A pocket-sized island, Putuo Mountain in Erhai Lake

Putuo Xiao, a legendary 'seal' thrown into Erhai Lake by the Goddess of Mercy to suppress the evil waves, is a place of worship for the Bai people and also a small island in the sea. The island is about twenty meters away from the shore of Erhai Lake, covers an area of about eighty to ninety square meters, and the ground is less than two meters above the water, with a two-story Xieshan-style attic built on it, which is more than ten meters high. Looking from the shore of Erhai Lake, the island seems like 'Penglai' in the sea. The reflection of the island pavilion, under the interplay of mountain colors and water light, is misty with fairy aura and shrouded in divine mist. One cannot help but marvel at this fairyland! In Erhai Lake, Xiao Putuo Island is definitely a 'pocket-sized island'. Although the island is small, it has a big reputation and is a must-mention in any brochure introducing Dali. The island may not be high, but it is full of strange rocks, with trees growing out of the crevices, lush branches and leaves, and the pavilion reflecting off the trees, like a natural bonsai. Climbing onto the island, you can see the Cangshan Mountains in the distance and the sparkling waves up close. Being there, surrounded by mountains and clear waters, it feels as if you are placed on a jade plate, and your mood becomes exceptionally relaxed and pleasant. Xiao Putuo is located on the east coast of Erhai Lake in Haiyin Village and can be a scenic spot for a tour around Erhai Lake or along the east line of Erhai Lake. The scenic area is managed by the Haiyin Village Committee, and there is no entrance fee to the island, but a ferry ticket costs 20 yuan. Taking photos on the shore and touring the island takes about forty minutes. When visiting Dali, Xiao Putuo is a must-see! Otherwise, when talking about a trip to Dali and recalling the scenery, not visiting Xiao Putuo would definitely be a regret! The poem says: Observing Xiao Putuo Putuo Xiao is its name, resembling the South Sea. The sea and sky form a Buddhist realm, to the east of Dali's Erhai Lake. Twenty meters from the shore, covering an area of eighty square meters. Legend has it that Guanyin threw a seal to suppress the evil waves, and the people of Haiyin Village built a pavilion in gratitude. The pavilion and island blend as one, and from this, endless beauty is born. The beams were carved in the Ming Dynasty, and the trees have lived for a hundred years. The stacked rocks support the attic, and the green leaves cover the painted beams. The double eaves enter the white clouds, and the island's reflection ripples. It's like a serene paradise on the sea, sitting and watching the autumn waters reflect the azure dragon. The blue sky and the bright lake light, bring out the exquisite scenery of Cang Erhai.