Yuanxi Road in Kunming
Huize College (云南大学会泽院), located in the Donglu Campus of Yunnan University, Kunming, occupies an area of 2,484.05 m² with a building area of 3,953.49 m². Built on December 18, 1924, it stands as one of the iconic structures of Yunnan University. The college is situated along the central axis of the campus, facing south, with a two-story structure (partially three stories). Its historical significance, reflected in numerous major events, has profoundly influenced Yunnan’s educational and cultural development, as well as modern Chinese history.
On October 7, 2019, Huize College was officially designated as a National Key Cultural Relic Protection Unit by the State Council of the People’s Republic of China.
The construction of Huize College began on April 20, 1923, and was completed by December 18, 1924, on the site of the Ming and Qing-era Yunnan Imperial Examination Hall (明远楼). The building was named Huize College (会泽院) to honor the contributions of Tang Jiyao, the founder of the private East Lu University, and his advocacy for education.
Huize College features a western-style facade with classical columns and a symmetrical design. The main building spans 77.58 meters in length, 22.63 meters in width, and reaches a height of 17 meters. The structure includes two stories, with part of the building extending to three stories, and some sections featuring a basement.
The facade consists of five horizontal sections and three vertical sections, with a classical entrance supported by four 10-meter high columns. Visitors must ascend 95 stone steps (known as “Jiuwu Steps” or 龙门道), which symbolize the flying dragon in the I Ching. These steps are one of the iconic features of the college, often photographed by alumni during graduation.
The first floor of Huize College houses the Yunnan University History Museum, which is divided into three sections:
Name Origin: The name “Huize” (会泽) honors Tang Jiyao’s hometown in Huize County, Qujing City, Yunnan Province, where he promoted education and founded East Lu University. The name “院” (Yuan) was chosen to indicate a general building, distinguishing it from previous architectural terms like “楼” (building) and “堂” (hall), as the main structure was built on the site of the Mingyuan Building (明远楼) of the former imperial examination hall.
Huize College is not only a key architectural and cultural landmark of Yunnan University, but it also represents the development of higher education in China’s southwest region. The historical events that unfolded within its walls have had a lasting impact on Yunnan’s educational culture and China’s modern history. The college retains its original architectural form, making it an invaluable site for studying China’s educational history and the evolution of historical buildings in the southwest.
Huize College is located in the Donglu Campus of Yunnan University, Wuhua District, Kunming, Yunnan Province.
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Chinese Name: 昆明俊发·西亮塘湿地公园
English Name: Junfa-Xiliangtang Wetland Park in Kunming
Location: Opposite No. 4186 Yunxiu Road, Guandu District, Kunming
Opening Hours: 09:00 – 17:00
Admission Fee: Free
The Kunming Dianchi International City Wetland Park is located in the Xiliang Tang area on the northern shore of Dianchi Lake, adjacent to the Baoxiang River. The park covers a total area of 2360.11 acres, including 300 acres for water quality purification, 950.11 acres for recreational use, and 1110 acres for ecological conservation. This area is a crucial part of the lakeside ecological belt and plays a key role in the lake’s ecological system.
The Junfa Eco-Park project is situated next to the Ring Lake East Road Peninsula, connecting with the Wujia Ba and Wujiatang areas, extending to the southeastern section of the New Asia Sports City, and forming a high-end living area integrating sports, leisure, vacation, shopping, and residential spaces. The project is located on the golden shoreline of Dianchi Lake and encompasses a world-class ecological city of 6700 acres, combining ecology, parks, residential areas, hotels, commercial spaces, and education. The project features ultra-low-density buildings and a theme park-like design, with wetland parks developed before the construction of buildings, reflecting a low-carbon and environmentally friendly development concept. Kunming’s wetlands and wetland parks are diverse and include Baofeng Wetland Park, Xihua Wetland Park, Wujia Dui Wetland Park, Guandu Wujia Tang Wetland Park, Junfa Xiliang Tang Wetland Park, Chenggong Dianchi Ecological Wetland Park, and Chenggong Yupu Hanquan Forest Ecological Wetland Park.
