Yufeng Temple

One of the seven largest monasteries in Lijiang, Yufeng Temple is renowned for the giant Camellia Tree that stands in the grounds, and is known as the "Ten-thousand-flower Camellia". Yufeng Temple, located at the southern foot of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, is 9 kilometers from the county seat of Lijiang. Yufeng Temple is called "Kalashicongfeilin" in Tibetan language. It lies on the east slope of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain with ancient forests clustering around. There is a small pool in front of the lamasery embraced by big pine trees.

The Lamasery has three courtyards and the famous Great Camellia is in the northern one. It is said this tree was planted between 1465 and 1487 during the Ming Dynasty before the temple was built. So the tree is more than 500 years old. Its blossoming period lasts more than 100 days a year, and produces more than 20,000 flowers in 20 groups, each group over 1,000 flowers. One blossom is about 17 cm in diameter. The scene is magnificent.

The camellia tree is three meters high and the diameter of its stem is 40 centimeters, a size and span rarely seen in the world. Actually it is a combination of two different breeds of camellia. They were engrafted in one tree and now have grown into a huge tree with the crown shading the whole courtyard.

In the eyes of the Naxi, the Great Camellia is the symbol of true love. Naxi young lovers that want to die for their love in Yunshanpin of Jade Dragons snow Mountain will come to Yufeng Temple to take a look at the Great Camellia. This tree is believed to have a magical power to persuade the young lovers to cherish their lives and enjoy happy life in real world