2024 Kunming Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in November)
Throughout the seasons of the year, Kunming is like springtime, leading it to be called "Spring City". For many people who come to Yunnan on holiday, it is their first stop. The nearby Dianchi Lake has 250 kilometers of coastline, all with brilliant natural scenery. There are super-large fresh flower markets. There are also cultural attractions, such as Yunnan University, Yunnan Military Academy, and the former site of Southwest United University. Trying out Kunming snacks, local Yunnan cuisine and wild mushroom hotpot is a must. Every year when winter comes, flocks of black-headed gulls fly here from Siberia; Cuihu Park and Dianchi Lake are good places for bird-watching and bird feeding. The area surrounding Kunming is also very exciting. Dongchuan Red Land is colorful like an oil painting. The Stone Forest has all kinds of different and interestingly shaped rocks. Guandu Ancient Town is also a good place to visit.
Today's Weather
Overcast 6-13℃
Popular Attractions
Stone Forest Scenic Area
Yun Nan Nation Village
Dianchi Lake
Western Hills
Colorful Yunnan Paradise
Golden Moments: Autumn Stroll at Haidong Wetlands Park
#chinatrip #autumn #kunming #wetland
On a sunny autumn day, Haidong Wetlands Park in Kunming unfolded like a painter’s masterpiece. Towering dawn redwoods stood ablaze in hues of fiery red and golden yellow, their reflections shimmering in the serene waters. It was the perfect backdrop for an autumn escape—ideal for leisurely picnics and the simple joys of gliding across the water in glass-bottomed boats. Surrounded by the vibrant seasonal palette, we soaked in the crisp air and tranquil beauty, making it a day of pure autumn bliss. Haidong Wetland Park isn’t just a place to visit; it’s where autumn truly comes alive.
Green Lake Park: Kunming’s Timeless Gem
#chinatrip#kunming #yunnan #park #autumn #Spring
Green Lake Park (翠湖公园) is a must-visit heaven for anyone in Kunming, and for good reason. Nestled in the heart of the city, this picturesque oasis is where nature and serenity converge. Its stunning landscape transforms with the seasons—lush and vibrant in spring, a golden palette in autumn—showcasing Kunming’s enchanting charm. The tranquil ambience is perfect for leisurely strolls along willow-lined paths, enjoying lotus-filled ponds, or simply basking in the harmony of chirping birds and gentle breezes
If you're visiting Kunming for the first time, copy this one-day itinerary.
⭐️ Kunming City Walk One-Day Itinerary:
Green Lake Park ➡️ Yunnan Military Academy ➡️ Huang Gongzheng Street ➡️ Duoyue Building ➡️ Kunming Old Street ➡️ Daguan River ➡️ Daguan Park ➡️ Aocheng Building
This is one of my favorite Kunming city walk routes.
If you're only staying in Kunming for one day, I recommend you copy this route.
It's relaxing and easy, with many small coffee shops along the way.
If you visit in autumn, this route is even more enjoyable.
✅ Green Lake Park
Starting in November, the ginkgo trees in Green Lake Park turn yellow, and seagulls from Siberia fly in, creating a beautiful scene like an oil painting.
✅ Yunnan Military Academy
The yellow building is very beautiful, especially in autumn when it turns golden.
✅ Huang Gongzheng Street
A very artistic retro street, popular with influencers for photos, perfect for daydreaming.
✅ Kunming Old Street
A very yellow old street with many time-honored brands, including food, tea houses, bookstores, etc. The street's architecture has a strong sense of history.
✅ Duoyue Building
A century-old building with a cool design, attracting many people for photos every day. The building's exterior and yellow walls are very photogenic.
✅ Aocheng Building
A round building with a hollow center, resembling the Fujian Tulou. It's really cool to take wide-angle photos here.
✅ Daguan River
In late autumn, the trees along the riverbanks turn yellow, creating a beautiful scene.
✅ Daguan Park
Connected to Dianchi Lake, similar to Green Lake Park, with lotus ponds in summer and golden scenery in autumn, as well as flocks of Siberian seagulls. It's very pleasant to stroll here.
Kunming Surroundings
1️⃣: Haihong Wetland
🌈Location: About 50 meters southwest of Kunming Dianchi Water Treatment Co., Ltd.
🚌Bus: Take bus No. 44, 24, or 73 to Haigeng Park, then take a taxi to the wetland
✅️Tickets: Free (boating is charged)
2️⃣: Laoyu River Park
🌈Location: West of the intersection of Huanhu East Road and Qixing Road, Chenggong District, Kunming City, Yunnan Province
🚌Bus: Take the subway to University Town South Station, then take a taxi to the park
✅️Tickets: Free
3️⃣: Cailian River
🌈Location: Opposite the Yunnan Provincial Committee on Guangfu Road, Xishan District, Kunming City
🚄Transportation: Take the subway to Daba Station, walk 500 meters, and navigate to Yufu Central Park.
