Sanbao Tower of Zhenghe Park in Jinning, Kunming

Sanbao Tower (三宝楼) is located within Zheng He Park (郑和公园) in Kunyang Town (昆阳镇), Jinning District (晋宁区), Kunming (昆明). It is situated at the top of Yue Mountain (月山) at an altitude of approximately 1,950 meters.

Architectural Features

The tower is designed in the shape of Zheng He’s treasure ship (宝船) from his voyages to the West. It is a three-story pavilion with glazed tile roofs, white marble railings, and intricate dragon and phoenix carvings. The structure blends Ming Dynasty (明代) architectural style with elements of maritime culture.

Name Origin

The tower is named after Zheng He’s (郑和) childhood nickname, "Sanbao" (三宝), which means "Three Treasures," to commemorate his achievements as a maritime explorer.

Function and Scenic Views

Scenic Views

Climbing the tower offers a panoramic view of the Jinning District (晋宁城区) and the southern shore of Dianchi Lake (滇池). On clear days, visitors can also see the distinctive "Sleeping Beauty" contour of Xishan (西山).

Cultural Exhibits

Inside the tower, exhibits showcase materials related to Zheng He’s voyages, including historical documents and a couplet detailing his life and sea voyages, similar to the style of the Daguan Tower (大观楼) in Kunming (昆明).

Historical Background and Related Attractions

Construction History

The tower was built in 1981 by the Jinning County Government (晋宁县政府) to honor Zheng He. It is part of the core cultural landscape of Zheng He Park (郑和公园), alongside the Zheng He Statue (郑和雕像) and the Ma Ha Zhi Tomb (马哈只墓).

Associated Heritage Sites

• Ma Ha Zhi Tomb (马哈只墓): The tomb of Zheng He's father, which is a national heritage site and provides crucial information about Zheng He's family history.

• Zheng He Stele Forest (郑和碑林): A collection of 64 stelae that record praises of Zheng He from famous historical figures.

Visitor Information

Opening Hours

The tower is open daily from 06:30 to 20:00, free for visitors, and follows the same opening hours as Zheng He Park (郑和公园).

Recommended Route

• Start at Zheng He Statue (郑和雕像) → Continue to Sanbao Tower (三宝楼) → Visit Ma Ha Zhi Tomb (马哈只墓) → End at the Zheng He Memorial Museum (郑和纪念馆). The entire route takes about 1-2 hours.

Cultural Significance

As a key landmark of Zheng He’s Hometown (郑和故里), Sanbao Tower (三宝楼) serves as an important symbol of the spirit of Zheng He: boldness, openness, and inclusivity. In 2023, it was included as part of the China Overseas Chinese International Cultural Exchange Base (中国华侨国际文化交流基地).

For a deeper experience, visitors can combine their tour with the maritime-themed exhibitions at the Jinning District Museum (晋宁区博物馆).

Explore the Legendary Journey of Zheng He

? Sanbao Tower in Zheng He Park (郑和公园) is an unforgettable spot for history enthusiasts and travelers. Located on the southern shore of Dianchi Lake (滇池), it celebrates the legacy of Zheng He (郑和), the Ming Dynasty navigator famous for his seven voyages to the West.

?‍♂️ Walking through Zheng He Park, visitors can marvel at the Sanbao Tower designed in the shape of Zheng He’s famous treasure ship, alongside statues, reliefs, and monuments commemorating his remarkable maritime achievements.

? At the peak of Yue Mountain (月山), visitors are treated to stunning views of the lake and the Xishan (西山) mountains, immersing themselves in the grandeur of Zheng He’s legendary voyages. The Ma Ha Zhi Tomb (马哈只墓), a national heritage site, adds historical depth, marking the familial roots of this pioneering explorer.

?️ As you explore this cultural treasure, every stone, tree, and building holds the rich history of Zheng He’s Hometown (郑和故里). Don’t miss the opportunity to delve into the legacy of this remarkable man, whose adventures reshaped the world.