Western Hills of Kunming City are located about 15 kilometers to the western suburb of Kunming which consist of Huating Hill, Taihua Hill, Luohan Hill and etc. The hills stretch over 40 kilometers at altitude between 1900 meters to 2350 meters above sea level. When you look from afar, the hills look like a giant sleeping Buddha and therefore the hills are named as Sleeping Buddha Hills by some of the locals. However, the hills are also named as Sleeping Beauty Hills as the hills look like a pretty lady lying beside Dianchi Lake with her face upward and her face, chest as well as legs can be clearly seen.
The Western Hills has gained a reputation as the most pleasant environment in the world throughout the century. Besides having numerous artificial architectures, the hills are also blessed with evergreen forest and flourishing flowers throughout the years which create a wonderful environment for the tourists.
Huating Temple which located at the middle of the Western Hills is one of the largest temples in Yunnan Province. The temple was established about 900 years before and had experienced several times of destruction and reconstruction throughout the century. The entire temple that you can see today was reconstructed in year 1923. Three golden Buddha statues with kind expressions and 500 life-like arhats as well as golden figures of Laughing Buddha can be found within the temple.
Taihua Temple is another highlight of Western Hills which located at the Taihua Hill, the highest hill of the scenic area. Taihua Temple was constructed in Yuan Dynasty and is consisted of a collection of architectures. The temple is well known for the flourish floras especial the camellia and magnolia. So, spring is the best season for visitors who love flowers the most.
Highly perched on the cliff of Luohan Hill about 300 meters above Dianchi Lake, Sanqing Pavilion is just like a castle in the air. Besides having the opportunity to witness the unique architecture of a Taoist temple, you may also enjoy the panoramic view of Dianchi Lake when you are here. Longmen (Dragon Gate) which was also built on cliff is another must visit attractions within Western Hill of Kunming. The stone paths, stone rooms and stone Buddha figures are all carved with excellent craftsmanship on large natural rocks. This is the best point where you can enjoy the spectacle view of Dianchi Lake while experience the steepness of the hill.