Xishan Forest Park is one of Kunming’s must-visit spots, offering spectacular views of Dianchi Lake and several cultural landmarks. For those short on time but eager to see it all without the hassle of waiting in long lines, this guide provides a quick and easy way to experience the highlights of the Dragon Gate Scenic Area.
Start Your Journey at Xishan Park Subway Station
Arrive at Xishan Park Subway Station, exit at Gate B, and walk for about half a minute to the Biji Guan Archway. From here, take a taxi directly to the South Gate of Xishan Dragon Gate Scenic Area. The taxi ride takes about 10-15 minutes and will cost around 16 RMB. This will save you the time it would take to navigate buses or other transportation.
Explore the Dragon Gate Scenic Area
Once you arrive at the South Gate, skip the queues by directly purchasing your entrance ticket (around 30 RMB) and a single ticket for the red line eco-bus (costs about 10 RMB). These tickets will help you efficiently navigate the area. The eco-bus will take you to the start of your hike to Lingxu Pavilion.
Hike to Lingxu Pavilion
At 11:10 AM, start your hike to Lingxu Pavilion, a beautiful spot with incredible views. The hike is mainly on stone steps, but the path is peaceful and cool, with very few people on it. The hike to the pavilion should take around 20 minutes, so you’ll reach it by 11:30 AM.
Enjoy the Views at Lingxu Pavilion
At Lingxu Pavilion, you’ll be treated to a breathtaking view of Dianchi Lake. There’s a monument here commemorating the 500-mile view of the lake. Spend about 15 minutes enjoying the scenery and taking some photos.
Descend to Dragon Gate
By 11:45 AM, begin your descent from Lingxu Pavilion. There are two paths down: one with stone steps and the other with a wooden plank road. Feel free to take whichever path you’re in the mood for; they cross each other frequently. By 12:06 PM, you’ll reach the entrance of Dragon Gate. From here, the path starts to get a bit crowded, as many tourists stop to take photos at the famous stone gate. Walk carefully, holding onto the railings as it can get slippery. You’ll pass through a cave before reaching the Dragon Gate, one of the highlights of the scenic area.
Take in the Full Experience at Dragon Gate
After visiting Dragon Gate, continue along the trail to a photo spot where you can capture some incredible shots. By 12:18 PM, you can continue walking toward a junction where you’ll be directed to the Sanqing Pavilion and the eco-bus station. The eco-bus will take you to the North Gate of the scenic area.
Ride the Cable Car to Haigeng Park
By 12:45 PM, you’ll reach the North Gate and head straight to the Dianchi Cable Car station. The queue can get long, but with a bit of patience, you’ll be riding the cable car down to Haigeng Park by 12:56 PM. The ride offers fantastic views of the lake and surrounding areas, so don’t forget your camera! The cable car ride costs 60 RMB for a one-way trip.
Enjoy the Views from the Boat Ride at Haigeng Park
Upon arriving at Haigeng Park, you’ll find yourself near the cruise pier. If you’ve already experienced a boat cruise here, you can purchase a speedboat ticket for a fun ride around Dianchi Lake. During the boat ride, you’ll pass scenic spots like Longmen Viewing Point, the Sleeping Beauty of Xishan, and a century-old tree. The boat captain will provide commentary on these landmarks, making the journey both relaxing and educational. Sitting at the front of the boat offers a refreshing breeze, though be prepared for wind!
Walk Along Haigeng Park’s Seawall
After your boat ride, take a leisurely walk along the Haigeng Seawall. The breezes are soothing and the path is perfect for an afternoon stroll. By the time you reach the Ethnic Village Intersection, you’ll have completed about 10,000 steps, a perfect way to end your scenic adventure.
Wrap Up the Day with Local Delights
By 2:00 PM, you can take a break and enjoy some local snacks or head over to the Ethnic Village or the Ethnic Museum for further exploration. This will add a cultural touch to your trip and give you a chance to relax and continue sightseeing.