The Dianchi Lake is the largest lake in Yunnan Province and the eighth largest lake in China. Its nickname is "Sparkling Pearl Imbedded in a Highland," and it was the model for the Kunming Lake in the Summer Palace in Beijing. It is a working lake, and traditional junks still sail the lake, the men laying the lines to hook the fish is their livelihood. At the same time, the lake is a pleasant destination for those wishing to get away from the bustle of the city itself.
The lake is crescent-shaped, about 39 kilometers (24 miles) in length and 13 kilometers (8 miles) in width at its widest. Its natural banks are formed by mountains on all four sides. More than twenty rivers nurture the lake which has a shoreline of 163.2 kilometers (101 miles). Four surrounding hills contribute to the picturesque landscape, making visitors intoxicated and linger around. You may appreciate the beauty of the lake and hills from a boat, and explore this cradle of Yunnan culture.
Dian Lake has a long history. In the Warrior Period, a Dian State was built in this region. Dian Lake with crystal clean water, ripple lake surface, boats sailing on the lake looks like a glittering pearl set on a mountain basin and reflects the surrounding mountains the blue sky. The area around the Dian Lake is clustered with sights of either beautiful scenery or rich cultural heritage. These include the Nanyun Nationalities Villages, West Hills, Grand View Park.
The Dianchi Lake Scenic Area also includes other attractions. These are the Yunnan Ethnic Villages, Baiyukou Park, Haigeng Bank, Kwan-yin Hill, Xishan Forest Park, temples and pagodas.