Xinglin Grand View Garden

Introducing Xinglin Grand View Garden

The Shilin Xinglin Grand View Garden Tourist Resort Scenic Area is located in Shilin, the hometown of Ashima. The scenic area takes the Black Stone Forest as the main tourist attraction. The stones in the landscape are different in shape and form, with mountains, stones and water reflecting each other, and green trees and flowers everywhere. It is an immersive scene that makes people linger.

In the heart of Xinglin Grand View Garden lies the Black Stone Forest, 800 meters long and 30 to 80 meters wide. This forest of stones is a grotesque wonderland of strange and graceful shapes. Legend has it that this small stone forest was created by the Eight Immortals during a duel. Consequently, within the forest, you'll find remarkably lifelike forms like the Iron Crutch Stone, the Donkey Stone, the One Finger Sky-supporting Stone, the Flower Basket Stone, the Flute Stone, and the Jade Belt Peak. Legend also circulates that the Medicine Buddha, Apodolomi, appeared in a dream here, guiding the Yi chieftain Agumusi in his medical studies and the healing arts. Consequently, the Stone Forest, overflowing with thousands of medicinal herbs and attracting birdsong and the fragrance of flowers, has become a rare "fairyland" within the vast expanse of the ancient Dian Kingdom.

Climate and best time to travel

The low-latitude plateau mountain monsoon climate; Xinglin Grand View Garden is a great attraction that integrates landscape, accommodation, food and entertainment, and is suitable for travel in all seasons.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Xinglin Temple, Yinghuayu Medicinal Garden, Chinese Medicine Expo Park, Shiquan Village Wooden House, etc.

It is recommended to play for 3-4 hours

Tickets

08:30-18:00, Shihai Hot Spring business hours: 09:00-23:00

Attraction opening hours

100 yuan/person

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Most Popular FAQs for Xinglin Grand View Garden

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Xinglin Grand View Garden in Kunming is designed to showcase the beauty of natural landscapes and local flora. It is a place where visitors can appreciate the harmony between nature and human creation, reflecting traditional Chinese garden design philosophies.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

The garden is located in the eastern part of Kunming, about a 30-minute drive from the city center. It can be easily reached by taxi or local buses. For those staying in central Kunming, public transport options are available.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The garden is open from 8:00 AM to 5:30 PM daily. The best times to visit are in the early morning or late afternoon, particularly in spring or autumn when the weather is pleasant and the flowers are in full bloom.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

The entrance fee is around 50 CNY. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance or online through the official website or third-party platforms during peak seasons.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Booking tickets in advance is recommended, especially during holidays or weekends, to avoid long queues. Tickets can be booked a few days in advance.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

It typically takes 2 to 3 hours to fully explore the garden, depending on how much time you spend admiring the natural scenery and walking around the lakes and gardens.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

The must-see areas include the serene lake areas, the seasonal flower gardens, and the traditional Chinese-style pavilions. The winding paths and bridges are also perfect for photography.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available in Mandarin. Audio guides are offered in Chinese, and there may be limited availability in other languages, such as English, depending on demand.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

Great photography spots include the main lake with its reflections, the flowering gardens, and the traditional pavilions, which offer picturesque views of the surrounding nature and architecture.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start with the central lakeside area, then explore the flower gardens. Continue along the garden paths, stopping at the pavilions, and finish at the scenic viewpoints for photos.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

There are no special light shows or night visits available at this site. The garden is primarily a daytime attraction.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

The garden can get crowded during weekends and public holidays. To avoid crowds, visit on weekdays, especially in the morning when the garden opens.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

Basic facilities like toilets, resting areas, and drinking water are available. There are no large cafes inside, but there are small shops offering refreshments and local snacks.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

The garden is generally accessible for elderly and children, with paved paths and gentle inclines. However, some areas may be difficult for wheelchair users due to natural terrain.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Mobile payments (like WeChat Pay and Alipay) are accepted. It is advisable to carry cash for small purchases in the garden.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are a few local restaurants near the entrance offering traditional Yunnan dishes. The nearby Kunming city center also has numerous dining options.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available at local restaurants. Halal food options might be limited, but can be found in specialized restaurants around Kunming.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are several hotels in Kunming city center, including budget and mid-range options. Nearby accommodations include Kunming Green Lake Hotel and Kunming Jinjiang Hotel.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

Nearby attractions include the Kunming Green Lake Park, Yunnan Nationalities Village, and the Stone Forest. These can be visited in a day trip along with the Xinglin Grand View Garden.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

There are small souvenir shops around the garden selling local handicrafts such as tea, wooden carvings, and traditional Yunnanese art.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

Public buses and taxis are the most convenient options. Alternatively, ride-sharing apps like Didi are also available for continued travel around Kunming.