The Sunrise Port of Erhai: Dawn Redwoods, Seagulls, and Azure Waters at Longkan Wharf

The Best Sunrise on Erhai Lake

1.Located on the west bank of Erhai: Lake, just about 3 kilometers northeast of Dali Ancient City, Longkan Wharf Ecological Wetland is widely regarded as one of the best spots to watch the sunrise in Dali. Unlike the hustle and bustle of other tourist piers, Longkan offers a serene and romantic atmosphere, perfectly blending the vastness of the lake with the tenderness of the wetland vegetation. When the first rays of the sun pierce through the clouds over the mountains on the opposite shore, the water surface turns into a shimmering expanse of gold, creating a breathtaking silhouette of the Dawn Redwoods (Metasequoia) standing in the water. This daily spectacle makes it a pilgrimage site for photographers and nature lovers seeking the most poetic start to their day in Dali.

The "Water Forest" of Dawn Redwoods

2.One of the most defining features of: Longkan is its stunning "Water Forest" of Metasequoia trees. These trees grow directly in the shallow waters of the lake, creating a unique landscape that changes dramatically with the seasons. In spring and summer, the trees are a lush, vibrant green, offering a refreshing shade against the blue sky and water. However, the most spectacular season is winter (November to February), when the foliage turns a fiery red and rust orange. This vibrant display contrasts beautifully with the deep azure of Erhai Lake and the yellowing reeds, creating an oil-painting-like scene that has become iconic for Dali tourism. The redwoods standing in the water are not just trees; they are the guardians of the lake's ecological beauty.

A Haven for Siberian Seagulls

Every winter, from November to March, Longkan Wharf becomes a lively sanctuary for thousands of black-headed gulls (Siberian seagulls) migrating from Siberia. These spirited birds flock to the wetland, dancing in the air and skimming over the water surface, adding a dynamic vitality to the tranquil scenery. Visitors can stand on the wooden boardwalks or the shore to watch them up close, and feeding them has become a popular interactive activity. The combination of red Metasequoia trees, blue water, and white seagulls creates a classic winter scene in Dali that attracts countless visitors.

A Pearl on the Ecological Corridor

Longkan Wharf is a shining pearl on the famous Erhai Ecological Corridor. This corridor, which prohibits motor vehicles, is a paradise for cyclists and walkers. The section near Longkan is particularly scenic, featuring well-maintained wooden boardwalks that wind through the wetland vegetation, allowing visitors to walk right above the water. Riding a bicycle along this path, with the Cangshan Mountains on one side and the shimmering Erhai Lake on the other, offers a profound sense of freedom and connection to nature. The corridor connects Longkan with other scenic spots like Caicun and Panxi, making it an ideal starting point for a lakeside exploration.

Historical Ferry and Bai Culture

Beyond its natural beauty, Longkan holds deep historical significance. The name "Longkan" implies a shrine to the dragon, reflecting the local Bai people's reverence for water and nature. Historically, this was an important ferry crossing dating back to the Nanzhao Kingdom era, serving as a vital link for transport and trade. Although the hustle of the ancient ferry has faded, the site retains the charm of a traditional Bai village. Nearby Longkan Village preserves traditional Bai architecture and a slow-paced lifestyle. The ancient ferry site, with its stone steps and old trees, stands as a silent witness to centuries of history, blending the cultural heritage of the Tea Horse Road with the natural splendor of the lake.