Historical & Natural Significance
Cuihu Park, established during the Yuan Dynasty (1271–1368), evolved from a滇池 (Dianchi Lake) bay called Caihaizi ("Vegetable Lake") to a cultural landmark. Its current name, meaning "Emerald Lake," reflects its lush willows and lotus-covered waters. Key features include:
- Diamond Pagoda: A 15th-century structure built with snail shells and sticky rice mortar, weighing 1,000+ tons.
- "Ten-Mile Lotus": Summer transforms the lake into a floral paradise, while winter hosts 20,000+ red-headed gulls from Siberia (November–March).
Cultural Highlights
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Architectural Treasures:
- Ruan & Tang Dykes: Built in 1834 and 1919, these causeways divide the lake into five scenic zones, adorned with bridges like Swallow Bridge and Lotus-Picking Bridge.
- Huxinting (Lake Heart Pavilion): A Qing-era teahouse where locals practice Tai Chi and play traditional instruments.
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Ethnic Culture:
- Yi Torch Festival: Held annually in June, featuring bonfires and folk dances.
- Intangible Heritage: Workshops on Wutong Zouyin (black-copper silver-inlay craft) and Yunnan Go chess.
Visitor Experience
- Activities:
- Boat rentals ($5/hour) to explore islands like Southwest Island (home to a聂耳 statue).
- Cycling the 3.6-km lakeside trail linking to Yunnan University and Old Town.
- Gastronomy: Try Guandu Baba (sesame cakes) and Crossing-the-Bridge Rice Noodles at nearby stalls.
Conservation & Access
- Eco-efforts: 2024 upgrades introduced bird-friendly plants like Huanghua Fenglingmu, boosting biodiversity.
- Free entry (6:00–24:00); best visited at sunrise. Metro Line 1 to Yunnan University Station.
Pro Tip: Combine with a visit to Yunnan Ethnic Village (15-min drive) for a full-day cultural immersion.