[2025 Kunming Attraction] Travel Guide for Haigeng Dam (Updated Jul)

It's like being in a postcard! This trip is so great! We got to see beautiful nature, old towns, and magnificent temples. If you like cool weather and snowy mountains, you have to try this route at least once! When it comes to traveling in China, many people might think of the Great Wall, Shanghai, or Beijing. But did you know that the Kunming - Lijiang - Shangri-La route is just as beautiful? Plus, it's full of magnificent nature and a culture like no other! Starting in Kunming, Kunming is a city with great weather all year round. The temperature is comfortable, not too cold, not too hot. Next, we went to Lijiang, an ancient city that lives on. From Kunming, we flew or took the train to Lijiang. This is an old city with ancient Chinese-style houses, small stone streets, and a crystal-clear river. There's also the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, which has an amazing view. Finally, we went to Shangri-La, where we could experience nature and Tibetan culture. Driving a little further, we arrived in Shangri-La, a city known as heaven on earth! It has vast grasslands, cool weather, and the beautiful and peaceful Songzanlin Monastery. Why take this route? ✅ Nature is beautiful beyond words ✅ Chinese-Tibetan culture that cannot be found anywhere else ✅ Good weather, can travel all year round ✅ Easy to travel, with high-speed trains and airlines supporting If anyone wants to try to open their mind to travel in China, this route is the answer! Everyone 📌Kunming - Lijiang - Shangri-La travel plan Day 1 Wake up early, travel to the train station, take the train to Lijiang, round C94 10.18 -13.43 Arrive in Lijiang -Check in at Black Dragon Pool -Walk around the old town, stay in Lijiang Day 2 -Jade Dragon Snow Mountain (Take the big cable car) - Blue Moon Valley, Baishuihe - Zhang Yimou Show - Baisha Village - Yun Ti Yang Cafe, Jade Dragon Mountain View, Sleep in Lijiang Day 3 - Tiger Leaping Gorge - Stop at the cafe 墨野. Snow Mountain 懸崖飯店 - Baisui Take a photo - Shangri-La Ancient Town - Sleep in Shangri-La Day 4 - Songzanlin Temple - Shika Snow Mountain - Return to Kunming, C640 train, 17.25 - 22.15, sleep in Kunming Day 5 Travel in Kunming - Yuantong Temple - Haigeng Dam - Ancient Guandu City - Night Market Day 6 Must arrive at the airport no later than 11.00 am. Fly back to Thailand Little tips: ✔️ Bring altitude sickness medication for Shangri-La ✔️ Prepare winter clothes, especially on the snowy mountains ✔️ Book train/cable car tickets in advance. There are a lot of people! For those who are planning to go to Yunnan, this trip is a must. It's worth it, spectacular, and full of nature. #Kunming #Kunming #NewYearNewTrip #trip #TravelChina #TravelPlanShare #trip #Kunming #Lijiang #China

Hey moms and dads! Here's your guide to an 8-day family tour of Kunming, Dali, and Lijiang! Explore the Stone Forest, climb the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, stroll through ancient towns, and experience all the best attractions. Bring your kids and start your Yunnan adventure! -------- 🛤️Itinerary: Day 1: Dianchi Lake -> Green Lake Park -> Jinma Biji Archway -> Guandu Old Town -> Haigeng Dam -> Grand View Pavilion Explore Kunming's famous scenic spots and experience the charm and customs of the "Spring City". Day 2: Stone Forest Scenic Area -> Jianfeng Pond Explore the strange peaks and rocks of the Stone Forest and marvel at the wonders of nature. Day 3: Erhai Lake -> Erhai Lake Cruise -> Dali Old Town -> Literature Building -> Dali Literature Road Cruise on Erhai Lake, explore the old town, and savor the history and culture of Dali. Day 4: Lashihai Wetland Park -> Lijiang Impression Show -> Lijiang Old Town -> Sifang Street Experience the tranquility of nature at the wetland park, enjoy a spectacular show in the evening, and stroll through the ancient streets. Day 5: Jade Dragon Snow Mountain -> Glacier Park Cableway -> Blue Moon Valley Conquer Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, admire the magnificent glaciers, and explore the mystical Blue Moon Valley. Day 6: Tiger Leaping Gorge (Shangri-La Section) -> Pudacuo National Park -> Shudu Lake Experience the thrill of Tiger Leaping Gorge, admire the natural beauty of Pudacuo National Park, and enjoy Shudu Lake. Day 7: Dukezong Ancient Town Wander through Dukezong Ancient Town and experience the charm of ancient Tibetan culture. Day 8: Kunming Tourist Service Center -> Airport Transfer -> End of Trip End your wonderful Yunnan journey at the Kunming Tourist Service Center and prepare for your return. 🛫 -------- What to Pack: 🎒 👕 Clothing: Pack spring and autumn clothes, such as long-sleeved T-shirts and jeans. Also, bring a light jacket for cooler mornings and evenings. 👓 Accessories: Sunglasses and a sun hat are essential for sun protection and style. Don't forget comfortable sneakers for all the walking! 📄 Documents: ID card, driver's license, and student ID are essential for travel. It's always better to be prepared. 🧴 Skincare: Apply plenty of sunscreen, as Yunnan's sun is strong. Also, bring lip balm to prevent chapped lips. 💊 Medicine: Pack cold and stomach medicine, just in case. Also, bring band-aids for minor injuries. 🔋 Electronics: Mobile phone, charger, and power bank are essential for staying connected and worry-free. 🎒 Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, and towel are necessary for personal hygiene. Also, pack tissues and an umbrella for emergencies. -------- That's all for the Kunming-Dali-Lijiang tour. I hope this guide is helpful. Have fun, and don't forget to like and save this post! 🎉

Hi guys, as a Kunming local, I can't bear to see you spend money and take detours in Kunming! I've compiled a super practical travel guide for you, so you can experience the charm of Kunming in depth. Don't forget to save it! ✨ 🏠 Accommodation recommendation: Kunming Qingfeng Guesthouse (Dianchi Haigeng Dam Branch) This is my private guesthouse. Open the window and you can see the beautiful scenery of Dianchi Lake. Sleep with the gentle lake breeze at night, and you'll feel so relaxed. The guest rooms are clean and cozy, and the decoration is very stylish. The owner is a warm and hospitable old Kunming resident. He will not only help you plan your itinerary, but also share various niche experiences that only locals know. You'll feel right at home. 🚗 Travel guide Transportation in Kunming is very convenient! There is Metro Line 6 at Changshui International Airport, which can take you directly to the city. You can take the subway or bus within the city to get to any place you want to go. If you want more freedom, you can rent a car and drive yourself. You can also enjoy the scenery along the way. From the guesthouse, it's very close to Dianchi Lake and other attractions, so you don't have to worry about the long journey. 🍜 The taste of Kunming Douhua rice noodles: Slippery rice noodles with rich douhua and spicy meat sauce, full of layers. Yiliang roast duck: Crispy skin and tender meat, not greasy, with a special dipping sauce, fragrant to the bone. Dai-style ghost chicken: Unique spices and tender chicken perfectly blended, the more you eat, the more you want. Papaya water: Sweet and refreshing, full of childhood memories. 🌟 Must-visit attractions Dianchi Lake Haigeng Dam: In winter, red-billed gulls fly from Siberia. Buy a bag of gull food and have a close interaction with these lovely little elves. Take a photo and you'll have a great shot! 📷 Guandu Ancient Town: A historical ancient town with many buildings from the Ming and Qing dynasties. Here you can stroll through the ancient streets, taste Guandu Baba, and experience the fireworks of old Kunming. Jiazi Snow Mountain: If you want to see the snow mountain scenery, Jiazi Snow Mountain is definitely the best choice. In spring and summer, you can appreciate the wildflowers all over the mountain, and in autumn and winter, it's a world of ice and snow, so beautiful that it's breathtaking. Dongchuan Red Land: The palette of nature, the colorful land is particularly dazzling under the sunlight. Standing on the viewing platform, overlooking this magnificent scenery, it's like walking into an oil painting. 💡 Warm tips ✅ The ultraviolet rays in Kunming are strong. Please take sun protection measures when going out, such as sunscreen, sun hat, and sunglasses. ✅ When eating wild mushroom hotpot, be sure to wait until the mushrooms are cooked to avoid poisoning. ✅ Try to avoid visiting attractions during holidays, otherwise it will be crowded and the experience will be greatly reduced. Guys, follow this guide and you'll have a great time and eat to your heart's content in Kunming! Let's go! 🎉

Kunming, Dali, and Lijiang: An 8-day itinerary is here! Experience the charm of Yunnan and its beautiful scenery. You won't regret it! -------- 📅 Itinerary: D1: Arrive in Kunming and head to your hotel🏨. After checking in, enjoy some free time and the atmosphere of the Spring City. D2: Visit Haigeng Dam to see the beautiful Dianchi Lake🌊 -> Explore the Stone Forest and marvel at the wonders of nature🏞️. D3: Visit Zhoucheng Village to experience Bai culture🏡 -> Tour Erhai Lake and enjoy the beautiful scenery🛶 -> Check in at Ideal State, which looks like Santorini🌴. D4: Wander around Dali Ancient City and experience its history🏰 -> Stroll down Foreigner Street and experience exotic customs🍽️ -> Visit Lijiang Ancient City at night and enjoy the romantic atmosphere🌃. D5: Visit Shuhe Ancient Town and listen to ancient legends🌆 -> Conquer Jade Dragon Snow Mountain and enjoy a panoramic view of Lijiang🏔️ -> Take the Glacier Park Cableway and enjoy the snowy scenery🚡 -> Watch the Impression Lijiang show and experience Naxi culture🎭. D6: Visit Haba Snow Mountain Viewing Platform in Shangri-La and enjoy the beautiful snow-capped mountains🏞️ -> Visit Songzanlin Scenic Area and explore Tibetan Buddhism🕍 -> Visit Ganden Sumtseling Monastery and pray🙏 -> Visit Pudacuo National Park and experience the integration of nature and culture🌲. D7: Visit Dukezong Ancient City and experience the charm of ancient Tibetan villages🏠 -> Visit Tiger Leaping Gorge and enjoy the magnificent Jinsha River🌊. D8: Say goodbye to Lijiang and return home with beautiful memories🛫. Return home or start a new journey. See you next time👋. -------- Recommended attractions: 🏔️ Jade Dragon Snow Mountain: The sacred mountain of the Naxi people. The 13 peaks are like a silver dragon, which is spectacular! 🏞️ Stone Forest: The stone forest is full of strange stones and is magnificent. You will be amazed by the scenery. 🌊 Tiger Leaping Gorge (Shangri-La section): The gorge is deep and narrow, and the river is full of huge rocks. The scenery is magnificent! 🌅 Dianchi Lake: The lake is rippling with green waves, and the lake and mountains complement each other. The scenery is picturesque and refreshing. -------- Some tips: 🍄 How much do local specialties cost? There are many kinds of dried mushrooms, and the prices vary. Remember to shop around. 🌡️ What is the weather like in December? It is warm and comfortable during the day and cool at night. A light jacket is enough. 🍜 Food recommendations! Rice noodles, wild mushroom hot pot, and cured pork ribs. Foodies, don't miss out! 📸 Photo spots! Dianchi Lake, Erhai Lake, and Lijiang Ancient City. Take photos of the beautiful scenery. 👗 What to wear: The temperature difference between day and night in Yunnan is large. It is recommended to bring a light jacket and a sun hat. -------- 🎉 It's easy to travel to Kunming, Dali, and Lijiang! Save this itinerary and start your trip to Yunnan~