✅️Tickets: Free
4️⃣: Sanjia Village
🌈Location: Sanjia Village Reservoir, Xishan District, Kunming City, Yunnan Province (west of Qipanshan National Forest Park)
🚌Bus: Take bus No. 6 to Yining Road, walk along Baohua Road (next to the Xishan District Public Security Bureau) next to the Yunnan Transformer Factory to Baozhu Park, and walk up the mountain along the main road
✅️Tickets: Free
5️⃣: Dianwei Village
🌈Location: Dianwei Village, Dianyuan Street, Panlong District, Kunming City, located along Baixiao Highway
🚌Bus: Take a shuttle bus from the North Bus Station to Baiyi, and get off at Dianwei Village
✅️Tickets: Free
6️⃣: Maliao River Park
🌈Location: Linxi Road, Information Industry Base, Economic Development Zone, Chenggong District, Kunming City
🚔Transportation: Drive to "Maliao River Park"
✅️Tickets: Free
The first stop in Kunming should start here!
🎈 Kunming, this beautiful city has so many surprises waiting for you to discover! When you use Kunming as a transit station for Lijiang and Dali, don't miss its charming scenery! Especially Haigeng Dam, which is definitely a great place to take photos!
🌟 Come and enjoy a one-day Kunming city walk! Start from Haigeng Dam, all the way to Green Lake Park to enjoy the green willows and fragrant lotus, then to the Kunming Army Lecture Hall to witness history and solemnity, as well as the charming Huangpu East Street, the bustling Kunming Old Street, and the popular Wine Glass Building that will amaze you! Don't forget the circular building of Aocheng Building, which is super impressive! Finally, enjoy the ocean of flowers at the largest Dounan Flower Market in Asia!
🤩 There are so many treasure spots here! Haigeng Dam, with Siberian seagulls in autumn and winter, feed the seagulls, take beautiful photos, and be cool! The beautiful scenery of Green Lake Park is unforgettable! The changing of the guard ceremony at the Army Lecture Hall is not to be missed!
👣 All of the above attractions are free, except for Haigeng Dam and Dounan Flower Market, which are a little far away and require a subway ride, the others are all close together, making it super convenient to visit!
🎉 How can you come to Yunnan without trying the wild mushroom hot pot! Be sure to go to Haigeng Dam in the morning, there are fewer people and it's easier to take photos! There are also American-style tofu, Guandu Baba, steam pot chicken, freshly baked flower cakes, and cross-bridge rice noodles waiting for you to taste!
🛏️ For accommodation, choose Kunming Qingfeng Inn at Haigeng Dam, the garden is beautiful, with small bridges and flowing water, tea by the stove, and a courtyard full of succulents. The rooms are stylish and environmentally friendly, with a Nordic minimalist style, warm white, fully intelligent, dry and wet separation, it's just great!
💖 Kunming is such a place that you don't want to leave once you come, come and start your dream journey!
A must-read for those planning a trip to Yunnan from October to December!
👭A must-read for those planning a trip to Yunnan from October to December!🔍
📝A complete guide to traveling in Yunnan to help you plan your trip! If you’re planning to travel in October, save this guide now!✨
🌟Must-see attractions in Yunnan
💖Dianchi Lake: Known as the “Pearl of the Plateau”
💖Stone Forest: A natural wonder with breathtaking peaks and rocks
💖Kunming Old Street: A treasure trove of European-style architecture and a paradise for street photographers
💖Dali Ancient City: Known for its “Nine Streets and Eighteen Alleys”
💖Erhai Lake: A picturesque and popular spot for social media photos
💖Three Pagodas of Chongsheng Temple: Stunning pagodas at sunset
💖Lugu Lake: Beautiful scenery with mountains and water
💖Jade Dragon Snow Mountain: A sacred mountain for the Naxi people
💖Lijiang Ancient City: A UNESCO World Heritage Site and ancient capital
💖Meili Snow Mountain: A magnificent sight of the sun shining on the mountain
💖Dukezong Ancient City: A great place to experience Tibetan culture
💖Songzanlin Monastery: A Buddhist holy site known as the “Little Potala Palace”
💖Wild Elephant Valley: The only place in China to see wild elephants
💖Jinghong Golden Pagoda: A magnificent Thai-style pagoda
💖Manting Park: The former royal garden of the Dai people
🏨Recommended accommodations in Yunnan
🏙️Kunming: Guandu District offers convenient transportation, dining, entertainment, and great value
🏙️Dali: Dali Ancient City offers convenient transportation, and Erhai Lake offers stunning sea view rooms
🏙️Lijiang: Dayan Ancient City is bustling, while Shuhe Ancient Town is peaceful
🏙️Lugu Lake: Daluoshui is lively, while Lige Peninsula is peaceful and beautiful
🏙️Xishuangbanna: Near Gaozhuang Xishuangjing, with dining and entertainment options
🚗Transportation in Yunnan
✈️Kunming Changshui Airport, Dali Airport, Lijiang Sanyi Airport, Xishuangbanna Gasa International Airport, Diqing Shangri-La Airport
💡Tip: Start your trip in Kunming, which offers more flights and affordable tickets. It’s more convenient to travel clockwise from Kunming to Dali, Lijiang, and other places.
🍜Yunnan food/street exploration
🏮Kunming: Try local delicacies like steam pot chicken and rice noodles on Yuanxi Road, Nanqiang Street, and Wenhua Lane
🏮Dali: Enjoy local specialties like rice noodles and three-course tea in Dali Ancient City and Fuxing Road
🏮Lijiang: Try Naxi grilled fish and meat, butter tea, and other snacks at Zhongyi Market and Lijiang Ancient City
🏮Shangri-La: Try Tibetan specialties like barley wine, butter tea, and yogurt
Kunming Old Street Day Tour, let's go, guys.
