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     Kunming sits at an elevation of 6,699 feet above sea level. It is known as the City of Eternal Spring, and is home to 26 ethnic minorities of the Province. Kunming's cultural heritage dates back 2,000 years. 

      Close to the capital lies the magnificent Dianchi Lake with its Huatin and Taihua Temples, which were constructed during the Tang Dynasty and reflect the classical and architectural style of the Dynasty.

      Dragon Gate Grotto sits precariously perched on the top of Luohan Hill. Construction of the Grotto commenced in 1781AD and continued for 70 years. The Grotto is hewned out of the cliff-side, and within its cavernous interior, there are many stone chambers, paths, columns and pillars. Buddhist shrines, including Bieyou Dongtian (Place of Unique Beauty), Dragon Gate stone tablets and Datian (Reach for the Sky) are also inside the Grotto. Visitors perched on the edge of the Grotto have a panoramic view of the city below, the shoreline of Dianchi Lake, and the surrounding hills against a crystal clear blue sky.

Located on the northern shore of Dianchi Lake is the Village of Ethnic Culture. The Village showcases the culture, food, dance, song, and art of the various ethnic cultures for which the area is very famous. The Village is comprised of 8 minor villages, which display the unique ethnic architecture, traditional dress and folk customs of the Dia, Bai, Yi Naxi, Jino, Lahu, Bulang, and Wa ethnic nationalities.

      West Hill rises on the western shore of Dianchi Lake. The mountain is a natural reserve with lush forests and places of interests, i.e., Longmen and Tiange Grottos.

      The Stone Forest, which covers 350 kilometers, consists of towering karst formations, which are the highest natural single-body structures in the world. The stone formations jut out of lush green foliage and a carpet of crimson flowers. The unique formations are like none other, and can best be described as having folds and cones similar to draped fabric in massive form.

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