Hey guys! Want to explore Kunming, Dali, and Lijiang in Yunnan? Check out this 8-day travel guide to help you enjoy a smooth trip and avoid any pitfalls! -------- 🚩Recommended itinerary: 8-day tour of Kunming, Dali, and Lijiang in Yunnan DAY1️⃣: Cuihu Park -> Jinma Biji Archway -> Kunming Waterfall Park -> Guandu Ancient Town -> Dianchi Lake -> Haigeng Dam Explore the natural scenery and historical culture of Kunming, from the beautiful scenery of Cuihu to the magnificent Dianchi Lake, and feel the charm of the Spring City. DAY2️⃣: Stone Forest Scenic Area -> Small Stone Forest Scenic Area - Ashima -> Moon Lake Admire the unique landforms of the Stone Forest, experience the wonders of nature, and immerse yourself in the legend of Ashima. DAY3️⃣: Ideal State -> Shuanglang -> Xizhou -> Erhai Ecological Corridor Tour around Erhai Lake and feel the romance and tranquility of Dali. The ancient town charm of Shuanglang and Xizhou will leave you wanting more. DAY4️⃣: Dali Ancient City -> Wenxian Tower -> Jade Dragon Snow Mountain -> Blue Moon Valley -> Lijiang Ancient City -> Lijiang Dongba Culture Museum Travel through time and space, from Dali Ancient City to Lijiang Ancient City, and feel the magnificence of the snow-capped mountains and the charm of Dongba culture. DAY5️⃣: Shuhe Ancient Town -> Lashi Lake Wetland, Migratory Bird Bay Visit the simplicity of Shuhe Ancient Town and the natural beauty of Lashi Lake Wetland, and share this tranquility with the migratory birds. DAY6️⃣: Wild Elephant Valley -> Dai Show Theatre -> Mekong River · Six Nations Water Market Explore the tropical rainforest of Xishuangbanna, get up close and personal with wild elephants, and experience the exotic atmosphere of the Six Nations Water Market. DAY7️⃣: Xishuangbanna Primitive Forest Park -> Gaozhuang Xishuangjing -> Mekong River · Six Nations Water Market Stroll through the primeval forest and discover the mysteries of nature, then visit the Six Nations Water Market and experience a different kind of night. DAY8️⃣: Jacaranda Theme Park -> Yuantong Flower Tide End your journey with the fragrance of jacaranda and feel the splendor and warmth of Yuantong Flower Tide. -------- Travel essentials: 🎒 👕 Clothing: Lightweight jacket, long-sleeved shirt, comfortable sneakers, warm down jacket (nights in December are cooler). 🎩 Accessories: Sun hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, rain gear (for changeable weather). 📂 Documents: ID card, cash, and bank card (needed in some remote areas). 💊 Medicine: Cold medicine, anti-diarrhea medicine, band-aids (just in case). 📷 Photography: Camera or phone, spare battery or power bank (to capture the beautiful scenery). 🍞 Food: Snacks, bottled water (to replenish energy during the trip). 🎧 Other: Headphones, travel guide, and 🗺 (to enjoy music and navigation convenience). -------- The Kunming-Dali-Lijiang trip is full of beautiful scenery and stories, so don't forget to share your travel memories! 🌈

Kunming is a must-see❗ Don't just treat it as a stopover! Siberian seagulls, Dounan Flower Market (the largest flower market in Asia)💐, Zhuanxin Farmers' Market with its strong local flavor, no one can resist🙅🏻‍♀️ 🏠Accommodation: Near the high-speed railway station DAY: Haigeng Dam→Haigeng Park→Haihong Wetland Park→Dounan Flower Market→Laoyuhe Wetland Park ✅Leave at 9:00 am and take a bus to Haigeng Dam to feed the seagulls. There are so many seagulls here and they are not afraid of people at all. Take photos📸 as you walk to Haigeng Park, which takes about ten minutes. There are no railings in Haigeng Park, so you can get close to the seagulls. Then walk to Haihong Wetland Park, where the red cedar trees are beautiful! ✅At 14:00, ride a bike from Haihong Wetland Park to the subway station and go to Dounan Flower Market. It is the largest flower market in Asia🌏, with many beautiful flowers. It is a paradise for girls, and no one leaves empty-handed! ✅At 16:00, take a bus from the flower market to Laoyuhe Wetland Park to watch the sunset. Arrive at around 17:00, which is just the right time. You must go here to watch the sunset🌇, which is beyond words! DAY: Haigeng Dam→Zhuanxin Farmers' Market→Duiyue Building→Abnormal Coffee→Huanggong East Street→Green Lake Park→Yunnan Military Academy ✅Leave at 6:40 am and go to Haigeng Dam to watch the sunrise🌅. I love seagulls so much that I came to feed them again. Then take a bus and transfer to the subway to Zhuanxin Farmers' Market. I highly recommend the farmers' market, where there are many fruits and vegetables🎃 that I have never seen before. The roasted eggplant🍆 and preserved egg are delicious. If you can't eat spicy food, ask for less chili. ✅At 11:00 am, ride a bike from the farmers' market to Duiyue Building. After taking photos of the landmark building, walk to Abnormal Coffee and have a cup of coffee to rest. Then walk to Huanggong East Street (in the alley, only suitable for taking photos). Walk from Huanggong East Street to Green Lake Park (which is average). The Yunnan Military Academy is right outside the park. The yellow building looks great in the sun☀️! 🚅15:40 Take a train home 🧡Tips 1. The temperature difference between morning and evening is large, so bring a thick coat. 2. Wear sunscreen!!! Thank you for reading. See you next time👋🏻

It is romantic and healing, with flocks of seagulls arriving on time, redwood forests like oil paintings everywhere, and every corner is a landscape in itself. Transportation Guide • Plane: Arrive at Kunming Changshui Airport. • High-speed rail: You can choose Kunming Station or Kunming South Station. • Accommodation recommendation: Kunming Old Street, Wuyi Road, and Tangzi Lane are all good places to stay. Three-day itinerary • Day 1: Depart from Kunming, visit Haigeng Dam and Haihong Wetland Park in turn, and finally enjoy the beautiful sunset at Wangguan Wetland Park. • Day 2: Cuihu Park, Huanggong East Street, Kunming Old Street, Yunnan Military Academy, Guandu Ancient Town, experience the diverse styles of Kunming in one day. • Day 3: Go to Dounan Flower Market, then to Laoyuhe Wetland Park, Haiyan Village Beach, South Dianchi Beach, and Whale Island, full and fun. Attraction introduction • Laoyuhe Wetland Park: There are large areas of redwood forests here, shining in the afterglow of the setting sun. Seagulls soar freely in the sky, making Dianchi Lake a dazzling warm color in winter. • Haigeng Dam: You can't miss this place when you come to Kunming. The dense seagulls fly freely in the sky, and you can also take photos and interact with them up close, which is very spectacular. • Wangguan Wetland Park: Although the place is not big, it is also a good place to watch seagulls. There are more seagulls in the morning, and it is also a great place to watch the sunset. Taking a group of sunset photos is extremely beautiful. • Haihong Wetland Park: There is a different autumn color here in winter, with rows of spruces in the water, and it is also a holy place for watching seagulls, especially when you take a drone shot in the sun, the picture is beautiful. • Cuihu Park: Cuihu Park in winter is more vibrant because of the presence of seagulls. Among the crowds, the seagulls make this park more interesting. • Huanggong East Street: There are signs and seats with the word "Kunming" written on them, which are good places to take photos. There are also many coffee shops nearby, where you can sit down and experience the slow-paced life of Kunming. • Kunming Old Street: Walking around here, you can fully feel the charm of Kunming. Duiyue Tower is located in the old street, and there are many old bookstores on the old street that are worth visiting, and there are also many special snacks. • Dounan Flower Market: There are all kinds of flowers in various colors and varieties, so flower lovers should not miss it. • Whale Island: Navigate to [South Dianchi Beach Parking Lot] to find it. It is named after its shape like a whale, and it is super photogenic to take pictures here. • Haiyan Village Beach: The beach is very nice, and you can come here to play if you have enough time. There is a seaside cave here, which is very good for taking pictures, and the sunset atmosphere is even more unique.

This season in Kunming is romantic and healing! 😍 Flocks of seagulls arrive as expected, a beautiful sight to behold! There are also fields of winter cherry blossoms, making one feel as if they are in a fairy tale world! 🎄 Transportation Guide: 🚌 ✈ Kunming Changshui Airport 🚄 Kunming Station or Kunming South Station 🏠 Kunming Old Street/Wuyi Road/Tangzi Alley Three-Day Tour Itinerary: 🎈 Day1: Arrive in Kunming 👣→ Haigeng Dam 🦜→ Hailong Wetland Park 🌊→ Wangguan Wetland Park Sunset 🌇 Day2: Cuihu Park 🎑→ Huanggongdong Street 🌸→ Kunming Old Street 🏠→ Military Lecture Hall 🎬→ Guandu Ancient Town Day3: Dounan Flower Market 🌼→ Laoyu River Wetland Park 🐟→ Haiyan Village Beach 🏖→ South Dianchi Beach→ Whale Island 🐳 Attraction Introductions: 🤩 ❶ Haigeng Dam: A must-visit for bird watching, countless seagulls soaring in the sky 🐦, and you can take close-up photos and interact, spectacular! 📸 ❷ Hailong Wetland: The most beautiful autumn scenery in winter is here, with fields of spruce in the water and flying seagulls, beautiful as a painting! 😍 ❸ Wangguan Wetland Park: Small but great for watching seagulls, more in the morning 🕊. The sunset here is also beautiful, very picturesque! 🌅 ❹ Cuihu Park: Cuihu in winter is embellished with seagulls, more lively 🦜. People come and go, very bustling! 👫 ❺ Laoyu River Wetland Park: Fields of redwoods shine under the afterglow ✨, seagulls soar freely in the sky, adding a warm touch to the winter Dianchi. 🤩 ❻ Huanggongdong Street: A popular photo spot, with a bus stop and seats with the word 'Kunming' 🚏, great for taking pictures, and there are coffee shops nearby to experience the slow life of Kunming. 🥰 ❼ Kunming Old Street: Stroll through the old street, feel the charm of Kunming 🏮, the famous Duimoon Building is also here, and there are many special snacks waiting for you to try. 😋 ❽ Haiyan Village Beach: The beach is nice, worth visiting if you have time 🎉, the caves and sunset are super beautiful, full of atmosphere! 🤗 ❾ Whale Island: Navigate to 【South Dianchi Beach Parking Lot】 🅿, and you will see the whale-shaped island, great for taking photos, also a good place to watch seagulls. 🐳 ❿ Dounan Flower Market: All kinds of fresh flowers are available here 🎉, sisters who like flowers should not miss it! Buy a bouquet for photos, so beautiful! 🌸

