More than just poetry and distant places! A complete guide to Yunnan

A comprehensive Yunnan travel guide to explore the vibrant South of Yunnan. The vibrant South of Yunnan is a beloved destination for countless travelers. Whether you're drawn to the romantic charm of Dali, yearn for the tranquility of Lijiang, or yearn to explore the tropical rainforests of Xishuangbanna, this guide will help you create your own dream trip. Preparation • Documents: Prepare your ID. Students and seniors, among others, should also bring relevant discount documents, which may be needed when purchasing attraction tickets. • Clothing: Yunnan experiences minimal temperature fluctuations from season to season, but significant day-to-night temperature swings. Even in summer, a long-sleeved jacket is recommended. If you're planning to visit high-altitude areas like Jade Dragon Snow Mountain and Shangri-La, a thick down jacket is essential. • Sunscreen: Yunnan's ultraviolet rays are strong, so high-factor sunscreen, a sun hat, sunglasses, and sun-protective clothing are essential. • Other: The air is dry, so remember to bring moisturizing skincare products. Also, bring common medications like gastrointestinal medication and motion sickness medication to deal with minor travel issues. Don't forget your power bank to keep your devices fully charged. Transportation Guide • External Transportation: Kunming Changshui International Airport offers numerous routes and generally offers affordable airfares, so we recommend Kunming as your first stop in Yunnan. • Internal Transportation: ◦ High-speed Rail: Kunming to Dali takes approximately 2 hours, and to Lijiang in approximately 3 hours. These are fast and comfortable trains. Purchase tickets in advance on the 12306 website or app. ◦ Bus: Direct buses run between some attractions, such as Dali to Lijiang and Lijiang to Shangri-La, but the journeys are longer. Bookings can be made in advance on the bus station's website or through relevant apps. ◦ Charter/Shared Car: Chartering a car offers greater flexibility for larger groups, while shared carpooling is more economical. Bookings can be made on major travel platforms or at local inns. Popular Attractions 1. Kunming: Known as the "City of Spring," it boasts warm, spring-like weather year-round. Dianchi Lake is a haven for migratory birds, where flocks of red-billed gulls can be seen from November to March. The Stone Forest is a stunning example of karst landforms, with jagged rocks and a breathtaking natural beauty. The Dounan Flower Market is known as Asia's largest flower market, boasting a dazzling array of blooms at very affordable prices. 2. Dali: The beauty of Erhai Lake is refreshingly unworldly. Rent an electric scooter and cycle along the lakeshore to admire the stunning scenery. Xizhou Ancient Town is steeped in Bai ethnic customs, where you can experience traditional tie-dyeing techniques. Dali Old Town is both artistic and romantic; stroll through its streets at night to experience the vibrant atmosphere of the ancient city. The Three Pagodas of Chongsheng Temple are majestic and imbued with historical charm. 3. Lijiang: Stroll through Lijiang Old Town, a World Cultural Heritage site, and experience the unique culture of the Naxi people. Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, a sacred mountain for the Naxi people, offers breathtaking views via cable car. At the foot of the mountain, the azure Blue Moon Valley offers a breathtaking view of the surrounding landscape. Shuhe Old Town is even more tranquil than Lijiang Old Town, perfect for a leisurely stroll and a slower pace. 4. Shangri-La: Pudacuo National Park, with its vibrant blend of lakes, forests, and grasslands, is a perfect place to connect with nature. Songzanlin Monastery, the largest Tibetan Buddhist temple in Yunnan, boasts a unique and solemn architecture. Napa Lake offers a variety of stunning views depending on the season: lush vegetation in the rainy season and vast grasslands in the dry season, where you can spot rare birds like black-necked cranes. 