The Floating Forest of Tulips: A Seasonal Symphony of Color and Water at Laoyuhe Wetland Park

The Ecological Jewel of Dianchi’s East Bank

1.Located along the Huanhu East Road in the: Chenggong District of Kunming, Laoyuhe Wetland Park serves as a vital ecological barrier for Dianchi Lake and a beloved recreational space for locals and visitors alike. Covering an area of approximately 850 mu (about 56.7 hectares) at an altitude of 1,886 meters, this park represents the successful transformation of the region from a traditional fishing area into a modern ecological wetland. The name "Laoyuhe" translates to "Fishing River," harking back to the history when local villagers used to catch fish in this river mouth. Today, it stands as a prime example of the "return the lake to the nature" initiative, blending the raw beauty of the plateau lake with meticulously designed landscapes.

The Enchanted "Water Forest"

The park's most iconic feature is its magnificent Metasequoia (Dawn Redwood) Forest, often referred to as a "Forest on Water." Thousands of中山 (Zhongshan) cypress trees stand in the shallow waters, creating a surreal and immersive landscape. A well-designed wooden boardwalk winds its way through the heart of this submerged forest, allowing visitors to walk amidst the trunks. The forest undergoes a dramatic transformation with the seasons: in spring and summer, the canopy is a lush, vibrant green that cools the air; come late autumn and winter (typically December to January), the needles turn a deep, rusty red, reflecting in the water to create a stunning oil-painting-like effect that attracts photographers from all over.

A Sea of Tulips in Spring

While the water forest is a year-round attraction, Laoyuhe Wetland Park reaches a peak of visual splendor in spring (February to March), when it hosts a massive Tulip Exhibition. Millions of tulip bulbs, imported from the Netherlands, bloom in a riot of colors—reds, yellows, purples, and pinks—spread out under the tall trees and along the lake. This "Ocean of Flowers" set against the backdrop of the blue Dianchi Lake and the green wetlands creates a visual feast that rivals famous European gardens. It is one of the most popular times to visit, turning the park into a vibrant canvas of life and color.

2.Interactive Family Fun: The "Fishing" Experience

Staying true to its name, the park offers a unique interactive experience that sets it apart from other wetlands. A dedicated "Fishing Experience Zone" allows families and children to wade into the shallow, safe waters of the river mouth to catch small fish with nets. This hands-on activity connects visitors with the park's history and the simple joys of nature. It transforms the wetland from a passive viewing area into an active playground, making it a favorite destination for family outings on weekends.

Birdwatching and Sunset Views

As a restored wetland ecosystem, Laoyuhe is a haven for biodiversity. During the winter months, migratory birds, including the famous black-headed gulls and egrets, flock to the park. The dense vegetation and protected ecological islands provide ideal nesting and resting grounds. Visitors can observe these birds from the viewing platforms without disturbing them. Additionally, the park’s location on the eastern shore makes it a prime spot for watching the sunset. As the sun dips behind the Western Hills across the lake, the sky and water are painted in hues of gold and crimson, offering a moment of profound tranquility and natural beauty.