Kunming Old Street is a well-preserved old street in the center of Kunming, with a wealth of historical buildings and cultural relics.
🎉 Here is a simple guide to visiting Kunming Old Street 🎉
1️⃣ Guanghua Street: An old street in Kunming with an ancient flavor. 🍜 Try the authentic small pot rice noodles, 🛍️ find some Yunnan antiques, and discover the century-old pharmacy!
2️⃣ Anti-Japanese War Victory Memorial Hall: 🏰 A building that combines Chinese and Western styles, feel the solemnity of history.
3️⃣ Wine Glass Building/Opposite Moon Building/Paper Building: 📸 A landmark for taking photos, with a unique design, don't miss it!
4️⃣ Yongdao Street: 🌼 Flower and bird market and handicrafts, visit specialty shops.
5️⃣ Nie Er's Former Residence: 🎼 The home of the national anthem composer, feel the blend of music and history.
6️⃣ Jingxing Street: 🛍️ A lively market, all kinds of trinkets are waiting for you to find.
7️⃣ Qianwang Street: 🚀 The collision of trend and history, old houses and new fashions.
🚶♂️ Tour duration: It is recommended to spend 2-3 hours to slowly taste the old street style.
🚌 Transportation: Take a bus to Weiyuan Street and walk to the destination.
🕰️ Opening hours: Open all day, free admission.
🍦 Nearby recommendations: The surrounding old streets and alleys, Dongfang Bookstore, Fulin Tang, etc., are all good places for shopping.
Come to Kunming Old Street and experience a time-traveling trip! 🌟🌟🌟
Kunming 2 Days Itinerary
#100waysoftravel #chinatrip #historicallandmarks #localguides #familytrip #deliciousfood
Two-Day Itinerary in Kunming
Day 1:
• Morning: Start your day at Green Lake. Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere, watch the birds, and take a stroll around the lake. Admire the beautiful gardens and traditional architecture.
• Afternoon: Head to Wuyi Road. Explore the shops, boutiques, and cafes. Try some local snacks and pick up souvenirs.
• Evening: Visit Dongfeng Square. See the city lights and enjoy the bustling nightlife. There are often street performers and music.
Day 2:
• Morning: Make your way to Dianchi Lake. Take a boat ride to enjoy the views of the lake and the surrounding mountains. Visit some of the parks and attractions around the lake.
• Afternoon: Go to Wanda Tower. Admire the modern architecture and take in the panoramic view of Kunming from the observation deck.
• Evening: Relax and have a delicious dinner at a local restaurant. Try some Yunnan cuisine such as steam-pot chicken or grilled fish.
This itinerary allows you to experience the best of Kunming's natural beauty, shopping, and culture in just two days. Adjust the schedule according to your interests and pace.
You must take two boxes before leaving Kunming, it's not enough to eat.
Kunming is really a big city!
Tourists and locals come here for souvenirs when they leave Kunming! Chao has characteristics! Delicious and good-looking, with commemorative significance, I went into the store and strolled around for an hour and couldn't get out. Everything looks good and I want to buy something
The value and taste are online!
I was asked several times along the way with the bag (different shapes and tastes are different
Jinma Biji Square, Seagull, Butterfly, Elephant, Cross Bridge Rice Noodles, the sweetness is just right, I really love it
NEW wine glass building, it's really beautiful
The reduction is super high!!
The filling is cheese taro mud yolk, I like it too much! Cheese head closed eyes rush!!!
Ananas Camelia Hotel, Kunming - Afternoon Tea Time🫖 =• ֊ •=.
My friend👫 came to Kunming for a trip
I recommended this beautiful hotel🏨
Elegant and simple black and white color scheme
The service attitude is particularly good
The configuration is also high-end
Full house voice intelligent control🤖
Marshall audio🎵
Dyson hair dryer
Jinkeer diamond mattress
It's so comfortable to lie on
You can also have a beautiful afternoon tea🫖
It can be delivered to the room~
📍Ananas Camelia Hotel
Old Street... Average 15 ethnic snack bar!
Didn't expect such prices in the city center!!
2 yuan for a vegetable dish!!
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All dishes are ethnic specialties from southern Yunnan!
Fried pea powder, fried ribs, fried chicken giblets, spicy snail meat...
Over 20 types of dishes!
Just like getting food in a cafeteria!
Main dishes include chicken rice and white rice!
Must try the chicken rice!
I had three bowls 😭
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Nice view on the second floor!
Sitting alone and eating slowly!
It's quite comfortable 💗
🏠Southern Yunnan Snack Bar (Jingxing Flower Street)
It's Kunming, a place where you want to go for seafood buffet 1000 times.
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The dinner buffet at Grand Hyatt Kunming
is really a big surprise!!
Whether it's the weekend lobster night at Shuo Ting or the daily buffet,
it's worth going!!
.
🏠:
Shuo Ting All Day Dining
📍:
5F, Grand Hyatt Kunming
⏰:
Dinner 17:30-21:30
.
My favorite is the freshly grilled seafood and steak
The dishes are served quickly, all are freshly grilled and eaten, the quality is really good
It is said that Kunming buffet is the ceiling, it is not exaggerated at all💆🏻♂️
Grilled eel, grilled black tiger shrimp, grilled oysters
Weekend lobster, even salad is lobster🦞
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Kunming, wait for me, I'll fly there right away.
