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Jinping Houhai is known for its serene natural beauty and tranquil waters. Here are the top activities:
The Jinping Houhai Han Culture Theme Park in Mile City is located in the valley behind Jinping Mountain Scenic Area in the northern part of Mile City, 120 kilometers from the provincial capital of Kunming. The park offers a tranquil and pleasant environment amidst lush greenery. The park features Han cultural elements drawn from the politics, military, economy, and culture of the Han and Tang dynasties. Through a combination of static viewing, interactive performances, and experiential amusement rides, the park offers a immersive experience within the context of traditional Chinese Han culture.
Located in the subtropical monsoon climate zone, it is spring-like all year round with plenty of sunshine, no severe cold in winter and no scorching heat in summer, making it suitable for travel in all seasons.
Jinping Houhai is not only beautiful, but also a large-scale outdoor water song and dance audio-visual feast with water dance show as the backdrop, gorgeous light and shadow as decoration, and real-life Han culture song and dance performances as the core - "The Charm of Han and Tang Dynasties - Jinxiu Cuiping".
It is recommended to play for about 1 hour.
40 yuan/person (Maitreya Temple + Jinping Houhai)
09:00-21:00
Jinping Houhai is a scenic and culturally significant area in Yunnan. It is known for its natural beauty, traditional lifestyle, and tranquil atmosphere. The lake is an important spot for local ethnic groups, such as the Yi and Hani, who live in the surrounding areas.
Jinping Houhai is located in Jinping County in Yunnan's Red River area. The nearest town is Gejiu. You can take a bus or taxi from Gejiu to the lake, which takes about 1–1.5 hours by car. Walking around the lake is possible if you're nearby.
Jinping Houhai is open year-round. The best time to visit is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November), when the weather is mild, and the natural surroundings are at their most beautiful.
There is no entrance fee for general visits to the lake. However, some activities like boat tours or guided hiking may have additional costs, which can be paid directly to service providers.
Booking is not typically required unless you plan to join a specific tour or rent a boat. It's best to book in advance during peak tourist seasons (spring and autumn) if you're looking for a guided tour or boat rental.
To fully explore Jinping Houhai, plan for a half-day visit. If you want to do activities like boating or hiking, a full day would allow you to enjoy everything without rushing.
The must-see highlights include the serene Houhai Lake, surrounded by lush forests and scenic hills. The hiking trails around the lake offer stunning viewpoints, especially at sunrise or sunset.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin. English-speaking guides may be available with prior arrangements, especially during peak seasons.
Some of the best viewpoints are located on the hiking trails around the lake. These spots offer panoramic views of the lake, the surrounding mountains, and the nearby forests. The lake at sunrise or sunset provides excellent photo opportunities.
Start with a leisurely walk around the lake to take in the surroundings. You can then choose to take a boat ride across the lake or explore the nearby trails. The hiking trails offer stunning views, and you may want to finish your day by relaxing by the lake.
Night visits are not common, as the area is more suited for daytime activities. However, you may find special cultural performances or events during local festivals.
The lake can get crowded during national holidays and weekends. The least crowded times are weekdays, especially in the early morning or late afternoon, outside of peak tourist seasons.
There are basic facilities, including public toilets and rest areas. Small shops and food stalls are available around the lake where you can buy snacks and refreshments.
The terrain around the lake can be uneven, with some steep areas, which may be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors. However, families with children can easily enjoy the area, especially near the lake's edge and in the rest areas.
Cash is widely accepted, but some larger shops may accept mobile payments (e.g., WeChat Pay or Alipay). It's recommended to carry some cash for small purchases in rural areas.
There are a few local restaurants and cafes around the lake that serve traditional Yunnan food, including fish dishes and snacks. Larger restaurants are available in Gejiu, which is an hour's drive away.
Vegetarian options are available in local restaurants. However, vegan and halal food may be limited. It's better to check with restaurants in advance for specific dietary needs.
Accommodations are available in Gejiu, which offers a range of hotels and guesthouses. There are also simple guesthouses and inns closer to the lake if you prefer to stay near the attraction.
Nearby attractions include the Red River Valley and Jinping County, which offer scenic landscapes and cultural experiences. You can also visit the Honghe Hani Rice Terraces, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
There are small souvenir shops around the lake selling locally made crafts, such as woven textiles, wood carvings, and traditional ethnic jewelry.
The best transportation options are to return to Gejiu by bus or taxi. From there, you can take buses or trains to other destinations in Yunnan. Alternatively, you can hire a car to continue your journey.
