Black Dragon Pool
Black Dragon Pool or Heilong Pool is a historical park at the edge of Lijiang Old Town, offering views of Yulong Jade Mountain in the distance.
With a mountainous backdrop and architecture influenced by different dynasties and cultures, Black Dragon Pool is well-known for its views and historical value.
What is Black Dragon Pool?
Black Dragon Pool is made up of two pools fed by rivers and springs from Yulong Snow Mountain.
The pools are surrounded by pavilions, temples and a museum that have been built over several dynasties with influences from Naxi culture.
Dividing the pools is the Moon Embracing Pavilion and an arched white bridge. It is a common viewpoint for photos of the Snow Mountain.
History of Black Dragon Pool
The Black Dragon Pool has a history that spans across several periods and cultures, which can be seen in the architecture and design of the site.
Heilong Pool was the source of the waterways and canals that supplied Lijiang, a stop along the Tea Horse Road, with water.
As an important stop along the Tea Horse Road, Lijiang was a cultural and economic centre for different ethnicities. This diversity can be seen in the architecture of Black Dragon Pool site.
The Black Dragon Palace, located next to the lake, was built in 1394 for the Dragon King, a deity worshipped by the Naxi people and includes traditional elements of Naxi design.
The three-storey Moon Embracing Pavilion at the end of the arched bridge was constructed during the Ming Dynasty, however, it was later reconstructed after being burnt down by a fire.
What makes Black Dragon Pool Unique
The grounds combine historic buildings with still water and mountain views.
The Moon Embracing Pavilion at the end of the white stone arched bridge is reflected in the pools with the Yulong Snow Mountain. This is one of the most photographed views in the region.
The Dongba Research Institute and museum at the Black Dragon Pool preserves the traditions and artifacts of the Naxi ethnic minority.
The park reflects the cultural and dynastic influences of Lijiang through its blend of Ming Dynasty and Naxi cultural elements in the architecture.
The layout of the grounds with historical buildings, pools and gardens feels quieter than the nearby Old Town.
Visiting Black Dragon Pool
The site surrounds the Heilong Pools, and can be walked as a loop, with stone paths connecting the buildings and views across the pools.
The park also includes statues, and information stands along the way with explanations of each building and the design elements from different cultures.
The Dongba museum includes exhibitions on the history and lifestyle of the local Naxi people, as well as their hieroglyphic writing system.
As you walk the paths, the pace is slower than in other parts of the Old Town, with open spaces around the pools and fewer crowds.
The loop offers rest areas along the way, with most of the paths built on even terrain. This makes for a relaxed walk and the area can be explored over 2 to 3 hours.
When is the best time to visit?
Due to Lijiang’s generally mild weather, the Black Dragon Pool can be visited throughout the year.
Spring, Autumn and Winter offer clearer views of the mountains.
The park is often quieter in the morning with clearer skies to see the Yulong Snow Mountain. The area becomes calmer again in the afternoon.
Is Black Dragon Pool right for your trip?
The appeal of Black Dragon Pool lies in its mix of design, culture and open space, and feels quieter than the streets of the Old Town.
The area suits travelers who are interested in learning about local history while enjoying views of the surroundings at a slower pace.
A visit to the Black Dragon Pool fits well into a 1-2 night stay in the nearby Old Town.
Experiencing Black Dragon Pool with Wonders of Yunnan
When designing journeys in Yunnan, time at the Black Dragon Pools is often connected to experiences in Lijiang Old Town.
With its buildings, pools and mountain backdrop in a relaxing park setting, the Black Dragon Pool works well as a quieter stop between time in the Old Town.
If this suits your travel style, we can help you plan how Black Dragon Pool fits into time in Yunnan.