The Eye of Puzhehei: A Panoramic Feast of Karst Peaks and Lakes atop Qinglongshan

The Commanding Height of Puzhehei

1.Located in the heart of the Puzhehei Scenic: Area in Qiubei County, Wenshan Zhuang and Miao Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan Province, Qinglongshan (Green Dragon Mountain) stands as the premier vantage point for witnessing one of China's most unique landscapes. Situated between Puzhehei Lake and Xianrendong Village, this limestone peak rises to an altitude of approximately 1,500 meters. While its relative height is not daunting, requiring only a 20 to 30-minute hike to the summit, it offers an unrivaled "God's eye view" of the surrounding world. It is widely considered the best location to capture the essence of Puzhehei's "pastoral karst" scenery, comparable to Guilin but with a distinct, rugged plateau beauty.

A 360-Degree Landscape Scroll

Upon reaching the summit, visitors are rewarded with a breathtaking panoramic view that feels like stepping into a living ink-wash painting. There are four viewing platforms at the top, offering different perspectives. Looking out, you will see hundreds of isolated karst peaks scattered across the vast wetland plain like chess pieces on a board. These green "conical" mountains float amidst a network of shimmering lakes and winding waterways, creating a scene of serene majesty. Beneath the peaks, the mosaic of fields—green in summer and golden in autumn—and the blue-tiled roofs of Puzhehei Village and Xianrendong Village add a vibrant touch of human life to the natural tableau.

The Magic of Light: Sunrise and Sunset

Qinglongshan is a paradise for photographers, particularly during the golden hours. The sunrise here is a spectacle of light and shadow. Before dawn, a sea of white clouds often shrouds the valley, with only the tips of the karst peaks poking through like islands in an ocean. As the sun rises, golden rays pierce through the mist, illuminating the waters and the mountains in a divine glow. Conversely, the sunset offers a different kind of romance. From the western viewing platform, you can watch the sky turn hues of purple and red, reflecting off the calm lakes below. As twilight fades, the lights of the villages at the foot of the mountain begin to twinkle, blending the tranquility of nature with the warmth of rural life.

Legend of the Green Dragon

The mountain holds deep cultural significance for the local Yi people. According to legend, Qinglongshan is the incarnation of a Green Dragon (Qinglong) sent by the heavens to protect the land. In ancient times, a demon caused floods that threatened the villagers. The Green Dragon fought the demon and transformed into this mountain to suppress the evil waters forever. The lush trees on the mountain are said to be the dragon's scales, and the clear springs at its foot are its tears. Today, the mountain is not just a geographical landmark but a spiritual guardian of the homeland, embodying the Yi people's reverence for nature and their desire for peace.