My name is Michael Zhang, a Chinese traveler who has journeyed across the globe. Over the years, I’ve explored ancient ruins, vibrant cities, and countless landscapes that reveal the world’s diversity. Unlike those who rush from one sightseeing spot to another, I prefer to savor a destination’s cultural essence and natural rhythm. Among all the cities I’ve visited, Kunming stands out as one of China’s most soulful. And Dianchi Lake—the so-called “Pearl of the Plateau”—is truly the heart of this city. In this travel guide, I’ll take you beyond surface-level sightseeing to truly understand what makes Dianchi Lake remarkable—from its ecological beauty to its cultural depth, from the winter migration of seagulls to the stunning scenic spots surrounding the lake. This is a deep-dive exploration for travelers who love to connect meaningfully with the places they visit.

Summary

About Dianchi Lake

Also known as Kunming Lake, Kunming Pool, or Dianhai, Dianchi Lake sits at an elevation of 1,886 meters and covers an area of 330 square kilometers. It is the largest freshwater lake in Yunnan Province, earning its nickname “The Pearl of the Plateau.” The lake’s average depth is 5 meters, reaching a maximum of 11 meters.

Water from the lake flows out at Haikou in the southwest, forming the Tángláng River, which connects to the Jinsha River—the upper reach of the Yangtze River. With its serene scenery and high-altitude charm, Dianchi Lake is a national-level tourist resort area in China.

Around the lake, you’ll find well-known attractions such as the Yunnan Nationalities Village, Yunnan Ethnic Museum, Huating Temple, Taihua Temple, Sanqing Pavilion, Longmen Grottoes, Qiongzhu Temple, Daguan Pavilion, Panlong Temple, and Zheng He Park in Jinning.

  • Address: No. 1318 Dianchi Road, Xishan District, Kunming (Apple Maps / Amap)
  • Opening hour: 24 hours
  • Recommended visit duration: 3–4 hours
  • Best season to visit: All year round, especially winter (November–March), when flocks of red-billed gulls arrive from Siberia—an incredible sight.
  • Ticket Prices: Free
Feeding seagulls by Dianchi Lake, Kunming

Why You Should Visit Dianchi Lake

Ecological Landscape

Dianchi Lake boasts a 71-kilometer eco-greenway along its outer shoreline, connecting wetland parks and lakefront ecological zones. The average width of this closed green belt is about 200 meters, with vegetation covering more than 81% of the area.

The local biodiversity has flourished—bird species have increased from 89 to 175, while fish populations have recovered to 26 species. This transformation has turned Dianchi Lake into one of China’s most successful ecological restoration examples, making it a perfect place for travelers who appreciate sustainable tourism and natural beauty.

Seagull-Watching Experience

Every winter (from November to March), thousands of red-billed gulls migrate from Siberia to spend the season at Dianchi Lake. The best seagull-watching spots include:

  • Haigeng Dam: The most concentrated seagull area, where visitors can feed them up close.
  • Daguan Park: A wide lake view where gulls fly with the silhouette of the “Sleeping Beauty” of Xishan Mountain in the background.
  • Dongfeng Dam Floating Bridge: Offers a panoramic view of both the city skyline and the entire lake.
  • Xiliangtang Wetland Park: A peaceful, scenic area perfect for camping and family outings.

Leisure Activities

Outdoor enthusiasts love cycling and hiking around Dianchi Lake. After the completion of the first phase of the Outer Lake Greenway, visitors can now bike the entire 108-kilometer loop—a jade-green ribbon circling the water.

Along the way, travelers can cross seven uniquely designed bridges and boardwalks, including the Gradient Red-Orange Bridge and the Reed Wetland Walkway, while enjoying close encounters with seagulls and wetland landscapes. It’s one of the most scenic cycling routes in Yunnan, offering endless photo opportunities and serene moments by the lake.

Top Things to Do in Dianchi Lake

Main Attractions

Haigeng Dam

Haigeng Dam is the most popular spot for enjoying the full charm of Dianchi Lake. The long embankment stretches across the shimmering blue water like a silver ribbon dividing the lake in two. Every winter, flocks of red-billed gulls migrate thousands of miles from Siberia to spend the season here. You can feed them up close while they glide and circle overhead—one of the most unforgettable winter scenes in Kunming.