Walking and Jogging
Picnicking
Kite Flying
Walking Pets
Photography
Bird Watching
Activities for Kids
Chinese Name:昆明呈贡·滇池生态湿地公园
English Name: Chenggong Dianchi Ecological Wetland Park in Kunming
Opening hours: 08:30 to 18:00; specific times are subject to the actual opening situation of the scenic area on the day
Also known as Laoyu River Wetland Park, it is located on the East Ring Road of the Dianchi National Tourism Resort in Kunming, Yunnan Province, covering a total area of 734.31 hectares. This area is another section of Dianchi, offering a distinctly different view compared to the Haigeng Dam end of the lake. It is a wetland park that has undergone upgrades and transformations, balancing ecological and scenic functions.
In recent years, with the continuous advancement of the Dianchi ecological restoration project, Laoyu River Wetland has become a green barrier for the lakeside ecology of Dianchi and a popular place for citizens to relax on weekends. Entry is free, yet the scenery is exceptionally beautiful. Here, one can see the vast Dianchi, the plants in the water, and the shaded pathways—all of it is so beautiful and refreshing. It is highly recommended to visit and experience a different side of Dianchi.
In late summer and early autumn, arriving at Laoyu River Wetland Park, one follows the path inside after entering the gate. The roads on both sides are filled with yellow crown daisies blooming and swaying in the gentle breeze. Further on, with lush trees, plants such as iris, reeds, and water lilies adorn the banks and pathways, while various plants such as Yunnan cherry blossoms, small-leaf banyan, purple grass, and Bougainvillea show off their charm. The orange-yellow canna and bright red firecracker flower stand tall, each exhibiting their unique grace. Looking out from the lakeside of Dianchi, the sound of water lapping against the shore and the expansive view provide a refreshing experience. Standing by the lake, one allows the moist breeze to brush against their face.
The total investment for the wetland park is 1.13 billion yuan, covering an area of 11,000 acres. The project plan includes seven major components: protection projects, restoration projects, popular science education projects, scientific research and monitoring projects, disaster prevention projects, capacity building for protection and management, and basic engineering. Considering various factors, the Yunnan Kunming Laoyu River National Wetland Park will be divided into five functional areas: wetland conservation area, restoration and reconstruction area, popular science education and display area, rational utilization area, and management and service area.
The construction of the wetland conservation area and restoration and reconstruction area was completed by June 30, 2020. The design and bidding for the construction of the popular science education area, rational utilization area, and management service area were also completed by June 30, 2020. Construction for these areas was completed by June 30, 2021. By December 31, 2021, a formal application for acceptance and registration was submitted to the National Forestry and Grassland Administration.
Plan A: Laoyu River Park – Bus Station
Address: Routes 265; K31; K38; Dayu Jin San Line
Plan B: Luojia Village – Bus Station
Address: Routes 265; K31; K38; Dayu Jin San Line
Plan C: Dahenkou – Bus Station
Address: Routes K31; K38
Chinese Name:昆明官渡区宝象河
English Name: Baoxiang River in Kunming
Total Length of the River Channel: 41.4 km
Drainage Area: 292 km²
Source of Water: Laoyeshan Mountain in the southeastern part of Guandu District
The Laobaoxiang River is one of the ancient Liu Rivers of Kunming and the second-largest river in the city. It originates from Laoyeshan Mountain in the southeastern part of Guandu District, with a total length of 48 kilometers, flowing through Xiaozhai Village before entering the Laobaoxiang River Reservoir. The river traverses several streets in Guandu District, including Dabanqiao, Ala, Xiaobanqiao, Guandu, Liujia, and Yiliu, covering a drainage area of 344.3 square kilometers, and ultimately flows into Dianchi Lake, serving a population of over 1 million. The Baoxiang River has a long history, having witnessed the prosperity of ancient Dian civilization and bringing vitality to the city of Kunming.
The Baoxiang River mainly consists of natural river channels, with the lower reaches mostly comprising hillsides and farmland. In addition to the main Laobaoxiang River Reservoir, several small reservoirs have been constructed on its tributaries, including Tienshengba, Qianweijun, Tongniusi, Cichong, and Fuxing, controlling a total drainage area of 109.6 square kilometers. Thirteen small river dams have also been built along the river, including Jinma Village, Yuanyang Dam, Yangfu, and Xiaobanqiao. The water quality is classified as inferior Class V.
