Haigeng Park: A Journey to a Seagull Sanctuary on the Shores of Kunming’s Dianchi Lake

The Source of Dianchi: A Poignant Legend of a Hunter and a Dragon Maiden

Dianchi Lake—the setting for Haigeng Park—is steeped in an ancient legend. It is said that long ago, the region now known as Kunming was nothing but a parched, arid land. A handsome hunter, bidding farewell to his newlywed wife, traversed countless mountains and rivers to reach the distant East Sea in search of a water source. Upon reaching the seaside, he spotted a hawk clutching a small red fish in its talons; drawing his bow and nocking an arrow, he shot down the hawk and rescued the little red fish. It turned out that the little red fish was the Third Princess of the Dragon King of the East Sea. Captivated by the hunter's valor and heroism, the princess wished to marry him. However, the hunter longed for his wife back home; seizing the opportunity while the Dragon King was away, he broke free from his shackles, filled his belly with fresh water, and returned to Kunming. Tragically, his wife had died of grief from missing him too much, transforming into the "Sleeping Beauty Mountain." Overcome with sorrow, the hunter spat out the water from his belly, threw himself against the mountain, and died, transforming into Dianchi Lake. Since then, Sleeping Beauty Mountain has lain quietly along the western shore of Dianchi Lake, resting in eternal embrace with the water.

From Long Embankment to Park—Sixty Years of Haigeng

The history of Haigeng predates the park itself by a wide margin. This naturally formed, wedge-shaped embankment—stretching from Haigeng Village in the east to the foot of the Western Hills in the west—has served as a natural boundary for Dianchi Lake since ancient times. In the early 1960s, Haigeng Park was officially inaugurated. Initially staffed by a mere twenty-six administrators and operating under the jurisdiction of the Kunming Municipal Parks Bureau, it functioned more as a modest green space providing a place of respite for local citizens—quietly standing guard by the shores of Dianchi Lake and bearing witness to the city's evolving landscape. Following the establishment of the Kunming Dianchi National Tourism Resort in 1992, the park entered a period of rapid expansion; a new type of park—seamlessly integrating tourism, leisure, entertainment, and resort amenities—gradually took shape. Today, Haigeng Park has become a shining emblem and a proud calling card for the "City of Eternal Spring."

In-Depth Exploration: Discover More of Yunnan’s Natural and Cultural Wonders>> [Pingyao Ancient City]

Nature’s Masterpiece—A Four-Season Tableau on the Shores of Dianchi

The natural landscape of Haigeng Park is an eternal dance of water, mountains, seagulls, and the interplay of light and shadow.

The Scenery of Dianchi: The Vast, Azure Waves of the "Pearl of the Plateau"

To its south, the park borders the vast, azure expanse of Dianchi Lake, boasting a shoreline that stretches for 2.5 kilometers. Dianchi is the largest freshwater lake in Yunnan Province and is renowned as the "Pearl of the Plateau." Standing on the park's seaside promenade and gazing out, one beholds a boundless, shimmering expanse of water, distant mountains resembling strokes of dark ink, and the scattered silhouettes of sailboats. At dawn, a veil of mist drifts across the lake, causing "Sleeping Beauty Mountain" to appear and vanish like a dream; at dusk, the setting sun dyes the waters a radiant gold as seagulls return to their roosts—a scene of breathtaking beauty.

Sleeping Beauty Mountain: The Eternal Sentinel of the Western Hills

Only at Haigeng Park can one truly behold the full, majestic profile of Sleeping Beauty Mountain—with its distinct facial features, graceful contours, and flowing "hair," it joins with the setting sun to compose a magnificent tableau. The Western Hills appear as a maiden lying gracefully on her side, quietly standing guard over Dianchi Lake. The scenery shifts with the seasons: spring brings a riot of wildflowers; summer offers a canopy of lush greenery; autumn paints the forests in vibrant hues; and winter is bathed in the warm glow of the sun.