  • Best Time to Visit: November – March (when Siberian red-billed gulls winter at Dianchi Lake)
  • Tip: The dam offers a wide, unobstructed view of the lake. Vendors sell gull feed for about 5–10 CNY a bag so you can interact with the birds. Just watch out for “aerial surprises” — wearing a hat is definitely safer!
Seagulls resting along Haigeng Dam, Dianchi Lake

Dianchi Lake Western Hills Cableway

The Western Hills Cableway is one of the best ways to experience the panoramic beauty of Dianchi Lake. The gondola runs from Haigeng Park all the way to Longmen on the Western Hills, gliding directly over the lake. Beneath your feet sparkles a mirror-like surface, and in the distance, Kunming’s skyline blends with bright blue skies and drifting clouds.

As the cable car slowly rises, the vastness of the lake unfolds below, layer by layer. The shifting perspectives perfectly capture Kunming’s dramatic terrain and mild climate. For photographers, it’s the ultimate vantage point for shooting the full sweep of Dianchi Lake.

Red cable cars over Dianchi Lake to Xishan Mountain

Western Hills Forest Park

Western Hills Forest Park is one of Kunming’s most iconic natural destinations. Covered in ancient trees and rolling ridges, it is often called “The First Mountain in Central Yunnan.” Take the cable car straight to the summit and you’ll see the blue expanse of Dianchi Lake gleaming below like a massive sapphire set among emerald hills.

Once at the top, make sure to visit the famous Longmen Grottoes. According to local legend, touching the “Kui Xing Pointing to the Stars” carving there brings good luck. Whether you come to take photos, make a wish, or simply breathe the mountain air, this spot rewards you with peace and panoramic beauty.

Dragon Gate at Xishan Forest Park overlooking Dianchi Lake

Yunnan Nationalities Village

Yunnan Nationalities Village offers a one-stop cultural experience that showcases the traditions of 25 ethnic minorities from across Yunnan. Walking through the park, you’ll see Bai-style courtyards, Dai bamboo houses, Yi fire pits, and hear ancient Naxi melodies echoing through the lanes.

Besides its distinctive village architecture, the park features vibrant performances and interactive activities. Don’t miss the daily ethnic song-and-dance show at 2 p.m.—its drumming, melodies, and choreography bring Yunnan’s multicultural spirit to life.

White pagoda at Yunnan Ethnic Village near Dianchi Lake

Dianchi Lake Ticket Guide

You can walk around Dianchi Lake freely without an entrance ticket. The lake itself is vast, surrounded by many scenic attractions. However, the cableway and boat rides require separate tickets. Details and purchase links for the must-see spots are provided above.

Travelers usually combine Haigeng Dam and the Western Hills area, with the cableway as part of the journey. Two suggested routes are:

  • Route 1: Haigeng Dam → Dianchi Cableway → Western Hills Scenic Area. The Xishan Park Metro Station (tourist center) is the main hub for tour buses and can get crowded — try to avoid peak times.
  • Route 2 (Recommended): Western Hills Scenic Area → Dianchi Cableway → Haigeng Dam. Although Western Hills draws many visitors, about 90% queue for the cableway uphill. Do the opposite: take the electric shuttle up and ride the cableway down to save time and skip the lines.

The area around Dianchi Lake is well developed, with many dining options. If you want a quick meal, plenty of restaurants sit near Haigeng Dam and the piers. For authentic Kunming cuisine, head to Kunming Old Street, where you can try soft grilled Er Kuan cakes, flavorful Crossing-the-Bridge Rice Noodles, and Yunnan’s famous wild-mushroom hotpot.

Yunnan wild mushroom hot pot near Dianchi Lake

It’s best to stay near Wuyi Road Station, where Metro Line 3 and Line 5 intersect. This area is convenient for exploring Kunming’s top attractions like Nanping Street and Green Lake Park, both just a short ride away. Taking Line 3 also gives you direct access to Dianchi Lake and Western Hills Park, two of the city’s most popular destinations. You can easily reach Kunming Railway Station via the metro as well. For more details, check the Kunming Hotel Guide.

