Sanqing Pavillion of Western Hills, Kunming

🌄 Overview – Sanqing Pavilion, Western Hills, Kunming

Sanqing Pavilion is located within the Longmen Scenic Area of the Western Hills National Scenic Area in Xishan District, Kunming, Yunnan Province.
This area is known for its steep cliffs and jagged stone peaks, dotted with vigorous pines, cypresses, and colorful wildflowers. Sanqing Pavilion is a highlight of Kunming’s Western Hills, offering a blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage.


📍 Location & Transportation

Where is Sanqing Pavilion?

Perched on Luohan Mountain south of Taihua Mountain, the pavilion sits between Luohan Mountain and Guibang Mountain cliffs. To the north lies the Beauty Peak, to the south the towering Guabang Mountain cliff, and below stretches the vast Dianchi Lake.

How to Get There

  • 🚌 Public Transport: Take bus routes 6, 51, or 94 to the “Gaoyao” stop, then walk to the pavilion.

  • 🚗 By Car: Navigate to “Xishan Scenic Area Parking Lot,” then walk or take the cable car to Sanqing Pavilion.


🏯 Highlights & Attractions

Architectural Marvel

Sanqing Pavilion is a complex of nine floors and eleven pavilions built on steep cliffs between Luohan and Guibang mountains. Standing over 300 meters above Dianchi Lake, it feels like a “floating palace in the sky” or a “mirage.”

Rich History

Constructed during the Ming Dynasty’s Zhengde era, the pavilion consists of North and South Temples. The North Temple houses halls dedicated to Lingguan, Chunyang, Xuan Emperor, and the Jade Emperor.

Stunning Natural Views

From the pavilion, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of Dianchi Lake, marveling at the “seamless blend of lake and sky.”


📝 Travel Tips

  • Opening Hours: 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM

  • Admission Fee: Starting at 30 RMB for Xishan Scenic Area (includes Sanqing Pavilion). Discounts available for students and seniors.

  • Recommended Visit Duration: 2–3 hours

  • Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn offer pleasant weather and breathtaking scenery.

  • Note: Mountain weather can be changeable — bring rain gear and warm clothes. Please help keep the area clean by not littering.Sanqing Pavillion of Western Hills, Kunming


🏞 Nearby Attractions

  • Longmen Grottoes: Stretching from “Xiaoniu Spring” near Sanqing Pavilion to “Datian Pavilion,” this cliffside grotto complex is an impressive stone-carved wonder.

  • Huating Temple: The largest temple in the Kunming area, with over 900 years of history.

  • Taihua Temple: Home to Wanghailou, a famous spot to watch the sunrise over Dianchi Lake.


✨ Final Words

Sanqing Pavilion in Kunming’s Western Hills offers an unforgettable blend of ancient architecture, breathtaking landscapes, and rich cultural heritage. Whether you come to explore history, admire nature, or capture stunning photos, Sanqing Pavilion welcomes you to experience the magic of this “palace in the clouds.”

Sanqing Pavillion of Western Hills, Kunming