Haihong Wetland Park (海洪湿地公园), located on the eastern shore of Dianchi Lake (滇池) in Kunming, offers a serene escape from the crowded tourist hubs like Haigeng Park. With crystal-clear waters, vibrant redwood forests, and opportunities to feed seagulls up close, this park provides a delightful and family-friendly experience. Visitors can enjoy peaceful moments by the lake before 10 AM, take scenic glass boat rides, and capture stunning photos amidst the redwood trees. Read on for a complete guide to this hidden gem and how to make the most of your visit.
Getting There: Transportation Tips
- By Taxi or Driving: Head to the North Gate of Haihong Wetland Park (海洪湿地公园北门). There is a parking lot inside the gate, and another across the street for convenience.
- By Metro: Take Line 5 to Jinjiahe Station (金家河站), exit at B, and walk for about 5–10 minutes.
- By Bus: Bus K31 reaches the park, but the transfers can be complicated, so it’s not recommended.
Suggested Itinerary
- Arrival at the Park Entrance: Start your day early to avoid crowds.
- Feed Black-Headed Seagulls by Dianchi Lake: Enjoy an up-close experience with these beautiful birds.
- Stroll Along the Inner Lake Path: Take a peaceful walk on the west side, soaking in the natural beauty.
- Explore the Dianchi Lake Path: Follow the path towards the eastern side of the park, where you’ll find food stalls and a lively atmosphere.
- Glass Boat Ride: Glide through the tranquil waters surrounded by redwood trees.
- Photography in the Redwood Forest: Capture stunning shots in the scenic grove.
Highlights of Haihong Wetland Park
1. Dianchi Lake Embankment (滇池堤坝)
- Located straight ahead after entering the main gate.
- This area has no fences, providing unobstructed views of Dianchi Lake.
- Feed seagulls directly from your hand by placing food in your palm or tossing it into the water and watching the seagulls dive to catch it.
- This spot is perfect for families with young children due to its easy access.
2. Lakeside Walking Path (沿湖步道)
- Found on the western side of the park, this path is lined with a picturesque lake filled with waterbirds and seagulls coexisting peacefully.
- Many photographers frequent this area, armed with telephoto lenses to capture the stunning harmony of birds and nature.
- Vibrant trees on either side of the lake reflect beautifully on the water, creating an ideal backdrop for photos.
3. Redwood Forest (水杉林)
- Located west of the glass boat area and south of the food street.
- Access the forest by crossing a wire fence. This area boasts the tallest and most vibrant redwoods in the park.
- Photographers can achieve unique shots by crouching or lying down, framing the subject against the towering redwood branches.
- This is the best spot for capturing portraits with the vibrant red hues of the trees in the background.
4. Glass Boat Experience (玻璃船)
- Paddle through the redwood groves on a glass-bottomed boat for a truly immersive experience.
- The redwood forest surrounding the boat route is at its peak beauty between late November and December. By January, the leaves begin to wither.
- Pricing: ¥90 per hour with a ¥100 deposit. Each boat seats two people.
Pro Tips for Your Visit
- Arrive Early: Visiting before 10 AM offers a chance to enjoy the lakeshore in solitude, with fewer visitors and more seagull interactions.
- Best Time for Redwood Viewing: Plan your visit between late November and early December to see the redwoods at their most vibrant.
- Stay for Sunset: As evening approaches, skip the crowded Haigeng Park and watch the sunset from Haihong Wetland Park instead. The wetland bathed in golden hues and flocks of seagulls in the sky create a magical scene.