5. Xishuangbanna: Filled with Southeast Asian charm, the tropical rainforest is home to a diverse array of rare flora and fauna, making it a paradise for adventure lovers. Experience traditional Dai culture at the Dai Garden, visit distinctive villages, and savor authentic Dai cuisine. The bustling, brightly lit Starlight Night Market offers a chance to sample local snacks and purchase ethnic souvenirs. Food Recommendations 1. Crossing the Bridge Rice Noodles: A Yunnan specialty, its rich toppings and delicious broth create a truly ceremonial experience. 2. Wild Mushroom Hotpot: June to October is peak season for wild mushrooms in Yunnan, so be sure to try this delicious treat. Matsutake, porcini, and Albirex are among the varieties, offering a delicious and nutritious flavor. 3. Steamed Chicken: Authentic, tender chicken in a refreshingly sweet broth, a truly nourishing dish. 4. Cured Pork Ribs Hotpot: A Lijiang specialty, the savory and fragrant cured pork ribs, paired with a variety of vegetables, create a unique flavor. 5. Dai Cuisine: Xishuangbanna boasts unique Dai cuisine, with dishes like lemongrass grilled fish, pineapple rice, and Dai-style barbecue all boasting a sour and spicy flavor that will whet your appetite. 6. Rushan (Rushan): A traditional snack in Dali, this dish is sweet and crispy and can be eaten plain or grilled, or dipped in rose sauce for a unique flavor. Accommodation Recommendations • Kunming: We recommend staying in Wuhua District, located in the heart of the city and close to attractions like the Golden Horse and Jade Rooster and Yunnan University. Alternatively, choose accommodations near Dianchi Lake for beautiful scenery and a vibrant holiday atmosphere. • Dali: For a deeper immersion in Bai culture and the bustle of the ancient city, stay within Dali Old Town. For a romantic sea view, Caicun or Longkan Wharf near Erhai Lake are great options, offering stunning sunrise views. • Lijiang: For a lively atmosphere and a taste of Naxi culture, stay in an inn within Lijiang Old Town. However, be aware that the cobblestone streets can be difficult to haul luggage. For a quiet and comfortable stay, Shuhe Old Town is a good choice. • Shangri-La: Dukezong Ancient Town is a prime choice for accommodation, located near Moonlight Square. It's convenient for turning prayer wheels and immersing yourself in the rich Tibetan cultural atmosphere. • Xishuangbanna: Gaozhuang Xishuangjing is convenient for transportation and night markets, allowing you to fully enjoy the lively atmosphere at night. Itinerary Planning • Three-Day Tour: ◦ Day 1: Arrive in Kunming, visit Dianchi Lake, and enjoy local snacks in Kunming Old Street in the evening. ◦ Day 2: Depart to Dali, explore Dali Ancient Town, and stay overnight there. ◦ Day 3: Cycle around Erhai Lake, visiting attractions such as Xizhou Ancient Town and Panxi Village's S-bend, before returning. • Five-Day Tour: ◦ Day 1: Visit the Stone Forest Scenic Area in Kunming, and visit Dounan Flower Market in the evening. ◦ Day 2: Depart to Dali, with an afternoon visit to Cangshan Mountain. ◦ Day 3: A full-day tour around Erhai Lake. ◦ Day 4: Depart from Dali to Lijiang, and explore Lijiang Old Town. Day 5: Visit Jade Dragon Snow Mountain and prepare to return. • Seven-Day Tour: Day 1: Arrive in Kunming and visit Dianchi Lake and Haigeng Dam. Day 2: Travel to Dali, visit Xizhou Ancient Town, and experience tie-dyeing. Day 3: Cycle around Erhai Lake and visit popular tourist attractions. Day 4: From Dali to Lijiang, visit Shuhe Ancient Town. Day 5: Day trip to Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. Day 6: Travel to Shangri-La and visit Songzanlin Monastery. Day 7: Visit Napa Lake and return. Tips 1. Yunnan attractions are often far apart, so plan your itinerary and transportation in advance to avoid wasting time. 2. Jade Dragon Snow Mountain is at a high altitude, so those experiencing altitude sickness should prepare oxygen tanks in advance. Down jackets are available for rental. 3. When cycling near Erhai Lake, please wear sunscreen. Some sections of the Haixi Ecological Corridor are closed to motor vehicles. 4. When enjoying wild mushroom hotpot, ensure that the mushrooms are thoroughly cooked to avoid consuming poisonous mushrooms. 5. When traveling in ethnic minority areas, respect local customs and practices.