Shanghai

Shanghai Overview

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If you’re planning a trip to Yunnan from Shanghai, this guide provides everything you need to know, including the best transportation options, how to travel comfortably, and the best tours that will allow you to experience the highlights of Yunnan. Yunnan, with its stunning landscapes and rich culture, is a must-visit destination for travelers.


How to Plan Yunnan Tours from Shanghai?

Traveling from Shanghai to Yunnan is easy, with several transportation options available. Whether you prefer a fast flight or a scenic train ride, you can choose the mode of transport that suits your schedule and interests.


Shanghai – Yunnan Transportation

Shanghai to Yunnan Travel by Flights

Flying is the fastest and most convenient way to travel from Shanghai to Yunnan. Flights depart regularly from Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG) to Kunming Changshui International Airport (KMG), with a flight time of approximately 3.5 to 4 hours. There are also flights to other cities in Yunnan like Lijiang, Dali, and Shangri-La, though a flight to Kunming first and then a domestic flight or train to your destination is a common route.

Shanghai to Yunnan Travel by High-Speed Train

For a scenic journey, you can take the high-speed train from Shanghai to Kunming. The journey takes approximately 12-13 hours. High-speed trains are comfortable and modern, offering a great way to enjoy the changing landscapes as you travel.

Shanghai to Yunnan Travel by Normal Train

For a more leisurely and affordable journey, you can take a normal train from Shanghai to Kunming. This option takes around 24-26 hours, but it offers an opportunity to see more of the countryside and interact with locals along the way.

Shanghai to Yunnan Travel by Road

Traveling by road from Shanghai to Yunnan is possible but not recommended unless you want to explore off-the-beaten-path areas. The distance is over 2,000 km, and the journey could take around 30 hours or more depending on traffic and route. It’s often better to combine road travel with other transportation modes, like high-speed trains or flights.


Shanghai – Yunnan Tours

Once you’ve arrived in Yunnan, there are various tour packages you can choose from. These packages often cover the top highlights of the region, ensuring that you experience the best of Yunnan.

Top Yunnan Tours Packages from Shanghai


Kunming, Dali, Lijiang, Shangri-La Tours from Shanghai

  • Duration: 8-10 days

  • Highlights: Discover the natural beauty of Kunming, including the Stone Forest and Dianchi Lake. Explore the charming Dali Old Town, relax by Erhai Lake, and visit Lijiang Old Town and Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. End the tour in Shangri-La, a haven for Tibetan culture.

  • Best For: Culture enthusiasts, nature lovers, and first-time visitors to Yunnan.

Shanghai to Kunming Tours

  • Duration: 4-6 days

  • Highlights: Focus on Kunming‘s natural wonders such as the Stone Forest, Western Hills, and Green Lake. Experience the local markets and cuisine.

  • Best For: A short trip to experience the essence of Yunnan.

Shanghai to Dali Tours

  • Duration: 5-6 days

  • Highlights: Explore the beauty of Dali‘s ancient city, Cangshan Mountain, and Erhai Lake. Enjoy traditional Bai culture and delicious local food.

  • Best For: Nature lovers and those looking for a peaceful retreat.

Shanghai to Lijiang Tours

  • Duration: 5-7 days

  • Highlights: Visit Lijiang Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, take a scenic tour to Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, and experience the Black Dragon Pool and Shuhe Village.

  • Best For: History buffs, culture enthusiasts, and adventure seekers.

Shanghai to Shangri-La Tours

  • Duration: 6-8 days

  • Highlights: Explore Shangri-La‘s Tibetan culture, including visits to the Songzanlin Monastery, Pudacuo National Park, and Napa Lake. Enjoy stunning views of the Himalayas and experience traditional Tibetan life.

  • Best For: Cultural explorers and nature enthusiasts.

Shanghai to Xishuangbanna Tours

  • Duration: 6-8 days

  • Highlights: Visit Xishuangbanna, home to tropical rainforests and ethnic minorities. Explore the Wild Elephant Valley, visit the Tropical Botanical Garden, and enjoy the unique Dai culture.

  • Best For: Wildlife enthusiasts, nature lovers, and those interested in ethnic cultures.

Shanghai to Tengchong Tours

  • Duration: 5-7 days

  • Highlights: Visit the volcanic landscapes in Tengchong, the Gaoligong Mountains, and the Tengchong Hot Springs. Explore the diverse culture and history of the area.

  • Best For: Nature lovers, adventure seekers, and history buffs.

Shanghai to Tiger Leaping Gorge Tours

  • Duration: 4-5 days

  • Highlights: Experience one of the world’s deepest gorges, Tiger Leaping Gorge, and take a scenic trek along the river. Visit Jade Dragon Snow Mountain for breathtaking views.

  • Best For: Adventure lovers, trekkers, and nature enthusiasts.

Shanghai to Three Parallel Rivers Tours

  • Duration: 8-10 days

  • Highlights: Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Three Parallel Rivers area, which includes Tiger Leaping Gorge, Shangri-La, and Lijiang. Explore the diverse landscapes, from deep gorges to lush forests.

  • Best For: Nature lovers, photographers, and adventure travelers.

Shanghai to Honghe and Yuanyang Hani Rice Terraces Tours

  • Duration: 6-8 days

  • Highlights: Visit the Yuanyang Rice Terraces, famous for their dramatic landscapes, especially during sunrise. Explore the unique Hani culture and learn about their agricultural practices.

  • Best For: Photographers, nature enthusiasts, and culture seekers.


Traveling from Shanghai to Yunnan is an exciting journey filled with plenty of options, whether you choose to fly, take a high-speed train, or explore by road. Once you reach Yunnan, a variety of tour packages are available to help you explore its incredible diversity, from the cityscapes of Kunming to the natural beauty of Tiger Leaping Gorge and the Yuanyang Rice Terraces. Whether you’re a nature lover, culture enthusiast, or adventure seeker, Yunnan offers something for everyone.