Seagulls will return to Kunming in November, sharing a self-driving experience from last year, which is very suitable for admiring seagulls and redwoods on the waterway~ ⚠️ The best viewing time for seagulls and redwoods is from November to December, be sure to plan your trip in advance to avoid missing this beautiful scenery❤️ 📍 **Navigation: Huanhu South Road This self-driving route has a dozen kilometers along the way, and the whole road is beautiful. It is especially recommended to go after four o'clock in the afternoon on a sunny day, bring your own seagull food, and you can get close to this group of white elves on the seagull season railing. There are attractions around Huanhu South Road: 1. Hubin West Road - Kunming's small Kamakura, the crimson redwoods next to Haigeng Dam are particularly eye-catching. 2. Xihua Wetland Park 3. Gucheng River Garden Wetland Park 4. Nandianchi National Wetland Park - There is a whale-shaped island next to the park, which is very beautiful. 5. Xiahaigeng Wetland Park 6. Gudian Wetland Park 7. Haiyan Village 8. Laoyuhe Wetland Park - There are a lot of redwoods and seagulls, and the parking lot has a beautiful view. 9. Dounan Wetland Park 10. Wangguan Wetland Park - Especially suitable for watching the sunset, and it is also very close to Dounan Flower Market. 11. Baofeng Wetland Park 12. Dianchi Haigeng Park 💃 Dressing suggestions: Because the wind is strong, it is recommended to choose a flowing skirt or trench coat, and the solid color dressing effect is better. 📸 Shooting suggestions: The light is soft before ten o'clock in the morning and after four o'clock in the afternoon, there are many attractions around Dianchi Lake, it is recommended to choose 3~6 points, and enjoy the day's itinerary better. 🚗 My route reference: Hubin West Road➡️Huanhu South Road➡️Whale Island➡️Huanhu East Road➡️Laoyuhe Wetland Park➡️Wangguan Wetland Park (you can go to Dounan Flower Market by the way)

Dianchi is located south of Kunming city. Although it is called a pond, it is about half the size of Lake Biwa and is also known as Lake Kunming. The eastern shore on the north side of the lake is called Haigengdaba, and is a straight embankment about 3km long. Every year from November to March, a large number of seagulls come here from Siberia, and it has become a tourist spot for feeding the seagulls. You might think that you can feed the seagulls from a boat, but you can also enjoy it from land. I had an image of seagulls as "sea", so I looked it up and found out that Japanese seagulls also come here from Alaska and Siberia to spend the winter. Date of visit: January #China #Kunming #Dianchi #Haigengdaba #Seagulls #Feeding

"The vast five-hundred-li Dianchi rushes into view." As the soul of Kunming, Dianchi Lake is a must-visit sacred destination for every traveler to the city. This guide immerses you in the beauty of Dianchi—bookmark it and set off! 1. Travel Preparations 1. Documents: ID card, student ID (for discounts), etc. 2. Clothing: Kunming enjoys spring-like weather year-round, but with significant temperature differences between day and night. Even in summer, pack a light jacket; for winter gull-watching, bring a thick coat. 3. Sun protection: The high-altitude region has strong UV rays—sunscreen, sunglasses, a sun hat, and UV-protective clothing are essential. 4. Other: Power bank, comfortable shoes (for cycling or walking), camera. 2. Best Time to Visit 1. Year-round appeal: Dianchi is beautiful in all seasons—cherry blossoms in spring, lush greenery in summer, crisp autumn air, and Siberian black-headed gulls in winter. Choose based on your preferences. 2. Gull-watching season: From November to March each year, flocks of black-headed gulls winter here. The Haigeng Dam and Haigeng Park offer spectacular views, perfect for photography capturing human-gull interactions. 3. Transportation Guide 1. City transport: - Bus: Multiple routes (e.g., No. 24, 44) go to Haigeng Dam and Haigeng Park—affordable but potentially crowded. Check maps for routes. - Metro: Line 5 has stations near Dianchi; transfer to buses or taxis for convenience. - Taxi/self-drive: Convenient but may face traffic; parking fees around Dianchi range 10-20 CNY. 2. Lakeside transport: - Cycling: Rent shared bikes/e-bikes near Haigeng Dam for scenic rides (mind battery levels). - Sightseeing carts: ~20 CNY/person in Haigeng Park for effortless touring. 4. Ticket Info 1. Lakeside areas: Free access to Haigeng Dam, Haigeng Park, and Dianchi Greenway. 2. Xishan Forest Park: 30 CNY (includes Longmen Grottoes); ~75 CNY for cable car + cart combo with panoramic views. 3. Yunnan Ethnic Village: 90 CNY to experience 25 minority cultures. 5. Must-Visit Spots 1. Haigeng Dam: Prime gull-watching in winter mornings/evenings. Buy official gull food (5-8 CNY/bag) for eco-friendly feeding and stunning photos. Offers views of Xishan's "Sleeping Beauty." 2. Xishan Forest Park: Cross Dianchi via cable car to Nie Er's Tomb; hike or take carts to cliff-carved Longmen Grottoes. Wear anti-slip shoes; return via bus to Metro Line 3. 3. Yunnan Ethnic Village: One-day immersion in ethnic performances like Dai peacock dances and Yi torch festivals. Prioritize iconic villages like Dai and Yi. 4. Dianchi Wetland Parks: Dounan Wetland (near flower market) for sunset; Wangguan Wetland (less crowded) with summer lavender fields. 5. Daguan Pavilion: One of China's "Four Great Towers," featuring the "Longest Couplet in the World" and distant Dianchi views. Enjoy boating in the park. 6. Food Recommendations 1. Near Dianchi: Steam-pot chicken (tender, original flavor); sour-spicy fish (appetizing broth); cold rice noodles (chewy with rich seasoning). 2. Guandu Old Town (30-min drive): Guandu Baba (sweet sticky cake); small-pot rice noodles (authentic Yunnan flavor). 3. Dounan Flower Market: Must-try fresh rose flower cakes—crispy outside, fragrant inside. 7. Accommodation Tips 1. Budget: Lakeside B&Bs (150-300 CNY/night) near Haigeng Park. 2. Luxury: Dianchi hot spring resorts (e.g., lakeside villas) for scenic soaks. 8. Unique Experiences 1. Night cruise: Summer boat tours from Daguan Pier with dazzling lights. 2. Sailing: ~200 CNY/person at Haigeng Sailing Club. 3. Jinning Sand Park: Kunming's "Little Sanya" for family beach fun. 9. Notes 1. Gull season: Don’t touch gulls when feeding; mornings are most active. 2. Sun/wind protection: Apply sunscreen; pack windproof winter wear. 3. Eco-care: No littering to protect wetlands. Dianchi’s beauty lies in its poetic landscapes and human-nature harmony. Follow this guide for an unforgettable journey! Guide

When the weather is good, take a walk to Haigeng Dam and see the grass sea of ​​Dianchi Lake. There are many live streamers along the way. Wear a wreath and look at Xishan from afar. You can also take a cable car to Xishan Scenic Area to look back at Dianchi Lake, walk up to Longmen, follow the cliff path, and experience the commanding view. Remember to bring some snacks and drinks. If it's not hot, you can spend most of the afternoon in the breeze.

Hey guys!! This melting-hot summer is seriously killing me (not really 🙊)!! Ditch the AC and check out these 4 cities with built-in "natural air conditioning" ❄️—average temps below 25°C in July-August, perfect for escaping the heatwave while having a blast! I’ve dug up all the deets for you, so save this and get packing! 🌲 City ①: Liupanshui, Guizhou—China’s "Cool Capital" lives up to its name!! Liupanshui has "summer escape" coded in its DNA!! 🌳 Step off the high-speed train and be greeted by 19°C breezes—no fan needed!! Fengchi Park in the city is a photogenic dream 📸, with lakeside views and wooden walkways perfect for leisurely strolls and pics. Don’t miss Wumeng Grassland!! 🐎 Sit on the grass watching cows and sheep graze as windmills spin lazily in the distance—every shot is wallpaper-worthy!! Catch the sunset here, with the sky painted orange-red, maxing out the romance. 🍢 The food slays too! Shuicheng mutton noodles are fragrant without the gaminess, paired with crispy chili—pure noodle bliss!! 🌊 City ②: Xining, Qinghai—The Underrated Cool Oasis of the Northwest Who says the Northwest is all deserts and heatwaves?! Xining breaks the mold!! 🌤️ July-August highs hit just 25°C, with light jackets needed at night. Cycling by Qinghai Lake is magical!! 🚴 Azure waters, golden rapeseed fields, and distant snow-capped mountains—every frame leaves you speechless. Hit Mojia Street Night Market after dark!! 🍢 Sizzling lamb skewers dripping with oil, dusted with cumin and chili—heaven!! Try liangpi (cold noodles) and sweet fermented barley for a tangy kick. Stroll Xining’s streets post-feast, cool breeze in tow—pure joy!! 🏔️ City ③: Kunming, Yunnan—The Ultimate Perpetual-Spring Summer Escape Kunming’s summer is straight-up "life goals"!! 🌷 20°C days mean T-shirts are comfy, and a light jacket suffices at night. Feed red-billed gulls at Haigeng Dam (no migratory birds in July-August, but views still wow!), gaze at Dianchi Lake’s glimmering waters—instant mood boost!! Nanping Street is a must!! 🍜 Sour-spicy small-pot rice noodles, tender bean-curd noodles, and a glass of pao luo da (bread-in-milk dessert)—utterly satisfying. Boat on Cuihu Lake 🚣, chill under trees, and chat—this is summer done right!! 🌿 City ④: Shennongjia, Hubei—A Natural Oxygen Bar Hidden in Forests OMG! Shennongjia is like a real-life "Secret Garden"!! 🌳 Surrounded by primal forests, it’s pure therapy. Dawn mist over Dajiuhu Lake feels ethereal; Shennong Peak’s rolling sea of clouds will leave you awestruck!! Temps here are 10°C+ cooler than the city—walk forest trails breathing in crisp, cool air. 🏡 Stay in a forest cabin!! Wake to birdsong and greenery outside your window. 🍗 The food is rustic perfection! Stir-fried cured pork will have you stomping for joy, paired with corn rice and wild herb soup—farmhouse feasting at its best!! Guys!! These 4 cities are summer saviors ✨ No crowds, no sweat, just epic views and killer eats. Grab your squad and go this holiday/weekend!! 🚄 Missing out means waiting a whole year!!!

