Green Lake Park

Introduction & Historical Significance
Nestled at the foot of Wuhua Mountain in central Kunming, Green Lake Park is a 4A-level scenic area and the "Green Gem" of spring City. Dating back to the Yuan Dynasty (14th century) as "Caihaizi" (Vegetable Sea), it later became "Jiulongchi" (Nine-Dragon Pool) due to nine springs merging into a lake. In 1692, Qing official Wang Jiwen built "Biyi Pavilion" on the central island, transforming it into a scenic spot. The park’s iconic "Ruan Dike" (north-south, 1835) and "Tang Dike" (east-west, 1919) cross at the heart, dividing the lake into four sections. As Kunming’s first free park (since 2002), it merges centuries-old culture with ecological harmony, earning titles like "Provincial Science Base" (2024) and "National Ethnic Unity Progress Unit."

Architectural Layout & Design
The 0.216 km² park features an elliptical lake (0.123 km² water, 0.06 km² land) with a 151,000 m³ capacity. Key elements include:

• Historic Sites: Ruan Dike and Tang Dike form a cross-shaped waterway; "Jiulongchi" with carved stone railings; "Shuixue Xuan" (Water Moon Pavilion) with peony gardens; and "Guanyu Lou" (Fish-Watching Tower) with red-carp ponds.
• Cultural Spaces: "Lianhua Chan Yuan" Temple for Buddhist serenity; "Néèr Square" honoring the composer of China’s national anthem; and "Kunming Waterworks Pump Museum" showcasing urban water history.
• Landscaping: Bamboo forests, willow-lined shores, and seasonal blooms like wintersweet, peach blossoms, and autumn chrysanthemums.

Major Attractions

1. Natural Wonders:
   • Red-Beak Seagulls: Winter brings thousands of seagulls from Siberia, creating a "human-bird harmony" spectacle.
   • Four-Season Scenery: Spring cherry blossoms, summer lotus, autumn ginkgo corridors, and winter misty landscapes.
   • Hiking Trails: 620m "Green Corridor" connecting Kunming Old Street and historical sites like Yunnan Military Academy.
2. Cultural Sites:
   • Yunnan Military Academy: A 1909 heritage building 322m away, showcasing revolutionary history.
   • Huang Gong East Street Park: A 5,020 m² cultural hub with restored Huanggong Temple and a coffee culture center.

Ticket Information

• Free Entry: Most areas open 24/7; specific events (e.g., Spring Lantern Festival, tulip exhibitions) may require tickets (¥20–50).
• Boating & Leisure: Small boats (¥30–50/hour), electric carts (¥20/person), and winter hot springs available.
• Opening Hours: 06:00–24:00 (Apr–Nov); 06:00–23:00 (Dec–Mar).

Transportation Guide

• From Kunming:
  • Subway: Line 3 to Panjiawan Station (C exit), 1km walk.
  • Bus: Routes 1, 85, 100, 124 to "East Gate" or "Yunnan University" stops.
  • Self-Drive: Parking at south gate (¥10/day); electric bike rentals for nearby lanes.
• Local Transit: Shared bikes connect to Kunming Old Street, Yunnan University, and Kunming Zoo.

Best Time & Tips

• Optimal Seasons: November–March for seagulls; March–April for cherry blossoms and tulips.
• Photography: Dawn for misty lake views; sunset for golden-hour lighting on historic pavilions.
• Cultural Etiquette: Respect local customs at temples; avoid loud noises in quiet zones.
• Packing: Light layers for temperature changes; sunscreen for high-altitude sun; binoculars for birdwatching.
• Dining: Must-try dishes include "Steam Pot Chicken" at Huixiang Xilou and "Crossing-the-Bridge Noodles" near the park.

Nearby Attractions & Itineraries

• Combined Tours:
  • Morning: Green Lake Park seagull feeding + Yunnan Military Academy historical tour.
  • Afternoon: Explore Kunming Old Street (traditional snacks) or Yunnan University (Qing-dynasty architecture).
  • Evening: Jinma Biji Square night market or Jinsha River cruise.
• Cultural Synergy: Pair with Dianchi Lake for waterfowl sightings or Stone Forest for karst landscapes.

Green Lake Park embodies Kunming’s soul—where ancient culture, urban leisure, and natural beauty converge. As a UNESCO-recognized gem, it continues to inspire global travelers seeking tranquility and history in China’s Spring City.