Kunming’s Xishan Forest Park (West Hill Scenic Area, 西山森林公园) is an unmissable destination for anyone exploring the city. Why? It offers stunning panoramic views of Dianchi Lake, thrilling cable car rides, and serene natural beauty. But to make the most of your trip, planning your visit carefully is essential—especially during holidays. This guide provides a smart, time-saving itinerary and practical tips to help you enjoy a seamless journey through this breathtaking park. From cable car adventures to exploring nearby attractions, here’s how to make the most of your day in Xishan Forest Park and beyond.
Efficient One-Day Itinerary
Route Overview: Xishan Forest Park ➤ Haigeng Park ➤ Haihong Wetland ➤ Park 1903
Getting There: Most visitors start their day by feeding seagulls at Haigeng Dam before heading to the Dianchi Lake cable car. To avoid the crowds, it’s better to visit Xishan Forest Park first. Take Metro Line 3 to the West Hill Park terminal (Exit A). From there, walk past the snack stalls to the Tourist Center, where your adventure begins.
Ticket Guide
- Tourist Center ➡ Xishan Park:
- One-way bus ticket: 12.5 CNY
- Xishan ➡ Dragon Gate Scenic Area:
- One-way cable car + electric shuttle + Dragon Gate entry: 65 CNY
- Total cost: 77.5 CNY
- Xishan ➡ Dianchi Cable Car:
- One-way ticket: 60 CNY
- Round-trip ticket: 100 CNY
- Half price for children
Optimal Touring Order

Tourist Center to Xishan by Bus: Start by taking a bus from the Tourist Center to the Xishan entrance. Don’t get off at Huating Temple or Taihua Temple—stay on until the final stop.
Dragon Gate Cable Car: At the stop, take the Dragon Gate uphill cable car. Instead of following the common path, opt for a reverse route:
- Start by taking the electric shuttle directly to the Dragon Gate steps entrance.
- Climb up the stone steps to reach the top cable car station (about 30 minutes). This section is steep and slippery, offering a challenge worth conquering. The “easy to go up, hard to come down” terrain is well known here.
Downhill Cable Car Ride: Descend via the Dragon Gate cable car. This direction offers sunlight-friendly views and a perfect perspective of Dianchi Lake for photography enthusiasts.
Cross-Dianchi Cable Car: After arriving at the Xishan entrance, walk to the Dianchi cable car ticket office (to the right). The one-way ride across the lake is scenic and queue-free. The cable car drops you off at Haigeng Park. If you prefer not to take the Dianchi cable car, you can purchase a return bus ticket (12.5 CNY) at the Dragon Gate ticket office to get back to the Tourist Center.
Explore Nearby Attractions
Haigeng Park: This expansive park along Dianchi Lake is perfect for a leisurely walk. Enjoy watching flocks of seagulls and feeding them with bird food available onsite.
Haihong Wetland Park: Located about 4 km from Haigeng Park, this wetland area features picturesque water cypress groves and abundant wildlife. You can also try glass-bottomed boat rides, though lines can be long during holidays.
Park 1903: Head to Park 1903, a well-designed commercial complex. The Sports Park here offers outdoor activities for kids and adults, with tickets priced at 49.9 CNY for one adult and one child. It’s an excellent spot for families to unwind.
Dinner Recommendation: Wrap up your day with a meal at Shang Zuo (上坐), a famous restaurant serving delicious Cross-Bridge Rice Noodles. Arrive early – it opens at 5:30 PM, and there’s often a long wait.