With the increase of pollution in the 1980s, the Baoxiang River experienced a phase of deteriorating water quality. However, in 2008, Kunming City launched a remediation project for the Baoxiang River. Under the leadership of Mayor Zhang Zulun, measures such as sealing off pollution sources, renovating river banks, greening riverbanks, and repairing roads were implemented. After nearly a year of remediation, the banks of the Baoxiang River are now lush with greenery, showing a significant improvement in water quality, an increase in fish populations, and a growing number of visitors. River cleaning staff have reported a decrease in litter and a gradual restoration of the ecological environment along the river.
At Baofeng Wetland Park, the reporters observed blooming lotus flowers, croaking frogs, and flying sparrows, with many people coming to enjoy their time. Baofeng Wetland Park is part of the Kunming Dianchi International Urban Wetland, with a planned area of 2,360 acres, subdivided into three phases. The first phase has already been completed, covering over 400 acres, with a water surface area of 134 acres and the planting of 17,900 trees.
The section of Baoxiang River in the Economic Development Zone is located in the middle and upper reaches of the river, with water quality serving a crucial role for the entire river system. After treatment, clear water continues to be injected into the Baoxiang River, ensuring the water quality. The green belts and plant zones on both sides of the river have also been well maintained, keeping the river water clear.
Chinese Name: 昆明滇池国际城市湿地公园
English Name: Dianchi International City Wetland Park in Kunming
Area: 2360.11 km²
Climate: Subtropical plateau monsoon climate
Vegetation Type: Evergreen broadleaf forest
Kunming Dianchi International Urban Wetland Park is situated on Haidong Road in the Guandu District of Kunming City, Yunnan Province, adjacent to the Baoxiang River. The park spans 2,360.11 acres, which includes 300 acres designated for water quality purification, 950.11 acres for recreational activities, and 1,110 acres for ecological conservation. This area is integral to the development of lakeside ecological belts and plays a vital role in the lake’s ecosystem.
The Guandu District Committee and District Government aim to develop Kunming Dianchi International Urban Wetland Park into a national-level park. The park will adhere to the principle of “combining protection and development,” striving to achieve “the best landscape and the best ecology” while maximizing both the ecological service functions and socio-economic value of the wetlands.
The park’s construction will follow a “government-led, market-operated” approach, encouraging active participation from various sectors of society. It will focus on wetland restoration, utilize environmental education as a key component, and offer leisure and vacation opportunities. The goal is to create a harmonious integration of ecological, production, and living functions within the wetlands.
Upon completion, Kunming Dianchi International Urban Wetland Park will become the region around Dianchi Lake with the highest biodiversity and the most effective area for self-purification of the lake. It will serve as the last line of defense against pollutants entering Dianchi Lake, creating an ecological protection barrier along the lake’s banks that can adapt to and mitigate the impact of human activities on the natural environment. Additionally, the park will offer environmental education and raise public awareness through a range of diverse and engaging science outreach activities, establishing itself as a key base for wetland science education.
Furthermore, the park will integrate with the surrounding systems and landscapes, balancing scenic beauty with economic value along the lakeside. The development of the lakeside area will increase the land value, promote regional economic growth through environmental enhancements, and establish a strong foundation for the sustainable development of the Kunming Ecological Circle around Dianchi Lake, creating favorable conditions for the future.
In the future development of New Kunming, wetland parks will be constructed along the lakeside roads. The Kunming City Government has already relocated its offices to Chenggong New City, which will expedite the construction of the Dianchi Wetland Park.
Chinese Name: 昆明马家大院
English Name: Majia Courtyard in Kunming
Year of Construction: 1923
Area: 1146 m²
Location: No. 36 Jingxing Street, Kunming City, Yunnan Province
The Ma Family Courtyard, the best-preserved example of classic Bai architecture in Kunming, received the 2001 Cultural Heritage Protection Award from UNESCO in the Asia-Pacific region.
Located in the picturesque Xiaoyinggui Alley of Kunming’s old streets, this residence, also known as Jinlan Tea Garden, was originally the home of Ma Qian, a national hero and renowned general of the Yunnan Army from Eryuan. Built in 1923, the courtyard became the residence of Ma Qian’s family in 1924, following his appointment as Kunming’s first mayor.
