The Dianchi Lake, named as South Dian Pool in ancient times, commonly known as the Kunyang Sea or the Kunyang Lake, is the largest lake in Yunnan Province and the 6th largest freshwater lake in China, with a reputation of a Pearl Imbedded in the Plateau.
Covering an area of 294 square kilometers, the Dianchi Lake has an average depth of 4.4 meters with the deepest point of about 10 meters. Converging more than 20 rivers such as the Nanpan River and the Baoxiang River, the lake has its outlet in Haikou. After running through the Tanglang River and the Pudu River, it flows into the Jinsha River. The Dianchi Lake is a natural cistern, with a water-storage of 15 cubic meters. It is of great benefit not only to the water supply, flood control, shipping and fishery, but also to the climate conditioning.
Surrounded by hills and crossed by streams, the lake basin is spread with thousands of acres of fertile fields reaching as far as the eye can see. Besides, the whole district enjoys a greater prosperity of cultural life. Since olden times it has been a much frequented beauty spot, reputed as the 'West Lake on the Highland.'
There are many scenic spots surround the lake, mainly including Yunnan Ethnic Village, the Yunnan National Museum, the Huating Temple of Western Hill, the Taihua Temple, the Trinity Pavilion, the Dragon Gate Park, the Grand View Park, the Jinning Panlong Temple and the Zhenghe Park.
