Yuanmou Earth and Forest in Chuxiong

Yuanmou Earth and Forest (元谋土林) is a spectacular natural phenomenon formed by deposits of earth that have created clusters of columnar landforms. The name “Earth and Forest” was given because, when viewed from a distance, the columns resemble trees in a forest.

These formations typically appear in basins or valleys, and the most famous and well-preserved example of this unique landform is located in Yuanmou, Yunnan Province, China. These formations reflect the ancient geological changes and the processes that led to the development of the landscape over millions of years.

Yuanmou Earth and Forest is not only one of China’s most incredible natural wonders but also a globally significant landmark. Over millions of years of geological activity, wind and rain have carved the land of Yuanmou into bizarre, otherworldly shapes that continue to fascinate scientists, photographers, and filmmakers alike. Some well-known movies, such as The Promise (无极) and Riding Alone for Thousands of Miles (千里走单骑), were filmed in this stunning location.

Chinese Name: Yuanmou Earth and Forest (元谋土林)
Location: Wumao Township, Yuanmou County, Chuxiong Yi Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan, China
Opening Hours: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Attraction Level: AAAA (AAAA级)
Ticket Prices: Langbapu Earth Forest (浪巴铺土林) ticket: 90 RMB; Wumao Earth Forest (物茂土林) ticket: 100 RMB
Country: China
City: Chuxiong, Yunnan Province
Best Time to Visit: Year-round, suitable for travel in all seasons
Official Phone Numbers: Wumao Earth Forest (物茂土林) Scenic Area: 0878-8310000; Langbapu Earth Forest (浪巴铺土林) Scenic Area: 0878-8385000

Characteristics

Yuanmou Earth and Forest (元谋土林) is classified into four primary types based on their formation process and the characteristics of the earth columns. These types coexist and are distributed in various combinations, giving the Earth Forest a diverse and ever-changing appearance.

Earth Bud Type (土芽型)

In areas of the Earth Forest, the rock layers vary in composition, and the degree of cementation differs. Due to the varying levels of cementation and the absorption of moisture, the earth’s surface has developed a series of cracks and fissures. Water erosion and surface runoff follow these cracks, deepening and expanding them over time, resulting in small columns. These columns, with a height-to-diameter ratio less than 1 meter, are considered the initial formations that evolve into the other, more complex types of Earth Forest columns.

Ancient Castle Type (古堡型)

This type of column is formed by continuous water erosion acting on the Earth Bud type. The water erodes along vertical and horizontal cracks, forming arches, tunnels, and vertical wells that resemble an ancient castle. These columns have large, rounded tops and a height between 2 and 5 meters. The columns often have hollow bases or arches beneath them, which can collapse under the influence of gravity and water, transforming them into other types of formations.

Cone-shaped Bamboo Shoot Type (尖笋型)

This type of Earth Forest is mainly made up of sand and clay, with relatively loose cementation. The top of these columns lacks a hard protective layer, making them particularly vulnerable to the erosion of rainwater and surface runoff. As a result, these columns have a sharp, cone-like shape, resembling large bamboo shoots or the spires of pagodas. The columns are typically between 5 and 10 meters tall.

Iron Hat Type (铁帽型)

This is the most widely distributed type of Earth Forest. Due to the washing effects of surface water, minerals such as iron, silica, and calcium dissolve and penetrate into the impermeable layer below the columns. The minerals gradually accumulate and form a natural “iron hat” or “cap” on the columns. This iron cap protects the columns from the direct effects of sunlight and erosion, allowing them to survive longer. These columns are often shaped like various figures, such as fishermen, warriors, cranes, and wild horses, adding another layer of intrigue to the landscape.

Distribution

Yuanmou Earth and Forest (元谋土林) is primarily distributed on the western side of the Longchuan River, a tributary of the Jinsha River. The Earth Forest formations are scattered along the river valleys and the edges of smaller ravines. Some of the most notable clusters include Bango, Tiger Jump Beach (芝麻), Wankao, Xinhua, and others. These areas cover roughly 5 square kilometers. The columns are tall and majestic, each with unique shapes that create a variety of stunning and unusual visual effects.

