In May, the Spring City unfolds a 71-kilometer ecological scroll along the shores of Dianchi Lake. The newly opened Phase I of the Dianchi Greenway, stretching from the Xinbaoxiang River to the beautiful road of Pachi Mountain, winds like an emerald ribbon that connects the shimmering waters of eight wetland parks and the curling smoke of 22 charming villages.

Photo from Kunming Public Cultural Cloud WeChat Official Account

The prime section of the Dianchi Greenway from Jiangwei Village to Haiyan Village captures the most captivating scenery of the Spring City: a 4-hour stroll or bike ride immerses travelers to encounter the vibrancy of wetlands, the brilliance of flower seas, the simplicity of ancient villages, and the grandeur of sunsets. Keep this guide handy and embark on a poetic journey through time and beauty!

First Stop: Wolong Ancient Fishing Village

Drive straight to the parking lot of Wolong Ancient Fishing Village. Parking costs 5 yuan per hour, with a daily cap of 30 yuan. This 600-year-old fishing village feels like a secret realm forgotten by time, with its rammed earth walls, bluestone paths, and "Yikeyin" residential houses perfectly recreating the old scenery of "Yupu Xingdeng."

It is recommended to start at the Wolong Village Museum to traverse through time with its worn artifacts and learn about the village’s past and present; then visit the Dianfeng Art Museum to experience the blend of art and culture, and finally take a break at the "Cibei" Café, enjoying a rich cup of coffee while gazing at the sparkling waters of Dianchi Lake—this is truly the essence of a laid-back life in Kunming!

Photo from Culture and Tourism of Kunming WeChat Official Account

Second Stop: Grass Bridge (Dianchi Greenway)

Cycling on the Grass Bridge is super smooth and beginner-friendly! This small bridge hidden among the reeds is a perfect spot for observing wetland ecology. Common moorhens, egretta garzettas, and grey herons nest here, and the rustling reeds sound like a springtime symphony orchestrated by nature. Don’t miss the bird-watching house shaped like a bird nest at the bridge's head. Through its hollow wooden slats, you can view grey herons standing gracefully amidst the reeds or gaze at the shimmering “fractured silver” light spots on the lake surface.

Rental Tips:

Single bike: 4 yuan per half hour

Double bike: 10 yuan per half hour

Four-person electric vehicle: 49 yuan per half hour

Photo from Culture and Tourism of Kunming WeChat Official Account

Tip: May is the blooming season for lavender! Wear a flowing white dress to take stunning photos, capturing the beauty akin to “Provence in Kunming” in no time.

Photo from Culture and Tourism of Kunming WeChat Official Account

Third Stop: Laoyuhe National Wetland Park

This place is a paradise of healing! Currently, entwined hydrangea macrophyllas are in full bloom with 16 varieties and 18,000 pots blossoming together, creating a moving oil painting of pink, blue, white, and purple. Strolling among them, even your breath carries the floral fragrance; the so-called "20-Minute Park Effect" is vividly demonstrated here—just 20 minutes, and all your pressures and worries will melt away.

Photo from Culture and Tourism of Kunming WeChat Official Account

Photo from Dianchi Tourism Golden Coastline WeChat Official Account

Tip: The blooming season for hydrangea macrophyllas lasts until early July, so those interested in flower viewing can make their plans!

Fourth Stop: Haiyan Village

As the grand finale of the itinerary, make sure to wait for the sunset here! This 600-year-old ancient fishing village offers one of the best vantage points for watching sunsets over Dianchi Lake. As twilight sets in and the sky turns crimson, the silhouette of Xishan Mountain and the shimmering surface of the lake combine to create a richly colored painting. It’s recommended to secure a good spot in advance and bring your camera to capture this unforgettable moment.

Photo from Yunnan.cn WeChat Official Account

Food Stops

Don’t forget to refuel during your ride! Here are some must-try foods:

Barbecue: freshly grilled tilapia that’s crispy on the outside and tender on the inside

Chenggong pea flour: smooth and tasty, a favorite among locals

Muguashui (ice jelly): refreshing and thirst-quenching, a summer essential

Freshly baked flower cakes: fragrant with roses, sweet but not cloying

Photo from Cultural Museum of Chenggong District Kunming City WeChat Official Account 

Perfect Conclusion

An 8-kilometer greenway offers a delightful 4-hour experience. From the break of dawn to the afterglow of sunset, the Dianchi Greenway weaves together the most beautiful scenes of Kunming. Whether it’s the simplicity of the ancient fishing village, the vibrancy of the wetlands, the brilliance of flower seas, or the grandeur of sunsets, each moment leaves a lasting impression. On your way back, consider stopping by the Chenggong University Town Night Market and savor a warm bowl of rice noodles to perfectly conclude this day’s journey.

Save this guide, gather a few friends, and set off on a spontaneous escape to Dianchi Lake! Let the May breeze gently brush through your hair, and let the beauty of the Spring City leave a lasting impression on your heart!