Yellow Cloth Reflection (黄布倒影), considered the highlight of the Lijiang River, is located within the scenic 83-kilometer stretch of the river in Xingping Ancient Town. As boats pass by Yangdi and Nine-Horse Fresco Hill, the river widens, resembling a mirror with stunning reflections of the surrounding peaks. Just south of the Fresco Hill lies Yellow Cloth Shoal.
The beauty of the Lijiang River is reflected in its water, and the most captivating reflections are found at Yellow Cloth Shoal. Here, the water is crystal clear and emerald green, revealing a large, rectangular yellowish rock at the riverbed. This rock, resembling a piece of yellow cloth laid on the riverbed, gives the shoal its name. A rock on the cliffside has markings resembling a black horse, known as the lagging horse of the Nine-Horse Fresco Hill. On both sides of the shoal, seven peaks of varying sizes rise from the water, resembling fairies bathing, earning the name “Seven Fairies Descend to Earth.”
According to legend, seven sisters from heaven discovered the beauty of Yellow Cloth Shoal and came down to play, enchanted by the scenery. When the Jade Emperor ordered them back to heaven, they were so enamored with the Lijiang River that they declared, “We would rather be Guilin people than immortals.” Preferring to stay on earth, they transformed into rocks by the river, their reflections visible on calm, sunny days, creating an indistinguishable blend of real and mirrored landscapes, forming the famous “Yellow Cloth Reflection.”
The design of the new 20-yuan RMB note features Yellow Cloth Reflection. Additionally, the Chinese Embassy at the UN headquarters displays two giant paintings: one of the Great Wall, representing China’s cultural heritage, and the other of Yellow Cloth Reflection, representing China’s natural beauty.
