Published : 29/07/2022
Did you know that in Lijiang, Yunnan, there lies a hidden gem believed to be the inspiration for the Blue Moon Valley from the famous British novel Lost Horizon?
It is none other than Blue Moon Valley near Jade Dragon Snow Mountain.
The area not only captivates visitors with its jade-like turquoise lakes but also features picturesque cascades and other stunning sights. Fancy a glimpse of this photogenic wonder? Read on to find out more!
An exquisite fairyland beneath the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain
Blue Moon Valley is situated in a valley south of Spruce Meadow and north of Ganhaizi, at the eastern foot of the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain in Lijiang, Yunnan Province.
It was originally known to earlier visitors as the White Water River. This name derives from the white clay at the bottom of the lake, which turns the water milky when washed by rain.
With the changes in time and environment, White Water River gradually transformed into an even more moving landscape.
The locals discovered that on sunny days, the colour of the lake water always appears sapphire blue, and as the valley is crescent-shaped, it looks from afar like a blue moon embedded at the foot of the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, giving it a dreamlike and illusory quality.
It is said that the lake and valley scenery here closely resemble the Blue Moon Valley described in James Hilton's novel Lost Horizon. Thus, the valley was named "Blue Moon Valley."
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The four distinct Lakes of Blue Moon Valley
A visit to Blue Moon Valley might make you feel as though you have stepped into the shoes of a martial arts hero.
Gazing upon the towering and magnificent scenery, it’s easy to imagine practising their skills or crossing swords beneath a dramatic waterfall amidst such striking natural beauty.
The Blue Moon Valley scenic area is located at the foot of the central part of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain.
After the snow melts into river water, it flows down the valley, passing through the step-like Baishui (White Water) Terrace, before flowing further down to converge into the azure Yuye Lake.
The Baishui Terrace has been weathered by time; the once uneven stone steps have been repaired and polished, transforming into the flat stone steps we see today.
Gurgling water flows slowly over the stone steps, forming waterfalls of various sizes, which, together with the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain in the distance, resembles a natural scroll painting.
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The river water in Blue Moon Valley is obstructed by the mountains as it flows, forming four large lakes: Yuye Lake, Jingtan Lake, Lanyue Lake, and Tingtao Lake, each with its own unique characteristics.
Take Yuye Lake, for instance; if you get closer for a better look, you will find that the lake water reveals an exceptionally clear blue colour.
Under the sunlight, the lake surface glitters and sparkles, emitting a dazzling light like a sapphire, which is truly captivating.
Continuing downstream, you will find Jingtan Lake, Lanyue Lake, and Tingtao Lake in sequence. Although Jingtan Lake appears small and exquisite, its water is exceptionally clear.
You can see small trees and algae growing at the bottom of the lake, giving it a Southeast Asian feel and creating a sense of comfort and tranquillity.
At night, the bright moon reflects on the lake's surface, and the night view of the snow-capped mountain, complemented by the moon's reflection, adds a romantic touch to the atmosphere.
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For our final stop, we come to Lanyue Lake and Tingtao Lake. Lanyue Lake is surrounded by green mountains and trees. On clear days, the emerald-green, mirror-like lake surface glitters, creating an ethereal and fantastical feeling.
As for Tingtao Lake, the water level changes dramatically, with streams flowing as fast as waterfalls, producing a "ding-dong" sound like a Sheng (a traditional Chinese instrument) performance.
Visitors can stand by the lake to appreciate it quietly, listening to the sound of the water mixing with the sighing of the pines, enjoying the sounds of nature.
A wonderful holiday requires thorough planning. The next time you travel to Yunnan, remember to take a trip to Lijiang to uncover the beautiful mysteries of Blue Moon Valley—perhaps you will find even more surprises!
Travel Information
Blue Moon Valley at Jade Dragon Snow Mountain Scenic Area
Opening Hours: 08:00-16:00
Suggested Duration: 1 day
Address: Inside the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain Scenic Area, at the 15-kilometre mark, Yulong Naxi Autonomous County, Lijiang City
One-day itinerary for Jade Dragon Snow Mountain:Lijiang Old Town → Jade Dragon Snow Mountain (via cable car) → Blue Moon Valley