I really recommend everyone around me to visit Kunming, it's really my top 1✅
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✈️About 2 hours journey, the journey is still enjoyable, chose Huaxia Airlines, the experience is good👌🏻, here I wish Huaxia Airlines little pigeon🕊️ happy birthday🎂
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I've been to Kunming many times, the humanities and scenery here are really good!!
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Evergreen climate, it feels like every day is bathed in the spring breeze🍃, every step is a scenic spot, so comfortable‼️
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This time, the main goal is Daguanlou, I really like the scene in "Celebrating More Than Years", I must replicate one of my own, haha😝。
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After punching in, then arrange golf⛳️, fishing, camping🏕️……and my favorite museum in every place, let's go shopping!
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In Kunming, just go out and wander around, every day is so comfortable~
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Kunming Photo | You must use a super wide angle! The real version of the monster building.
Kunming Tube Building is also a very popular sky eye net red card place
Of course, you have to go to Kunming to check in. It is also highly recommended by CITYWALK.
Go directly from the mall and climb up to 6F according to the instructions. You need to use a super wide-angle lens to shoot upwards, so the wider the lens, the better~ The newly decorated terrace is also very beautiful, painted with Van Gogh's starry sky, and there are hand-painted walls and pink beaches next to it🏖
But this is a residential area, it is recommended to check in civilization, do not litter, do not make noise.
I can't believe I'm in Kunming and I feel like I'm in Western Europe!!
For those who want to go to France, look here. At the Kunming Yihao Castle Wyndham Supreme Hotel, you can experience foreign style!
📍Attraction address: Fendan Bailu Garden, Dashi Dam, Guandu District, Kunming, Yunnan
🚗Attraction traffic: You can take A6/164/188 in Kunming city to Yaoxing Fendan Bailu Park (Guikun Road) station and walk for 2 minutes to Kunming Yihao Castle Wyndham Supreme Hotel
🏨Hotel: When you see the hotel for the first time, you will feel shocked. The architecture of the Western European castle is eye-catching. When you walk into the lobby, you will see some things you see in the hotel in European and American movies. There are many oil paintings in the hotel, and the service is also in place!
♨️Hot spring: My favorite place!! The service inside is very good, the waiters are very enthusiastic, the water temperature is also very suitable, there are several kinds of pools inside, there are five-element pools, and there are red wine pools, osmanthus pools, jasmine pools, etc., and there are soup houses! The building is very beautiful, the photos are very good, and it is very suitable for punching!
💗Other tips: They also have buffet service, there are many kinds of food, all of them are drooling, they can't stop, they are particularly delicious, and they are worth tasting!!
Kunming's! Newly opened! Not an art gallery
It's so beautiful it's almost illegal.
Good news for sisters traveling to Yunnan
So far, the ceiling of Kunming hotels in my heart has appeared
It's like an art gallery
A combination of modern and ethnic styles, very well designed
The romantic atmosphere is full, making people intoxicated~
Every casual shot is very photogenic
Everyone on my social media thought I went to Macau 😂
The night view is superb, definitely a dating spot 🌷
🏠 Grand Hyatt Kunming
📍 Great location, located in the Hang Lung Plaza in the main urban area of Kunming
A 10-minute walk to Kunming Old Street, Jiubei Tower
Jinma Biji Square...
Only 3km from Kunming Station, a 10-minute drive
🚇 There's a subway station downstairs, super convenient for travel ❤️
📸 'Photo Spots'
▪️ Hotel Lobby
▪️ Copper Shadow Gallery
▪️ Hotel Night View
Every spot is very photogenic, saving me the money for exhibitions 💰
🍱 'About Food'
This time, our family of three with a child chose the hotel's 'Yunxiang Chinese Restaurant', which combines Yunnan local specialties and Cantonese cuisine! The freshly baked crispy roast duck was so fragrant it made us dizzy. Not only is the environment comfortable, but the dishes are also very rich. If you need a place for a Mid-Autumn family gathering, go for it with your eyes closed 😎
My favorite hotel in Kunming so far!
Kunming, a city favored by the sun,
is full of flowers all year round.
Every time I come to Kunming, I am always pleasantly surprised.
Just like this time I stayed at the Grand Hyatt Hotel,
it brought me a journey of luxury and culture~
As soon as I stepped into the hotel,
I was shocked by the magnificent copper gallery design,
as if I had walked into the hall of art,
a random shot is a blockbuster
full of high-level sense🤩
Stay in a room with a 270° view of Kunming city
The room incorporates different ethnic cultural elements
The design of bronze and earth colors,
with low-key and textured gold and copper utensils,
brings a comfortable and relaxed atmosphere
The hotel's catering is even more memorable
The all-day restaurant on the fifth floor
Buffet breakfast and dinner are rich and varied
Cantonese dim sum for breakfast, freshly cooked noodles🍜,
freshly baked... everything!
Dinner is even more surprising, enjoy seafood freedom!
There is also a "garden" like a large terrace,
The greenery is like being in an "ideal southern country",
eating while enjoying this cozy time~
The fourth floor's disc, Japanese food lovers must not miss,
the relaxed style of a traditional izakaya,
The handsome chef's dishes are all surprises,
every bite makes me nod my head😀
I'd be sad if anyone came to Kunming and didn't stay at this hotel.
