The Green Lake Park

Located in northern Kunming, opposite Yunnan University, Green Lake Park is a beautiful urban park and a popular destination for tourists. Its emerald waters, elegant trees, and lotus ponds offer a delightful winter getaway, perfect for feeding and photographing the thousands of red-billed gulls. Centered around Green Lake, the park is divided into five scenic areas by Ruan Causeway, which runs north-south, and Tang Causeway, which runs east-west. The Lake’s Heart Island scenic area features Qing Dynasty buildings such as the Lake Heart Pavilion and the Fish Viewing Tower. The Lake Heart Pavilion, also known as the “Biyi Pavilion,” boasts elegant yellow-tiled eaves and beautifully designed courtyards, serving as the venue for various exhibitions. To the southeast lie the Water Moon Pavilion and Goldfish Island; to the northeast lie the Bamboo Forest Island, Nine Dragon Pond, and the Zhichun Pavilion, where people gather during festivals to sing folk songs, creating a unique atmosphere. Willow trees rustle along the embankment, the fragrance of lotus flowers wafts through the lake, and pavilions and towers on the island add to the beauty and freshness of Green Lake. Autumn is a perfect time for viewing autumn leaves. Starting in late October, the maple trees in Cuihu Park gradually turn red, transforming from golden yellow to deep crimson overnight. The layered red maple forests blend beautifully with the lake, creating a breathtaking autumn landscape. Every year at the beginning of winter, thousands of red-billed gulls arrive from the north to spend the winter. This vibrant time brings Cuihu Park to its peak, with residents and tourists flocking to feed the birds and interact with them. This harmonious atmosphere adds endless joy to the park. After exploring Cuihu Lake, the four streets surrounding the park (Cuihu East Road, Cuihu South Road, Cuihu West Road, and Cuihu North Road) are lined with unique shops, cafes, and bars. You can spend a leisurely afternoon strolling around the lake, or immerse yourself in the vibrant nightlife as night falls. Cuihu Park is also close to the former site of the Yunnan Military Academy and Yunnan University, making them worth exploring.