Baishuitai, Natural limestone terraces in Yunnan Province, China
Baishuitai is a natural limestone formation in Yunnan made up of cascading white terraces created by mineral-rich water flowing across the slope. The structure spans several hundred meters across and sits at approximately 2380 meters in elevation, with water continuously running through natural channels over the steps to maintain the bright, marble-like appearance.
The terraces formed over thousands of years as calcium-rich spring water from Ha-Ba Snow Mountain flowed down and deposited minerals across the slope. This gradual geological process created the bright white structure that exists in its current form.
The site holds deep meaning for the Naxi people, who view the white terraces as a place connected to their land and water traditions. Visitors can see how locals and pilgrims move through the cascading steps with respect, treating the formation as something precious to their community.
Visit during clear weather when water flows visibly over the terraces and the white color shows best, making for easier photography and clearer views. Wear shoes with good grip since the surfaces become wet and slippery from the mineral-rich water flowing across the steps.
The white appearance comes from mineral deposits left by flowing water rather than marble or stone you might expect, which surprises many visitors upon close inspection. What looks frozen and permanent actually continues to change as new minerals accumulate, making it an active geological process rather than a static formation.
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