A Jade Embedded in Peak Forests: Discovering the "City in the Lake" at Guangnan Lianhu Lake

The Emerald of the Plateau Ancient City

1.Located in Guangnan: County, Wenshan Zhuang and Miao Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan Province, Lianhu Lake is not merely a body of water; it is the soul of a city with over a thousand years of history. Situated at an altitude of 1,240 meters, the lake functions as the central axis of the Guangnan Ancient City, a "National Historic and Cultural City." Unlike typical urban parks, Lianhu Lake defines the unique spatial structure of Guangnan, creating a rare landscape described as "a city in the lake, and a lake in the city". Surrounded by the dramatic karst peak forests of southeastern Yunnan, the lake shines like a turquoise jade time-traveled from the past. For travelers seeking authentic history and unspoiled landscapes, Lianhu Lake offers a profound glimpse into the ancient Judi Kingdom (句町古国) and the legacy of the Tusi (native chieftains) system.

A Living Museum of History

2.Walking along the banks of Lianhu: Lake is like stepping into a living museum. The history here runs deep, tracing back to the ancient Judi Kingdom, a significant center of civilization in southwest China during the Han Dynasty. Later, during the Ming and Qing dynasties, it became the seat of the Guangnan Prefecture. The lake witnessed the expansion of the city under the Tusi rulers and the eventual integration into the imperial administration. Today, the remnants of this glorious past are scattered around the lake. The Tusi Government Office (Tusi Yashu) ruins stand as a testament to the powerful Nong clan who ruled this region for centuries, with its massive stone foundations and remaining structures hinting at its former grandeur. Nearby, the Jiangxi Guild Hall and Confucian Temple (Wenmiao) reflect the commercial prosperity and cultural integration of the borderlands.

Ancient Bridges and Architecture

3.The landscape of Lianhu: Lake is dotted with architectural treasures that tell the stories of daily life in the past. The Puji Bridge, a stone arch bridge known as the "Rainbow Lying on Waves," adds an aesthetic elegance to the water, while the Keyan Bridge (Salt Bridge) historically served as a vital hub for the salt trade and a social gathering space for locals. On the shore, the Haitian Yulou (Sea and Sky Jade Tower) stands as a preserved landmark, offering a vantage point to appreciate the harmony between the city and the water. These structures are not just cold relics; they are integrated into the daily lives of the residents, connecting the bustling South Street and North Street where traditional life continues amidst blue bricks and gray tiles.

A Sanctuary of Zhuang Culture and Serenity

Beyond its stone and wood, Lianhu Lake is a spiritual sanctuary. The banyan trees lining the lake are revered as sacred guardians by the local villages, protecting the peace of the people. Guangnan is a hub for Zhuang ethnic culture, and during traditional festivals, the lake becomes a vibrant stage for folk songs and celebrations. For the modern traveler, the best way to experience Lianhu Lake is to slow down. Stroll along the Kejie (Embankment Street) where willows brush the water, find an old teahouse by the lake, sip local Pu'er tea, and watch the clouds reflect on the surface. Whether admiring the lotus flowers in summer or the mist in winter, Lianhu Lake offers a tranquil escape where history and nature coexist in perfect harmony.