If you are traveling near Kunming City in Yunnan Province, China, you should make time to explore Xishan Forest Park. Located just 15 kilometers west of the city in the Western Mountains (Xi Shan), this impressive national park covers approximately 442 hectares along the western edge of Dian Lake. As you wander through the lush area, you will discover that its highest peak, Mt.
Luohan, reaches an elevation of 2507.5 meters above sea level, standing about 620 meters above the surface of Dian Lake. Visiting Xishan Forest Park offers you a chance to see several unique scenic spots scattered throughout the forest. You can explore the famous Dragon Gate (Long Men) and Sanqing Ge, or visit peaceful historic sites like Huating Temple and Taihua Temple.
Music enthusiasts can also pay their respects at the tomb of Nie Er, a Kunming native who composed the Chinese National Anthem. Getting to the park is simple for your journey: public bus service connects Kunming city directly to the northern end of the park, or you can take an unforgettable cable car service from the Yunnan Ethnic Village straight over Dian Lake to the West Mountains.
What to see at Xishan Forest Park
- Dragon Gate (Long Men) scenic spot
- Huating Temple and Taihua Temple
- Sanqing Ge scenic spot
- Tomb of Chinese National Anthem composer Nie Er
Visiting tips
You can reach the West Mountains by taking a cable car service from the Yunnan Ethnic Village across Dian Lake.
How long: Half day · Best time: Daytime
How to get there & what’s nearby
Xishan Forest 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.
See the full Kunming travel guide for where to stay, the best time to visit and the top things to do.