🛫 Transportation Guide — Kunming ✈️ Changshui International Airport: Flights connect nationwide. Multiple airport shuttle routes serve downtown with convenient stops and transfers. Metro Line 6 offers seamless access—follow signs for an easy ride to the city. 🚄 Kunming Station/Kunming South Station: South Station boasts frequent high-speed trains and modern facilities, while Kunming Station offers diverse routes. Buses radiate from both stations, and taxis are readily available for quick transfers. 🌅 Must-Visit Spots 🌊 Cuihu Park: Free admission. A living canvas across seasons—spring blooms, summer lotuses, and winter seagulls. Stroll the lakeside to capture locals’ leisurely pace and photogenic moments. 🌸 Dianchi Haigeng Dam: Breathtaking views! This sprawling dam faces the Sleeping Beauty Mountain. Feed seagulls (bring bread!) and witness golden sunsets over the water—all without entrance fees. 🏞️ Xishan Forest Park: Ride the cableway into lush greenery. Summit for panoramic city-and-lake vistas. Longmen Temple atop preserves Dianchi’s millennia-old culture, blending nature and heritage. 🕌 Yunnan Ethnic Village: 25 ethnic groups showcase unique villages, nonstop performances, and crafts. A full day here feels too short. 📌 Travel Tips 1. Kunming’s strong UV demands sunscreen, sunglasses, and hats. 2. Pack light layers for cool mornings/evenings. 3. Feed seagulls responsibly at Dianchi to protect ecology. Packing Essentials Seasonal clothing (light jackets for summer, heavy coats for winter 🧥). Sun protection: sunscreen, sunglasses 🕶️, hats 👒. Don’t forget IDs, camera 📷, power bank, etc. ✈️ Transportation Guide — Lijiang Fly to Lijiang Sanyi Airport (28km from the ancient town). Airport shuttles cost ¥20/person; taxis 🚕 or pre-booked transfers save time. Trains arrive at Lijiang Station (~10km to town)—reach via bus, taxi, or ride-hail. Explore the car-free ancient town on foot 👣, or rent e-bikes/bicycles 🚲. 🚶 Itinerary Day 1: Enter through the South Gate. Tour Mu Residence (¥40, includes guide)—grand architecture and photo ops 📷. Hike Lion Hill for town views, then catch sunset 🌇 and nightlights ✨ at Wanhu Tower. Day 2: Shop and eat at Sifang Street, hit the bars, and snap the iconic Water Wheel 📸. Visit Black Dragon Pool for potential Jade Dragon Snow Mountain reflections. Day 3: Relax in quiet Shuhe Ancient Town, then explore Tea Horse Trail by bike 🚴‍♂️ or hike 🚶‍♀️ to soak in history. ⚠️ Notes Respect local customs 🙏. Prioritize food hygiene (avoid sketchy stalls). Compare prices to avoid scams. Visit off-peak for better experiences. Wear comfy shoes 👟 for cobblestone streets. ✈️ Transportation Guide — Dali Don’t miss Shuanglang, the premier lakeside town of Cang’er scenery. 🚶 Itinerary 1. 📍 Shuanglang Seafront Street A flower-lined promenade along Erhai Lake, ideal for views and winter red-billed gulls. Stretch from Ferry Pier north to Yuji Island or south to Cultural Square. 2. 📍 Nanzhao Folk Island One of Erhai’s three islands, accessible by boat. Features the Nanzhao Palace. 3. 📍 Yuji Island Home to Sun Palace (currently closed) and Moon Palace. Walk to Cannon Fort ruins for vistas. 4. 📍 Erhai Wetland Park A hidden seaside platform in the old town’s alleys. 5. 📍 Coastal Highway Viewpoint On Ring Road East, overlooks Shuanglang, Cangshan Mountain, Erhai Lake, and Nanzhao Island.

Hey everyone! Today, I'm bringing you a travel guide for Dianchi Lake to help you avoid detours~ Best Time to Visit Dianchi Lake November - March: Siberian black-headed gulls migrate here for winter. Gulls gather in large numbers at Haigeng Dam and other spots, creating a spectacular scene. April - May: Jacaranda trees are in full bloom, creating a sea of purple flowers from Jiaochang Zhonglu to the shores of Dianchi Lake, incredibly romantic. June - August: The rainy season occasionally brings showers, and lotus flowers bloom in the wetlands, perfect for photography. Attraction Recommendations Haigeng Dam: The best place in Kunming to see gulls. The dam offers an expansive view, facing the Western Hills Scenic Area across the water. You can use a medium-telephoto lens with a large aperture to continuously shoot gulls around 8-9 AM or 4-5 PM. You can also follow the greenway to Haigeng Park and take a boat trip to admire the 'Sleeping Beauty' of the Western Hills.  Haihong Wetland Park: From November to February of the following year, the Metasequoia trees turn red. You can row a boat within the Metasequoia forest. The sunlight filtering through the trees around 3-4 PM creates stunning light and shadow effects.  Western Hills Dragon Gate (Longmen): You can hike or take a cable car to the top of the Longmen Grottoes for a panoramic view of Dianchi Lake. In 2025, a 'Dragon Gate Blessing' experience will be launched, allowing visitors to participate in rubbing Qing Dynasty cliff carvings.  Laoyu River Wetland Park: You can cycle along the slow path, passing through Metasequoia forests and reed marshes. In summer, you can experience forest boat tours, and in autumn, there are wetland bird-watching activities. In the evening, use a telephoto lens in the beach area to capture stunning shots of 'Gulls and Sunset.'  Wangguan Wetland Park: Features a vast lake, lush vegetation, and rich flora and fauna. A natural lake boardwalk extends into Dianchi Lake, creating a seamless horizon where the sky meets the water. It's excellent for gull watching and sunset views.  Food Recommendations Dianchi Fresh Fish: Seaweed Tofu Soup, with tender and fragrant seaweed paired with Shiping Tofu. Recommended at 'Yujiale' on Haigeng Road. Also, try the Copper Pot Potato Rice at 'Benweifang' in Wolong Ancient Fishing Village, cooked over firewood with a crispy crust at the bottom, served with tamarind juice to cut through the richness. Intangible Cultural Heritage Snacks: Qiaoma Pea Jelly from Haiyan Village Intangible Cultural Heritage Workshop, cooked in a traditional stove and served with secret chili oil. Also, Dianwang Old Sauce Fish from 'Yuxiangyuan' in Shicheng Village, featuring tender fish coated in a rich, thick sauce. Transportation Guide Public Transportation: Metro Line 5 goes directly to Dianchi Lake Resort. Loop Bus No. 44 connects major attractions around the lake. The Dianchi Greenway Special Double-Decker Sightseeing Bus costs 10 RMB per person for unlimited rides and connects 12 attractions, including Haigeng Dam and Haihong Wetland. Self-Driving: It's recommended to take Huanhu Nanlu (South Lake Road), which has viewpoints along the way where you can stop at any time.

🌊 Romantic Moments at Dianchi Lake** • In winter (November to March), be sure to visit Haigeng Dam to feed the black-headed gulls. Toss some bread, and the gulls will surround you—perfect for healing photos! In summer, we recommend Dou Nan Wetland, where the reed marshes and sunset create a picturesque scene. 🏮 Ancient Towns and Local Life** • **Guandu Ancient Town**: Enjoy the nighttime light show at Jingang Pagoda and wear Hanfu for a “time-travel” photo shoot! Kunming Old Street**: Check in at the “Wine Glass Building,” and try grilled rice cakes and tofu rice noodles for just 5 yuan to fill you up. 3. **🌸 Natural Wonders** • **Stone Forest**: A 270-million-year-old karst landscape, now featuring the new “Ashima Light and Shadow Theater.” Take photos wearing Yi ethnic costumes. • **Dongchuan Red Land**: Best visited in September and October, the colorful terraced fields look like God’s spilled palette. 4. **🍜 Culinary Delights** • Crossing-the-bridge rice noodles (Jianxinyuan 68 yuan/set), steam pot chicken (Fuzhaolou), wild mushroom hotpot (available June to September). • Zhuanxin Farmers’ Market: Grilled milk fan and crispy buns, feast for about 20 yuan per person! **Practical Tips** (subtitles pop up): ✓ **Transportation**: The subway covers major attractions; for Stone Forest and Dongchuan, car rental is recommended. ✓ **Accommodation**: Stay near Cuihu Lake or Nanping Street for convenient dining and shopping. ✓ **Avoid**: Ethnic villages are heavily commercialized; prioritize visiting free ancient towns.

Day two itinerary begins, departing from the hotel to Shilin, a 1.5-hour drive. Unexpectedly, the clear sky from yesterday turned to rain today, but it didn’t dampen our spirits. The Shilin after the rain was surprisingly beautiful, carrying a bit of the misty rain feeling from our Jiangnan region. You need to scan your ID at the entrance and take an electric cart inside; otherwise, it’s quite a long walk. ✓ Shilin Shilin is a World Natural Heritage site, with bizarre rock formations all naturally formed, showing me the wonders of nature’s craftsmanship. Shilin has existed for millions of years, all for a stunning first glance. We saw the Tang Dynasty stone, Lotus, Sun Wukong fighting the White Bone Demon three times, and the stone of Ashima from the dream. We admired the wonders of Ashima, Sword Peak Pool, Wangfeng Pavilion, Double Birds Crossing, Shilin Lake, Little Shilin, and other spectacular sights, savoring the magnificent scenery of “peaks standing like walls, layers of green mountains.” We spent about 2 hours touring. Today I learned that local girls are called Ashima, and boys are called Aheige, symbolizing diligence, bravery, and integrity. For lunch, we had local specialties like steam pot chicken, Yunnan crossing-the-bridge rice noodles, and steamed pork. It’s worth mentioning that the dining place was also very stylish and great for photos. ✓ Dianchi Lake Haigeng Dam From Shilin to Dianchi Lake Haigeng Dam, it’s a 1.5-hour drive. The weather wasn’t great that day, but the rain came in bursts, giving us a taste of the sea and sky blending into one. It’s a lifestyle called Yunnan. We are also like flowers listening to the wind, here now. We arrived a bit late and missed the seagulls, leaving a little regret for next time! In the evening, we had mushroom and chicken hotpot, which was incredibly delicious. After dinner, we checked into a hotel in Chuxiong. ✓ Yi People Ancient Town At night, we visited Yi People Ancient Town, where many locals were dancing at the town entrance, attracting many tourists’ attention. There were also many local snacks, but we were too full from dinner to eat more. At the museum, we saw a stunning flower wall that was truly magnificent.

