Plateau Pearl · Cradle of Life

Yuxi Chengjiang City — a World Natural Heritage site. A 2-day-1-night trip to explore Fuxian Lake, the deepest freshwater lake in China, visit the Cambrian Explosion fossil site at Maotian Mountain, and stroll along Sakura Valley lakeside. Experience the 500-million-year geological wonders and plateau lake ecological charm.

212m
Fuxian Lake Depth
530 Million Years
Fossil History
World Heritage
Natural Heritage
Class I Water
Lake Water Standard
Chengjiang Fuxian Lake
Chengjiang City Fuxian Lake Glass-like Vast Landscape
China's deepest freshwater lake, the crystal-clear water surface and distant mountains form an ink-wash painting

Chengjiang City Two Days One Night Geological Ecology Tour

Lake Exploration + Fossil Site + Lakeside Leisure, feel the charm of world natural heritage

Duration
2 Days 1 Night
Main Destinations
Fuxian Lake, Maotian Mountain Fossil Site, Sakura Valley, Lucun Scenic Area
Suitable For
Nature lovers, geological study tours, photographers, families
Per Capita Budget
¥450-¥800
01
Plateau Pearl Exploration
Lake Ecology
Highlights

Visit Fuxian Lake in the morning, explore the fossil site in the afternoon

Attractions
Fuxian Lake
The second deepest freshwater lake in China, with a maximum depth of 212 meters and Class I water quality. Includes attractions such as Lucun Scenic Area and Gushan Island. Water sports like sailing and diving are available.
Maotian Mountain Fossil Site
A World Natural Heritage site and the core area of the Cambrian Explosion, preserving a 530-million-year-old fossil group of ancient life, known as the "Cradle of Life". Includes a National Geological Museum.
Lucun Scenic Area
A core scenic area on the west bank of Fuxian Lake, famous for Bijia Mountain and Golden Beach. Ancient banyan trees line the lakeshore; climb Bijia Mountain for a panoramic view of the lake and experience fishing village culture.
Practical Information
Travel Tips
  • Bring sun protection for lake area tours
  • Do not touch specimens at the fossil site
  • Wear life jackets for water activities
Accommodation Recommendations
  • Fuxian Lake Hilton Hotel
  • Xiaowan Art Homestay
  • Lakeside Wooden House Resort
02
Lakeside Leisure Experience
Eco Holiday
Highlights

Stroll through Sakura Valley in the morning, taste Chengjiang cuisine in the afternoon

Attractions
Sakura Valley
An ecological scenic area on the east bank of Fuxian Lake, with 3 kilometers of lakeshore lined with cherry blossoms. In spring, it forms a sea of pink flowers. It features white sandy beaches, wetland boardwalks, and viewing platforms, known as the "Little Sanya of Yunnan".
Fuxian Lake Wetland Park
A National Wetland Park with a 12-kilometer ecological corridor around the lake. It includes a bird-watching tower, aquatic plant garden, and science center. Tens of thousands of black-headed gulls inhabit the area during winter.
Sun Mountain Town
A lakeside resort town integrating European-style architecture with natural landscapes. It features a hillside commercial street, viewing platforms, and an art center, offering a panoramic view of Fuxian Lake.
Practical Information
Special Experiences
  • Sunset sailing cruise
  • Fossil rubbing making
  • Lakeside stargazing camping
Return Suggestions
  • Reserve time for buying local specialties
  • Chengjiang lotus root starch as souvenir
  • Dried Kanglang fish products

Must-Try Foods in Chengjiang City

Copper Pot Fish

Chengjiang's signature dish, using Kanglang fish from Fuxian Lake, cooked in a copper pot with secret seasonings. The meat is fresh and tender, and the soup is milky white. It is listed as a Yunnan Provincial Intangible Cultural Heritage.

Chengjiang Lotus Root Starch

A National Geographical Indication product, made from seven-hole eight-eye plateau lotus roots, served with candied fruits and nuts. It has a smooth and glutinous texture, a 300-year history, and has obtained EU organic food certification.

Salted Fish

A local specialty preserved food, Kanglang fish is salted and fermented with chili spices. It can be steamed or pan-fried and has a shelf life of up to one year, known as the "Plateau Fish Treasure".

Chengjiang City Travel Tips
Best Season
  • March-April: Sakura Valley peak bloom season
  • June-September: Lake tour season
  • November-February: Black-headed gull viewing period
Ecological Protection
  • Do not use chemical sunscreen when entering the water
  • Do not feed wild birds
  • Do not collect geological specimens
  • Take your trash with you
Travel Preparation
  • Protect against UV rays at high altitude
  • Bring anti-slip water shoes
  • Temperature varies greatly at the fossil site, bring a jacket
Transportation Guide
  • Kunming to Chengjiang via expressway, 1 hour
  • Sightseeing bus around the lake covers major attractions
  • Electric shuttle bus available at Sakura Valley
  • Bicycles available for rent at Lucun Scenic Area