Hi everyone, Mark here! I’m an American backpacker with a passion for exploring Asia’s vibrant cities and hidden gems. Recently, I had the incredible opportunity to visit Yuncheng, Shanxi Province in China, a city brimming with history and natural beauty. I explored two of its most popular attractions: the breathtaking Rainbow Salt Lake and the majestic Guan Yu statue. Let me take you on my adventure!
The Rainbow Salt Lake: China's Dead Sea
My journey began at the famed Rainbow Salt Lake. The sheer variety of colors—reds, blues, greens—was simply stunning. The lake’s high salt content is what creates this mesmerizing effect, due to the presence of algae and minerals. The carotenoids in the algae, when exposed to sunlight, create the vibrant red hues. I even rented a golf cart and took a scenic tour around the lake, marveling at the scale of this natural wonder.
The lake is so salty, it’s often called China’s Dead Sea, similar to the Dead Sea in Israel. The high salinity means no fish or shrimp can survive, and humans can easily float on the surface. I wish I’d had more time to try it out! I snapped some incredible “Sky Mirror” photos, capturing the perfect reflection of the surrounding landscape. The calm, mirror-like surface, reflecting the mountains and the sky, made for some truly unforgettable pictures.
Rainbow Salt Lake Quick Facts
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Location | Yuncheng, Shanxi Province, China |
| Entrance Fee | ¥20 |
| Transportation | Accessible by bus (Routes 33 and 66) |
| Notable Feature | High salt content, resulting in vibrant colors and floating capabilities |
| Photo Ops | Stunning “Sky Mirror” reflections |
The Giant Guan Yu Statue: A Colossal Tribute
Next up was the colossal Guan Yu statue, perched high on the slopes of Mount Zhongtiao. Guan Yu, a legendary general from the Three Kingdoms period, is revered as a symbol of loyalty and righteousness. This statue, one of the largest in the world, is a testament to the local people's deep respect for this historical figure.
Getting to the top was quite the climb! The mountain path is steep and winding, but the panoramic views from the top were totally worth the effort. The sheer size of the statue is awe-inspiring, standing tall and proud against the backdrop of the mountains.
Guan Yu Statue Quick Facts:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Location | Mount Zhongtiao, Yuncheng, Shanxi Province, China |
| Height | 80 meters (61 meters statue, 19 meters base) |
| Materials | Over 500 tons of copper, over 2000 tons of steel rebar |
| Entrance Fee | ¥30 |
| View | Panoramic views of Yuncheng city |
Drone Mishap and Unexpected Adventures
Unfortunately, my drone adventure took an unexpected turn. The strong winds on Mount Zhongtiao proved too much for my little DJI Mini 1, causing it to fly away! Tracking it down through a cemetery was certainly an adventure. Even though I lost my drone, the experience highlights the importance of understanding local weather conditions and drone safety regulations.
My trip wasn't without its hiccups. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, many other attractions, like the Yellow River Iron Ox and the Guanjue Tower, were closed. However, this unexpected closure led to my discovery of the Phoenix Valley scenic area.
Phoenix Valley: A Serene Escape
The Phoenix Valley offered a fantastic alternative. It features a thrilling glass bridge, a heart-stopping slide, and a high-altitude rafting experience! Even though I got completely soaked on the rafting, it was an incredibly fun and memorable experience.
A Culinary Detour: Yuncheng's Delicious Food Scene
No trip is complete without exploring the local cuisine! I and my brother indulged in a delicious all-you-can-eat pizza buffet, followed by a hearty helping of Yuncheng's famous large-plate chicken. Let's just say we left with full stomachs!
Guan Di Temple: A Journey Through History
My final stop was the Guan Di Temple, a magnificent temple dedicated to Guan Yu. The temple's rich history and intricate architecture were fascinating. From the iconic red walls to the detailed carvings and the story behind the temple's design, it is a place steeped in reverence and history. Visiting Guan Di Temple concluded my amazing journey through Yuncheng! It truly is a place that blends history, culture, and breathtaking natural beauty in one incredible package.