Red-billed Gulls: The White Spirits of Siberia

Every year, from late October through March of the following year, tens of thousands of red-billed gulls migrate thousands of kilometers from Siberia to winter in the warm climate along the shores of Dianchi Lake in Kunming. Haigeng Park and its surrounding waters serve as one of the premier locations for observing and feeding these delightful avian spirits. The skies filled with soaring gulls, the azure waters of Dianchi Lake, and the distant Sleeping Beauty Mountain combine to create Kunming’s most vibrant and soul-soothing winter landscape. During the early morning hours—between 8:00 AM and 10:30 AM—the gulls are at their hungriest and most active; the spectacle of them vying for food is magnificent, and the soft lighting is ideal for photography.

Photography Tips: During the gull-watching season, it is recommended to use "burst mode" to capture the dynamic moments of the gulls in flight. The "golden hour"—the period just before and after sunset—offers the best lighting for photography; using the shimmering waters of Dianchi Lake and the silhouette of the Western Hills as a backdrop allows for the creation of truly exceptional images.

Human Ingenuity: Cultural Imprints Along the Long Embankment

The cultural landscapes within Haigeng Park embody the harmonious coexistence of nature and human artistry. The "Twin-Trunked Eucalyptus": A Century-Old Symbol of Love

Upon entering the park, you will encounter two century-old eucalyptus trees with intertwined branches—one tall and stately, the other graceful and slender—resembling a pair of devoted lovers gazing out at Dianchi Lake hand in hand. These two ancient trees, growing side-by-side and having weathered a century of storms, have become the enduring symbol of love at Haigeng Park, attracting countless couples who pause here to capture cherished memories.

The Haigeng Causeway: A Geographic Marvel Spanning the Lake

The "Haigeng" (Sea Ridge) itself constitutes a unique geographic feature. This wedge-shaped causeway, cutting across Dianchi Lake from east to west, effectively divides the lake—which covers over 300 square kilometers—into two distinct sections: the vast, open "Outer Lake" to the south of the ridge, and the tranquil "Grass Lake" to the north. As you stroll along the causeway, the stark yet fascinating contrast between the expansive Outer Lake on one side and the serene Grass Lake on the other creates a truly captivating experience.

The Lakeside Promenade and Scenic Pavilions

The park features a variety of scenic structures, including a lakeside promenade, picturesque pavilions, and a stone boat pavilion, all set amidst lush green lawns and vibrant groves of cherry blossoms. These structures blend traditional and modern architectural styles, serving not only as peaceful spots for relaxation but also as prime vantage points for capturing panoramic views of Dianchi Lake.

The Dragon King Temple: The Rebirth of a 300-Year-Old Shrine

Located in the western section of the park, adjacent to the Longmen Cableway, stands the Haigeng Dragon King Temple. Originally built during the transition between the late Ming and early Qing dynasties—over 300 years ago—this ancient temple underwent restoration and reconstruction in 2010 before reopening to the public free of charge. Covering a total area of ​​1,740.9 square meters, the complex consists of a front hall, a rear hall, flanking side halls, and two watchtower pavilions. The "revival" of this ancient shrine adds a layer of profound historical and cultural depth to the park.

Five Must-Do Activities to Unlock the Best of Haigeng Park

Birdwatching and Feeding: Intimate Encounters with the "White Spirits" from Siberia

Key Highlight: The birdwatching season (November through March) is the absolute highlight of a visit to Haigeng Park—an experience you simply cannot miss! Experience: Purchase a bag of specialized seagull feed, hold it high above your head or rest it flat in your palm, and wait for the seagulls to fly down and peck at it. Hundreds—even thousands—of seagulls will circle overhead, vying for the food in a truly spectacular scene. The best times for seagull viewing are early morning (8:00 AM – 10:30 AM) and late afternoon (3:00 PM – 5:30 PM).

Location: The lakeside areas of Haigeng Park, and the Haigeng Dam (located immediately to the north of the park; spanning approximately 2.5 kilometers, it offers expansive views and is where the flocks of seagulls are most concentrated).