The Ma Family Courtyard, located at No. 36 Jingxing Street, was built in 1923. It covers a total area of 1,146 square meters and features a brick and wood structure with a layout that includes “four courtyards and five sky wells” and “horse-walk corner towers.”
The courtyard comprises two stories of interconnected wooden buildings, surrounding a 200-square-meter bluestone courtyard with flowers, plants, and stone water tanks, and four small sky wells at the building’s corners. It showcases intricate wood and stone carvings, painted beams, and decorated columns, embodying the classic Bai residential architecture style known as “three halls and a screen wall.”
The layout and structure, including the main entrance aligned with the central axis of the opposite main building, also reflect characteristics of the “Yikayin” residential style found in Kunming. Facing south and situated in a tranquil environment, the courtyard has been extensively studied by Professor Zhao Chen from Nanjing University’s Architecture Institute and Swiss experts. They view it not just as an ordinary old house but as a significant example of China’s historical and cultural heritage.
Metro
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Wenhua Alley (文化巷) is located in the Wuhua District of Kunming, Yunnan Province, and is famous for its historical and cultural significance. The alley has witnessed the gathering of literary giants like Shen Congwen (沈从文), Bing Xin (冰心), and Li Gongpu (李公朴), who frequented its teahouses to discuss literature and life. Originally named Cangma Alley (苍麻巷), it was later renamed to Wenhua Alley, reflecting its connection to the intellectual and cultural movements in Kunming.
Wenhua Alley stretches over 2 kilometers and is located in the Wuhua District, a central part of Kunming. The alley connects several well-known educational institutions, creating a lively atmosphere throughout the day. With its narrow pathways and busy street corners, it attracts a diverse mix of people — from students to teachers, locals to tourists.
The alley’s layout is simple yet vibrant. It’s divided into two main sections: the southern part, which is close to the educational institutions, and the northern part, which leads to residential areas. The alley is not only a cultural hub but also a commercial one, with numerous shops, eateries, and fashion boutiques.
Wenhua Alley holds deep cultural and historical value in Kunming. It was once a place where prominent writers and intellectuals, including Shen Congwen, Bing Xin, and Li Gongpu, spent time discussing literature and ideas. These figures were part of a generation that significantly contributed to modern Chinese literature and culture. Their frequent visits to the alley’s teahouses made Wenhua Alley a landmark of intellectual exchange.
Shen Congwen, one of the most famous writers of modern Chinese literature, was known to have spent many afternoons in the alley, reflecting on his works and the society around him. The alley, in turn, became a symbol of Kunming’s rich literary and intellectual traditions.
Over the years, Wenhua Alley has transformed significantly due to urban development. The rapid growth of Kunming has put the alley at risk of demolition, which raises questions about the tension between cultural preservation and urban expansion. The alley’s transformation mirrors the larger challenges faced by many historical districts in rapidly modernizing cities.
Wenhua Alley is in close proximity to several key educational institutions, which contribute to its vibrant atmosphere. Among the most prominent universities nearby are:
Due to the proximity of these universities, Wenhua Alley is bustling with students and teachers. Every morning, elementary school children, along with university students, fill the streets. The primary school students, with their bright uniforms and red scarves, are a particularly charming sight. Their voices and laughter add to the lively atmosphere, making the alley an educational and cultural center.
At night, the area turns into a gathering place for university students. They meet at small restaurants to enjoy casual meals, celebrate birthdays, or unwind after a busy day of studying. The alley has become a place where students can experience both the academic and social aspects of life, making it a dynamic part of the city.
Wenhua Alley is famous for its diverse array of small restaurants and eateries. The alley offers a wide range of cuisines, catering to the diverse tastes of its visitors. Some notable types of food include:
In addition to food, there are many clothing shops that cater to the fashion-conscious students in the area. The shops sell casual and trendy clothes, such as T-shirts, jeans, and accessories. These stores keep up with the latest fashion trends, making Wenhua Alley a popular shopping destination for young people.
In the evenings, Wenhua Alley becomes a hub for social activities. The alley is filled with university students hanging out at outdoor cafés or chatting at small tables under large umbrellas. The social atmosphere is lively but also respectful. It is common to see groups of students enjoying a relaxed meal together, with the occasional celebration marking a birthday or special occasion.