Kunming Papman Hotel
😍This is the best designer hotel in Kunming. The weather in Kunming in July and August is really comfortable. This time I came to Kunming for a vacation and chose this Oriental aesthetic hotel by Dianchi Lake and under Xishan Mountain.
👉I didn't expect to be pleasantly surprised.
🧚♀️The Oriental minimalist style of the small detached building, the special afternoon tea area, and the enthusiastic service are just right.
🧚♀️The breakfast is of great quality, the ingredients are fresh and abundant, and there is a private room and private restaurant.
🧚♀️It's very close to the convention and exhibition center, the location is good, the award-winning bridge rice noodles, the room details are full, but the cost performance is already very high.
👍It's definitely the top boutique hotel in China. The corresponding hardware and software are also readily available. The choice of spare parts is also impeccable.
🛌When checking in, the room was prepared with welcome fruit. The quality is definitely among the top boutique hotels in China.
♥Whether it's for business, vacation, couples, or parent-child, it's a great place to go.
♥Kunming Papman Hotel
Kunming Old Street Day Tour (with travel guide).
Kunming Old Street is the most authentic old street in downtown Kunming. Here is a travel guide:
- Transportation:
- Subway: Take Line 3 or Line 5 and get off at Wuyi Road Station. Walk for about 10 minutes to get there.
- Bus: Take Bus No. 56, 133, or 189 and get off at Weiyuan Street Station. Walk for about 100 meters to get there.
- Self-driving: Navigate to Kunming Old Street. There are parking lots nearby.
- Accommodation: There are many hotels and homestays around the old street. You can book according to your budget and preference.
- Attractions:
- Guanghua Street: The core area of Kunming Old Street, with many historical buildings and specialty shops, such as Jiubei Building and Fulin Hall.
- Qianwang Street: Named after Wang Chiming, the richest man in the late Qing Dynasty, with many old buildings and fashion shops, such as Majia Courtyard and Starbucks.
- Yongdao Street: The former flower street, with Nie Er's former residence and flower and bird market.
- Jingxing Street: Mainly antique jewelry, and many snack stalls and specialty shops.
- Wenming Street: There are many restaurants and snack bars, such as Dongfang Bookstore and Sanwan Tofu Rice Noodles.
- Food:
- Small pot rice noodles: Kunming's specialty snack, delicious.
- Tofu rice noodles: Delicate taste, with tofu and seasoning, unique taste.
- Steamed meat with rice flour: Made from pork and rice flour, soft and waxy.
- Roasted milk fan: Yunnan's traditional snack, made from milk, sweet and fragrant.
- Flower cake: With fresh flowers as filling, crispy crust, sweet filling.
- Precautions:
- The old street is crowded, please take care of your personal belongings.
- Respect local customs and religious beliefs.
- Some attractions require tickets, it is recommended to understand the relevant information in advance.
The above guide is for reference only, you can adjust and arrange according to your own interests and time. I hope you have a pleasant holiday on Kunming Old Street!
Big and Beautiful Lotus @GreenLake
#travellerwonderland
Cui Hu Lake, also known as Green Lake Park, is a stunning urban oasis in the heart of Kunming, Yunnan Province, China. This picturesque lake is surrounded by beautiful gardens, walking paths, and historical landmarks.
Things to do and see;
-Serene Lake: Popular place for walking, cycling, boating, strolling, or relaxing by the water.
-Seagull Island: Bird watching and feeding seagulls up close during winter time.
-Cultural hub: Hosts traditional festivals, performances, and exhibitions.
-A weekend market with interesting and beautiful local handmade crafts, try local street food and tea, cafe.
- Folk Culture Village: Explore traditional Yunnan architecture and crafts.
-Historical landmarks, such as Dragon Gate, Longmen Pavilion, and royal garden.
-Popular place for photography.
-Enjoy the sunset view
Dont come to Dianchi Lake, You will fall in Love
#travellerwonderland
Dianchi Lake is the largest freshwater lake in Yunnan and one of the main attractions in Kunming. It holds significant historical, ecological, and cultural importance, offering a variety of experiences for visitors. Here are some highlights that make Dianchi Lake special:
-Dianchi Lake is surrounded by mountains, including the famous Western Hills (Xishan), which provide breathtaking views of the lake and the city of Kunming. Visitors can take a cable car from the hill to enjoy an aerial view of the lake.
-The lake, spanning 300 square kilometers, offers tranquil waters and beautiful reflections, making it a peaceful retreat from the city’s bustle. Visitors can take the ferry to see the lake.
-Dianchi Lake is home to numerous species of fish and birds. In recent years, environmental restoration efforts have helped improve the lake's water quality and protect the surrounding wetlands, encouraging the return of migratory birds, especially black-headed gulls in winter.
-Several wetland parks, like Haigeng Park, have been developed around the lake, offering habitats for wildlife and scenic spots for visitors to enjoy birdwatching and walking trails.
-The lake area is home to cultural landmarks, including the ancient Daguan Pavilion (Grand View Tower), which dates back to the Qing Dynasty. It offers a poetic view of the lake and is known for inscriptions of classical Chinese poetry.
-The shores of Dianchi Lake are a place to observe local life. Many residents come to the lakeside to relax, exercise, or participate in activities like boating.
Dianchi Lake provides both a scenic escape and a cultural experience, blending nature with history and offering visitors a variety of activities year-round.