Tip: Feed the seagulls only with the specialized feed or plain white bread (free of oil and salt); do not feed them any harmful foods.

Take the Western Hills Cable Car: Overlook Dianchi Lake and the Kunming Panorama

Experience: Board the cable car from Haigeng Park for a direct journey across the water to the Dragon Gate (Longmen) in the Western Hills. As the cable car ascends slowly, a panoramic view of Dianchi Lake unfolds beneath you—vast expanses of azure water, the "Sleeping Beauty Mountain" reclining gracefully in the distance, and the city of Kunming faintly visible on the horizon. Upon reaching the Western Hills, you can explore famous scenic spots such as the Dragon Gate Grottoes and the Sanqing Pavilion.

Best Time to Visit: Take the cable car back down the mountain at dusk to admire the sunset over Dianchi Lake and watch as the city lights begin to twinkle to life.

Boat on Dianchi Lake: Experience the Vastness of the "Pearl of the Plateau"

Experience: The park offers various water activities, including luxury yacht tours, allowing you to cruise freely across Dianchi Lake. A gentle breeze sweeps across the water as you gaze into the distance at the graceful silhouette of the "Sleeping Beauty Mountain" and look down at the shimmering blue ripples of the lake—a perfect way to immerse yourself in the unique charm of this "Pearl of the Plateau."

Timing: Available year-round; spring and summer offer pleasant water temperatures, while autumn brings clear skies and crisp air.

Picnic and Camp on the Lawn: Savor the "Slow Life" of the Spring City

Experience: The park features expansive, lush green lawns—the perfect setting for a picnic, sunbathing, or simply unwinding and daydreaming. Bring along a picnic blanket and some snacks to enjoy Kunming's warm sunshine and gentle breezes with your family and friends on the grass.

Family-Friendly Recommendation: Children can run and play freely on the lawns, observe the seagulls and waterfowl by the lakeside, and connect with nature. Savoring Authentic Yunnan Flavors: A Culinary Journey in Kunming

Must-Try Delicacies: Qiaoxiangyuan "Crossing-the-Bridge" Rice Noodles (available at the park's on-site branch), Yunnan Steamed Pot Chicken, Wild Mushroom Hot Pot, Flower Pastries, and Grilled Milk Fan.

Recommended Dining Spots: Snack stalls and convenience stores located within the park, or head to restaurants in the city center after your visit.

Signature Experience: During the seagull season, there is a unique charm to enjoying a freshly baked Yunnan Flower Pastry while feeding the seagulls.

Suggested Itinerary

Half-Day "Seagull Watching & Lakeside Leisure" Highlights Tour (Ideal for those with limited time):

Arrive at the park at 9:00 AM → Stroll along the lake to the Lakeside Promenade for a distant view of "Sleeping Beauty Mountain" (20 minutes) → Observe the black-headed gulls and enjoy interactive feeding (40 minutes) → Visit the century-old "Twin Eucalyptus Trees" and the Dragon King Temple (20 minutes) → Take a boat ride across Dianchi Lake (30–45 minutes) → Relax with a picnic on the lawn → Tour concludes around 12:30 PM.

IntoTravelChina Tip: The park tends to be crowded during the seagull season, so early arrival is recommended. In winter, there is a significant temperature difference between day and night; be sure to bring a warm coat, and remember to apply sun protection as the midday sun can be intense. One-Day "Panoramic Dianchi Lake" Immersive Tour (Recommended Pairing: Western Hills or Yunnan Nationalities Village):

Option A (Western Hills Combo): Morning — Seagull Watching & Boat Cruise at Haigeng Park (2 hours) → Take Cable Car up to the Western Hills Dragon Gate (1.5 hours; enjoy panoramic views of Dianchi Lake) → Lunch in the Western Hills area (1 hour) → Afternoon — Explore the Western Hills Forest Park (2 hours) → Take Cable Car back down to Haigeng Park to admire the Dianchi Lake sunset (1 hour).

