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Wanghai Park, located in Zhaoyang District, Zhaotong City, Yunnan Province, is built around Enbo Tower, situated at the foot of Fenghuang Mountain in downtown Zhaotong. Built in the 25th year of the Qianlong Emperor's reign in the Qing Dynasty, Enbo Tower, nicknamed "Wanghai Tower," was a vast expanse of ocean at the time, with waves surging around the tower. Governor Ai Xing'a of Yunnan, upon visiting the tower, observed the swaying willow trees along the sluice gate, the shimmering water below, the undulating waves swaying against the sky, and the jagged reflections of Fenghuang Mountain and the tower, reminiscent of a mirage. He subsequently renamed the tower "Enbo Tower," meaning "the emperor's great grace." During the Xianfeng Emperor's reign, the tower was destroyed by fire. At the end of the Guangxu Emperor's reign, Yang Liheng raised substantial funds for its reconstruction, adding houses, corridors, pavilions, and flowers and trees to the front, creating a picturesque scene.
Wanghai Park was officially completed in 2010, with the renovation of Enbo Tower and the creation of an artificial lake. The entire park has become a major attraction in Zhaotong City. Standing on the north side of the park and looking south, a small artificial island rises in the water, covered in trees, including tall, ancient trees and smaller ones. In the distance, a man-made arch bridge glides over the water like a white dragon, seemingly seeking to soar to Phoenix Mountain, inviting passersby to gaze up at its pristine white form. To the east of the bridge, Wanghai Tower towers over the shore, telling the world of its glorious past, half in the sky (or fields), and offering awe for Zhaotong's prosperity and development today.
The plateau continental monsoon climate; Wanghai Park has beautiful scenery and elegant environment. It is a veritable tourist destination and is suitable for travel in all seasons.
Enbo Tower, Lakeside Pavilion, Suspension Bridge, Arch Bridge;
It is recommended to play for 2-3 hours
Free and open
Open all day
Wanghai Cultural Park is a prominent cultural and recreational park in Zhaotong, Yunnan. It serves as a hub for local cultural activities, including festivals, art exhibits, and performances. The park celebrates the rich heritage of the region, particularly the traditions of the local ethnic groups, making it a key place for preserving and showcasing Zhaotong's cultural identity.
Wanghai Cultural Park is located in Zhaotong, Yunnan Province. It can be reached by taxi or private car from the city center. Public transportation options are available, though they may require some walking or multiple transfers. For ease, taxis or ride-sharing services are recommended.
The park is generally open from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM every day. The best time to visit is during the spring and autumn months when the weather is pleasant and there are fewer crowds. Avoid visiting during the summer months or national holidays when it can get crowded.
The entrance fee to Wanghai Cultural Park is typically around 30-40 CNY. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the park entrance. Some local tourism websites may also offer online ticket purchasing options, especially during busy tourist seasons.
Booking tickets in advance is not necessary unless visiting during peak seasons or public holidays. For a more convenient experience, it is recommended to book tickets a day or two in advance if you prefer not to wait in line.
It will take about 2-3 hours to fully explore Wanghai Cultural Park, depending on your interest in the cultural exhibits and the time spent relaxing in the park’s scenic areas. You can plan for a half-day visit if you'd like to explore the park leisurely.
Guided tours may be available in Mandarin, and some English-speaking guides can be arranged upon request. Audio guides in Mandarin are also offered at the park. It is recommended to book a guide in advance if you require an English-speaking one.
The best photography spots are near the scenic walking trails, where you can capture panoramic views of the park’s lush greenery and cultural architecture. The cultural exhibits and performance areas also provide great opportunities for photos during events or festivals.
Start your visit by exploring the cultural exhibits, then take a leisurely walk along the scenic trails. If there are any performances or events, plan to catch them during your visit for a more immersive experience. Finish your visit by relaxing in the park’s rest areas.
Currently, night visits or light shows are not available at Wanghai Cultural Park. However, special tours or events may be held during specific cultural festivals, so it’s worth checking the park’s schedule for such opportunities.
The park tends to get crowded during weekends and public holidays. To avoid the crowds, it is best to visit on weekdays, particularly in the early morning or late afternoon.
Basic amenities such as toilets, water stations, and rest areas are available throughout the park. There are limited food options, so it is recommended to bring your own snacks or head to nearby areas for meals. Small souvenir shops may also be found at the entrance or near event spaces.
Wanghai Cultural Park is generally accessible for elderly and children, although some areas may have uneven terrain. Visitors with disabilities may require assistance, as certain parts of the park may be difficult to navigate for those with mobility issues.
Cash, as well as mobile payments like WeChat Pay and Alipay, are accepted at the park. Credit cards may also be used, but it is advisable to carry cash as a backup.
Vegetarian options are available in local restaurants near the park. However, specific vegan or halal options may be limited, especially within the park. It’s better to check for these options in Zhaotong city if needed.
There are souvenir shops near the park’s entrance selling traditional Yunnan handicrafts, local artwork, and cultural items. Popular souvenirs include tea, local fabrics, and handcrafted jewelry.
