_{A photo shows that the 99 Dragon Pools scenic spot appears like sparkling blue-green gems scattered amidst the primeval forests in Lijiang, Yunnan province. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]}

The 99 Dragon Pools scenic area in Laojun Mountain National Park, Lijiang, Yunnan province, has entered its most striking season of the year, when drifting clouds and mist sweep through the high-altitude basins like a thin white scarf.

The 99 Dragon Pools are regarded as the heart of Laojun Mountain. They appear as vivid blue-green jewels set within ancient forests until autumn, when the surrounding colors reflect across their clear waters.

_{A photo shows that clouds and mist drape the 99 Dragon Pools scenic spot of Laojun Mountain National Park in Lijiang, Yunnan province. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]}

While the fir and spruce forests remain deep green, vast stretches of alpine rhododendron, red birch, and maple have turned shades of gold, ochre, and burnt orange.

Beyond its visual appeal, the area reflects the strength of the region's natural ecosystems and the ongoing efforts of local communities to reinforce the ecological barrier that protects the upper reaches of the Yangtze River.

_{The forests are ablaze with colors on Laojun Mountain, beautifully complementing the distant Yulong Snow Mountain in Lijiang, Yunnan province. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]}

_{A photo shows that one of the lakes in the 99 Dragon Pools scenic spot is surrounded by dense forests in Lijiang, Yunnan province. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]}

By Li Yingqing and Yan Yujie in Kunming | chinadaily.com.cn