Huangshan

Huangshan Overview

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Planning a trip from Huangshan to Yunnan offers a unique opportunity to explore one of China’s most diverse and scenic provinces. Whether you’re interested in lush tropical rainforests, alpine mountains, cultural treasures, or ancient towns, Yunnan has it all. This detailed guide covers everything you need to know, from the best time to visit to transportation options and tour packages.


Best Time to Visit Yunnan

Yunnan is famous for its mild climate year-round, but the best time to visit depends on what you’re looking to experience. Here’s a breakdown of the seasons:

Spring (March to May)

  • Ideal for: Exploring scenic landscapes, trekking, photography, and cultural tours.

  • Weather: Mild temperatures, ranging from 15°C to 25°C.

  • Highlights: Visit places like the Yuanyang Hani Rice Terraces for stunning views of the terraces at sunrise and sunset, and enjoy clear skies for hiking in Tiger Leaping Gorge and Shangri-La.

Summer (June to August)

  • Ideal for: Experiencing tropical areas and lush green landscapes.

  • Weather: Warm in lower altitudes like Kunming, Dali, and Xishuangbanna, with temperatures averaging 25°C to 30°C.

  • Highlights: Visit Xishuangbanna for its tropical forests and vibrant ethnic cultures, and Lijiang for pleasant mountain climates.

Autumn (September to November)

  • Ideal for: Outdoor activities, trekking, and photography.

  • Weather: Crisp, clear weather with comfortable temperatures ranging from 18°C to 25°C.

  • Highlights: Ideal for trekking in Tiger Leaping Gorge and exploring Dali, Lijiang, and Shangri-La, where the fall colors create beautiful landscapes.

Winter (December to February)

  • Ideal for: Off-season travel and low-cost tours.

  • Weather: Cold in higher altitudes (e.g., Shangri-La) but mild in Kunming and Xishuangbanna.

  • Highlights: Winter is perfect for visiting the warm tropical regions of Xishuangbanna, while Shangri-La offers an off-season experience without the crowds.


Transportation from Huangshan to Yunnan

Traveling from Huangshan to Yunnan involves several transportation options. Here’s a comprehensive overview:

Huangshan to Yunnan Travel by Flights

The fastest way to travel from Huangshan to Yunnan is by airplane. However, there are no direct flights between Huangshan and major Yunnan cities like Kunming, Dali, and Lijiang, so you will need to make one or two stops at larger airports like Shanghai or Hangzhou.

  • Flight Route Example:

    • Huangshan (TXN) → Shanghai (PVG) → Kunming (KMG): Total flight time approximately 3.5 hours.

    • Huangshan (TXN) → Hangzhou (HGH) → Kunming (KMG): Total flight time approximately 4 hours.

Huangshan to Yunnan Travel by High-Speed Train

A high-speed train journey is a comfortable and scenic option for travel. While there are no direct high-speed trains from Huangshan to Kunming, Dali, or Lijiang, you can take a high-speed train to Kunming with a transfer in Shanghai or Hangzhou.

  • High-Speed Train Routes:

    • Huangshan → Kunming: Approx. 13-14 hours with one change in Shanghai or Hangzhou.

    • Huangshan → Dali / Lijiang: Change trains in Kunming and continue your journey (approximately 17-20 hours).

Huangshan to Yunnan Travel by Normal Train

Normal trains (non-high-speed) are available but take longer to reach Kunming or other Yunnan cities. For example, the Huangshan to Kunming train journey could take 22-24 hours. This option is more budget-friendly but less comfortable.

  • Normal Train Travel: The trip will involve long hours, but it can offer a unique experience and opportunity to see more of the countryside.

Huangshan to Yunnan Travel by Road

If you’re an adventure seeker or prefer flexibility, you can travel by car or bus. The journey from Huangshan to Kunming by road can take approximately 25-30 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. This method offers the chance to explore more areas along the way but is quite time-consuming.


Top Yunnan Tours from Huangshan

Here are some of the most popular Yunnan tours that you can take from Huangshan. These tours will help you experience the highlights of Yunnan, from natural beauty to cultural sites.

Kunming, Dali, Lijiang, and Shangri-La Tour (7 Days)

Day 1: Arrive in Kunming

  • Explore Stone Forest, Western Hills, and Dianchi Lake.

Day 2: Kunming

  • Visit Green Lake and Golden Temple.

Day 3: Dali

  • Visit Erhai Lake and Cangshan Mountain.

Day 4: Lijiang

  • Explore Lijiang Old Town and Jade Dragon Snow Mountain.

Day 5: Shangri-La

  • Visit Songzanlin Monastery, Pudacuo National Park, and Napa Lake.

Day 6: Shangri-La

  • Explore Shangri-La Old Town and surrounding Tibetan culture.

Day 7: Return to Kunming and head back to Huangshan.

Tiger Leaping Gorge and Lijiang Tour (5 Days)

Day 1: Lijiang

  • Visit Lijiang Old Town and Black Dragon Pool.

Day 2: Tiger Leaping Gorge

  • Trek along the famous Tiger Leaping Gorge.

Day 3: Jade Dragon Snow Mountain

  • Explore the Blue Moon Valley and Jade Dragon Snow Mountain.

Day 4: Shuhe

  • Visit Shuhe Ancient Town, an ancient town that retains much of the Naxi culture.

Day 5: Return to Kunming and head back to Huangshan.

Yuanyang Hani Rice Terraces and Xishuangbanna Tour (7 Days)

Day 1: Kunming

  • Travel to Jinghong in Xishuangbanna.

Day 2: Xishuangbanna

  • Visit Wild Elephant Valley, home to the famous Asian elephants.

Day 3: Xishuangbanna

  • Explore the Xishuangbanna Primitive Forest Park and Mekong River.

Day 4: Yuanyang

  • Visit the Hani Rice Terraces and photograph the stunning terraces.

Day 5: Yuanyang

  • Explore local Hani Villages and enjoy the terraced landscapes.

Day 6: Return to Kunming for further exploration.

Day 7: Travel back to Huangshan.


Additional Popular Destinations in Yunnan

Yunnan is full of incredible destinations that cater to different interests:

  • Shangri-La: A paradise for nature lovers and adventurers, known for its Tibetan culture, mountainous landscapes, and monasteries.

  • Lijiang: A UNESCO-listed ancient town known for its Naxi culture, stunning mountains, and picturesque old town.

  • Dali: A historical and cultural hub located by Erhai Lake, perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in Bai ethnic culture and natural beauty.

  • Xishuangbanna: A tropical paradise that offers rainforests, wildlife experiences, and insights into the lives of the Dai Minority.

  • Yuanyang Rice Terraces: Known for their impressive terraced fields, particularly popular for photography, especially at sunrise and sunset.


Planning a Yunnan trip from Huangshan is an exciting adventure that allows you to explore the diversity of one of China’s most enchanting provinces. Whether you’re trekking in Tiger Leaping Gorge, exploring ancient towns like Lijiang, or soaking in the tropical beauty of Xishuangbanna, Yunnan offers something for everyone. Choose from a variety of transportation options and tour packages to ensure your travel is comfortable, enjoyable, and unforgettable.