Natural Scenery
Xishan Scenic Area
Kunming, China
5-8 hours
About
Xishan Scenic Area stands on the west bank of Dianchi Lake, a national 4A scenic spot known as the Sleeping Beauty Mountain for its unique mountain silhouette resembling a lying maiden. It stretches several kilometers along the lake, gathering ancient architectures including Huating Temple, Taihua Temple, Longmen Grottoes and cliff stone carvings. Visitors can hike mountain trails or take the large sightseeing cable car up the ridge to overlook the entire Dianchi Lake and Kunming city skyline. The general park ticket covers mountain trails and temple areas, while Longmen grottoes and cable car rides are separate optional paid projects.
Travel Tips
- Seniors aged 65 and above get free entry to the mountain scenic zone upon presenting identity cards.
- The mountain has long stone steps and steep slopes; wear non-slip comfortable sports shoes.
- Strong sunlight and lake wind on the ridge all year, prepare sunscreen, hats and windproof thin jackets.
- Weekends and holidays have huge crowds for cable cars; arrive before opening hours to cut waiting time.
- Do not touch or damage ancient cliff stone carvings to protect precious cultural relics.
- Bus lines and ferry boats from Haigeng Dam connect to the mountain foot; large parking lot available for self-driving tourists.
- The top viewing platform offers the best panoramic view of Dianchi Lake at sunset.
Facilities
ParkingPhotography Allowed
Admission
¥30/ adult
Child¥15
Senior¥15
Opening Hours
Mon08:30 - 17:00
Tue08:30 - 17:00
Wed08:30 - 17:00
Thu08:30 - 17:00
Fri08:30 - 17:00
Sat08:30 - 17:30
Sun08:30 - 17:30
Best Time to Visit
Sunset hours for full lake views; spring and autumn for mild hiking weather.