Daguan Tower

Introducing Daguan Tower

The Grand View Tower is located in Daguan Park on the Western Hills of Kunming, approximately 6 kilometers from the city center. Built during the reign of Emperor Kangxi, it earned its name because it overlooks Dianchi Lake and overlooks the Western Hills, offering breathtaking views of the lake and mountains. Upon entering the park, visitors can explore the Yongyue Pavilion, Ningbi Hall, Lansheng Pavilion, and Guanjia Hall, among other pavilions. The most scenic of the three-story Grand View Tower, built by the water, boasts numerous exquisite plaques and couplets. A 180-character couplet by the renowned Qing Dynasty scholar Sun Weng hangs on either side of the gatepost on the waterfront side of the tower, earning it the reputation of being the "longest couplet of all time."

The Grand View Tower offers a great view overlooking Dianchi Lake. Its historical fame has inspired numerous scholars and poets to leave their mark on the area. Among these is a long couplet by the renowned Qing Dynasty scholar Sun Ranweng, which hangs on either side of the tower's main entrance. Take a closer look before ascending the tower.

Climate and best time to travel

Subtropical semi-humid monsoon climate; Daguan Tower is one of the ten famous towers in China and is suitable for travel in all seasons.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Long couplet of Daguan Tower;

It is recommended to play for 2-3 hours

Tickets

Adult ticket: 26 yuan/person, discount ticket: 13 yuan/person

Attraction opening hours

8:00-17:00

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Most Popular FAQs for Daguan Tower

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Daguan Tower is a historical and cultural site in Kunming, dating back to the Qing Dynasty. The tower offers a great view of Dianchi Lake and is renowned for its beautiful traditional architecture, making it a symbol of the city's rich cultural heritage.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Daguan Tower is located on the western shore of Dianchi Lake in Kunming. You can reach the tower by taxi, bus, or metro, and there are walking paths from nearby areas. Public transport options are available from the city center.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The tower is open daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best times to visit are in the early morning or late afternoon when the weather is cooler and the lighting is perfect for photos.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

The entrance fee is around 30 RMB. Tickets can be purchased at the site or online via local platforms.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

It is not necessary to book tickets in advance, except during peak tourist seasons. Booking a day or two in advance is recommended for a more seamless experience during busy times.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

It takes about 1-2 hours to explore Daguan Tower and the surrounding park, including taking in the views, strolling along the lake, and enjoying the scenic surroundings.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

The main highlight is the Daguan Tower itself, with its historical architecture and panoramic views of Dianchi Lake. The surrounding park is also a great place to enjoy nature and take photos.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available in Chinese. Audio guides in English and Chinese may be available for a self-guided experience.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best viewpoints are from the top of Daguan Tower, which offers stunning views of Dianchi Lake and the surrounding landscape. The lakefront park also provides great photo opportunities, especially during sunset.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by exploring the tower, then take a walk around the surrounding park, and finish with a relaxing stroll along the lake's edge for scenic views and photo ops.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

While there are no regular light shows, the tower and the surrounding area are beautifully lit up at night, providing a great opportunity for evening visits and photography.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

The tower can get crowded on weekends and public holidays. To avoid the crowds, visit in the early morning or on weekdays.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

The area has basic facilities like toilets and rest areas. There are also small food stalls and souvenir shops near the entrance of the park.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

The tower and surrounding park are mostly accessible, with paved pathways and seating areas. However, the tower itself may have limited accessibility for visitors with mobility issues due to stairs.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Mobile payments such as Alipay and WeChat Pay are widely accepted. Cash is also an option, though it may be less convenient for smaller transactions.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are local restaurants nearby that serve Yunnan cuisine. A few cafes near Dianchi Lake offer a relaxing atmosphere for drinks and snacks.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan food options are available in nearby restaurants. Halal food options are limited but can be found in some parts of Kunming.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are various hotels near Daguan Tower, ranging from budget to mid-range options. You can also find accommodations around Dianchi Lake for a more scenic experience.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

Nearby attractions include Dianchi Lake, Yunnan Nationalities Village, and Kunming’s West Hill, which can all be explored in a day trip.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

There are souvenir shops near the park selling traditional Yunnan crafts, such as ethnic jewelry, clothing, and local artwork.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

Taxis, buses, and metro stations are available near Daguan Tower. You can easily travel to other nearby attractions or the city center using these options.