My summer holiday, First time in Kunming
#travellerwonderland
Kunming, the capital of Yunnan Province, is a beautiful city surrounded by stunning natural scenery and rich cultural heritage.
It's my first time to visit Kunming and here are my places to visit:
-Stone Forest (Shilin) iconic limestone formations
-Dian Lake (Dianchi Lake) largest lake in Yunnan
-Western Hills (Xi Shan) scenic hills with temples and views
-Yuantong Temple - ancient Buddhist temple
-Green Lake Park (Cui Hu) peaceful oasis in the city
-Jinma Biji Square - vibrant nightlife and shopping
-Lijiang Ancient Town ( UNESCO World Heritage Site)
You should visit Kunming, the Spring city.
Enjoy your trip
Kunming Travel Guide 🌟
📍Attraction Addresses:
🏞️Stone Forest Scenic Area: Located in Shilin Yi Autonomous County, Kunming, it is a World Natural Heritage site.
🌊Dianchi Lake: Located in the southwest of Kunming, it is the largest freshwater lake in Yunnan Province.
🚗Transportation to Attractions:
🚌To reach the Stone Forest Scenic Area, you can take a tourist bus from Kunming city to Shilin County, which takes about 2 hours.
🚇🚌Transportation around Dianchi Lake is convenient. You can take the subway or bus directly, or choose to cycle around the lake to enjoy the natural scenery.
👍️Must-visit Attractions:
🏞️Stone Forest Scenic Area: A must-visit place to explore the wonders of nature.
🏮Yunnan Ethnic Village: Learn about the multi-ethnic culture of Yunnan and experience ethnic customs.
🎟️Ticket Information:
🎫The ticket prices for the Stone Forest Scenic Area vary according to the season and discount policies. It is recommended to check and purchase in advance.
🎟️Some attractions around Dianchi Lake are free to enter, but some areas like Xishan Longmen require tickets.
💗Other Tips:
🧥Kunming has a spring-like climate all year round, but the temperature difference between morning and evening is significant. It is recommended to bring a light jacket.
🍜Taste Yunnan's special delicacies, such as Cross-bridge Rice Noodles and Flower Cakes, which are not to be missed.
🌳Please protect the environment while touring, do not litter, and respect local customs.
Black Dragon Pool Park @Lijiang
#myhiddengems
Black Dragon Pool Park offers the best view of Jade Dragon Mountain without the need to visit the mountain itself. Situated just 1 km north of Lijiang Old Town, Black Dragon Pool also serves as a water source for the town. The park features two stunning pools, one deep and one shallow. Within the park, you'll find several buildings from the Ming and Qing dynasties, along with an array of beautiful trees and flowers, making it the perfect place to relax and enjoy nature.
#lijiang #yunnan #chinatravel #chinalife #visitchina
Yunnan Kunming | Dounan Flower Market • A Romantic Encounter with Flowers
| Dounan Flower Market • A Romantic Encounter with Flowers. Kunming Dounan Flower Market, a dreamlike journey of blooming flowers 🌸||| Strolling through the gaps of time, unlock the secret playbook of Dounan Flower Market 🗺️. This is not just a feast of flowers, but also a romantic encounter between the soul and nature.
At the break of dawn, when the first ray of sunlight gently caresses the earth, Dounan Flower Market quietly awakens in the tranquility of four in the morning. 🌅 In a corner of the bonsai market, the grass flowers sway gently, as if the softest touch of nature, painting vibrant pictures for early travelers. If you are in a hurry, why not pause here for a moment to let your soul find a moment of peace and nourishment.
During the long day, from nine in the morning to six in the evening, the main hall of Dounan Flower Market transforms into a splendid garden, blooming just for you who seek dreams. The adorable succulents, the dazzling array of surrounding pavilions, every corner exudes enchanting fragrance. Especially the fresh flowers on the outer stalls, blooming like a girl's smile, bright and incomparable, but need careful care to avoid premature wilting.
And when night falls and the lights come on, Dounan Flower Market changes into another face. 🌃 The evening market slowly opens, a sea of roses surges, each carrying vows and dreams of love. At this time, the flower market is bustling with people and lights, as if the whole world is boiling for it. You are a quiet presence in this bustling scene, quietly watching and feeling this unique hustle and warmth.
How to reach this flower kingdom❓ Metro Line 4, Jinguijie Station Exit B, is your starting point to cross the urban hustle. 🚇 No need to travel far, just a few steps away, you can step into this sea of flowers. If you choose to drive, the parking lot of Vienna Hotel (Jinguijie Metro Station) will be your best docking place, just across the road is the world of blooming flowers, convenient and elegant.
While playing, how can you miss the temptation on the tip of your tongue❓🍽️ It is recommended to arrive at the flower market in the evening and first feast at the food street. Yun Xiaoniang's roasted potatoes are fragrant, Aishangjun's wild mushroom hot pot is delicious, Bawangchaji's tea drinks are refreshing, and Mandai's exotic flavors are unforgettable. Every dish, every sip of soup, is the ultimate temptation to the taste buds and a beautiful interpretation of life.
Strolling through the flower market, don't forget the pursuit and exploration of beauty. 🔍 Outside the main hall, the mountain goods area hides countless surprises and miracles. Special foliage, fruit materials, high-end imported flowers, and those exotic flowers and plants are all waiting here for an unexpected encounter with you. Perhaps, in an unintentional moment, you will meet that unique beauty that belongs to you.