Option B (Nationalities Village Combo): Morning — Seagull Watching, Boat Cruise, & Lakeside Relaxation at Haigeng Park (3 hours) → Walk to the Yunnan Nationalities Village (adjacent to Haigeng Park) for Lunch (1 hour) → Afternoon — Explore the Nationalities Village and experience the unique cultures of 25 ethnic minority groups (3 hours) → Evening — Return to Haigeng Park to watch the sunset.

IntoTravelChina Advantage: We can book the perfect accommodation to suit your needs, seamlessly coordinate the transitions between all your activities, and provide you with a detailed tour itinerary map and safety guidelines.

Professional Guides: IntoTravelChina offers fully customized itineraries—including your own private guide, transportation, and activity arrangements—ensuring a truly immersive and worry-free travel experience. >> [Consult for Customization Now]

How to Get There: Easily Accessible from Kunming City Center

Haigeng Park is located in the southern suburbs of Kunming and boasts extremely convenient transportation links.

Subway (Highly Recommended): Take Kunming Metro Line 5 and alight at "Yuhucun" Station. Upon exiting the station, walk approximately 1.2 kilometers or ride a shared bicycle to reach Haigeng Park (near the West Gate) or the Haigeng Dam.

Public Bus: To reach Haigeng Park, you can take routes such as 24, 44, 73, 94, 135, or 233, and alight at the "Haigeng Park (Dianchi Road)" or "Haigeng Changdi" stops. To reach the Haigeng Dam, you can take routes such as 171, 183, 264, or K31, and alight at the "Haigeng Dam Depot" or "Guanjing Road" stops.

Self-Driving / Taxi / Ride-Hailing: Set your navigation destination to "Haigeng Park" or "Haigeng Dam." There are multiple parking lots available near the park's Main Gate, West Gate, and the Haigeng Dam area.

Important Tip: During the gull-watching season (November to March of the following year)—especially on weekends and public holidays—parking spaces for private vehicles are extremely scarce. It is highly recommended to prioritize public transportation and try to visit during off-peak hours whenever possible.

Best Time to Visit

Haigeng Park is a delightful destination in any season; however, winter (November to March of the following year) marks the arrival of the red-billed gulls and is considered the park's most enchanting period.

Winter Gull-Watching Season (November – March): This is the absolute highlight of a visit to Haigeng Park! Thousands of red-billed gulls flock here to overwinter, making gull-watching and feeding the birds the quintessential experience. The main flocks of gulls begin arriving in mid-to-late November, with peak numbers occurring between December and February. Kunming enjoys mild winters, with daytime temperatures hovering around 15–20°C, making it ideal for outdoor activities.

Spring & Autumn (March–May; September–October): The climate is pleasant, and the flora is lush and vibrant. Spring brings blooming cherry blossoms, while autumn offers clear skies and crisp air—making these seasons perfect for boating on Dianchi Lake or enjoying a picnic on the lawns. Summer (June–August): Kunming enjoys a cool summer climate with average temperatures ranging from 20°C to 25°C, making it an ideal summer retreat. However, please be mindful of rainfall during the rainy season and remember to bring rain gear.

Best Times to Visit: Early morning (8:00 AM – 10:30 AM) is the best time for seagull watching, as the birds are most active and there are fewer crowds. In the evening (after 5:30 PM), the lighting during sunset is exquisite, making it the "golden hour" for photography.

Tickets and Opening Hours

Ticket Prices: Haigeng Park offers free admission; no ticket purchase is required to enter the park itself.

Park Attractions: Separate tickets must be purchased for specific attractions within the park, such as boat rides, the cableway, and certain amusement rides. Please refer to the posted rates on-site for specific pricing.

Opening Hours: The park is open all day (though lighting is limited at night, so daytime visits are recommended).

Seagull Season Tips: The peak season for seagull watching runs from November through March of the following year. Crowds tend to be heavy on weekends and public holidays; we recommend visiting on weekdays or arriving early in the day to avoid the rush.

