The Floating Forest of the Plateau: Paddling Through the Redwoods at Haihong Wetland Park

A City's Emerald Oasis

1.Located in the Xishan District of: Kunming, nestled closely against the northern shore of Dianchi Lake, lies a unique ecological gem known as Haihong Wetland Park. Covering an area of approximately 383 mu (about 25.5 hectares) at an altitude of 1,886 meters, this park represents a harmonious fusion of urban convenience and natural serenity. Unlike the vast open waters of Dianchi or the dense mountain forests nearby, Haihong Wetland Park offers a gentle and accessible ecological landscape. It stands as a testament to Kunming's "Spring City" reputation, blending the bustle of city life with the tranquility of nature. While not a UNESCO World Heritage site, its role as a key component of the Dianchi Lake ecological restoration project has made it a beloved destination for both locals and travelers seeking a quiet retreat.

The "Forest on Water"

The most distinctive feature of Haihong Wetland Park is its "Forest on Water." Originally, this area consisted of fish ponds along the banks of Dianchi Lake. Through ecological restoration efforts, the ponds were connected to the lake and planted with Metasequoia (Dawn Redwood) trees, creating a rare and enchanting landscape where the forest grows directly out of the water. Rows of tall Metasequoia trees stand in the shimmering water, their reflections creating a mesmerizing mirror effect. Visitors can navigate through this submerged forest on clear, transparent boats, gliding between the trunks under a canopy of leaves. This immersive experience allows for a unique perspective of the wetland's ecosystem, feeling the dappled sunlight filtering through the branches and observing the aquatic life beneath the clear surface.

A Palette of Seasons

2.Haihong Wetland: Park is a living landscape that changes dramatically with the seasons. In spring and summer, the Metasequoia forest is a vibrant emerald green, offering a cool, shaded refuge from the sun. However, the park reaches its visual peak in late autumn and early winter (typically November to December). During this time, the Metasequoia needles turn a brilliant rusty red and golden yellow. The entire forest transforms into a fiery painting reflected in the blue waters of Dianchi, creating a stunning visual contrast that attracts countless photographers and nature lovers. This seasonal transformation makes it one of the most photogenic spots in Kunming, often described as a fairytale landscape.

Ecological Harmony and Recreation

Beyond the water forest, the park features a well-designed network of ecological greenways and viewing corridors that weave through the landscape. These paths are perfect for cycling, jogging, or a leisurely stroll, offering expansive views of the wetland vegetation and the open waters of Dianchi Lake. The park serves as a sanctuary for biodiversity, attracting egrets, wild ducks, and other waterfowl that make their home among the reeds and trees. It is not just a scenic spot but a functional "urban kidney," purifying the water flowing into Dianchi and regulating the local microclimate.

Sunset Over the Sleeping Beauty

The park's location on the eastern side of Dianchi makes it a prime spot for sunset viewing. From the southwest viewing platforms, visitors can look out across the vast lake towards the Western Hills (Xishan). As the sun dips below the horizon, the silhouette of the mountains—often likened to a "Sleeping Beauty"—is outlined against a sky ablaze with orange and purple hues. The interplay of the sunset, the shimmering lake surface, and the swaying reeds creates a moment of profound peace and natural beauty, solidifying Haihong Wetland Park's status as a must-visit destination for those looking to experience the poetic side of Kunming.