Finally, when buying flowers, please be sure to choose carefully to ensure that each flower can bloom the brightest smile under your care. 💐 Check the freshness of the roots, observe the posture of the flower heads, gently touch the softness of the petals, and feel the gift from nature. And when you return home fully loaded, don't forget to wear that long-sleeved jacket 🧥, because roses, though beautiful, also come with a gentle reminder of thorns.
Thus, a trip to Dounan Flower Market becomes a dreamlike journey about love, beauty, and nature. May you find your own peace and warmth here.
Best Things To Do in Kunming, Yunnan 🇨🇳
Here’s a guide to the highlights of Kunming:
🪨 Stone Forest: Visit the Stone Forest for its unique karst formations and stunning landscapes. Wear comfortable shoes for walking and bring a hat and sunscreen, as it can be sunny.
🏛️ Golden Temple: Explore the Golden Temple, known for its impressive copper structure and tranquil setting. It's a great spot for photography and reflection. Check the opening hours and dress modestly.
🌄 Western Hills: Take a trip to Western Hills for panoramic views and a cable car ride. The scenic beauty and serene environment are perfect for a relaxing day out.
🏛️ Yunnan Nationalities Museum: Discover the diverse cultures of Yunnan at the Nationalities Museum. Allocate a few hours to explore the exhibits and learn about the region’s rich heritage.
#summerdestinations #china #chinatrip #chinatravel #mytravelhacks #historicallandmarks #localguides #familytrip
A rich history in Yuantong Temple
#temples #100waysoftravel
Situated in the northern part of Kunming, Yuantong temple is one of the most important temple inscribed at part of the National Cultural Relic. It has a history of more than 1200 years, built by the Nanzhao Kingdom King Yimouxun during the late eighth century. When you first enter the temple you will reach the Yuantong Hall with a delicat9e stone bridge across the pond connecting the main hall and the Mahavira Hall. There is also a stone staircase which leads you to the top of the hill and you can have a terrific panoramic view of the entire complex. This temple also houses many important Buddhist scriptures and those are considered a cultural relics of China, which makes the temple a very important role in history and the world.
Escape the hustle and bustle! Yunnan's reverse tourism is a great success!
I don't like crowded places, so I chose a reverse route!
🌟 Southeast Yunnan, a niche but stunning travel secret
In this magical land of Yunnan, Southeast Yunnan is like a forgotten pearl, quietly radiating its unique brilliance. Unlike the hustle and bustle of Lijiang and Dali, this place is more about pure nature and rich ethnic customs. Today, let's embark on this journey to Southeast Yunnan, exploring those unknown stunning spots and authentic delicacies!
🌈 Highlights Revealed
Mile Dongfeng Yun: An artistic maze in a red brick fairy tale
Walking through the art manor built of red bricks feels like being in a kaleidoscopic dream world. This is a paradise for photographers and a must-visit place for literary youth. In the afternoon, find a café and enjoy a leisurely time.
Luoping Rapeseed Flower Sea: A romantic encounter in a golden ocean
When the spring breeze blows across the land, the rapeseed flower sea in Luoping turns into a golden ocean. Standing on the viewing platform and looking at the endless sea of flowers, you will be amazed by its grandeur and beauty. Niujie Snail Field is a unique feature of the rapeseed flower sea, with terraces spiraling like snails, offering breathtaking views.
Fuxian Lake: Maldives style on the plateau
As the deepest freshwater lake on the plateau in China, Fuxian Lake attracts countless tourists with its crystal-clear water and stunning natural scenery. Here, you can experience the Maldives style of Yunnan, enjoying the embrace of sunshine, beaches, and waves.
Jianshui Ancient City: A cultural journey through time
Entering Jianshui Ancient City feels like traveling back to the Ming and Qing dynasties through a time tunnel. The ancient city walls, stone-paved roads, Confucian Temple, and Zhu Family Garden all exude a strong historical atmosphere. The snacks in the ancient city are also mouth-watering, with roasted tofu, crossing-the-bridge rice noodles, and steam pot chicken waiting for you to taste.
Puzhehei: A magical kingdom of karst landforms
Puzhehei is famous for its unique karst landforms and rich natural landscapes. Solitary peaks, mirror-like lakes, and deep caves make every spot unforgettable. The sunset on Qinglong Mountain is one of the must-see sceneries. Standing on the mountain top overlooking the entire Puzhehei scenic area, you will be touched by the tranquility and harmony.
Yuanyang Terraces: The poetic countryside of the Hani people
Yuanyang Terraces are one of the three major terraces in the world and the result of generations of hard work by the Hani people. Overlooking the entire valley from the terraces, you will find the layered terraces like exquisite landscape paintings. The sunset at Bada Terraces is so beautiful that it will leave you mesmerized.
🍜 Authentic Food Hunt
How can a trip to Southeast Yunnan be complete without the company of food? Besides the snacks mentioned in Jianshui Ancient City, there are also Mile's braised chicken rice noodles, Luoping's rapeseed flower honey, Mengzi's crossing-the-bridge rice noodles, and Yuanyang's Hani terrace red rice, among other specialties waiting for you to taste. Each dish carries the enthusiasm and wisdom of the locals, allowing you to feel the unique charm of Southeast Yunnan while savoring.
