Dongchuan Red Land & Luoxiagou – God’s Palette
02/04/2012 - 20:38

Luoxiagou, or Luoxia Valley, which is situated in Dongchuan Red Land, close to Kunming, is regarded by many as one of the most impressive red-soil regions on the planet. Some consider its beauty even more sublime that that of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, and it is unquestionably the most substantial inhabited red-soil region of Yunnan’s highland plateau. With a stunning array of colourful hues, Dongchuan Red Land is frequently referred to as the earth’s palette, and it offers a natural attraction for backpackers, hikers and photographers alike.
Luoxiagou, which can be roughly translated as the valley where red clouds dwell, is thought to be the single most-stunning destination of Dongchuan Red Land. Its elegance, often enhanced by gentle winds, clouds, the light of the setting sun and lush plantations, is beyond description or drawing, and must be seen to be believed.
Luoxiagou’s beauty is thanks to several factors. Firstly, being a natural ridge in the landscape, it affords breathtaking views. It has lofty mountains standing at both sides, and a small village set between steep slopes. The trees, buildings and roads of the village are orderly and quaint. Vast fields surround the area. Secondly, it is blessed with mesmerizing gentle curves. Farmers plough the ridge in accordance with the land’s natural contours, forming an abundance of colourful shapes on the terrain. Thirdly, the brilliant red soil provides a striking highlight among the other colours of the region.

Unaltered by modernism, Luoxiagou’s lodgings and roads are basic.

The best time to visit Luoxiagou is from September to December.