Erhai Lake

Erhai Lake, known as Yunnan’s “Pearl of the Plateau,” is the heart and soul of Dali. Despite being called a “sea,” it’s actually a magnificent freshwater lake shaped like a crescent moon resting at the foot of Cangshan Mountain, where the breathtaking harmony of water and mountains creates an utterly mesmerizing landscape.Erhai Lake is located in Dali City, situated in the watershed area of three major river systems: the Lancang, Jinsha, and Yuan rivers. With a surface area of approx. 252 sq km, it measures 42.5 km in length from north to south and averages 6.3 km in width from east to west, featuring a shoreline of 128 km. It ranks as Yunnan’s second largest freshwater lake after Dianchi. The lake earned its poetic name “Erhai” (meaning “Ear-shaped Sea”) from ancient people due to its ear-like shape and its vast, sea-like expanse of misty waters.Erhai Lake boasts not only breathtaking natural scenery but also profound Bai ethnic culture and historical significance. Revered since ancient times as the “Silver Cangshan and Jade Erhai,” it’s home to the famed “Moon over Erhai” among Dali’s “Wind, Flower, Snow, and Moon” quartet of attractions. The lake is dotted with scenic spots like Golden Shuttle Island, Little Putuo Island, and Nanzhao Folklore Island. Golden Shuttle Island stands out as Erhai’s only inhabited primitive island, preserving intact Bai fishing village architecture and Benzhu worship traditions, with its annual Torch Festival’s pine resin powder ritual leaving visitors awestruck. Folk celebrations like the “Sea Play Festival” originate from legends such as Lady Baijie’s martyrdom and Duan Chicheng’s serpent-slaying, embodying the shared values of loyalty and guardianship among multiple ethnic groups.Today, cycling around Erhai Lake, strolling along the ecological corridor, enjoying Bai ethnic songs and dances on a cruise, and savoring the Three-Course Tea have become classic ways for travelers to immerse themselves in the breathtaking scenery of Cangshan Mountain and Erhai Lake. Whether it’s the serene sunrise at Longkan Pier in the early morning, the viral waterside grove at Panxi S Bend, or the lakeside cafes in Shuanglang Ancient Town, Erhai Lake always offers a poetic retreat for every visitor.