Page 18 - YunnanTourismCultureTimes (104)

17 TOUR ROUTES | 游线

Dali: Community united in the joy of sports

大理：全民参与感受运动魅力

In Dali, the scenic Erhai Lake ecological a 100-day marathon challenge in the Erhai
corridor offers an ideal setting for cycling, ecological corridor for three consecutive
walking, and long-distance running, while years, attracting over 10,000 participants
the stunning Cangshan Mountains and Erhai each year and inspiring countless local and
Lake stand out as exceptional destinations distant runners to embrace the allure of
for outdoor sports. outdoor sports in this picturesque plateau
During the conference, exciting events region.
allowed outdoor sports enthusiasts to Ten years ago, 42-year-old Zhao
immerse themselves in the beauty of the participated in his first half marathon, and
landscape. The Erhai Lake Cycling Race since then, he has become increasingly
passed by several scenic spots and historical passionate about running. He has traveled
sites, including Xingsheng Bridge, Haidong, to many cities, both domestically and
Wase, Shuanglang, and Xizhou, providing internationally, to train and compete. “During
participants with an unforgettable cycling this journey, I gradually fell in love with
experience amid Dali's stunning scenery. the combination of running and travel. The
The China Sail Joy (Dali leg) attracted 40 places where the most runners gather in
teams from across the country, with over each city are usually parks, scenic spots, and
100 competitors engaging in thrilling water urban greenways, which tend to be the most
competitions on the turquoise waters of Erhai beautiful places in a city,” Zhao said. He also
Lake. Additionally, a two-day ancient city noted that Dali’s mild climate, excellent air
orientation challenge connected the cultural quality, and ideal altitude attract many trail
and historic cities of Weishan, Dali, and runners and marathon professionals who
Jianchuan, offering participants a remarkable regularly come to the area for training.
celebration of culture and sports. Over the years, the atmosphere for
With a cumulative running distance outdoor running in Dali has improved, and
exceeding 40,000 kilometers over ten the community has become stronger. An
years—equivalent to running around the increasing number of people have embraced
equator—countless cities, both domestic and outdoor activities and sports, transforming
international, have been explored on foot by Dali into not just a sacred place for athletes
Zhao Junying, a sports enthusiast in Dali’s but also a popular destination for the public
running community known as the “Prince of seeking a healthy lifestyle and a connection
100 Marathons.” Since 2022, he has initiated with nature.

Nujiang: Discovering a hidden outdoor paradise

怒江：探索秘境户外天堂

For seven consecutive years, Nujiang Zang people, immersing themselves in the
Prefecture has hosted the International rich cultural atmosphere of the border ethnic
Wildwater Canoeing Open, along with groups. The outdoor product market features
two years of international cycling events, popular items like trail running shoes, hiking
wingsuit flying performances, and the jackets, new outdoor tents, waterproof
“AA 100KM Trailwalker – Journey into backpacks, sleeping bags, and outdoor rescue
the Grand Canyon of Nujiang River” trek. equipment, showcasing a vibrant cultural
With its breathtaking natural scenery, rich vibe infused with various outdoor elements.
biodiversity, vibrant ethnic festivals, and “The mountains in Nujiang are unlike
unique cultural traditions, Nujiang Prefecture those anywhere else in the world. Here, the
offers a wide variety of outdoor activities, mountains are more tranquil and diverse,”
drawing in numerous outdoor enthusiasts said Jin Feibao, founder of the Fairyland
eager to explore and appreciate the beauty of Marathon, a feat of 100 marathons in 100
the region. days. The breathtaking natural scenery
At the Shiyueliang Star Valley and the harmonious coexistence of various
Glamping Ground in Fugong County, ethnic groups are the main reasons he
adventurers retrace the steps of the Chinese frequently visits Nujiang for adventure and
Expeditionary Army, exploring rivers, scaling sightseeing. Today, outdoor activities have
mountains, and rock climbing, all while become commonplace among the residents
connecting with nature and appreciating of Nujiang Prefecture. Participation is on
its ecological beauty. In Dimaluo Village, the rise, with camping, hiking, mountain
Pengdang Township, Gongshan Dulong climbing, and cycling thriving. The unique
Autonomous County, tourists enjoy picnics charm of “Secret Realm Nujiang” welcomes
on the grass, hike along scenic paths, and travelers from afar, inviting them to find a
relax in wooden cabins at mountaintop tent sense of belonging and collectively write
camps, watching the clouds drift by. At night, a beautiful chapter of harmony between
they join the lively Xianzi dance with the humans and nature.