A Pearl on the Waves: The Floating Temple, Winter Seagulls, and Legends of Little Putuo

The Seal of Guanyin on Erhai Lake

Floating like an exquisite jade seal upon the vast, azure expanse of Erhai Lake, Little Putuo (Xiao Putuo) is one of the most celebrated and photogenic landmarks in Dali. Located near Wase Town on the eastern shore of the lake, this tiny island measures only about 100 square meters. Despite its diminutive size, it commands a powerful presence, often referred to as a "Pearl on Erhai." The island is dominated by the Avalokitesvara Pavilion (Guanyin Pavilion), a structure dating back to the Ming Dynasty, which gives the rock its spiritual significance and its name, derived from the famous Putuo Mountain of the South China Sea, the dojo of Guanyin (the Goddess of Mercy),.

A Legend of Calming the Waves

1.The origins of Little: Putuo are steeped in local mythology. Legend has it that in ancient times, Erhai Lake was plagued by dragons that caused fierce winds and high waves, endangering the local fishermen. To protect the people, Guanyin threw her precious seal into the lake. The seal transformed into this small rocky island, effectively suppressing the dragons and calming the waters. In gratitude, the local fishermen built a temple on the island to worship Guanyin. This blend of geological curiosity and spiritual reverence makes the island a symbol of peace and protection for the Bai people living along the shores,.

Architectural Elegance

2.The Guanyin: Pavilion is a masterclass in traditional Chinese architecture adapted to a unique setting. It is a two-story pavilion with flying eaves and a pointed roof, occupying almost the entire surface of the rocky island. The structure creates a striking silhouette against the backdrop of the shimmering lake and the majestic Cangshan Mountain range across the water. From a distance, the temple appears to rise directly from the waves, creating a surreal and ethereal image, especially when the lake is shrouded in morning mist, earning it the nickname "Fairy Island",.

Winter's Lively Guests

While beautiful year-round, Little Putuo transforms into a lively ecological spectacle during the winter months (typically November to March). Thousands of migratory black-headed gulls from Siberia flock to Erhai Lake to spend the winter, and Little Putuo becomes one of their favorite gathering spots. Visitors can take a boat to the island or stand on the nearby causeway to feed and photograph these spirited birds. The scene of white gulls circling the ancient temple against the deep blue water and the clear highland sky creates a dynamic and harmonious picture of man, nature, and spirit,,.

A Photographer's Dream

Little Putuo is a favorite stop for photographers traveling along the Erhai Circum-lake Road. The interplay of light and water changes throughout the day. In the early morning, the island is often wrapped in a thin veil of mist, appearing mysterious and tranquil. As the sun rises, the golden light illuminates the temple and the white gulls, creating a vibrant contrast. At sunset, the silhouette of the pavilion against the burning orange sky and the darkening mountains offers a profound sense of solitude and beauty. Whether viewed from the deck of a cruise ship or the railing of the lakeside road, Little Putuo offers some of the most iconic views of the Dali region,.