Kunming Western Hills 1-Day Hiking Guide｜Overlooking Dianchi Lake + Unlocking Hidden Photo Spots, with Treasure Accommodation at Green Lake

🌿 Western Hills Travel Tips (3-Hour Efficient Version)

1. Transportation: Take a taxi from downtown to "Western Hills Forest Park South Gate" (30-40 RMB) to avoid the long uphill climb at the North Gate; alternatively, take Metro Line 3 to Xishan Park Station and transfer to the scenic area shuttle bus.
2. Must-Do Route: Enter from the South Gate → take the sightseeing bus to the "Longmen Cableway Lower Station" → ride the cable car up Longmen (the view overlooking Dianchi Lake is amazing!) → hike up to Longmen Grottoes (touching the "Longmen" stone carving is very spiritual) → descend from the "Little Stone Forest Exit," stopping to capture panoramic views of Dianchi Lake.
3. Tips: Don’t buy the full ticket package! One-way cable car + sightseeing bus is enough. Wear comfortable shoes for walking sections, and bring a light jacket as it can be windy at the top.

🏨 Accommodation Recommendation: Green Lake Liruid Hotel

After visiting Western Hills, staying here in the city is perfect! It’s a 5-minute walk to Green Lake, where you can stroll around the lake at night and see streetlights reflecting on lotus flowers. The rooms have a natural wood style, and opening the window reveals green trees, giving a homely vibe unlike chain hotels.
The best part is the value for money—around 300+ RMB including breakfast. Sitting on the terrace in the morning eating rice noodles while looking up at the distant silhouette of Western Hills is wonderful. It’s super convenient for visiting Green Lake and the Yunnan Military Academy the next day. Foodies, just go for it with your eyes closed~

Would you like me to organize this guide into a text version ready to copy, or add some food recommendations around Western Hills?

Post by StellaS0ul_99 | Oct 7, 2025