Haigeng Dam (海埂大坝, Haigeng Dike), located on the eastern bank of Dianchi Lake, is the largest irrigation project in Yunnan Province and one of the most important water conservancy projects in Kunming City. Stretching over 7.3 kilometers, the main structure of the dam consists of a reinforced concrete gravity dam constructed in a rugged mountainous environment. It serves not only as a vital water source for Kunming but also as a multifunctional water project encompassing flood control, hydropower generation, irrigation, and tourism, playing a crucial role in the city’s development.
Haigeng Dam is also Kunming’s largest waterfront platform for admiring Dianchi Lake. Originally established in the late 1960s during the “enclosure and land reclamation” period as the “Caohai Embankment,” it underwent extensive renovations by Kunming authorities in the early 21st century to address flooding issues. Over the following decade, the dam was widened, and its surface was transformed into a scenic area with enhanced greenery and added cultural elements, including sculptures, local thematic culture, lighting projects, and high-tech applications. The width of the dam’s surface was expanded to an average of 16 meters, and a sunken observation platform made of reinforced concrete was added, providing visitors with the closest possible proximity to the water surface.
Furthermore, Haigeng Dam has become a highly popular tourist destination. Particularly from October to March the following year, it becomes a paradise for seagulls, attracting thousands of tourists to observe these birds up close. Visitors can enjoy the sight of flocks of seagulls at various locations along the dam’s waterfront, experiencing the joy of intimate contact with these birds. Additionally, during the transition from spring to summer, the dam is surrounded by blooming rhododendrons, creating a beautiful environment for visitors to admire.
Basic Information
| Estimated Length of Tour | 0.5 hour |
| Ticket Price | Admission: Free Seagull-seeing Area: 30 RMB |
| Opening Hours | 24 hours a day throughout the year |
Location and Transportation
Haigeng Dam is situated on the eastern bank of Dianchi Lake in Xishan District, Kunming City, Yunnan Province, China. It is located on the north side of the intersection of Guanjing Road and Hongta West Road. To get there, you can choose one of the following ways:
Bus: Take bus 171, 183, 264, K50, or Tourist Line 1 and get off at Guanjing Road Middle Section Stop (观景路中段站).
Metro: The closest metro station to Haigeng Dam is Yinghai Road on line 5. After getting out of the station from Exit A, walk about 1.3 kilometers to the west to reach the north end of the dam.
