Black Dragon Pool

Officially named as one of the best view points in China, Black Dragon Pool in Lijiang was a pleasant break from the hectic pace of the old town.  The gardens were beautiful - it would be gorgeous in autumn.  Lovely reflections in the lake, but unfortunately cloud covered the Jade Snows Dragon Mountains in the background.

The pool takes its name from an ancient legend. It’s said that once upon a time there were ten evil dragons that terrorised the land. One of the Eight Immortals of Chinese legends, jailed nine of the dragons in a tower, leaving only the youngest black dragon. The black dragon was forced to protect the land to keep its freedom, and still lives in the pool today.

The pool is divided into two parts by a white marble bridge, and despite the water being connected, the sides maintain different colours and the fish on either side refuse to swim to the opposite pool. Additionally, the pool has never dried up, even during the worst droughts.