| Seagulls Dancing at Dianchi Lake + Mushroom Feast + Jacaranda Explosion. 🌟 **3 Days 2 Nights Spring City Tour in Kunming | Seagulls Dancing at Dianchi Lake + Mushroom Feast + Jacaranda Explosion, from the millennium-old Green Lake to the secret cave for a leisurely adventure!** 🕊️ --- ### **🌊 Core Attractions Hardcore Guide** 1️⃣ **Dianchi Lake Haigeng Dam (Letter from Siberia)** - **Exclusive Activities**: - **November to March**: Feed the black-headed gulls (Dali Garden small bread is more popular than gull feed) → Arrive before 9 AM to catch the famous "thousands of gulls flying" scene - **All year round**: Take the cable car up West Mountain (round trip 100 RMB) → Explore Longmen Grottoes and touch the "Kui Xing Points the Stars" - **Photo tip**: Navigate to "Haihong Wetland" for transparent boat rides (79 RMB/hour), the redwood forest light and shadow resemble Monet’s paintings 2️⃣ **Stone Forest (World Geological Wonder)** - **Avoid crowds route**: - Rush to "Wangfeng Pavilion" at the Stone Forest by 8 AM for aerial shots → Explore the secret outpost mountain to find Ashima → Hike Liziyuanqing (free wild stone forest) - **Local tip**: Outside the park, visit "Nuohai Village" to photograph blue stone houses + experience Sani ethnic embroidery (50 RMB) 3️⃣ **Green Lake Park (Heart of Spring City)** - **City Walk Highlights**: - Feed squirrels around the lake (bring raw walnuts) → Take photos of the yellow walls of the Army Lecture Hall for a Republic of China era vibe (free) → Relax in cafes on Wenlin Street - **Hidden gem**: In winter, seagulls enter the city; in November, see the golden carpet of ginkgo avenue 4️⃣ **Dounan Flower Market (Asia’s Flower Capital Explosion)** - **Night raid guide**: - 8 PM fresh cut flower auction (as thrilling as a stock exchange) → Buy a bouquet of baby’s breath for 5 RMB → Ship flowers nationwide by express (first weight 10 RMB) - **Trivia**: The succulent section on the third floor sells 3 pots for 10 RMB, and you can take them on the plane! --- ### 🍄 **Culinary Explosion Map** ```markdown 🔥 **Rice Noodle Universe** - Jianxinyuan: Crossing-the-bridge rice noodles (add ingredients only when the soup is boiling) + cold rice noodles (served with winter vegetables) - Tiepeng Small Pot: Stinky tofu rice noodles + fresh meat pie (Tangzi Alley main store, sells out by 10 AM) 🍄 **Mushroom World** - Yiduo Mushroom Hotpot: See hand green + chicken fungus + bamboo fungus (soup base simmered for 20 minutes! served with porcini mushroom fried rice) - Mushuihua Market: Buy dried mushrooms (July-September) → Nearby shops process them for 20 RMB 🌸 **Floral Food Dark Side** - Fresh flower cakes (Jiahua): freshly baked rose filling + jasmine crisp (second floor of Green Lake store for flower tea) - Batila Laotian Milk Tea: butterfly pea flower ice bag + lemongrass (everyone in Nanqiang Street alleys carries one) ``` --- ### **🏡 Accommodation and Travel Pitfall Avoidance Manual** 🚇 **Transport High-tech** - **Airport → City**: - Metro Line 6 direct to Tangzi Alley (20 minutes faster than bus) - After 11 PM arrivals, choose "Airport Express" to train station (25 RMB) - **City travel hacks**: - Shared e-bikes > taxis (cars banned in Green Lake/Wenlin Street area) - Stone Forest preferred by high-speed rail (18 minutes/18 RMB), more comfortable than bus 🏠 **Accommodation Levels** - **Hipster favorite**: "Rubber Bookstore" by Green Lake (hostel + bookstore combo, beds 60 RMB) - **Convenience pick**: "All Season Hotel" on Nanping Street (walking distance to Nanqiang Night Market) - **Avoid**: Train station "100 RMB special rooms" are mostly windowless basements! --- ### **📅 3-Day Leisurely Itinerary** ```markdown 𝐃𝐚𝐲𝟏: Seagulls Dancing × Wenlin Slow Time Dianchi Lake Haigeng Dam → West Mountain Longmen → Wenlin Street Coffee → Green Lake Night Stroll 𝐃𝐚𝐲𝟐: Stone Forest × Flower Capital Explosion Stone Forest secret hiking → Nuohai Village Sani ethnic lunch → Dounan Flower Market night shopping → Ship fresh flowers home 𝐃𝐚𝐲𝟑: Old Street × Taste Bud Carnival Army Lecture Hall → Yuantong Temple vegetarian meal → Mushuihua buy mushrooms → Nanqiang Street small pot rice noodles ``` --- ### **❗ Local Blood and Tears Advice** 1. **Pitfall Defense**: - The "10 RMB quick photo" by Dianchi Lake is actually photoshopped! Black-headed gulls only perch on your hand for candid shots - When buying mushrooms, watch the cooking timer! See hand green mushrooms must be cooked for a full 20 minutes 2. **Sun Protection Mysticism**: - UV index often off the charts! SPF50+ sunscreen + ice sleeves double protection - Rainy season (June-August) turns you into a "fashionista," always carry an umbrella 3. **Secret Code Culture**: - In rice noodle shops, saying "no green" means no scallions, "wide soup" means extra broth - Bargain at Dounan by saying "wholesale price" pretending to be a florist 💡 **Hidden Player Skills**: - Free seagull watching spot at Green Lake: small pond behind the Army Lecture Hall (few people, many gulls) - Dounan Flower Market bargain hunting: after 10 PM, squat by trash bins for unopened bouquets (florists often discard B-grade flowers) **#SpringCitySlowLife #MushroomAdventure #AsiaFlowerCapital** 👉 **Follow me! Next issue unlocks "Kunming Jacaranda Hidden Photo Spots Map"** **↓ Urgent flower news? Drop your questions in the comments for insider gardening tips!** 📱 > **Trivia**: The name "Spring City" comes from the annual average temperature of 15°C, but the day-night temperature difference rivals deserts! Dounan Flower Market sells tens of millions of fresh flowers daily, with 3 out of every 10 flowers worldwide passing through here. The Army Lecture Hall produced 300 generals including Zhu De and Ye Jianying, considered the "predecessor" of the Whampoa Military Academy~

Dianchi Haigeng Dam is an absolute must-visit in Kunming! Loved by both locals and tourists alike, I've been here numerous times and compiled this super practical guide for you👇 📍Address: Dianchi Haigeng Dam, Guanjing Road, Xishan District, Kunming 🎫Ticket: Free🆓 ⏰Opening hours: Open 24/7 🚗Transportation Guide: 🚇Subway: Exit A at Yinghai Road Station (Line 5), then walk 15-20 minutes 🚕Taxi: Most convenient option, just set destination as "Haigeng Dam" 🚌Bus: Take routes 44 or 73 and get off at Dianchi Hotel Station 🌟Highlights: 🦅Winter Seagull Spectacle: From November to March each year, Siberian black-headed gulls migrate here. Buy some bird food for close interaction and perfect photo ops📸 Around 9am, staff feed the gulls (opposite Jinjia Dayuan community) when they're most active 🌅Breathtaking Lake Sunset: The dam offers panoramic views of Dianchi Lake and cityscape. At sunset, golden light bathes the lake and dam, creating magical photo moments🌄 🚶‍♀️Leisurely Walks & Cycling: Stroll or bike along the 2.4km dam, enjoy the breeze and Kunming's relaxed vibe. Beautiful scenery with benches for resting 🎯Nearby Attractions: Haigeng Park and Yunnan Ethnic Village are close by. Haigeng Park has large lawns and beaches, while Ethnic Village showcases diverse minority cultures 📸Photography Tips: 📌Best time: 9-11am or 4-6pm for soft lighting 📌Poses: Candid shots while feeding gulls, leaning on railings, or action shots 📌Composition: Use lake, gulls and dam as backgrounds with diagonal framing for depth ❗Important Notes: 🔔Don't scare the gulls when observing them 🔔Don't forget sunscreen - Kunming has strong UV 🔔Weekends/holidays get crowded, try visiting off-peak Friends, you must visit Dianchi Haigeng Dam to experience this beauty when in Kunming!💕 #DianchiHaigengDam #KunmingTravel #HaigengDamGuide #DianchiSeagulls

Dianchi Lake, located in the southwest of Kunming City, Yunnan Province, is the largest freshwater lake in Yunnan and is known as the "Pearl of the Plateau." Below is a detailed introduction and travel guide to Dianchi Lake: 🌊 1. Geography and Ecological Features 1. Basic Overview - Area and Depth: The lake surface is at an elevation of 1,886 meters, covering approximately 330 square kilometers (the sixth-largest freshwater lake in China), with an average depth of 5 meters and a maximum depth of 11 meters. - Water System: Over 20 rivers flow into the lake, including the Panlong River and Baoxiang River, with the outlet being the Tanglang River (a tributary of the Jinsha River's Pudu River). - Zoning Structure: The lake is divided by the Haigeng Sandbar into the northern Caohai (about 10 square kilometers) and the southern Outer Lake (the main body). 2. Ecological Protection and Challenges - Water Quality Changes: Pollution in the 1980s degraded the water to below Grade V, but after treatment, it improved to Grade IV by 2019 (the best in nearly 30 years). - Biodiversity: Native fish species dropped from 15 to 4 due to pollution, but ecological restoration (e.g., Baofeng Wetland) is gradually reviving the ecosystem. - Public Initiatives: The 2025 "Tuantuanying Dianchi Guardian" project promotes scientific fish stocking and encourages public participation in conservation. 📜 2. History, Culture, and Scenic Spots 1. Historical Significance - During the Warring States period, it was the core area of the ancient Dian Kingdom. In the Western Han Dynasty, Yizhou Prefecture was established, and Kunming became the provincial capital during the Yuan Dynasty, making Dianchi Lake a cultural cradle. - The name "Dianchi" has origins in theories like the "reversed water system" (due to its narrow downstream resembling an inverted flow) and the name of the ethnic tribe "Dian." 2. Key Attractions - Lakeside Highlights: - Xishan Scenic Area: Longmen Grottoes overlook the lake, with a cableway connecting to Yunnan Ethnic Village. - Daguan Pavilion: Famous for its "longest couplet in China," with blooming lotuses in summer. - Yunnan Ethnic Village: Experience the culture of 25 ethnic minority villages (ticket: 50 RMB, free for college entrance examinees with admission tickets). - Unique Wetlands: - Laoyuhe Wetland: A sea of 200,000 hydrangeas in summer, with forest boat rides. - Haiyan Village: A popular sunset spot, where cobblestone paths blend with the lake's evening glow. 🚴 3. Travel Experience Guide 1. Special Activities - Cycling Trails: - Family Route (Dounan Wetland → Laoyuhe): Gentle slopes, passing ancient fishing villages and themed bridges. - Romantic Route (Haiyan Village → South Dianchi Wetland): Chase sunsets and capture "sky mirror" reflections. - Professional Route (Baofeng Wetland → Jinning): Challenge long slopes and curves, showcasing the Outer Lake's beauty. - Citywalk Recommendations: - Caohai Greenway connects Yuyuan Rose Corridor, Seven-Arch Floating Bridge (antique design), and Ganggouwei "Sky Mirror." 2. Food and Accommodation - Local Delicacies: Dayu Street's Sunday market offers lamb hotpot and sweet rice wine; lakeside restaurants serve the "Daguan Pavilion Long Couplet Banquet." - Lodging Options: Lakeside homestays (Haigeng area), tent camps (close to nature), or high-quality city hotels. ⚠️ 4. Practical Tips - Transportation: - Buses/subways go directly to Dianchi; drive to wetland parks like Dounan Wetland or Wangguan Wetland. - Greenway shuttles: Rent e-bikes or cycle in the Outer Lake section; walking is easier after the Caohai section is fully connected. - Best Seasons: - Summer (June-August) for lotuses and hydrangeas; winter for red-billed gulls (Haigeng Dam). - Notes: - Sun and mosquito protection (wetlands have many insects); some bridges require dismounting bikes; avoid peak hours for crowds. 💎 Summary Dianchi Lake combines natural wonders (lake and mountain views), cultural heritage (ancient Dian roots), and ecological revival (a model of pollution control). Cycling trails, wetland strolls, and ancient village sunsets make it a core landmark of Kunming tourism. Whether for family trips, graduation travels, or ecological exploration, Dianchi Lake's "500-li misty waves" can fulfill diverse expectations.

