The City’s Living Room by the Lake: Seagulls, Sunsets, and the Sleeping Beauty at Haigeng Park

The Emerald Arm of Dianchi Lake

1.Located in the Xishan District of: Kunming, Haigeng Park is affectionately known as the "City Living Room" of the Spring City. Stretching approximately 2.5 kilometers along the northern shore of Dianchi Lake, the park is situated on a natural long dyke—"Haigeng"—which literally translates to "ridge in the sea." This geographical feature acts like an emerald arm gently embracing the lake, historically separating the inner and outer sections of Dianchi. With an average altitude of 1,886 meters, the park serves not only as a crucial ecological barrier for the city but also as a beloved leisure destination where the rhythm of urban life slows down to match the gentle lapping of the lake’s waves.

A Window to the "Sleeping Beauty"

The park offers arguably the best panoramic vantage point to admire the Western Hills (Xishan). From the dyke, the undulating skyline of the hills resembles a "Sleeping Beauty" lying gracefully upon the water, her hair cascading into the lake. This visual dialogue between the mountain and the water defines the "Mountain and Water City" aesthetic of Kunming. Whether viewed through the morning mist or under the golden hues of sunset, the combination of the vast Dianchi waters and the silhouette of the Western Hills creates a painting of natural grandeur that attracts photographers and nature lovers year-round.

The Winter Dance of the Red-Billed Gulls

2.One of the most spectacular phenomena at: Haigeng Park occurs annually from November to March, when tens of thousands of red-billed gulls migrate from Siberia to spend the winter in the warmer climes of Kunming. During these months, the park transforms into a lively stage for human-nature interaction. Visitors flock to the waterfront to feed and photograph the white elves of the lake, creating a heartwarming scene of harmony. The sight of countless gulls dancing against the backdrop of blue sky, green water, and distant mountains has become a signature ecological landmark of the city.

Eucalyptus Avenues and Ecological History

Walking along the park's paths, visitors are shaded by majestic, century-old eucalyptus trees. These towering giants are silent witnesses to the region's history, adding a sense of depth and tranquility to the landscape. The park's evolution reflects the changing relationship between the people of Kunming and Dianchi Lake—from the "reclaim land from the lake" era of the 1960s to the modern emphasis on "returning land to the lake" and ecological restoration. Today, Haigeng Park stands as a green corridor that integrates wetlands, garden landscapes, and open water, functioning as a "natural air conditioner" for the city.

A Hub of Leisure and Culture

Haigeng Park is strategically located adjacent to the Yunnan Ethnic Village and the Haigeng Dam, forming a comprehensive tourism cluster. It serves as a perfect starting point for a day trip; visitors can stroll along the dyke, take a boat ride on the lake, or even catch the ropeway (cable car) that connects the park area to the Dragon Gate on the Western Hills. This connectivity allows travelers to seamlessly blend natural sightseeing with cultural exploration, making Haigeng Park an essential stop for anyone wishing to understand the spirit of Kunming.