Haigeng Park

Introduction & Historical Significance
Nestled in Kunming's Xishan District along the northeastern shore of Dianchi Lake, Haigeng Park is a 4A-level national scenic area and key cultural heritage site with a history dating back to the 1960s. Originally named "Haigeng" (Sea Ridge), it refers to the natural dike formed by centuries of sedimentation that divides Dianchi Lake into Caohai (Grass Sea) and Waihai (Outer Sea). Designated as a national key风景名胜区 in 1984, the park embodies Kunming's ecological evolution and cultural heritage, featuring Yuan Dynasty landmarks like the West Mountain Dragon Gate and Qing-era architectural relics. It covers 750 acres (1.5 km²), stretching 2.5 km east-west and 200 m north-south.

Architectural Layout & Design
The park harmonizes natural landscapes with human-crafted elements:

• Dianchi Observation Deck: A panoramic platform overlooking the lake and "Sleeping Beauty" West Mountain, offering uninterrupted vistas of the "Pearl of the Plateau."
• Seagull Feeding Zone: Winter home to Siberian red-beaked gulls (November-March), where visitors interact with migratory birds using approved bird food.
• Garden Avenue: A floral corridor with seasonal blooms—cherry blossoms (spring), crape myrtle (summer), chrysanthemums (autumn), and camellias (winter).
• Yan Jizi & Cai Xitao Residence: A provincial-protected L-shaped brick-wood structure from 1940 blending Chinese and Western styles, once home to renowned physicist Yan Jizi and botanist Cai Xitao.
• Historic Eucalyptus Grove: Century-old trees lining the lakeshore, complemented by stone pavilions, paved promenades, and a 1970s-era marina.

Major Attractions

• West Mountain Cableway: Connects the park to Longmen Grottoes, offering aerial views of Dianchi and the city.
• Yunnan Nationalities Village: Adjacent park showcasing 26 ethnic groups' architectures, crafts, and performances (¥90 entry).
• Dianchi Lake Cruises: Boat tours exploring the lake’s biodiversity (¥30-80/person).
• Luohan Mountain Rock Art: Ancient petroglyphs depicting Dian culture near the park’s northern edge.

Ticket Information

• Free Entry: Park access is free 24/7, excluding special exhibits.
• Guided Tours: ¥100-200 for themed routes covering ecology, history, or ethnic culture.
• Combined Tickets: Discounted packages (¥150-250) with nearby sites like Green Lake Park.

Transportation Guide

• Public Transit: Buses 24, 44, 73 stop at Haigeng Park Station; Metro Line 5 to Fubao Station + shuttle bus.
• Self-Drive: 30-minute drive from downtown Kunming via G320 Highway; parking at north gate (¥15/day).
• Local Access: Bike rentals and electric shuttles connect key attractions.

Best Time & Tips

• Optimal Seasons: Winter (December-February) for gull-watching; spring (April-May) for blossoms; autumn (September-October) for clear skies and photography. Avoid summer heatwaves.
• Photography: Dawn for misty lake vistas; sunset for golden-hour lighting on pagodas.
• Cultural Etiquette: Remove hats in temples; respect local customs during Festivals like the Torch Festival.
• Packing: Sunscreen, hats, and layers for temperature shifts.
• Dining: Must-try dishes include Dianchi fried fish, grilled乳扇 (fermented milk fan), and bean-flower rice noodles.

Nearby Attractions & Itineraries

• Combined Tours:
  • Morning: Dianchi Observation Deck + gull feeding + Garden Avenue stroll.
  • Afternoon: Yunnan Nationalities Village cultural immersion or West Mountain hike.
  • Evening: Jinma Biji Square night market or cruise along the Panlong River.
• Cultural Synergy: Pair with Green Lake Park for seagull sightings or Stone Forest for karst landscapes.

Haigeng Park epitomizes Kunming’s soul—where nature, history, and urban leisure converge. As a UNESCO-recognized gem, it continues to inspire global travelers seeking tranquility and cultural depth in China’s Spring City.