Black Dragon Pool Park (黑龙潭公园, Heilongtan Gongyuan) is one of the most iconic and picturesque attractions in Lijiang, Yunnan Province, China. Located at the foot of Elephant Hill and just a short walk from the Old Town of Lijiang, this park is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, cultural significance, and breathtaking views of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. Here’s what you need to know:

Highlights of Black Dragon Pool Park

1. The Black Dragon Pool:
   • The centerpiece of the park is the crystal-clear pool, which reflects the surrounding scenery, including the iconic Jade Dragon Snow Mountain on clear days. The pool is fed by natural springs and is said to have been a sacred site for the Naxi people.
2. Jade Dragon Snow Mountain Views:
   • One of the most famous views in Lijiang is the reflection of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain in the Black Dragon Pool. This view is particularly stunning in the early morning or late afternoon when the light is perfect for photography.
3. Ancient Architecture:
   • The park is home to several traditional Chinese pavilions, bridges, and temples, including:
     • Deyue Pavilion: A beautiful pavilion standing on an island in the middle of the pool.
     • Five Phoenix Tower (Wufeng Lou): A historic Naxi-style wooden structure relocated to the park from the nearby Fuguo Temple. It is a masterpiece of ancient Chinese architecture.
4. Cultural Significance:
   • The park is deeply connected to the Naxi people’s culture and history. It was once a place of worship and is still considered a spiritual site.
5. Natural Beauty:
   • The park is lush with greenery, ancient trees, and colorful flowers. It’s a peaceful retreat from the bustling Old Town and a great place for a leisurely stroll.
6. Dongba Culture Museum:
   • Located within the park, this museum showcases the unique culture, religion, and pictographic script of the Naxi people. It’s a great place to learn about the Dongba religion and Naxi traditions.

Best Time to Visit

• Early Morning: The best time to visit is early in the morning when the light is soft, the park is less crowded, and the reflection of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain in the pool is most visible.
• Spring and Autumn: These seasons offer pleasant weather and vibrant scenery, making it ideal for exploring the park.

Tips for Visiting

• Entrance Fee: There is a small entrance fee for the park (around 50 RMB as of recent updates). If you’re staying in Lijiang Old Town, you may be able to use your Old Town maintenance fee ticket for entry.
• Photography: Bring a good camera or smartphone to capture the stunning views, especially the reflection of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain.
• Comfortable Shoes: The park is large, so wear comfortable shoes for walking.
• Combine with Other Attractions: The park is close to Lijiang Old Town and the Dongba Culture Museum, making it easy to combine visits.

How to Get There

• From Lijiang Old Town: The park is about a 10-15 minute walk from the Old Town. Head north from Sifang Street, and you’ll find the entrance near the Lion Hill.
• By Taxi: A short taxi ride from anywhere in Lijiang will take you to the park.

Black Dragon Pool Park is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Lijiang. Its combination of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and serene atmosphere makes it a perfect escape and a highlight of any trip to Yunnan.