Haigeng Park, Kunming

Haigeng Park (海埂公园) is a picturesque natural park located on the southern shore of Dianchi Lake (滇池) in Kunming (昆明), Yunnan Province (云南省). It is renowned for its lush greenery, towering eucalyptus trees, vibrant flowers, and tranquil lakeside views. The park seamlessly blends into the nearby fishing villages, creating a harmonious natural landscape.

On bright, sunny days, the vast expanse of water stretches endlessly, with white clouds drifting across the blue sky. Gentle waves ripple across the surface while sailboats glide on the water and seagulls soar overhead. On moonlit nights, the silver moonlight dances on the surface of the lake, casting a dim reflection of the Western Hills (西山) on the water. Haigeng Park is a perfect place to enjoy the beauty of nature, go swimming in summer, or try fishing throughout the year.

Mythical Significance of the Dragon King

In Chinese mythology, the Dragon Kings (龙王) are the divine rulers of the four seas, each corresponding to one of the four cardinal directions. Though they appear as dragons, they can transform into human form. They live in crystal palaces guarded by shrimp soldiers and crab generals and have control over clouds, rain, and aquatic life. When enraged, the Dragon Kings can cause floods. In traditional Chinese society, they are important deities, especially for agricultural communities that rely on rainfall.

The Dragon King’s Temple (龙王庙), located at the western edge of Haigeng Park, was once a significant worship site for fishermen living by Dianchi Lake and the indigenous people of Kunming. People prayed here for a good harvest and favorable weather. Major festivals, such as Spring Festival (春节), Sanyuesan Festival (三月三), and other important holidays, were celebrated with grand rallies at the temple.

How to Get There

From Kunming Railway Station (昆明火车站), you can take Bus No. 24 or Bus No. 44 to reach Haigeng Park.

Travel Tips

You can enjoy the scenic beauty of the lake by boating or cycling around the park to explore different landscapes, local delicacies, and culture.

History and Development

Haigeng Park was established in the early 1960s, located approximately 10 kilometers south of Kunming in the district known for its "spring-like weather" year-round. It sits along the shores of Dianchi Lake, known as the "Pearl of the Plateau" (高原明珠). The park spans an area of 750 acres, stretching about 2.5 kilometers from east to west and approximately 200 meters north to south.

In 1992, the Kunming Dianchi National Tourist Resort (昆明滇池国家旅游度假区) was established, and since then, the park has undergone significant development, becoming a popular destination for leisure, recreation, and cultural experiences. The park now combines historical and cultural landmarks with modern amenities, offering visitors a chance to enjoy a peaceful and scenic environment. New facilities, including a golf course and tennis courts, are under construction.

Major Attractions

Dianchi Lake

The park's southern edge is connected to the vast and beautiful Dianchi Lake, with a coastline of 2.5 kilometers. To the west, the park connects to the Xishan Longmen Cable Car (西山龙门索道), and to the east, you can find a golf course and the National Sports Training Base (国家体育训练基地).

Haigeng

The name Haigeng refers to the embankment that extends from east to west through Dianchi Lake, creating a natural divide. The Haigeng area is a popular spot for walking, fishing, and sightseeing, with beautiful views of the lake and surrounding mountains. The park features various areas, such as a beach for relaxation, gardens, and a large ethnic village.

Legend of Dianchi Lake

According to local legend, long ago Kunming was a dry land. A brave hunter ventured across mountains to the Eastern Sea to find water for his people. There, he saved a small red fish, which was actually the third princess of the Eastern Sea Dragon King. She fell in love with the hunter, but he longed to return to his wife. With the Dragon King absent, the hunter escaped and returned to Kunming. Unfortunately, his wife died of grief and transformed into Sleeping Beauty Mountain (睡美人山). The hunter, heartbroken, spilled the water he had carried and died, becoming Dianchi Lake.

Liancao Eucalyptus

In the park, you will see two ancient eucalyptus trees with intertwined trunks. These trees symbolize everlasting love and are known as the "Liancao Eucalyptus" (连理奇桉), standing together as a beautiful pair, gazing out over Dianchi Lake.

Sleeping Beauty Mountain

The best place to view Sleeping Beauty Mountain is from Haigeng. Its shape, resembling a reclining figure, is particularly striking during sunset, creating a picturesque scene. The mountain's beauty varies with the seasons, offering different charms throughout the year.

Floating Cottonwood of Dianchi

Haigeng Park is home to thousands of willows that witness the changing seasons. In spring, the willows bud, and the air is filled with cottonwood fluff, which creates a poetic atmosphere. The soft, fluttering cottonwood seeds add to the charm of the park during this time.

Haigeng Park Atmosphere

The area’s stunning shoreline, bordered by Dianchi Lake, evokes a coastal feel with its green trees, flying boats, and clear blue skies. The tranquil environment and expansive views give visitors a sense of freedom, where one can truly appreciate the beauty of nature and experience the "vast sky, wide sea" feeling.

Moonlit Dianchi

Among Kunming's many scenic spots, Dianchi Lake’s moonlit night is especially captivating. The shimmering moonlight, along with the reflection of the Western Hills and the Sleeping Beauty Mountain, creates a breathtaking scene that has been beloved by poets and artists throughout history. Every year during the Mid-Autumn Festival (中秋节), people flock to Haigeng Park to admire the moon and enjoy the traditional customs of the region.

Local Specialties

Da Tou Cai (大头菜)

A local delicacy made from pickled root vegetables, it is often served with rice noodles or stir-fried with meat. It adds a delicious and unique flavor to many dishes in Kunming.

Lunan Milk Cake (路南乳饼)

This famous milk cake is made from fresh sheep's milk and pressed into blocks. It is widely known for its mild flavor and versatility in dishes such as stir-fries, soups, and even eaten raw with ham.

Dian Eight Pastries (滇八件糕点)

Kunming's signature pastry set includes eight unique types of sweet treats, including items like ham cakes and crystal puff pastries. These delicious pastries are a perfect souvenir for visitors.

Dai Brocade (傣锦)

Famous for its intricate weaving and vibrant colors, Dai Brocade is a traditional fabric woven by the Dai people (傣族) in Yunnan. It makes for an excellent cultural souvenir.

Azalea (杜鹃花)

Yunnan is home to more than 260 species of azaleas, making it a prime destination for flower lovers, especially in spring and early summer.

Jianshui Purple Pottery (建水紫陶)

This traditional Yunnan craft is made from local clay and decorated with white patterns. Jianshui pottery is renowned for its durability and artistry, perfect for home decor or culinary use.

Travel Information

Public Transport:

• Bus No. 24: Haigeng Park to Kunming Railway Station (6:30 AM - 7:00 PM)

• Bus No. 44: Haigeng Park to Kunming Railway Station (6:30 AM - 9:00 PM)

• Bus No. 73: Haigeng Park to Huguo Road (6:30 AM - 9:30 PM)

• Bus No. 94: Haigeng Park to Gaoya (7:00 AM - 7:00 PM)