Your English-speaking guide and private car will pick you up right at your hotel lobby, with a smooth 1.5-hour ride to Dian Lake. On the way, your guide will share fascinating tales about the destination—feel free to ask any questions that pop into your head! As Yunnan’s largest freshwater lake and China’s sixth-largest one, Dian Lake is embraced by mountains on all sides, creating a postcard-perfect backdrop. Follow your guide to wander the lakeside park, where you can soak in the serene views and watch flocks of birds flitting above the water.

One-sentence history recap: Dian Lake has served as a natural water source and cultural landmark for Kunming since ancient times, witnessing the city’s development over millennia.

Next up, hop on a convenient cable car to explore West Hill—an oasis of lush forests and blooming flowers, far away from the city’s hustle and bustle. Tucked away in this scenic spot, the hill lives up to its reputation as “the most pleasant environment in the world”, offering a peaceful retreat for nature lovers.

One-sentence history recap: West Hill has been a revered scenic and religious site since the Tang Dynasty, attracting poets, scholars and pilgrims for over a thousand years.

Your first stop in West Hill is Dragon Gate, a cliffside landmark that treats you to breathtaking panoramic views of Dian Lake and the sprawling Kunming cityscape. Standing atop this vantage point, you’ll have the perfect view to capture postcard-worthy photos.

One-sentence history recap: Dragon Gate was carved into the West Hill cliffs during the Qing Dynasty, with its construction spanning over 70 years to create the iconic cliffside passage and pavilions.

Continue your journey to Sanqing Pavilion, a stunning structure perched precariously on the cliff face—looking just like a “castle in the air”. Wander through its ancient halls and courtyards, as your guide introduces you to the stories of Taoism culture rooted here, while enjoying unobstructed views of Dian Lake below.

One-sentence history recap: Sanqing Pavilion was built in the Ming Dynasty to honor the Three Pure Ones of Taoism, and it has been renovated multiple times over centuries to preserve its architectural charm.

If time and interest permit, pay a visit to Taihua Temple—the oldest temple in West Hill. First constructed in the Yuan Dynasty (1206–1368), the temple is renowned for its grounds filled with rare and exotic flowers, which add a splash of color to the ancient architecture. Take a moment to stroll around and soak in the tranquil, spiritual atmosphere.

One-sentence history recap: Taihua Temple, founded in the Yuan Dynasty, is West Hill’s most ancient temple and has long been a sacred spot for Buddhist practitioners and nature admirers.

In the afternoon, head to Anning Hot Spring Resort for a well-deserved 2-hour relaxation session in the outdoor hot springs. The spring water here gushes from 1,230 meters underground, rich in minerals and trace elements that work wonders for your body.

Indulging in these hot springs offers fantastic benefits: