Ultimate Transportation Guide to Fuxian Lake: Travel Around Without Your Own Vehicle

Ultimate Transportation Guide To Fuxian Lake

Fuxian Lake, known for its pristine waters and stunning landscapes, is a must-visit destination for travelers seeking tranquility and adventure. Whether you’re arriving by public transport, taxi, or car, this guide covers the best ways to reach the lake and explore its attractions. Discover the unique charm of Fuxian Lake’s east and west lines, and make the most of your visit with tips on transportation, accommodations, and key sights.

How to Get to Fuxian Lake: Transportation Options

While self-driving is the most convenient way to explore Fuxian Lake, there are several other transportation methods to consider:

Bus:

  • From Kunming South Bus Station (南部汽车客运站): Take a direct bus to Chengjiang (澄江) for around ¥20, then switch to a local bus or taxi to Fuxian Lake (There is no direct bus for Fuxian Lake in Kunming Urban Area). A taxi ride from Chengjiang to Guanglong Town takes about 10 minutes.
  • From Kunming South Railway Station Bus Terminal (高铁南站汽车客运站): Direct buses go to the Hilton Hotel, Luchong Scenic Area, and Moon Bay Wetland for ¥50–55.
  • ⚠️ Note: The Kunming South Bus Station and the Kunming South Railway Station Bus Terminal are separate locations. Be sure to confirm the correct departure point.

Taxi:

  • From Kunming South Railway Station: A taxi to Guanglong Town costs about ¥150 and takes 40 minutes.
  • From Kunming City Center: Expect an additional ¥50 due to the longer distance.

High-Speed Train:

Taking the high-speed train is less direct. Trains stop at Yuxi City, about 45 minutes from Chengjiang. From there, you can take a bus or direct transfer to Fuxian Lake. This option is ideal if you plan to explore Yuxi as part of your trip.

Ride-Hailing Services (Didi)

  • Private Car: ¥78 (one-way). If you’re open to carpooling, prices drop to around ¥50.
  • Highway Option: Add ¥17 for tolls and reach Fuxian Lake in about 40 minutes.
  • National Highway Option: Free of tolls but takes around an hour.
  • ⚠️ Note: Some ride-hailing drivers may charge double for tolls if they need to return without passengers, increasing costs to ¥34 for tolls.

Transportation Around Fuxian Lake

Fuxian Lake is divided into east and west lines, with Guanglong Town centrally located between them. If you’re relying on public transportation, staying in Guanglong Town (广龙小镇) is ideal due to its excellent bus connections to both sides of the lake.

Top 12 Scenic Spots Around Fuxian Lake

West Line Buses:

  • Depart from Chengjiang Town and stop at Guanglong Town’s main gate.
  • Frequency: Every 20 minutes.
  • Last Bus: 8 PM.
  • Recommendation: The west line offers superior lake views and is a better choice for photography enthusiasts.

East Line Buses:

  • Depart from Guanglong Town’s Visitor Center.
  • Frequency: Every two hours, with four trips daily.
  • Recommendation: East line attractions cater more to resort-style vacations.

West Line Highlights

Luchong Scenic Area

  • Highlights: A hub for dining, lodging, and activities, Luchong Scenic Area features a small mountain perfect for light hiking. From the summit, the panoramic lake views are even more stunning than those seen from the beach.
  • Ideal for: Families and those who enjoy a mix of relaxation and adventure.

Mingxing Fish Cave

  • Highlights: A compact area that can be explored in about 10 minutes. Without water sports, it can feel underwhelming, but a trendy café on-site attracts many visitors seeking Instagram-worthy photos.
  • ⚠️ Note: Mingxing Fish Cave may feel overcrowded due to its popularity with photographers.

East Line Highlights

East line attractions are primarily located on higher ground, offering distant views of the lake. These spots are best suited for family or couple self-driving trips.

Xiaowan Village

  • Highlights: Known for its peaceful ambiance, Xiaowan Village boasts hillside cafés that offer spectacular sunset views. The area is ideal for those seeking a relaxing retreat.

Sun Mountain Town

  • Highlights: A European-style town featuring quaint streets and architecture. While charming, it may feel less lively during the off-season, as many shops remain closed.
  • ⚠️ Note: East line attractions may feel less impressive during the day due to their backlit views of the lake. They are, however, ideal for sunset viewing.