Fuxian Lake (抚仙湖), located in the southern part of Yunnan Province, is known for its clear, pristine waters and stunning views. For those visiting the area without a car, it’s easy to explore the lake and surrounding attractions using public transportation. This one-day itinerary offers a perfect way to experience the beauty of Fuxian Lake by bus and taxi, with convenient transport options and scenic spots to enjoy along the way. Here’s a detailed guide to help you plan your perfect day trip!
Route Overview
- Starting Point: Kunming South Bus Station (昆明南部汽车客运站)
- Destination: Fuxian Lake attractions, including Luchong Scenic Area (禄充风景区), Xingxing Fish Cave (明星鱼洞), Lujie Town (路居镇), Moon Bay Wetland Park (月亮湾湿地公园), and more.
- Return Trip: End your day with a bus ride back to Kunming South Bus Station.
Detailed Travel Itinerary
- Departure from Kunming South Bus Station
- Departure Time: 8:30 AM
- Bus Ride: The earliest bus to Chengjiang takes about 45 minutes and costs 20 RMB.
- Once you arrive at Chengjiang, exit the bus station and turn right (do not cross the road). The bus stop is only 100 meters away, where you can board the 9:30 AM bus heading straight to Luchong. Alternatively, you can take a bus heading to Yuxi as well. The ticket price is 4 RMB.
- Luchong Scenic Area (禄充风景区)
- Arrival Time: 10:30 AM
- Activity: After arriving at Luchong, head straight into the scenic area. Walk down to a lovely beach area, where you can enjoy views of seagulls and boats. Take some time to relax, enjoy the scenery, and snap some photos. Then, it’s time to hike up Bijiashan (笔架山), which takes around 20 minutes. The views from the top are spectacular, with a clear, panoramic view of most of Fuxian Lake.
- Ticket Price: 15 RMB
- Lunch at Local Restaurant
- Time: 12:30 PM
- After the hike, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant and try the region’s famous stone pot fish. The price varies depending on your choice of fish, but the experience is worth it. One popular option is the anti-wave fish, which costs around 320 RMB per kilogram, though the owner shares that the highest price ever sold was 3000 RMB per kilogram.
- Visit to Xingxing Fish Cave (明星鱼洞)
- Time: 2:00 PM
- Taxi Ride: A 12 RMB taxi ride will take you to Xingxing Fish Cave, one of the clearest water spots around the lake, often called the Yunnan version of the Maldives. It has a beach area with loungers, umbrellas, and palm trees that create a relaxing coastal atmosphere.
- Ticket Price: 15 RMB
- Note: If you’re traveling in winter, it’s best to avoid visiting unless you’re self-driving. Many water-based activities may be closed, leaving only the walking paths and photo opportunities.
- Continue to Biyun Temple (碧云寺)
- If you choose not to visit Xingxing Fish Cave during winter, take a scenic walk along the lakeside road to Biyun Temple Bus Stop, where you can catch a bus to Lujie Town. The area is great for photos with sailing boats along the way. You can also explore Biyun Temple Park nearby if time permits.
- Travel to Lujie Town (路居镇)
- Bus Ride: From the Biyun Temple Bus Stop, board the West Lakeside Line (环湖西线), which runs every two hours. The ride takes about an hour to Lujie Town, and the ticket is 10 RMB.
- Waiting Time: Be prepared for some wait time, as the bus may take an hour to arrive. While waiting, enjoy the picturesque rural surroundings and the blooming canola flowers.
- Visit Moon Bay Wetland Park (月亮湾湿地公园)
- Bus Ride: After reaching Lujie Town, take the East Lakeside Line (环湖东线) to Moon Bay Wetland Park, where you can witness stunning views of the sunset.
- Arrival Time: Around 5:00 PM
- Activity: As you arrive, take a relaxing walk along the lakeside boardwalk leading towards the Cherry Blossom Valley. This peaceful area offers excellent views of the coast and the sunset as you enjoy the fresh air and scenic beauty.
- Return to Chengjiang and Kunming
- Taxi Ride: After enjoying the sunset, take a 22 RMB taxi ride back to Chengjiang Bus Station at 6:30 PM.
- Bus Ride to Kunming: Catch the last bus from Chengjiang to Kunming at 7:00 PM. The journey takes about 50 minutes, and the ticket price is 20 RMB. You’ll arrive back in Kunming by 7:50 PM.