Accommodation Options

Dianchi Lake Resort Area (Recommended): Located in the vicinity of Haigeng Park, this area offers a wide range of accommodations—from high-end resort hotels to charming boutique guesthouses—all within walking distance of the park and the Yunnan Nationalities Village. Reference Prices: Budget-friendly options range from 200–400 RMB/night; mid-range comfort options from 400–800 RMB/night; and high-end luxury options start at 800 RMB/night.

Kunming City Center: This area offers a broad selection of accommodations, ranging from budget-friendly chain hotels to five-star luxury properties, making it suitable for travelers with specific standards regarding lodging quality. To reach Haigeng Park from the city center, take Metro Line 5 (a journey of approximately 30 minutes).

Western Hills (Xishan) Area: Ideal for travelers wishing to explore the Western Hills in depth. You can stay at the foot of the hills and hike up early the next morning to catch the sunrise.

IntoTravelChina Accommodation Booking Tips:

We strongly recommend planning your itinerary and booking your accommodation 1–2 months in advance—especially during the peak seagull season (November through March)—as availability can be limited. Lake-view hotels in the Dianchi Lake Resort Area are often in high demand. By booking through us, you gain access to real-time room availability and the ability to bundle your accommodation, attraction tickets, and transportation into a single package. This often results in cost-saving package deals and ensures a seamless, hassle-free travel experience. Simply let us know your budget and specific requirements, and we will help you find the perfect "lakeside retreat" in the "City of Eternal Spring." >>[Click to contact IntoTravelChina Travel Consultant]

Haigeng Park is by no means the end of your travels, but rather the perfect starting point for exploring Kunming—the "City of Eternal Spring."

Classic 2-Day Loop: Day 1: Haigeng Park (Seagull Watching + Boat Cruise + Cable Car) + Western Hills Dragon Gate → Day 2: Stone Forest Scenic Area (A World Natural Heritage Site and Karst Geological Wonder). This classic route seamlessly blends the scenic beauty of Dianchi Lake with spectacular geological formations.

Urban Culture 1-Day Route: Haigeng Park + Yunnan Nationalities Village (Located right next to the park; experience the unique cultures of 25 ethnic minority groups) → Daguan Pavilion (Ascend the tower for panoramic views of Dianchi Lake) → Green Lake Park (Another prime spot for seagull watching within the city center) → Nanping Walking Street (Savor authentic Yunnanese cuisine).

Southern Yunnan Charm Route: Connect Haigeng Park with destinations such as Fuxian Lake in Yuxi, the Ancient City of Jianshui, and the Yuanyang Rice Terraces to experience the full spectrum of natural beauty and cultural heritage in Southern Yunnan.

The story of Haigeng Park is woven from the millennia-old legends of Dianchi Lake, the warm sunshine of the "City of Eternal Spring," and the epic, long-distance migration of the Siberian black-headed gulls. As you step into this "urban oasis on the shores of Dianchi Lake," you will not only enjoy intimate interactions with thousands of these "white spirits" but also—amidst the mountains, waters, flora, and fauna—truly immerse yourself in the leisurely pace and natural beauty of this spring-like city.

IntoTravelChina specializes in crafting in-depth, personalized, and hassle-free travel experiences throughout China. Our travel experts are here to provide you with:

Tailor-Made Itineraries: We design the perfect route—incorporating Haigeng Park and other surrounding attractions in Kunming—based entirely on your interests and available time.

One-Stop Service: We handle all the details—including attraction tickets, unique accommodations, transportation transfers, local guides, and activity bookings.

Exclusive Experiences: We arrange special perks such as expert guidance on the best times for seagull watching, VIP access to the Western Hills Cable Car, customized Dianchi Lake boat cruises, and more.

Let your visit to Haigeng Park be more than just sightseeing; let it be an immersive journey into the leisurely lifestyle of the "City of Eternal Spring."

Start Planning Your Journey Now

We invite you to contact our professional travel consultants; we will provide you with a personalized itinerary proposal and price quote within 24 hours. >> [Click to contact IntoTravelChina Travel Consultant]