The presence of foreign students adds to the cultural mix. Foreign teachers, students, and expats can often be seen strolling through the alley, contributing to the cosmopolitan feel of the place.
Given its popularity, Wenhua Alley is often crowded with pedestrians, cyclists, and cars. In the mornings and evenings, the alley sees the highest volume of traffic, with school children, university students, and local residents all passing through. The alley’s narrow roads can become congested, especially with the increasing number of vehicles. On certain occasions, traffic jams occur, causing some frustration for residents.
The presence of electric bikes and other personal vehicles adds to the bustling environment. The alley, once a peaceful space, now has a vibrant energy but is no longer the quiet retreat it once was in the 1950s and 1960s.
With the rapid urbanization of Kunming, there are concerns that Wenhua Alley might be demolished in the future to make way for new developments. The conflict between the preservation of cultural landmarks and the push for commercial development is a growing issue in many Chinese cities.
The demolition of Wenhua Alley would mark the loss of an important piece of Kunming’s cultural and literary history. However, it also highlights the challenges that come with maintaining historical sites in the face of modern urban pressures.
As commercial interests grow in Kunming, the question arises: how can culture and commerce coexist in spaces like Wenhua Alley? The alley is a perfect example of how cultural sites can become commercialized, but it is also a reminder of the tension between preserving tradition and embracing modernity.
In the future, it remains to be seen whether Wenhua Alley will be able to maintain its cultural identity amid the changing landscape of Kunming. Efforts to preserve its cultural heritage will need to be balanced with the demands of urban growth.
Wenhua Alley (文化巷) is a vibrant and historically significant location in Kunming. It has been shaped by its intellectual legacy, its proximity to educational institutions, and the ever-present energy of students and locals. Despite the challenges posed by urban development, the alley remains a key part of Kunming’s cultural fabric, representing both the past and the present of the city.
Whether it will survive the pressures of modernization or face eventual demolition is uncertain, but Wenhua Alley will undoubtedly continue to play a crucial role in the cultural and social life of Kunming for years to come.
Dream Park in Xishan District, Kunming
Yuanxi Road in Kunming...
Overview Huize College (云南大学会泽院), located in the Donglu Campus of Yunnan University, Kunming, occupies an area of 2,484.05 m² with a building area of 3,953.49 m². Built on December...
World Expo 52 ℃ Forest Health Spa in Kunming...
Shuncheng Mansion Shuihui Spa in Kunming昆明顺城王府水汇温泉spa...
Book the Dianchi Spring Spa Resort in Kunming and stay at cheap Inn and Guesthouse. Enjoy the free WiFi, free parking, nice entertainment and visit the popular tourist attractions...
Chinese Name: 昆明俊发·西亮塘湿地公园 English Name: Junfa-Xiliangtang Wetland Park in Kunming Location: Opposite No. 4186 Yunxiu Road, Guandu District, Kunming Opening Hours: 09:00 – 17:00 Admission Fee: Free Overview The...
Chinese Name:昆明呈贡·滇池生态湿地公园 English Name: Chenggong Dianchi Ecological Wetland Park in Kunming Opening hours: 08:30 to 18:00; specific times are subject to the actual opening situation of the scenic area...
Chinese Name:昆明官渡区宝象河 English Name: Baoxiang River in Kunming Total Length of the River Channel: 41.4 km Drainage Area: 292 km² Source of Water: Laoyeshan Mountain in the southeastern part...
Chinese Name: 昆明滇池国际城市湿地公园 English Name: Dianchi International City Wetland Park in Kunming Area: 2360.11 km² Climate: Subtropical plateau monsoon climate Vegetation Type: Evergreen broadleaf forest Overview Kunming Dianchi International...
Chinese Name: 昆明马家大院 English Name: Majia Courtyard in Kunming Year of Construction: 1923 Area: 1146 m² Location: No. 36 Jingxing Street, Kunming City, Yunnan Province Overview The Ma Family...
Wenhua Alley (文化巷) is located in the Wuhua District of Kunming, Yunnan Province, and is famous for its historical and cultural significance. The alley has witnessed the gathering of...
Dream Park in Xishan District, Kunming...
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