When you think of China’s most colorful province, Yunnan always comes to mind. Many know places like Kunming, Dali, Lijiang, Shangri-La, and Lugu Lake. But close to Kunming, there is a magical city, more peaceful than Lijiang and more perfect for relaxation than Dali. It is a place almost untouched by tourists.
You might not know it, but you’ve likely heard of Fuxian Lake, the musician Nie Er, or even Chu Shijian and his “Chu Oranges”. This hidden city is a treasure. The ancient explorer Xu Xiake praised it highly, and the singer Li Jian wrote a song about it. It is home to three of Yunnan’s “Nine Plateau Lakes” and is known for the eel rice noodles.
This is Yuxi, a place in Yunnan that feels like paradise! 
Yuxi: More Than Just a City
Five Seas in One City
Yuxi is not by the sea, but it has five kinds of “seas”: the sunrise cloud sea, resembling Niubei Mountain, the vast Fuxian Lake, the jacaranda flower sea that rivals Kunming, and the golden rapeseed fields akin to Luoping. Yuxi is a city of color, where you will see why Yunnan is called the “Land South of the Clouds.”
A Hidden Gem
Yuxi, though small, has many wonders: a “sky mirror” even more beautiful than Erhai Lake or Lugu Lake, a lakeside resort that is similar to Sanya, and terraced fields that are even more magical than those in Yuanyang. You shouldn’t miss this place!
Discovering Yuxi’s Colors
The Blue of Fuxian Lake
In Yuxi, you’ll find a blue that is more clear than Lugu Lake, at Fuxian Lake. While it may not be as famous as Erhai Lake, or Dianchi Lake, it is one of China’s largest deep-water freshwater lakes, even larger than the other two combined. It is so clear and wide that it feels like an ocean. The ancient explorer Xu Xiake said, “Yunnan’s mountains have many lakes, but Fuxian Lake is the clearest.” The singer Li Jian also wrote the song “Fuxian Lake” about this place. Ride a bike along the lake on a nice day, and you will find it as beautiful as Erhai, yet more peaceful and relaxed. In the spring and summer, the blooming flowers along the shore offer a fragrant and colorful experience. And on foggy days, the lake becomes a misty paradise, with views of the stars reflecting in the water at night.
The Orange Sunset at Xingyun Lake
Yuxi’s Xingyun Lake is a secret location, a place of unique beauty, separated from Fuxian Lake by a mountain. At sunset, the lake transforms with shades of blue and orange. It is also known for the big-headed fish and silverfish, and when fishing season opens on December 25, thousands of boats gather, making for an incredible scene.
The White Cloud Sea at Ailao Mountain
In Yuxi, you can see a white sea of clouds like those at Niubei Mountain, at Ailao Mountain. This area is full of plant life, with 85% forest cover, earning it the name “Gene Bank” and “Animal Kingdom”. Its sunrise cloud sea is especially impressive. With its misty views, waterfalls, and ancient trees, you will feel like you have stepped into a martial arts story.
The Red of Hongta Mountain
The Hongta Mountain is a landmark of Yuxi. This ancient pagoda, built in the Yuan Dynasty and rebuilt in the Qing Dynasty, is a beautiful place to see the sunrise and the city views. Many come here because of the famous Hongtashan cigarettes and their connection to Chu Shijian.
The Fiery Red of Lüjizhen Town
Lüjizhen Town, named after the Lüzhi River, has a rich copper mining history. Once called “Little Hong Kong”, the town is now a quiet place, where, each May, flame trees bloom, creating a fiery landscape.
The Purple Jacaranda of Yuxi
Each summer, the jacaranda trees bloom, turning the city into a purple floral avenue. You’ll find the most impressive views along the Zhouda River, East Wind Road, and Longma Road, as well as in parks, and even residential areas. During this time, you can walk on flower-filled streets and feel the cool breeze. With its blue skies, and purple flowers, Yuxi is like a fairytale world.
The Greenery at Jiulong Pond
Jiulong Pond is a favorite place to escape the summer heat. The pond has clear, green waters, ancient trees, and temples, creating a peaceful scene.
The Pink of the Winter Cherry Blossoms
In winter, you can see the fleeting beauty of winter cherry blossoms in Yuxi. Stroll through the streets, or visit the “Sakura Lane” in Yushan City, where the pink blossoms, white houses and blue sky create a beautiful sight.
The Gold of Chengjiang’s Countryside
On the road to Mafang Village in Chengjiang, you’ll find Fuxian Lake on one side and golden fields on the other. You can find golden fields of canola flowers in the spring and golden rice paddies in the fall.
The Colorful Terraces of Nanuo
While many know about Yuanyang in Honghe, few know of the beautiful Nanuo Rice Terraces in Yuanjiang, Yuxi. Built by the Hani people, these terraced fields offer a spectacular landscape. The terraces are especially stunning during the flooding season, from November to March, when a sea of clouds can be seen.
The Multi-Colored Yunnan Botanical Garden
The Yunnan Botanical Garden in Yuxi is a treasure trove of flowers. In April, the garden blooms with orange calendula, purple lavender, and pink verbena. It feels like a scene out of a Miyazaki film.
A Taste of Yuxi Life
Enjoy the Slow Pace
To truly feel Yuxi’s charm, explore its old streets. You’ll find that Yuxi is also home to a hidden world of food.
Must-Try Noodles
When you are in Yuxi, you must try the famous local noodles.
Cold Rice Noodles
These chilled noodles are served with a tangy, sour, and sweet vinegar sauce.
Eel Rice Noodles
Savor the tender eel meat and savory bone broth.
Cold Rice Rolls
Unlike other rice rolls, Yuxi’s version is made with folded rice paper and is served in thick, smooth strips.
Baojiang Tofu
This tofu, found everywhere in Yuxi, is deep-fried until crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.
Soy Sauce Chicken
Locals will usually suggest you try soy sauce chicken. The chicken is first braised, then sliced, topped with a soy-sugar sauce and finally, sprinkled with peppers and hot oil.
Eshan Roasted Goose
Eshan Roasted Goose, a local favorite, is known for its crispy skin, tender meat, and aromatic bones.
Yimen Wild Mushroom Hot Pot
In Yimen County, you will find many mushroom-based dishes, the best of which is the wild mushroom hot pot.
Copper Pot Fish
Try the fresh, sweet, fragrant and spicy copper pot fish, served with rice.
Whether you ride a bike along Fuxian Lake, watch the sunrise over Ailao Mountain, or seek out tasty treats, it’s the perfect place to relax. Take a break from your daily routine, and escape to Yuxi!
