Kunming | The Stone Forest, existing for millions of years, all for that stunning first glance

| The Stone Forest, existing for millions of years, all for that stunning first glance. The Stone Forest Scenic Area in Kunming is located within the territory of the Shilin Yi Autonomous County, 78 kilometers away from Kunming, and is a karst geological park dominated by the stone forest landscape. The Stone Forest is a typical karst formation, featuring limestone pillars, caves, stalactites, karst lakes, natural bridges, cliff waterfalls, conical peaks, and more. Almost all karst formations found in the world can be seen here, offering an experience starkly different from ordinary landscapes. Highlights: 1. Small Stone Forest. The birthplace of the Ashima story, where amidst a dense cluster of peaks, the Ashima stone stands tall, transforming into a slender Yi girl named Ashima, with the majestic forest of peaks symbolizing the legend of Ashima and Ahei. 2. Large Stone Forest. The Large Stone Forest consists of a dense collection of stone peaks, resembling a stone basin. The stone forest here stands erect and abrupt, with smooth lines and a pale gray color, with the tallest independent rock pillar exceeding 40 meters in height. It includes typical attractions such as 'Lotus Peak', 'Sword Peak Pond', 'A Close Shave', 'Narrow Path for One', 'Elephant Trunk Stone Platform', 'Secluded Orchid Valley', 'Phoenix Combing Its Wings', and the most famous 'Stone Forest Scenic Spot' where Long Yun inscribed the words 'Stone Forest'. The 'Wangfeng Pavilion' is the best place to admire the 'forest sea'. 3. Long Lake of the Stone Forest The lake's surface is shaped like a slender girl, which is the hometown of Ashima according to folk tales. Since the lake is hidden among green mountains and lush hills, it was rarely visited by tourists in the past, hence it is also known as the 'Hidden Lake'. Transportation: Bus: Take the tourist direct bus to the Stone Forest Scenic Area at the Kunming Eastern Bus Passenger Station. From 08:00 to 18:00, buses depart when full, and the journey takes about 2 hours. Train: It takes just over 20 minutes to reach Shilin West Station from Kunming South Station, then take bus 66 from Shilin West Station to Shilin County Town, and finally bus 99 to the Stone Forest Scenic Area. Ticket: 130 RMB; Scenic Area Transportation Fee: Electric vehicle 25 RMB. This fee cannot be saved, as it's several kilometers from the parking lot to the gate, and you would be too tired to climb the Stone Forest if you don't take the electric vehicle.