1️⃣ Chongqing The mountain city is as cool as air conditioning in summer! Free check-in at Hongya Cave night view, subway and bus start at 1.8 RMB, and a bowl of noodles for 6 RMB fills you up. Recommended to stay at a youth hostel near Jiefangbei, about 50 RMB per night per person, and you can also visit Chaotianmen Wharf. 2️⃣ Kunming The "Spring City" with eternal spring, watch seagulls for free at Dianchi Haigeng Dam, subway costs 2 RMB to travel across the city. Recommended to stay at Cuihu Hotel Youth Hostel, about 60 RMB per night per person, breakfast with tofu pudding and rice noodles for 5 RMB. 3️⃣ Qingdao Enjoy beer at seaside beer houses for about 30 RMB per person! Free stroll on the Zhanqiao Pier, subway 3 RMB direct to Badaguan. Recommended to stay at a guesthouse near Taidong Pedestrian Street, about 80 RMB per night per person, seafood platter at a food stall for 50 RMB fills you up. 4️⃣ Changsha Popular internet-famous city but still budget-friendly! Free visit to Mao Zedong statue at Orange Isle, tea from Chayan Yuese for 15 RMB per cup, subway rides for 2 RMB anytime. Recommended to stay at a youth hostel near Wuyi Square, about 70 RMB per night per person, crayfish night market platter for 40 RMB per person. 💡Money-saving Tips: ✅ Off-peak travel: Free subway rides before 7 AM (in some cities) ✅ Student ID: Half-price attraction tickets (save 30 RMB at Yuelu Academy in Changsha) ✅ Local food: Night markets are 50% cheaper than scenic spots

**📅 Itinerary Overview** **Theme**: Natural Scenery + Cultural Experience + Food Exploration **Suitable for**: Independent travelers / Families / Couples **Recommended Season**: Kunming enjoys spring-like weather year-round, but March to May (cherry blossoms, jacaranda) and November (ginkgo) are especially recommended. --- **📍 Day 1: Classic City Tour** **Morning** - **Green Lake Park (Cuihu Park)** - Kunming’s "urban lung," with different scenery each season (red-billed gulls in winter). - **Nearby Recommendations**: Army Lecture Hall (free, modern history site), Yunnan University (century-old school, ginkgo avenue). - **Wenlin Street / Culture Alley** - A hub of artistic cafes and niche bookstores, perfect for photos and relaxing. **Noon** - **Lunch**: Traditional "Fuhuayuan" Crossing-the-bridge Rice Noodles (rich broth) or "Wenshan Breakfast" Chicken Soup Rice Noodles. **Afternoon** - **Dianchi Lake Haigeng Dam** - Must-see Siberian red-billed gulls in winter (Nov-Mar), bread crumbs can be bought for feeding. - **Optional**: Take the cable car up West Hill for a panoramic view of Dianchi Lake. - **Yunnan Nationalities Village** - Experience the cultures of 25 ethnic minorities (recommended to enter after 2 PM for folk performances). **Evening** - **Dinner**: Yunnan cuisine restaurant "Airuochun" (recommended: steam pot chicken, Xuanwei ham). - **Jinma Biji Archways** - Kunming landmark night view, nearby night markets to explore (e.g., Nanping Street Snack Street). --- **📍 Day 2: Stone Forest Wonders + Jiuxiang Caves (Group Tour / Self-drive)** **All Day** - **Stone Forest Scenic Area** (1.5 hours from city center) - A UNESCO World Natural Heritage site, the essence of karst landforms, must-see "Great Stone Forest" and "Ashima" statue. - **Tips**: Wear comfortable shoes, sun hat; don’t miss the Yi Sani culture inside the park. - **Jiuxiang Caves** (on the way from Stone Forest) - Underground caves and canyon scenery, boat ride to explore the "Male and Female Twin Waterfalls." **Evening** - **Dinner**: Return to the city for "Jungu" wild mushroom hotpot (best from June to October, cook thoroughly!). --- **📍 Day 3: Flower Market + Museum + Departure** **Morning** - **Dounan Flower Market** (Asia’s largest fresh flower market) - The morning market (8:00-10:00) is the liveliest, flowers at bargain prices, can be shipped home. - **Yunnan Provincial Museum** (new building) - Learn about Yunnan’s history (bronze artifacts, ancient Dian culture), free but requires reservation. **Noon** - **Lunch**: At Guandu Ancient Town’s "Hongzha Guandu Sisters Garden" for Guandu pancakes and small pot rice noodles. **Afternoon** - **Guandu Ancient Town** (optional) - A thousand-year-old town with concentrated intangible cultural heritage shops, great for souvenirs (e.g., Yunzi Go). - **Before Departure**: Buy Jia Hua fresh flower cakes (best freshly baked) or Pan Xiang Ji ham mooncakes. --- **🍜 Food Recommendations** - **Must-try list**: - Crossing-the-bridge rice noodles, small pot rice noodles, grilled rice cakes, fried potatoes, Dai-style hand-grabbed rice. - **Night Markets / Snack Streets**: Yuanxi Road, Nanqiang Street alleys, Shuangqiao Night Market. --- **🚗 Transportation Tips** - **Airport / High-speed Rail Station**: Metro Line 6 / taxi to city center about 30 minutes. - **Within City**: Metro + shared electric scooters are most convenient; taxis between attractions usually under 30 RMB. - **Stone Forest / Jiuxiang**: Recommended to charter a car (about 400 RMB/day) or join a day tour. --- **🏨 Accommodation Suggestions** - **Near Green Lake / Jinma Archways**: Convenient for food and shopping (recommended "Kunming Old Street Manxin Hotel"). - **Dianchi Lake Resort Area**: Suitable for families (e.g., "InterContinental Hotel"). --- **⚠️ Notes** 1. Sunscreen! Kunming has strong UV rays, sunglasses + SPF50+ are essential. 2. Weather changes frequently, carry a light jacket (big temperature difference between day and night). 3. Few shopping spots inside Stone Forest, beware of overpriced souvenirs. --- This guide can be adjusted according to your interests; Kunming is perfect for a slow-paced trip. Have a pleasant journey! 🌸

⛰【Attraction Guide】 📍Detailed Address: 🕊️Seagulls: Dianchi Lake · Haigeng Dam 🌹Dounan Flower Market 👯Kunming Old Street 🐟Laoyuhe Wetland Park 🗿Stone Forest Scenic Area……… 🚗Transportation Guide: 🚆Subway: Covers major attractions and commercial areas, a convenient travel option👍 🚌Bus: Ideal for reaching areas not covered by subway, some routes offer scenic views along the way🏞️ 🚙Taxi starting fare: 8💰, 1.8💰 per kilometer after 3km 👀Possible traffic during peak hours, plan your route in advance📈 🚘Self-drive: Perfect for travelers who love free exploration, especially to attractions like Stone Forest and Western Hills🏖️ Road conditions: Some urban roads may be congested; parking can be tricky🙋 🍽Dining Recommendations: ✅Must-try Mushroom Hot Pot[Onlooker] ✅Fuzhaolou Steamed Pot Chicken🐔 ✅Kunming Guanshengyuan offers a wide variety of affordable pastries, exclusive to Kunming[Tiptop] ✅Auntie Chen’s Pu’er Tea Glutinous Rice Balls🥣 ✅Yunping Flavor Garden’s Fresh Milk Rice Pudding is so fragrant🤤

Who can resist Dianchi Lake in June and July? I truly can't convince anyone to stay away! Without the overwhelming flocks of red-billed gulls or the heartwarming scene of "seagulls chasing bread," it might seem ordinary at first glance. But hidden here is a unique summer romance! During this season, Dianchi Lake sheds the bustle of autumn and winter, as if someone hit the slow-motion button. The lake shimmers with delicate ripples, glistening like a galaxy under the sun, while the distant Western Hills reflect hazily on the water like an ink-wash painting. Cycling around the lake, the wind carries the scent of fresh grass, and the occasional purple blooms of jacaranda trees along the roadside amplify the vibe! If you’re lucky enough to catch a light rain, the entire lake is veiled in mist, with the far-off mountains faintly visible—like stepping into a fantasy drama. This "misty rain over Dianchi" experience is absolutely a limited-edition treat! For those looking to escape the crowds, don’t miss it! Paddle a kayak into the wetlands, where reeds sway and frogs croak, offering a serene private retreat. At dusk, head to Haigeng Dam for a tangerine-hued sunset—the sky transitions from pink-purple to fiery orange, turning Dianchi into a natural palette, perfect for cinematic shots! Don’t forget to rent a transparent boat at Haihong Wetland, gliding through the water cypress forest as sunlight filters through the leaves—a dreamy forest photoshoot guaranteed to blow up your social media! Foodies, rejoice! The area is packed with hidden gems! Try a bowl of sour papaya fish stew—tangy and spicy to whet your appetite. Cool off with an iced papaya drink, sweet and refreshing. And don’t miss freshly grilled *rushan* (milk fan), rich and creamy. Savor these delights while basking in Dianchi’s breeze—this is the ultimate way to vacation! Though migratory birds are absent, June and July reveal Dianchi as the locals’ secret "paradise of relaxation." If you dread crowds or tourist traps, now’s the perfect time to visit—you’ll love it so much, you’ll want to come back!

