The paved trail from Huating Temple to Taihua Temple is a short, forested climb inside Xishan (Western Hills) Forest Park on the western shore of Dianchi Lake, in Xishan District, Kunming, Yunnan Province, China. Visitors reach it by the same Gaoyao access used for the Dragon Gate ascent: city bus 6, 17, 18, 21, 51 or 94 to Gaoyao Station, then the park entrance (about CNY 40, roughly $6) and, if desired, the shuttle bus at about CNY 15 (about $2.20) one way. A paved road leads up to Huating Temple, and the trail leaves the road to the right beyond the temple. There is no separate permit for the trail beyond the park ticket. The two temples are about 3 km apart, and the walk takes roughly one hour one way. The route climbs gradually through the forest within the park's 2,000-2,500 m elevation range, so the gain is moderate and the main effort comes from the altitude and the steady uphill. The surface is paved or stepped stone, which makes it more comfortable than most dirt mountain trails, though the steps can be slick when wet. Pine and other trees give good shade for much of the way, with occasional gaps that open views toward Dianchi Lake. The trail needs no technical skill and is well suited to first-time hikers, families and visitors who want a temple-focused walk rather than a summit climb. Key landmarks are Huating Temple at the start, a Buddhist complex with old halls and garden courtyards, and Taihua Temple at the end, known for its peaceful grounds and seasonal flowers. Many visitors treat Taihua Temple as the turn-around point, then walk back the same way or ride the shuttle down. Those who want to continue can carry on toward Sanqing Pavilion and the Dragon Gate on the longer route. Water and snacks are sold near the temples and along the park road, and the temple halls and pavilions provide shelter if rain arrives. No mountain huts exist on this short section. Spring and autumn offer the best weather, while summer brings short heavy monsoon showers that make a rain jacket worthwhile.
| Distance | About 3 km between the two temples |
|---|---|
| Duration | About 1 hour one way |
| Difficulty | easy |
| Trailhead | Same Gaoyao access as the Dragon Gate ascent; the trail leaves the road to the right beyond Huating Temple |
| Best season | Spring and autumn |
| Address | Huating Temple, Xishan Forest Park, Xishan District, Kunming |
Trail facts
- Trail area
- Xishan Forest Park, Kunming
What to bring
- Walking shoes
- Water
- Rain jacket in summer
Location
Huating Temple, Xishan Forest Park, Xishan District, Kunming
24.9740, 102.6420 View on map
Highlights
- Forest climb of about 3 km between two historic Buddhist temples
- Paved and stepped surface that needs no technical skill
- Shaded pine woodland with glimpses toward Dianchi Lake
- Easy extension toward Sanqing Pavilion and the Dragon Gate
Tips for visiting
- Look for the trail branching right off the road beyond Huating Temple to avoid walking the road.
- Allow about an hour each way and add time to visit the temple courtyards.
- Carry a rain jacket in summer, as short heavy showers are common.
- Bring water, since the altitude of 2,000 m or more makes the uphill tiring.
- Use the shuttle bus for the return if tired; it runs from the temple zone toward the entrance.
When to visit
Spring and autumn offer mild weather and clear views, with weekday mornings the quietest. Summer afternoons often bring short heavy showers.
Accessibility
The route includes stone steps and a sustained climb, so it is not suitable for wheelchairs or strollers. The paved park road and the shuttle bus reach the area around Huating Temple for visitors who cannot manage the trail.
Frequently asked questions
How long is the Huating to Taihua trail?
The two temples are about 3 km apart, and the walk takes roughly one hour one way.
Is the trail paved?
Yes, it follows paved paths and stone steps through the forest, though steps can be slippery after rain.
How do visitors reach Huating Temple?
Take bus 6, 17, 18, 21, 51 or 94 to Gaoyao Station, enter the park (about CNY 40) and walk or take the shuttle (about CNY 15) up to the temple.
Can the walk be extended?
Yes. Visitors can continue beyond Taihua Temple toward Sanqing Pavilion and the Dragon Gate.