Yiyi Rift Valley, a hidden wonder in central Yunnan

In central Yunnan’s Wuding County, there is a hidden wonder—the Yiyi Rift Valley. It is just like a beautiful “scar” on the red land of Yunnan.

200 kilometers away from Kunming, the capital city of Yunnan province, the Yiyi Rift Valley is located in Wuding County, central Yunnan’s Chuxiong Yi Autonomous Prefecture. Like a beautiful “scar” on the red land of Yunnan, the Yiyi Rift Valley runs 12 kilometers long. It is 300 meters at its deepest point, 200 meters wide at its widest and only 6 meters wide at its narrowest. It is regarded as a colorful valley since rocks on the cliffs present different colors: red, black, blue, green, purple and white.

In the valley, it is a miracle that rivers are mostly underground. At its narrowest, there is a large rock stuck between the cliffs, bridging the two sides with a natural bridge.

The rift valley is the largest of its kind in central Yunnan. With ancient trees touching the sky and flowers blooming, it is a charming sightseeing destination. Besides, there are hot springs in the valley, which has attracted lots of tourists. Relaxing yourself in the hot spring pools, it is good time for you to enjoy the quietness of the valley while leaving behind the hustles and bustles in the cities. 

Photos by Xu Qinsun;  trans-editing by Zu Hongbing and Wang Shixue