the late afternoon, the setting sun casts a soft glow on the Cangshan mountains, creating the famous "Cangshan Sunset" view. Whether it is the play of light on the rippling water or the silhouette of water birds against the twilight, the wetland offers endless inspiration for photographers. It is a place to slow down, breathe deeply, and reconnect with the rhythmic pulse of the highland environment.