The Dianchi Lake, 370 square kilometres in area, 44 metres in depth, and 1,885 metres in altitude, is the eighth largest lake in China and the largest in Yunnan Province. For its exceptional charms the lake is nicknamed " Sparkling Pearl Imbedded in a Highland " . Its shores are strewn with scenic spots and places of folklores.

Sailing on the lake, with the boat swaying gently on a vast expanse of liquid silver, proves to be a most enchanting experience. At night, the moon casts a gauzy veil over the lake, and the silence of the scene is broken only by the soughing of a refreshing breeze.

Known for its longest antithetical couplet in China, the Grand View Park, also called Daguan Park, is found within a walking distance from the Western Hills. It shares the same Dianchi lake water with the Western Hills, which are on the opposite side, the total area, including water and land, is approximate 60 ha..