Some of the columns resemble ancient castles, temples, pagodas, giant swords, knife ridges, soaring eagles, galloping horses, and even life-like formations such as “Jade Maiden Watching Clouds” (玉女观云) and “Mother and Child Traveling Together” (母子偕游), making Yuanmou Earth and Forest a true testament to the wonders of nature.

The columns in this region are rich in minerals such as mica and quartz, which reflect light under the sun, adding vibrant colors to the landscape and creating a dazzling visual effect.

Local Products

Yuanmou Earth and Forest (元谋土林) is also known for its fresh and delicious local vegetables, with specialties like pickled fruits and tamarind honey preserves.

  • Appearance and Texture: Tamarind cakes are prepared in different forms such as fruit pies, strips, and slices, all without any visible foreign impurities.

  • Taste and Smell: The color ranges from light brown to dark brown, with a balanced sweet-and-sour flavor and no off-putting smells or mold.

Travel Tips

  1. Ticket Prices: Langbapu Earth Forest (浪巴铺土林) ticket: 90 RMB; Wumao Earth Forest (物茂土林) ticket: 100 RMB.

  2. Opening Hours: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM.

  3. Children’s Tickets: Free for children under 1.3 meters tall.

  4. Discounts: Seniors (60-70 years old), military personnel, and students can purchase half-price tickets with valid identification. Seniors over 70 years old and disabled individuals can enter for free. Journalists can enter free of charge with proper credentials.

  5. Medical Staff Discounts: From now until December 31, all medical workers can enjoy free admission with valid identification, including doctor’s licenses, village doctor licenses, and nurse certificates.

Transportation Information

Self-Driving

  • Yuanmou County (元谋县) is located 189 kilometers from Kunming, 143 kilometers from Panzhihua, and 134 kilometers from Chuxiong.

  • National Highway 108 passes through Yuanmou, linking it to Kunming and Panzhihua.

Public Transport

  • Highways: The Chengdu-Panzhihua highway is nearing completion, making travel to Yuanmou faster.

  • Railway: Yuanmou is a key station on the Chengdu-Kunming railway. A new high-speed railway project will reduce travel time to 1 hour from Kunming and 4 hours from Chengdu.

  • Waterway: A hydropower station on the Jinsha River will soon be operational, improving water transport access to Yuanmou.

Scenic Area Highlights

While the Lunan Stone Forest (路南石林) is internationally famous, the Earth Forests of Yuanmou (元谋土林) are equally remarkable and offer a unique landscape that rivals other world-famous natural wonders. Yuanmou’s Earth Forests, including Wumao, Bango, and Langbapu, are considered some of the best examples of this landform. Along with the Luliang Colored Sand Forest (陆良彩色沙林), they are collectively known as “The Three Forests of Yunnan.”

Yuanmou’s Wumao Earth Forest (元谋物茂土林), located just 32 kilometers from the county seat, is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling through the region.

Earthquake Impact

On August 30, 2008, a powerful earthquake caused several large columns in the Yuanmou Earth Forest (元谋土林) to collapse. While the area has experienced earthquakes in the past, this one caused the most damage. Fortunately, no tourists were harmed during the incident.

Food Recommendations

  • Buckwheat Cakes and Buckwheat Rice: Buckwheat cakes are made with honey and are easy to carry, offering a refreshing sweet treat.

  • Lamb Soup Pot: A popular local dish made from fatty black mountain lamb, known for its rich broth.

  • Roast Tea: A traditional tea-drinking custom in Yi culture, usually served in small amounts to savor slowly.

  • Yao’an Dried Chicken: A famous dried chicken from Yunnan, offering a distinctive smoky flavor and aroma.

Tourist Attractions

  1. Longjiang Park (龙江公园)

  2. Wuding Lion Mountain (武定狮子山)

  3. Chuxiong Ailao Mountain Nature Reserve (楚雄哀牢山自然保护区)

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Yuanmou Earth and Forest (元谋土林) is from November to May, during the dry season. The rainy season (June to October) makes the earth formations soft and difficult to navigate.

Important Notes

  1. Be mindful of the strong UV rays and protect your skin from sun exposure.

  2. Wear waterproof, sand-resistant shoes when hiking in the area.

  3. The temperature can vary significantly between day and night, so bring appropriate clothing.

  4. Always stay with your group while exploring the scenic area.

  5. Respect local customs, religions, and traditions.