West Hill

West Hill is at the west suburb some 15 kilometers from the city proper. It contains the Huating Hill, Taihua Hill and Luohan Hill, extending a distance of more than 40 kilometers at an altitude of between 1900 meters to 2350 meters above sea level.

The West Hill are also called 'Sleeping Buddha Hills', because of looked at the hill from a distance, they have the appearance of a giant sleeping Buddha. They have also been given another name - 'Sleeping Beauty Hills' for the hills when viewed together look like a beautiful young lady laying beside Dianchi Lake with her face upward and her hair trailling into water.

A tragic story related to this hill said that in remote time, a pretty princess escaped from the palace to seek freedom and love. The girl later met her prince and they got married soon. Unfortunately, their marriage encountered the king’s strong opposition, who later killed that her husband. The princess was so sorrow that she cried days and nights and tears fell from her face and formed the Dian Lake. The girl’s body formed the West Hill.

West Hill has become a popular attraction with many scenic spots. Each spring, the locals will gather here singing folk songs, playing dragon and lion show and enjoying the stunningly beautiful scenery around. 

West Hill is also known for stone sculptures on the cliff, represented by the Dragon Gate, which took 72 years to complete. Tourists can take a panorama of the grand Dianchi Lake from the spot of the Dragon Gate. Attractions here include the Huating Temple, Taihua Temple, Sanqingge Pavilions, and Orchis' Garden, etc.