Chaishitan Reservoir Scenic Area: A Landscape Poem in Kunming's Backyard

Located in Yiliang County, Kunming City, Chaishitan Reservoir is a comprehensive scenic area integrating water conservancy projects, natural scenery, and emerging cultural tourism projects. 📍Recommended reasons: Situated on the banks of the Nanpan River, Chaishitan Reservoir primarily serves as a water conservancy and irrigation facility, while also holding value for ecological conservation and tourism development. In recent years, with the opening of the FUN·Lang Mingyue Lake Water Theme Park (February 2025), new public water recreation projects have been added, making it a summer getaway for tourists in and around Kunming. The Mingyue Lake Scenic Area, where the reservoir is located, is also adjacent to the Jiuxiang Caves, forming a unique landscape linking "mountains, water, and caves." 🚗Transportation: - **Self-driving**: From downtown Kunming, take the Kunming-Shilin Expressway to Yiliang County, then transfer to Chaishitan Reservoir. The entire journey takes approximately 1.5 hrs. - **Public transportation**: Take a bus from Kunming East Bus Station to Yiliang County (approx. 1 hr), then transfer to a local taxi or chartered car to the scenic area (approx. 30 mins). - **Suggested combined tours**: Plan a one- or two-day tour in combination with Jiuxiang Scenic Area and the Stone Forest (approx. 1 hr drive). 👍️Must-see attractions: 1. **FUN·Lang Mingyue Lake Water Theme Park** - **Highlights**: As Yunnan's first water park themed around "public water recreation," it offers activities such as rafting, kayaking, and water sports training, suitable for families and outdoor enthusiasts. The park also plans to build a camping base for future lakeside camping experiences. - **Location**: Mingyue Lake Scenic Area, Chaishitan Reservoir, Yiliang County. Self-driving or chartered cars are recommended. 2. **Jiuxiang Caves (Mingyue Lake Scenic Area)** - **Features**: Jiuxiang Scenic Area is famous for its spectacular caves, and the Mingyue Lake Scenic Area (Chaishitan Reservoir) is one of its five main tourist areas. Visitors can take a boat tour of the reservoir, admiring the scenery of karst landforms and turquoise waters, and then explore the geological wonders within the caves, such as stalactites and underground rivers. - **Tips**: The cave floor is slippery, so wear non-slip athletic shoes. Some areas are still under development; it is recommended to follow the guided tour route. 3. **Natural scenery and ecological hiking** - The reservoir is surrounded by lush mountains, suitable for hiking or cycling. Walking along the Nanpan River or climbing to overlook the entire reservoir is recommended. - **Note**: Camping, picnics, and littering are prohibited in the first-level water source protection area. Please comply with environmental regulations. 🎟️Itinerary: - **One-day tour**: Depart from Kunming → Chaishitan Water Park (morning) → Jiuxiang Caves (afternoon) → Return. - **Two-day tour**: Day 1: Water Park + Reservoir Hike; Day 2: Jiuxiang Caves + Stone Forest. 💗Other tips: 1. **Safety first**: Wear life-saving equipment for water activities; do not deviate from the tour route inside the caves. 2. **Environmental regulations**: Camping, picnics, and littering are prohibited in the water source protection area. 3. **Seasonal choices**: - Summer (June–August) is suitable for water activities, but pay attention to sun protection. - Autumn (September–November) offers a cool climate, suitable for hiking. 4. **Tickets and fees**: - Water park tickets are subject to official announcements (reference price: approx. CNY 150/person). - Jiuxiang Caves combined tickets are approx. CNY 90 (cable car not included). Chaishitan Reservoir Scenic Area, with its blend of nature and culture, has become a new highlight for excursions near Kunming. Whether you seek thrilling water activities or the tranquility of the landscape, this place can meet your expectations.