Zhe Coffee Hotel (Kunming Nanping Walking Street Branch)

Zhe Coffee Hotel (Kunming Nanping Walking Street Branch)
  • Location: 8 minutes walk from Dongfeng Square Metro Station, 14 minutes walk from Wuyi Road Metro Station
  • Price Range: 239 RMB
  • Check Rates:Trip.com Specials
  • Rating: Trip 4.7 out of 5
  • Special Amenities: Laundry room, Family rooms, Children’s playground

The hotel boasts an excellent location with convenient transportation options. Multiple subway lines are nearby, and it is not far from Kunming Old Street and Nanqiang Night Market, just a 10-15 minute walk. It’s an ideal place to stay when using Kunming as a travel hub in Yunnan.

The rooms are very clean and free from any odors! The bedding is extremely comfortable, the breakfast is rich and tasty. This hotel offers great value for money.

Hanting Hotel (Kunming Nanping Walking Street Wangfujing Branch)

Hanting Hotel (Kunming Nanping Walking Street Wangfujing Branch)
  • Location: 7 minutes walk from Wuyi Road Metro Station
  • Price Range: 317 RMB
  • Check Rates:Trip.com Specials, Compare on Klook
  • Rating: Trip 4.8 out of 5
  • Special Amenities: Laundry room, Robot delivery service

The hotel is just a few minutes’ walk from Kunming Old Street and Wuyi Road Metro Station, making dining and other activities highly convenient.

The room is very quiet despite being on a busy pedestrian street, thanks to the double-glazed windows which provide a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle.

Crystal Orange Hotel (Kunming Nanping Walking Street)

Crystal Orange Hotel (Kunming Nanping Walking Street)
  • Location: 3 minutes walk from Wuyi Road Metro Station
  • Price Range: 404 RMB
  • Check Rates:Trip.com Specials, Compare on Klook
  • Rating: Trip 4.7 out of 5
  • Special Amenities: Gym, Laundry room, Robot delivery service

The hotel enjoys a prime location with just a five-minute walk to Nanping Old Street and easy subway access directly downstairs, making trips to the airport or train station very convenient.

The rooms are quite spacious. Although the decor is a few years old, it is clean and hygienic. The room features full smart home capabilities, including adjustable lighting to set the mood. The bedding is soft and comfortable, ensuring a good night’s sleep. The bathroom is well designed with a wet and dry separation, and the toiletries provided are of high quality.

How to Get to Dianchi Lake from Downtown Kunming

Taking the metro is the most convenient option, but you’ll still need to walk about one kilometer after getting off. If you’re short on time, a taxi or rideshare is the quickest alternative.

By Metro

Due to geological conditions around Dianchi Lake, there’s no direct metro station by the lake. You can take Metro Line 5 and get off at Yinghailu Station, then walk roughly 1 kilometer to reach Haigeng Dam. The fare is about 5 CNY.

By Taxi or Rideshare

Taking a taxi is the easiest way to reach Dianchi Lake. Kunming taxis are quite affordable — expect to pay around 25 CNY for a 40-minute ride.

How to Get to Dianchi Lake from Kunming Changshui International Airport

Taking the metro is again the most convenient way, but note that you’ll need to walk about one kilometer after exiting the station. If you’re in a hurry, a direct taxi is your best choice.

By Metro

From Kunming Changshui International Airport, take Metro Line 6 to East Bus Station, transfer to Line 3 and get off at Wuyi Road Station, then transfer to Line 5 and exit at Yuhucun Station. From there, walk to Dianchi Lake. The total cost is around 8 CNY, and the journey takes approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes.

By Taxi or Rideshare

Since the airport is some distance from Dianchi Lake, many travelers—especially those transiting through Kunming—prefer taking a taxi. The ride costs about 90 CNY and takes around 1 hour.

FAQ

Is Dianchi Lake accessible for strollers and wheelchairs?

Yes. The walking paths around Dianchi Lake are flat and well-paved, making them very suitable for strollers and wheelchairs.

Where can I store luggage near Dianchi Lake?

You can find luggage storage at Exit A of Yinghailu Metro Station and at the intersection of Yinghailu and Guanjing Road.

Essential Kunming Travel Resources