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Green Lake Park, located at the western foot of Wuhua Mountain in Kunming, is a central tourist attraction in the city. It is nicknamed " Green Lake " for its emerald waters, verdant bamboos year-round, and lush willows in spring and summer . Overlooking Biji Mountain to the south and Snake Mountain to the north, Green Lake Park boasts shimmering waters and swaying willows, creating a scene characterized by " ten acres of lotus and fish, a world of willows and Buddhist pavilions covering half the city. " It is known as the " Emerald Gem " embedded in Kunming .
Before the Yuan Dynasty, the water level of Dianchi Lake was high, and this area was a small bay outside the city, home to rice paddies, vegetable gardens, and lotus ponds, earning it the nickname " Cai Hai Zi . " Because nine springs converge to form the pool in the northeast, it's also known as " Jiulong Pond . " In the early years of the Republic of China, it was converted into a garden, planted with willow trees and boasting a variety of camellias, earning it the nickname "Cui Hu."
In addition to its unique beauty, visitors can also experience a rich cultural atmosphere here, as China's famous Yunnan University is located here. In addition, it is the only park in Kunming open until 10 pm , making it a great nightlife spot.
The weather is suitable for all seasons, but winter is the best. In November and December every year , flocks of red-billed gulls come here from Siberia to spend the winter.
Recommended play time: 2-3 hours
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Green Lake Park, located in the heart of Kunming, is a famous recreational area. It has been a popular gathering place for locals for centuries, known for its tranquil setting, cultural significance, and historical roots. The park is considered a symbol of Kunming's natural beauty and is a key attraction for both locals and tourists.
Green Lake Park is located in central Kunming, easily accessible by taxi, bus, or walking. The park is near several key attractions and public transport hubs, making it a convenient spot for visitors. You can take metro Line 2 and get off at the "Green Lake" station.
The park is open from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM daily. Early mornings and late afternoons are the best times to visit for a peaceful experience, as these hours tend to be less crowded and offer cooler temperatures.
There is no entrance fee to visit Green Lake Park, making it a popular and accessible destination for all visitors. You can simply walk into the park without the need for tickets.
No ticket booking is required, as the park is free to enter. However, special events or activities (like boat rentals) may require advance booking, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Exploring the park thoroughly will take about 1.5 to 2 hours. If you plan to enjoy additional activities like boating or tea-drinking, you may need more time.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and there are also options for audio guides in English and Chinese. You can book tours at the park entrance or online in advance.
Start your visit at the park entrance and stroll around the lake clockwise. Stop at the Green Lake Pavilion, explore the tea houses, and enjoy the local activities. End your visit by relaxing by the water, perhaps even renting a boat for a peaceful paddle.
Night visits to the park are possible, and the park is beautifully lit in the evening, making for a peaceful stroll. However, there are no light shows or special tours in the evening.
The park can get crowded during weekends and public holidays. Weekdays, particularly early mornings or late afternoons, are the best times to visit for a quieter experience.
The park has well-maintained toilets, water fountains, and rest areas for visitors. There are also food vendors and small shops offering snacks, drinks, and souvenirs.
Yes, the park is accessible for elderly visitors, children, and disabled visitors. It has paved pathways and plenty of resting spots, making it easy to navigate for all visitors.
While cash is accepted at some small vendors in the park, mobile payments (like WeChat Pay and Alipay) are widely used and accepted throughout the park.
There are several tea houses around Green Lake, offering traditional Yunnan tea and light snacks. Nearby, you can find local restaurants serving Yunnan specialties like rice noodles and hotpot.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available at the tea houses and some of the restaurants nearby. Halal food options are also available in the area, particularly near Muslim communities in Kunming.
Yes, there are souvenir shops in and around the park selling items like Yunnan tea, traditional handicrafts, and local artwork.
After visiting Green Lake Park, taxis and buses are the best options for continuing your trip. The park is centrally located, with easy access to the rest of the city.
