Longkan Pier

Introduction & Historical Significance
Nestled on the western shore of Erhai Lake in Dali City, Yunnan Province, Longkan Wharf is a historic ferry site with a 1,200-year heritage tracing back to the Nanzhao Kingdom. Originally named "Lijia Village," it was renamed "Longkan" (meaning "Dragon’s Shrine") by Prince Meng Shilong of the Nanzhao royal family in gratitude for the villagers’ care during his exile. As the "Best Love Confession Site in China," it symbolizes "Cangshan for Alliance, Erhai for Oath," blending Nanzhao-Dali history, Bai ethnic culture, and romantic legends. The wharf served as a vital water-land transit hub for the ancient tea-Horse Road, integrating trade, military defense, and spiritual significance. Today, it is a UNESCO-recognized cultural gem where natural beauty meets human creativity.

Architectural Layout & Design
The wharf features a 50m-long, 15m-wide stone staircase dating to the Ming Dynasty, expanded in the Qing Dynasty. Key elements include:

• Historic Structures: Stone-carved "Cloud Dragon Cave," "Longkan Stone Chamber," and "Yujin Bridge" inscriptions; Qing-era "Double Dragon Bridge" and "Three Dragons Bridge" stone arches.
• Cultural Landmarks: The "Longkan Ancient Ferry" archway with inscribed "Tianjing Gate" and "Haiyue Gate," alongside a seaside "Love Confession Square" with heart-shaped arches.
• Ecological Corridor: A 10km bike-pedestrian path along Erhai’s shore, connecting to wetlands, redwood forests, and the "Sea Tongue" peninsula.
• Modern Integration: Solar-powered lighting, smart parking, and eco-friendly facilities harmonize with traditional Bai timber-framed pavilions and stone-paved lanes.

Major Attractions

• Sunrise Observatory: Witness dawn over Erhai at 7:00 AM (winter) or 5:30 AM (summer), with golden rays reflecting on the lake.
• Redwood Forest & Seagulls: Winter scenes of crimson water杉 trees and Siberian seagulls create a painterly landscape.
• Ancient Ferry Relics: Ming-Qing stone bridges, tea-horse road traces, and the "Dragon Shrine" temple ruins.
• Romantic Venues: "Love Harbor" with floral-decorated walls, "Heart Arch," and nightly lantern displays for couples.
• Cultural Hubs: The Bai Ethnic Museum showcasing traditional costumes and the "Yunnan Calligraphy Museum" with historic inscriptions.

Ticket Information

• Free Entry: Main wharf area open 24/7; specialized venues (e.g., museums, cultural performances) may charge ¥20–50.
• Guided Tours: ¥80–150 for in-depth historical and ecological tours.
• Parking: ¥5–10/hour at the ecological parking lot; shuttle buses available for ¥5.

Transportation Guide

• Bus: Take Line C2 from Dali Ancient City to "Longkan Village Stop," then walk 10 minutes.
• Self-Drive: 30-minute drive via G5611 Highway; parking at north gate (¥10/day).
• Bike/E-Scooter: Rent shared bikes (¥15/day unlimited) or e-scooters for scenic coastal rides.
• Taxi/Shuttle: Direct taxis from Dali Railway Station (¥30) or shuttle buses from Ancient City (¥10).

Best Time & Tips

• Optimal Seasons: November–February for redwoods and seagulls; March–June for mild weather and fewer crowds.
• Photography: Arrive 30 minutes before sunrise for prime spots; redwood forest’s opposite railing offers stunning angles.
• Cultural Etiquette: Remove hats in temples; respect quiet zones during meditation sessions.
• Packing: Layered clothing, sunscreen, hats, and sturdy shoes; bring cash for local markets.
• Dining: Must-try dishes include "Bai-style Cool Chicken," rose-flavored pastries, and seafood at waterside cafés.

Nearby Attractions & Itineraries

• Combined Tours:
  • Morning: Sunrise viewing + redwood forest exploration.
  • Afternoon: Visit Dali Ancient City (3.5km) for cultural strolls or Erhai Lake for boat cruises.
  • Evening: Jinma Biji Square night market or Cangshan Mountain sunset hike.
• Cultural Synergy: Pair with the Three Pagodas of Chongsheng Temple for Buddhist heritage or Shaxi Ancient Town for historic trades.

Longkan Wharf embodies Dali’s soul—where ancient stones whisper tales of kings, and Erhai’s waves carry promises of eternity. As a UNESCO sanctuary, it continues to inspire global travelers seeking love, history, and natural splendor in China’s Southwest.