Worried about your wallet while planning a trip in June-July? Don’t panic! These 5 hidden gem cities offer great value, fun activities, and fantastic shopping. Follow this comprehensive guide to start your super cost-effective journey🎉! 1. Zhangzhou 🎐 The Gentle Sea Breeze and Traditional Flavors of Fujian ✨City Impression: Here lies the purest Minnan culture, with blue seas and skies, fresh small towns, traditional snacks, and most importantly, affordable prices—perfect for students to enjoy easily! ✈️Transportation Guide: - Direct: High-speed trains go straight to Zhangzhou Station, convenient and fast. - Transfer: Fly to Xiamen, then take a bullet train or bus (about 1 hour), and you can also visit Xiamen on the way! 🏝️Must-Visit Attractions: - Dongshan Island🌊: Filming location of the movie "The Left Ear," featuring the blue and white fishing village of Nanmen Bay and the stunning coastal views along Su Feng Mountain’s island road—every snapshot looks like a masterpiece! - Yunshuiyao Ancient Town🏯: Stroll along the century-old banyan tree path, explore the mysterious Tulou clusters (Hegui Lou, Huaiyuan Lou), and feel the stories shaped by time. - Volcano Island🌋: A popular geological park with Rainbow Mountain and Monument Valley perfect for photos. Stay overnight in a seaside guesthouse and fall asleep to the sound of waves~ 🍜Zhangzhou’s Culinary Delights: - Four Fruit Soup🥥: A summer lifesaver, sweet icy dessert with taro balls and grass jelly, refreshingly cool! - Oyster Omelette🦪: Crispy outside, tender inside oyster pancake dipped in sweet and spicy sauce, irresistibly fresh! - Braised Noodles🍜: Thick sauce coats the noodles, topped with braised meat and intestines, deliciously fragrant! 📅Three-Day Itinerary: - Day 1: Explore Zhangzhou’s ancient city and street snacks; head to Volcano Island in the afternoon and watch the stunning sunset🌅. - Day 2: Rent a car to tour Dongshan Island, visit Nanmen Bay and Su Feng Mountain, and enjoy the waves at Jinluan Bay Beach in the evening. - Day 3: Visit Yunshuiyao Ancient Town, listen to the flowing creek, and experience the slow pace of Minnan countryside. 2. Chongqing 🌉 The Fiery Charm of the 8D Magical Mountain City ✨City Impression: Avoid the high heat in May-June, stroll through the staggered streets, experience the “3D magical” terrain, and enjoy a spicy hotpot feast—pure bliss! ✈️Transportation Guide: Direct flights and high-speed trains available; the city’s light rail is extensive, with the “passing through buildings” Line 2 and the “sky-to-earth” Line 6 as must-see spots! 🏙️Must-Visit Attractions: - Hongya Cave🌃: A real-life “Spirited Away,” the night lights create a magical world! - Liziba Light Rail Station🚄: Watch the light rail pass right through a building, a unique Chongqing transportation marvel. - Yangtze River Cableway🚠: Cross the Yangtze River and enjoy panoramic mountain city views, super romantic~ 🍲Chongqing’s Food Highlights: - Hotpot🔥: Skip the tourist spots! Go into residential buildings, order tripe and pork aorta, and savor authentic spicy beef tallow hotpot! - Xiao Mian (Noodles)🍜: Two servings of spicy noodles with a fried egg, the soul of Chongqing breakfast! - Jianghu Cuisine🐟: Spicy chicken and Mao Xue Wang, fiery and flavorful, perfect for licking the plate! 📅Three-Day Itinerary: - Day 1: Shopping at Jiefangbei → Snack street at Bayi Road → Night visit to Hongya Cave’s dazzling lights. - Day 2: Liziba Station → Ciqikou Ancient Town for Bayu culture → Yangtze River Cableway → Nanshan Yikeshu for city night views. - Day 3: Optional day trips! Wulong Tiankeng (Transformers filming site) or Dazu Rock Carvings to experience millennia of culture. 3. Kunming 🌷 The City of Eternal Spring and Flowers ✨City Impression: The name “Spring City” is well deserved! Comfortable climate in June-July, flowers everywhere, and a perfect transit hub for western and southern Yunnan trips~ ✈️Transportation Guide: Direct flights, metro and buses cover major attractions, very convenient! 🌳Must-Visit Attractions: - Dianchi Haigeng Dam🌊: No seagulls in May, but the rippling water and reflections of Western Hills create a picturesque scene! - Stone Forest🗿: A UNESCO World Natural Heritage site, a karst wonder formed over millions of years, showcasing nature’s craftsmanship! - Dounan Flower Market🌼: Asia’s largest fresh flower market, roses sold by weight—grab a bouquet to brighten your day~ 🍲Kunming’s Culinary Delights: - Crossing-the-Bridge Rice Noodles🍜: Full of ritual! Pour boiling broth over raw meat slices and vegetables, bursting with fresh aroma. - Steam Pot Chicken🐔: Authentic Yunnan dish, tender chicken with sweet clear broth. - Fried Erkuai🌯: Soft rice cake wrapped with fried dough sticks and peanut sauce, a perfect blend of salty and sweet! 📅Three-Day Itinerary: - Day 1: Bike along Dianchi Lake → Climb Western Hills for a Kunming view → Experience colorful ethnic customs at Yunnan Nationalities Village. - Day 2: Join a day tour to Stone Forest, wander among strange peaks and rocks, and take ancient-style photos. - Day 3: Feed red-billed gulls at Cuihu Park → Visit the Army Lecture Hall → Evening stroll at Dounan Flower Market, return with flowers in hand. 4. Yangzhou 🌿 The Slow Life in Misty Jiangnan ✨City Impression: In May-June, Slender West Lake ripples with green waves, pavilions and towers reflect like paintings. In this thousand-year-old city, even breathing slows down~ ✈️Transportation Guide: High-speed train to Yangzhou East Station, ride shared e-bikes or take buses in the city to easily visit attractions! 🏯Must-Visit Attractions: - Slender West Lake🌳: “The finest garden in the world,” stroll along Changti Spring Willows, take a painted boat to enjoy lake and mountain views. - Ge Garden and He Garden🏘️: Two of Jiangnan’s four famous gardens, with interesting rockeries and scenic views at every step, showcasing Chinese aesthetics. - Dongguan Street🛍️: An ancient street full of charm, shop for intangible cultural heritage items, taste authentic snacks, and feel Yangzhou’s lively atmosphere. 🍜Yangzhou’s Culinary Highlights: - Morning Tea🍵: Must-try crab roe soup dumplings, hot shredded tofu, and three-diced buns, paired with a pot of Lvyangchun tea—pure comfort! - Huaiyang Cuisine🍲: Lion’s Head meatballs are rich but not greasy, finely shredded tofu delicate as hair, so exquisite you hesitate to eat! 📅Three-Day Itinerary: - Day 1: Boat ride on Slender West Lake → Climb Daming Temple for city views → Night view at Wenchang Pavilion, feel the blend of ancient and modern. - Day 2: Visit Ge Garden to admire seasonal rockeries → Eat on Dongguan Street → Stroll the artistic Pishi Street for handmade treasures. - Day 3: Optional off-the-beaten-path trip! Visit Gaoyou Yucheng Post Station to explore mysterious Ming and Qing ancient post stations, or relax and head home. 5. Luoyang 🏮 The Flourishing Tang Dynasty Legacy of the Ancient Capital ✨City Impression: After peony season, fewer tourists and lower prices! From May to July, the caves are cool and pleasant; wear Hanfu and stroll the ancient city for an instant Tang Dynasty time travel~ ✈️Transportation Guide: High-speed train to Luoyang Longmen Station, convenient buses and taxis, some attractions open at night for better deals! 🏯Must-Visit Attractions: - Longmen Grottoes🕍: A World Cultural Heritage site, night tours with lights make the Buddha statues even more solemn and majestic! - White Horse Temple🏛️: China’s first ancient temple, blending styles from China, India, Thailand, and Myanmar, showcasing diverse Buddhist culture. - Luoyi Ancient City🎑: Free entry! Rent a Hanfu, carry a palace lantern, and be a “runaway princess” for a day~ 🍜Luoyang’s Culinary Delights: - Beef Soup🥣: Have a bowl early morning with crispy bread strips, fresh and tasty soup to energize you! - Luoyang Water Banquet🍲: 24 dishes including peony jelly and meat slices in broth, sour and spicy to whet your appetite, experience a royal feast. - Bufan Soup Dumplings🥟: Green bean cake base with kelp and meatballs, a bowl that warms your heart! 📅Three-Day Itinerary: - Day 1: In-depth tour of Longmen Grottoes → Visit Luoyang Museum for millennia-old artifacts → Enjoy night views at Sui-Tang Relics Park. - Day 2: Experience Zen at White Horse Temple → Take Hanfu photos at Luoyi Ancient City → Eat Luoyang snacks at Lijingmen Night Market. - Day 3: Join a day tour to Mount Lao Jun, where sea of clouds and golden peaks are breathtaking, fulfilling a fairy tale dream! 💰Money-Saving Tips - Accommodation: Zhangzhou and Luoyang offer great-value guesthouses (150-300 RMB/night); in Chongqing and Yangzhou, choose hostels or riverside guesthouses for even lower per-person costs! - Transportation: Kunming and Chongqing’s metro systems cover the city; rent e-bikes in Zhangzhou and Yangzhou for freedom and savings! - Tickets: Remember to bring student or teacher IDs for half-price entry at some attractions; night tickets for Longmen Grottoes in Luoyang are cheaper too! 💡Final Recommendation: Choose Zhangzhou to embrace the sea, Chongqing for food lovers, Luoyang for history buffs, Yangzhou for Jiangnan water town fans, and Kunming for nature lovers! Save this guide, pack your bags, and set off now～🚀

Essential travel guide to Kunming | Spring City walking guide: from Dianchi Lake to the slow life of wild mushrooms** --- ### **🌿 Kunming at a Glance** - **City Tags**: China's "Spring City," Asia's Flower City, Kingdom of Wild Mushrooms - **Best Season to Visit**: Year-round (November to March for red-billed gulls, June to September for mushrooms) - **Unique Experiences**: Morning flower market stroll, afternoon feeding seagulls, evening mushroom hotpot --- ### **📸 Must-Visit Attractions** **【Natural Scenery】** 1. **Dianchi Lake Haigeng Dam** - **Winter Exclusive**: Tens of thousands of Siberian red-billed gulls (November to March) - **Activities**: Buy seagull feed for interaction + cycling on the lakeside boardwalk 2. **Stone Forest Scenic Area (5A)** - **World Wonder**: 300 million-year-old karst landscape, filming location for "Journey to the West" - **Hidden Spot**: Wangfeng Pavilion for panoramic views of the Stone Forest 3. **Green Lake Park** - **Top citywalk choice**: Different scenery each season (spring cherry blossoms/summer lotus/autumn ginkgo) - **Nearby Attractions**: Army Lecture Hall + Wenlin Street coffee shops **【Cultural Experiences】** 4. **Yunnan Nationalities Village** - **Condensed culture of 25 ethnic minorities**: Daily performances like Water Splashing Festival and Yi ethnic dance dishes 5. **Dounan Flower Market (Asia’s largest)** - **Magical night market**: Flowers sold by weight after 8 PM - **Shipping tip**: Air freight express at 3 RMB/kg --- ### **🍄 Taste of Kunming** - **Wild Mushroom Season (June to October) must-eats**: 🍲 Matsutake sashimi / Chicken mushroom oil noodles / Stir-fried Jianshouqing with ham (Recommended: Dian Mushroom King) - **Everyday Delicacies**: 🍜 Crossing-the-bridge rice noodles (Qiaoxiangyuan/Jianxinyuan) 🌶️ Small pot rice noodles + stinky tofu (Tiepeng Small Pot Rice Noodles) 🍢 Three-piece barbecue set: grilled tilapia / fermented tofu / Zhaotong skewers --- ### **🚗 Nearby Short Trips** - **Within 1 hour**: 🌊 Fuxian Lake (copper pot fish + sailing experience) 🏯 Guandu Ancient Town (intangible cultural heritage baba cake + Diamond Pagoda) - **Within 2 hours**: 🏞️ Dongchuan Red Land (photographer’s paradise) --- ### **📅 Suggested Itinerary** - **Classic One-Day Tour**: Morning: Dianchi Dam → Nationalities Village Afternoon: Green Lake cultural tour Evening: Nanping Street Night Market - **In-depth Three-Day Tour**: Day 2: Stone Forest day trip Day 3: Dounan Flower Market + Yunnan Provincial Museum --- ### **💡 Local Tips** - ☀️ Sunscreen: UV rays are very strong! Sunglasses + sunscreen are a must - 🌡️ Clothing: Big temperature difference between day and night, bring a light jacket - 🚌 Transportation: Metro covers main attractions, guided tours recommended for Stone Forest - 🛒 Shopping: Jia Hua fresh flower cakes are best when freshly baked --- **✨ The right way to experience Kunming** Tear open the first piece of seagull feed by Dianchi Lake Find the spiciest Jianshouqing in the rainy season hotpot Fill your suitcase before leaving Spring bought for 20 yuan

