Green

The "Jade" of the Spring City

1.Located at the western foot of Wuhua: Mountain in the heart of Kunming, Green Lake Park (Cuihu Park) is affectionately known as the "Green Gem of the Spring City" and the "Jade in the City". Covering an area of approximately 21.6 hectares, with 15 hectares dedicated to water, this urban oasis is renowned for its emerald waters, weeping willows, and classical architecture. Unlike the vastness of Dianchi Lake, Green Lake offers a delicate, landscaped beauty that serves as the cultural and leisure center for locals. It is a place where the pulse of Kunming's "slow life" beats strongest, blending historical depth with the vibrant daily activities of residents who gather to sing, dance, and enjoy the eternal spring.

A History of Water and Willows

2.The history of Green: Lake dates back to the Yuan Dynasty and earlier, when it was a bay of Dianchi Lake known as "Caihaizi" (Vegetable Lake) or "Nine Dragon Pond" (Jiulongchi) due to the nine springs that fed it. Its transformation began in the Ming Dynasty when Mu Ying, the Duke of Qian, built the city walls and enclosed the lake, planting willows and establishing the "Willow Camp" for raising horses. During the Qing Dynasty, Governor Wang Jiwen built the Biyi Pavilion, turning it into a scenic spot. The park's iconic layout was finalized through the construction of two major dikes: the North-South Ruan Dike, built by Ruan Yuan in the Daoguang era (modeled after the Su Causeway in Hangzhou), and the East-West Tang Dike, built by Tang Jiyao in 1919. These two dikes intersect in a cross shape, dividing the lake into distinct sections.

The Winter Spectacle: Red-billed Seagulls

3.One of the most famous features of Green: Lake Park is the annual arrival of red-billed seagulls. Since 1985, these birds have migrated from Siberia every winter (from November to March) to escape the cold, turning the park into a "Pearl of the Plateau" filled with white wings and lively calls,. The interaction between humans and seagulls has become a legendary symbol of Kunming's harmony with nature. During these months, tens of thousands of seagulls hover over the water or swoop down to catch bread fed to them by tourists and locals, creating a heartwarming scene of "human-seagull harmony".

Architecture and Islands

The park is composed of several islands connected by the Ruan and Tang dikes.

• 4.Lake Heart Island (Mid-Lake Islet): The core of the park, housing the Lotus Zen Temple (Lianhua Chanyuan) and the Fish Viewing Pavilion (Guanyulou). These classical buildings feature glazed tiles, flying eaves, and intricate corridors that evoke the style of Jiangnan gardens.
• 5.Bamboo Forest Island: A serene retreat featuring lush bamboo groves and winding paths, offering a quiet escape from the city bustle.
• 6.Southwest Island: Home to the Nie Er Square, dedicated to the composer of China's national anthem, featuring a solemn statue amidst palm trees.
• 7.Goldfish Island: Known for its cedar trees and seasonal flowers like tulips and camellias.

A Cultural Salon

Beyond its scenery, Green Lake is a hub of humanities. The park is surrounded by significant historical sites, including the former site of the Southwest Associated University and the Yunnan Military Academy (Jiangwutang). Inside the park, the atmosphere is filled with the "fire and smoke" of daily life; teahouses bustle with activity, and the air is often filled with the sounds of folk songs and traditional instruments played by local community groups. In summer, the lake is filled with blooming lotuses, while autumn brings golden hues to the willows, making it a year-round destination for photography and relaxation.