A Jewel on Fuxian Lake: Ancient Banyans and Sacred Fish at Luchong Scenic Area

The Pearl of Fuxian Lake

1.Located on the west bank of Fuxian: Lake in Chengjiang City, Yuxi, Yunnan Province, Luchong Scenic Area is celebrated as the most scenic and culturally rich destination on the lake's shoreline. Situated approximately 20 kilometers from the Chengjiang county seat and about 70 kilometers from Kunming, Luchong is a National 4A-level scenic spot that perfectly blends the tranquil beauty of the plateau lake with the rustic charm of an ancient fishing village. Backed by the graceful Bjia Mountain (Pen Holder Mountain) and facing the vast, crystal-clear waters of Fuxian Lake—China's largest deep-water freshwater lake and second deepest overall—Luchong offers a landscape often described as a landscape painting come to life. The water here is renowned for its exceptional clarity, visibility reaching 7-8 meters, earning Fuxian Lake the nickname "Glass Lake" or "Glazed World",.

A Legacy of Banyans and Fish

2.The soul of: Luchong lies in its unique harmony between nature and human tradition. The village is shaded by a magnificent grove of Ancient Banyan Trees, some hundreds of years old. These towering trees, with their sprawling roots and lush canopies, act as the village's guardians, providing cool shade for locals and visitors alike. Beneath these trees lies the village's most famous cultural heritage: the ancient Waterwheel Fishing technique. Along the shoreline, numerous "Fish Caves" (spring outlets) are equipped with traditional wooden waterwheels. Local fishermen use these wheels to create currents that attract the famous Kanglang Fish (Anti-Wave Fish), a species unique to deep plateau lakes. This method, where "fish swim into the basket on their own," is a living fossil of fishing culture and a marvel of ecological wisdom,,.

Bjia Mountain and Bosha Bay

3.The landscape of Luchong is dominated by: Bjia Mountain (Bijiashan), named for its resemblance to a scholar's pen holder. A hike up the stone steps to the summit rewards visitors with a visit to the ancient Guanyin Temple and, more importantly, a breathtaking panoramic view of Fuxian Lake. From this vantage point, the lake stretches out like a giant sapphire, and the interplay of clouds, mountains, and water creates a mesmerizing scene. At the foot of the mountain lies Bosha Bay (Wave-Calming Bay), known for its calm waters and the Golden Sand Beach. This crescent-shaped bay is protected from the wind and waves, making it an ideal spot for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. The contrast between the red soil, green willows, and the blue lake creates a vibrant color palette perfect for photography,.

History and Legend

The name "Luchong" is said to originate from two historical figures, Lu and Chong, who lived here in seclusion, implying a place of prosperity and abundance. The area is also steeped in legends, such as the story of the Kanglang Fish. It is said that the Dragon King sent these fish to the lake, and their habit of swimming against the current into the spring caves gave them their name ("Anti-Wave"). Today, Luchong is not just a scenic spot but a window into the relaxed lifestyle of the central Yunnan plateau. Visitors can wander through the old village streets, taste the local delicacy Copper Pot Fish (Tongguo Yu), and experience the serene atmosphere where history and nature coexist harmoniously,,.