Who would've thought, folks? 😭 I assumed Kunming, being a tourist city, would be at least "slightly expensive." But turns out, this wasn't a trip—it was a bargain hunt! Spent less than 800 yuan in 3 days, ate well, drank well, played well, and still had money left. The prices here completely redefined "value for money" for me! 🍜 Food Adventures: 100 yuan to feast through a whole street! Kunming's food streets are a paradise for foodies! At Nanping Street, 10 yuan gets you 3 freshly baked flower cakes💐—one bite and the flaky crust crumbles, releasing a burst of rose fragrance in your mouth. And for just 5 yuan, a bowl of chilled papaya water🥤 cools you right down in the summer heat! At Zhuanxin Farmers' Market, I couldn't walk away! An 8-yuan box of spicy and sour chicken feet🐔 was so appetizing, and the 15-yuan bowl of tofu pudding rice noodles was piled high with toppings. The best? 10 yuan for 3 grilled milk fan skewers🍢, topped with rose jam and crushed peanuts—so rich and sweet, I devoured 3 in a row! Here, food freedom is ridiculously easy! 🏞️ Attractions: Who knew free could be this fun? I expected Kunming’s attractions to be pricey, but boy, was I wrong! Haigeng Dam is free—just spend 2 yuan on bread🍞, and you can get up close with red-billed gulls. Watching flocks of seagulls swirl around you makes every photo a masterpiece📸! Then there’s Green Lake Park, with its shady trees and clear waters—sit by the lake, enjoy the breeze, and feed the ducks🦆. The biggest surprise? Kunming Old Street, with its cobblestone paths and historic buildings, is a vibe for photos, and it costs nothing💰! 🚗 Transportation: Taxis? Who needs 'em! Kunming’s transport is a dream! Subways and buses go everywhere, and it’s super affordable—just 2 yuan🚇 from downtown to Haigeng Dam! Plus, many attractions are clustered in the city center, so a shared bike ride gets you anywhere. Three days in, my transport costs were under 20 yuan—basically free! 💡 Pro Tips 1️⃣ Skip the flower cakes at tourist spots—freshly baked ones at Jiahua Bakery are cheaper and tastier! 2️⃣ Hit Zhuanxin Farmers' Market after 4 PM for discounted ready-to-eat goodies. 3️⃣ Wear a helmet when biking—Kunming’s winds can mess up your hair! Kunming’s "low-cost, high-value" travel experience has me obsessed💗! Small spending, big joy—that’s what travel should be. Add Kunming to your list and experience this "spending-perspective-shattering" happiness yourself! Follow me for more budget-friendly travel gems. ✨

🌿 Kunming · Yunnan If you're tired of the city's hustle and bustle and want to find a sunny place where flowers never fade to daydream, **Kunming** is definitely your one-way ticket! Here, there is no severe cold or scorching heat, only gentle blue skies, lazy clouds, and a city full of flowers. Take this guide and start your "Spring City slow life"~ --- ### **🌟 Must-visit Attractions in Kunming** 1. **Dianchi Lake · Haigeng Dam** - **Keywords**: Siberian red-billed gulls, sunset sail shadows - From November to March every year, thousands of red-billed gulls come here to winter. Every shot is a healing masterpiece! It’s best to visit early morning or late afternoon when the light is soft. 2. **Stone Forest Scenic Area** (World Natural Heritage) - **Wonder**: 270 million years of karst landforms. Walking through the "stone forest" feels like being on an alien planet. 📸 Wear bright clothes for better photos! 3. **Green Lake Park** - **Locals’ favorite**: Different scenery in every season, lotus-filled ponds in summer, seagulls circling in winter. Surrounded by artsy cafes and small bars, perfect for daydreaming. 4. **Dounan Flower Market** (Asia’s largest fresh flower market) - **Experience**: Go after 5 PM when flowers are sold by weight! You can buy a big bunch of roses for just 10 yuan and enjoy “flower freedom” 💐. 5. **Guandu Ancient Town** - **Food + History**: This thousand-year-old town hides Kunming’s most authentic baba (rice cakes), rice noodles, and pea powder. The atmosphere is magical when lanterns light up at night. --- ### **🍜 Kunming on the Tip of Your Tongue: Must-try Foods** - **Crossing-the-bridge rice noodles**: Recommended at "Qiaoxiangyuan" or "Jianxinyuan," the broth is so fresh it’ll make your eyebrows drop! - **Steam pot chicken**: Chicken soup steamed with steam, original flavor, a famous Yunnan dish. - **Wild mushroom hotpot** (available June to October): Includes hand-picked green mushrooms, chicken fungus... so fresh it’s worth the adventure! - **Snacks**: Grilled rice cakes, crispy buns, sweet rice cake with lotus root starch, rose jelly cake (a must for sweet lovers). **📍 Food Streets**: Nanping Street, Yuanxi Road, Wenhua Alley --- ### **📅 Best Time to Visit** - Suitable all year round, but March to May (when jacarandas bloom) and November to February (seagull season) are the most stunning. - Avoid the rainy season (July to August), though occasional showers won’t affect your trip much. --- ### **🚗 Transportation Tips** - Kunming Changshui Airport has a subway line directly to the city center; a taxi to downtown costs about 50 yuan. - Subway and shared electric scooters are enough for city attractions; for Stone Forest or Fuxian Lake, renting a car or joining a day tour is recommended. --- ### **💡 Off-the-beaten-path Recommendations** - **Zhuanxin Farmers Market**: Experience the local early market, try freshly baked milk cheese, and buy mountain produce. - **Laoyuhe Wetland Park**: Few people, beautiful scenery, paddle a transparent boat through the water forest, like stepping into the Land of Oz. - **Yang Liping Grand Theater**: Watch "Impressions of Yunnan" and feel the power of authentic ethnic dance. --- ### **🎒 Travel Essentials** - Sunscreen! Kunming has strong UV rays, so sunglasses, hats, and SPF50+ sunscreen are a must. - Light jacket (for big temperature differences between day and night), comfortable flat shoes (lots of stone pavements). --- **✨ Kunming is a city you don’t want to leave once you arrive.** Here, time slows down. You can feed seagulls, stroll the flower market, eat rice noodles, bask in the sun... and leave all your worries to the wind. [Camping][Camping][Camping][Camping][Camping]

Kunming is known as the "Spring City" with a pleasant climate and spring-like weather all year round, offering both natural scenery and cultural heritage. Here are 6 must-visit attractions and practical tips to help you explore Kunming: 1. Dianchi Lake & Western Hills Forest Park - Why visit: Yunnan's largest freshwater lake, flocks of red-billed gulls in winter, and the stunning "Sleeping Beauty" scenery of Western Hills. - Suggested activities: - Feed the gulls at Haigeng Dam (November to March, bread 10 RMB/bag) - Take the cable car up Western Hills (overlooking Dianchi Lake from Longmen Grottoes). - Tickets: Dianchi Lake is free; Western Hills Park + cable car about 100 RMB. - Tips: Hiking in Western Hills can be tiring, wear comfortable shoes; strong UV rays by Dianchi Lake, remember sun protection. 2. Stone Forest Scenic Area - Why visit: A UNESCO World Natural Heritage site, a karst landscape wonder, and the hometown of Ashima. - Highlights: - Great Stone Forest (sword-shaped peaks, take photos with the "Stone Forest" sign) - Small Stone Forest (Ashima statue) → Naigu Stone Forest (less crowded and more pristine). - Tickets: 130 RMB (includes electric shuttle). - Transport: Take a bus from Kunming East Bus Station (about 1.5 hours) or charter a car (round trip about 300 RMB). - Tips: The area is large, it’s recommended to join a guide to hear Yi ethnic legends; wear bright clothes for better photos. 3. Yunnan Nationalities Village - Why visit: One-stop experience of 25 ethnic minority cultures in Yunnan, with spectacular song and dance performances. - Must-see shows: - Call of the Plateau (14:00, included in ticket) - Scheduled village performances (e.g., Dai Peacock Dance, Yi ethnic vegetable dance). - Tickets: 90 RMB (half price for students). - Tips: Enter in the afternoon to catch the Torch Festival night show (summer); rent ethnic costumes for photos inside the village for 30 RMB/set. 4. Green Lake Park & Army Lecture Hall - Why visit: Kunming’s "urban green heart," with winter gulls and summer lotus flowers, adjacent to a historic school. - Nearby activities: - Stroll around Green Lake (free) → Army Lecture Hall (former site of a modern Chinese military academy, free) - Have coffee in Culture Alley (a hub for artsy youth). - Best seasons: December to February (gulls), June to August (lotus flowers). - Tips: Army Lecture Hall closed on Mondays; try the "Wenshan Breakfast" rice noodles near the park. 5. Guandu Ancient Town - Why visit: A thousand-year-old town, a hotspot for Kunming cuisine, and a living display of intangible cultural heritage. - Must-try foods: - Guandu Baba (classic sesame flavor, 3 RMB each) - Small pot rice noodles, pea starch noodles. - Free attractions: Miaozhan Temple Vajra Pagoda, Intangible Cultural Heritage Museum. - Tips: More lively in the evening, avoid peak tourist groups; only 1 km from Yunnan Provincial Museum (can visit on the way). 6. Dongchuan Red Land - Why visit: A palette spilled by God, a paradise for photography lovers. - Best photo spots: - Luoxia Valley (sunrise), Jinxiu Garden (colorful terraced fields) - September to November (autumn harvest with red and yellow hues) or May to June (green wheat waves). - Transport: From Kunming North Bus Station to Dongchuan (3 hours), then charter a car for touring (about 200 RMB/day). - Tips: Stay at a farmhouse for convenient early morning and evening light shots; cloudy days greatly reduce the scenery’s charm. 📌 Practical Tips for Traveling in Kunming - Transport: - Changshui Airport is connected to the city by Metro Line 6; taxis between attractions are affordable (about 30 RMB from Dianchi Lake to downtown). - Food: - Crossing-the-bridge rice noodles (recommended "Qiaoxiangyuan"), steam pot chicken, wild mushroom hotpot (June to October). - Accommodation: - Around Green Lake/Nanping Street (convenient), Dianchi Lake resort area (nice environment). - Climate: - Large temperature difference between day and night, bring a jacket; rainy season from May to October, bring an umbrella. Suggested Itineraries: - 2-day highlights: Day 1: Dianchi Lake → Nationalities Village → Guandu Ancient Town; Day 2: Stone Forest day trip → Green Lake night stroll. - 3-day in-depth: Day 1: City (Green Lake/Army Lecture Hall/Museum) → Day 2: Stone Forest → Day 3: Dongchuan Red Land (or Jiuxiang Caves). Kunming is a city for slow living, perfect for zoning out and enjoying sunshine and floral scents! 🌸☀️