The Floating Prairie: Caohai and the Emerald Maze of Lugu Lake

The "Sea of Grass" on the Plateau

1.Located at the southeastern end of Lugu: Lake, straddling the border between Yanyuan County in Sichuan and Ninglang County in Yunnan, Caohai (Grass Sea) is a breathtaking highland wetland that defines the ecological soul of the region. Covering an area of approximately 9,000 mu (about 6 square kilometers) at an altitude of 2,690 meters, it is the largest reed wetland in the Lugu Lake scenic area. Unlike the open, deep blue waters of the main lake, Caohai is a shallow, semi-enclosed water body where the average depth is often less than one meter. It is densely overgrown with tall reeds and diverse aquatic plants, creating a spectacular visual effect of a "lawn floating on water." As the "Kidney of Lugu Lake," Caohai serves as a vital ecological barrier, purifying the water and providing a sanctuary for biodiversity. It is celebrated as the "Water Garden of the Eastern Daughter Kingdom" and a "Green Maze" that changes its attire with the passing seasons,.

A Labyrinth of Reeds and Seasons

2.The landscape of: Caohai is defined by its ceaseless rhythm of color and life. In spring and summer, the reeds are lush and verdant, forming endless waves of green that rustle in the highland breeze. The water surface is dotted with blooming wild flowers and water primroses, creating a vibrant tapestry of life. As autumn approaches, the landscape undergoes a dramatic transformation; the reeds turn a magnificent golden yellow, and their fluffy catkins drift in the air like snow, painting a scene of melancholic but stunning beauty against the clear blue sky. This "Golden Grass Sea" is a photographer's paradise. The wetland is crisscrossed by a maze of natural waterways. Visitors can take a traditional pig trough boat (Zhucao Chuan) to navigate through these narrow, winding channels. Gliding through the tall reeds, one feels a sense of mystery and seclusion, as if entering a hidden world where only the sound of water paddling and the song of birds exist,.

The Bridge of Romance

Caohai is inextricably linked to the romantic traditions of the Mosuo people. Spanning across this vast expanse of reeds is the famous Walking Marriage Bridge (Zouhun Qiao), the only bridge on Lugu Lake. Historically, this bridge connected the villages on opposite banks, serving as a vital pathway for Mosuo men ("A-zhu") to visit their female lovers ("A-xia") at night, facilitating the unique "Walking Marriage" custom. Today, the 300-meter-long wooden structure remains a symbol of love and freedom. Walking along the bridge, visitors are suspended above the swaying reeds, with panoramic views of the wetland and the distant mountains. It is said that couples who walk the bridge together will find lasting happiness, but local lore playfully suggests not walking to the very end and turning back to ensure the relationship never ends. The interplay between the rustic bridge and the wild wetland creates a poetic atmosphere that has captivated poets and travelers for generations,.

A Sanctuary for Wildlife

Beyond its scenic and cultural allure, Caohai is a haven for wildlife, particularly birds. The dense vegetation and shallow waters provide an ideal habitat for a wide variety of fish, shrimp, and insects, which in turn attract numerous water birds. It is a paradise for birdwatchers, hosting dozens of species including wild ducks, egrets, herons, and even rare treasures like the black-necked crane and swans during the migratory season. In winter, flocks of birds can be seen soaring over the golden reeds or resting on the tranquil water, adding a dynamic vitality to the peaceful landscape. The harmony between the local Mosuo people and this environment is profound; traditional beliefs in nature spirits and the sacredness of the lake have helped preserve this pristine ecosystem through centuries. Whether you are seeking the romance of the "Magpie Bridge," the serenity of a boat ride, or the thrill of wildlife observation, Caohai offers a deeply immersive experience into the heart of Lugu Lake's natural beauty,.