Daguan Park

Located in the southwestern suburb of Kunming, Yunnan, Daguan Park is a charming lakeside retreat set along Daguan Stream, which flows south into Lake Dian. It offers a wonderful glimpse into local life, where you can watch people drinking tea, flying kites, sitting, and boating. The park's main focal point is Daguan Lou (Grand View Pavilion), a square, three-storeyed pavilion originally built in 1696 by Wang Jiwen and later restored in 1883.

Designed to enhance the Kangxi Emperor's enjoyment of the distant Western Hills, the pavilion today serves as a rich storehouse of calligraphy celebrating the area's natural charms. As you wander through shady walks and past serene pools, you will discover the famous 118-character verse carved into the gateposts by Qing dynasty scholar Sun Ran (also known as Sun Rangweng)—reputed to be the longest set of rhyming couplets in China. Beyond the historic structure, you can take an hour-long boat cruise down the willow-lined waterway toward the northern shore of Lake Dian, the largest lake on the Yunnan–Guizhou Plateau.

Daguan Park seamlessly blends deep literary history, scenic water views, and vibrant local culture for a memorable visit.

What to see at Daguan Park

• Daguan Lou, a three-storey pavilion filled with historic calligraphy
• The famous 118-character Long Couplet by Qing scholar Sun Ran
• Hour-long boat cruises along the willow-lined Daguan Stream
• Views stretching across Lake Dian toward the distant Western Hills
• Shady walks, pools, and local activities like kite flying and drinking tea

Visiting tips

Take an hour-long cruise along the willow-lined waterway to enjoy serene views as you travel toward the northern shore of Lake Dian.

How long: 1-2 hours · Best time: Daytime

How to get there & what’s nearby

Daguan Park is easy to reach on Kunming’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Yunnan Provincial Museum and Yunnan Nationalities Museum. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Kunming travel guide.