The gulls
Since 1985.
drnan tu from Shenzhen, China — CC BY-SA 2.0 · drnan tu from Shenzhen, China — CC BY-SA 2.0 · Chinatravelsavvy — CC BY-SA 3.0 · drnan tu from Shenzhen, China — CC BY-SA 2.0 · xiquinhosilva — CC BY 2.0 · xiquinhosilva — CC BY 2.0 · XuasdYX — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Daderot — Public domain
Kunming's best-known and best-loved park, in the heart of the city near Yunnan University, made up of four small lakes linked by bridges in traditional Chinese style; it was originally the city's water reservoir. Its most famous sight comes in winter: since 1985 thousands of black-headed gulls arrive every winter from the north, and people feed them along the banks as they wheel overhead in great flocks; «watching the gulls at Green Lake» has become one of the city's best-known experiences. Pavilions, walkways and summer lotus fill the park, locals gather for dancing, singing and folk opera, and teahouses, restaurants and shops ring it; it also has a statue of the composer of China's national anthem. Entry is free and open all day; November to March is the season for the gulls, and mornings are the best time.
Since 1985.
Between the lakes.
Dance and song.
Central Kunming, near Yunnan University
Every winter since 1985, roughly November to March; the best-known places to see them are Green Lake Park and Haigeng Dam on Dian Lake, both free.