🚀 Itinerary Overview
D1: Gather in Kunming, feel the warmth and enthusiasm of the Spring City
D2: Kunming - Dongchuan Red Land, explore the natural palette
D3: Dongchuan Red Land - Luoping Rapeseed Flower Sea, encounter romance in the golden ocean
D4: Luoping Niujie Snail Field - Puzhehei Scenic Area, a magical journey through karst landforms
D5: Puzhehei - Mengzi Bisezhai - Yuanyang Terraces, trace the footsteps of history and nature's gifts
D6: Half-day tour of Yuanyang Terraces - Jianshui Ancient City, savor the charm of the ancient city and authentic delicacies.
A hotel you'll fall in love with after just one stay, and I'm sure you'll like it too
🌇 Family, today I'm sharing with you an amazing hotel—the Kunming PAPMAN Hotel 🥳
🎨 Design Concept:
PAPMAN takes Oriental minimalist aesthetics and the wisdom of Chinese living as its design origin, creating a high-quality designer hotel. Here, you can feel the unique charm of a high-end courtyard-style boutique hotel space 💖
📍 Detailed Address:
The hotel is located at Building 12, South Guotianchi Street, Dianchi International Convention and Exhibition Center, Guandu District, Kunming City, Yunnan Province, China. The location is excellent 👍
🛏 Room Arrangement:
The room arrangement is very cozy, with every detail showcasing quality and care. The bedding is soft and comfortable, ensuring a burden-free sleep. The decor is simple yet stylish, giving a homely feel 💕
🚇 Transportation Guide:
The hotel is adjacent to the Dianchi International Convention and Exhibition Center Station on Metro Line 5, making travel very convenient. Whether you're heading to the city center, the airport, or the train station, you can get there easily 🚀
Surrounding Environment:
This place is simply a perfect tourist destination 😍 It's about a 15-minute drive to Haigeng Park, Wetland Park, Yunnan Ethnic Village, Yunnan Provincial Museum, and Daguan Pavilion. It's also only about a half-hour drive to the city center, Kunming Changshui International Airport, and Kunming Railway Station. Additionally, the area around the hotel is filled with shopping, dining, entertainment, and leisure options, as well as the Dianchi Wetland Park, making your trip rich and colorful 🌈
Let me tell you exactly how to enjoy Kunming
About transportation:
Kunming has an airport, so we can take a flight directly to Changshui Airport from where we come from. Kunming also has two train stations, Kunming South Station and Kunming Station. It's best to check the train schedules from our city before we leave to see which station we will arrive at. The transportation within Kunming city is also quite convenient. We can choose to take the subway or take a taxi or ride a shared bike. For attractions that are a bit further away, we can take the subway, or it's also very convenient to just scan and ride a shared bike.
About accommodation:
I suggest you can stay near Tangzixiang, Wuyi Road subway station, or Huan Cheng South Road subway station. First of all, Tangzixiang has direct access to the airport, and it is also close to Kunming Old Street and Nanping Street, where we can easily taste various delicacies. Wuyi Road subway station is the intersection of subway lines 3 and 5. There are many food streets nearby, such as Nanping Street, Jingguo Street, etc. Moreover, we can take line 3 or line 5 to the vicinity of Dianchi Lake, which is very convenient for travel and eating.
How to play:
Day 1: We can go to Dianchi Lake for fun. Dianchi Lake is the largest lake in Yunnan Province, and there are many attractions around the lake. We can choose 2 to 3 attractions to visit, so it will be more relaxing. We can also go to Haigeng Wetland Park by Dianchi Lake, which is the most concentrated place for tourists and the best scene to watch seagulls. During the seagull season, we must go there to check in. Then go to the Western Hills Scenic Area, where you can have a panoramic view of Dianchi Lake from the mountain, and the scenery is particularly beautiful.
The Ethnic Village next to Dianchi Lake is also a worthwhile attraction to visit. In the afternoon, you can go to the Dounan Flower Market, which is the largest fresh cut flower trading market in Asia. Seven out of every ten flowers in the country come from Dounan. Here, buying flowers is as simple as buying vegetables. We can absolutely enjoy the freedom of fresh flowers.
Day 2: First go to Kunming Old Street for breakfast, then stroll through the old street and go to the nearby Cuihu Park. As the saying goes, 'A pool of Cuihu water, half a step to the Spring City begins.' Kunming Cuihu Park has different scenery in each of the four seasons. In winter, there are seagulls from Siberia, in spring, there are tulips blooming everywhere, and in summer, there are lotus flowers in the pond. No matter what season we come, we will definitely not be disappointed. We can also visit the former site of Southwest Associated University, Yunnan Provincial Museum, and Jiangwutang. These three places require us to make reservations online in advance. If time is not enough, we can also choose one or two places to visit. In this way, spending two days, we can basically check out all the popular attractions in Kunming.
Food:
As the capital city of Yunnan, Kunming allows us to taste almost all the delicacies of Yunnan, such as Crossing-the-Bridge Noodles, Stone Pot Fish, Tofu Noodles, Rushan Baiwei, etc. We can go to Nanqiang Street, Shuangqiao Night Market, Wenhua Alley, these snack worlds, where there are many special snacks. To be honest, compared to natural landscapes, Kunming definitely can't compare with Dali and Lijiang. However, as the capital city, Kunming's cultural heritage is worth everyone coming to experience! Through the tour of Kunming, we can particularly well feel the entire culture and history of Yunnan.
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