Black Dragon Pool Park
Why visit here?
Black Dragon Pool Park, known locally as Yuquan, is an ancient sacred spring at the foot of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. Its deep blue, crystal-clear waters come directly from melting glaciers and feed all the canals that run through the ancient city of Lijiang.
The park's most famous landmark is the Delighting in the Moon Pavilion, located next to the white marble bridge. On calm days, the pond becomes a perfect mirror, reflecting the snow-capped summit of Jade Dragon Mountain and creating one of Yunnan's most iconic images.
The park is also home to the Dongba Museum, which houses thousands of manuscripts written in pictograms, the only pictographic writing system still in use in the world. Ancient weeping willows and five pavilions from the Ming dynasty complete this landscape of absolute serenity.
At sunset, golden light bathes the facades of the pavilions while golden carp swim among the shadows of the centuries-old trees. It is the place where locals come to practice tai chi and travelers find the silence that dwells in the heart of Lijiang.
Pros & Cons
- This is Lijiang's definitive postcard view: the iconic reflection of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain perfectly mirrored in still water, framed by ancient pavilions and marble bridges
- The Dongba Culture Museum inside the park offers one of Lijiang's most interactive cultural experiences – you can trace Naxi pictographs on touch screens, hear shamans chanting, and watch ethnographic films; it is genuinely hands-on, not just glass-case gazing
- A short, paved hike up Elephant Mountain rewards you with a sweeping panorama of Lijiang Old Town and the entire Black Dragon Pool from above
- The mountain reflection is entirely weather-dependent
- The park demands walking: it is not a drive-through attraction, the grounds are substantial, and skipping the hike means missing the best elevated perspectives
- Commercialization is minimal but dining options inside are scarce and overpriced
Contact a Travel Specialist to Start Your Custom Tour
Your Trip is 100% Tailor-Made
Your personal travel expert creates a journey perfectly matched to your vision, handling every detail from destinations to unique experiences.
Expert Local Consultant Assigned
You'll connect directly with on-the-ground experts who know China inside out. They offer real insider advice most travelers miss.
Dedicated Guide & Transfers Included
Your journey is led by an expert local guide, with your group's exclusive private transport ensuring hassle-free travel between attractions.
Best Price, No Middlemen
You'll link directly with local China travel experts. As a China-based operator, we handle nationwide ground services efficiently.