Shuishan Park in Kunming, Overlooked by Most | A Local Secret

In the bustling August at Green Lake, locals often spend 40 minutes heading to Laoyu River for a different kind of summer. People come to Laoyu River because of the seagulls, the forest, the sunset glow, and for many, truly because of fishing! But the vast Metasequoia forest along Laoyu River is the most captivating. The lush branches block most of the sky, sunlight only filters through the gaps in the green leaves onto the walkway. The gentle sound of flowing water echoes softly through the woods, accompanying you wherever you go. The light brown trunks and deep green leaves reflect on the water like a painting. Visitors paddle transparent boats, stirring ripples with each stroke. Red chairs tied to tree trunks—what kind of artist thought up such a wonderful combination? It adds a mysterious charm to the forest. There are also children with nets fishing, squatting by the shore, peering into the water carefully searching for passing little fish. Of course, most of the time it’s just a futile effort, but I’ve done it too. Summer Escape: Kunming Laoyu River Wetland Park 🚗 Transportation: Take Line 4 to Xiangfeng Street, then taxi / convenient parking for self-driving Boat Ride 🎫: 80 RMB/hour for two people, 100 RMB/hour for three 🛵 Bicycle: Not necessary to rent; Laoyu River is manageable on foot, many places are inaccessible or hard to park by bike, walking through the forest paths is more convenient ～ Tips: The food at Laoyu River is generally not very good, so bring some snacks or eat over at the Qicai area. Nearby Attractions: Haiyan Village (great for sunsets), Wolong Valley Fishing Village (less crowded), Dounan Flower Market (the evening market is where the real bargains are; daytime flowers are expensive and not great), Yupu Hanquan Wetland Park (a lesser-known park favored by locals), Gudian Boutique Wetland Park (one of the few docks on Dianchi Lake, very cinematic scenery)