Welcome to Kunming (昆明), the \”Spring City\”!

Arrival: Upon arrival at Kunming Changshui International Airport (KMG), our local driver will meet you and your group at the designated time and transfer you to your hotel in downtown Kunming.

Kunming Overview: Known for its mild climate year-round, Kunming is a favorite destination for those looking to escape harsh winters or scorching summers. Often called the \”Flower City\” Kunming enjoys year-round blooms and pleasant weather. Whether you’re here for a relaxing retreat, cultural exploration, or a taste of Yunnan’s cuisine, the city offers something for everyone.

Arrival Options:

By Air: Kunming Changshui International Airport offers direct international flights from destinations like Vientiane (Laos), Bangkok (Thailand), Hanoi (Vietnam), and more. It also connects to major Chinese cities such as Beijing, Shanghai, and Hong Kong.

By Train: Kunming is accessible via Kunming Railway Station and Kunming South Railway Station, with high-speed trains to destinations within Yunnan and other cities across China.

After your transfer, take some time to relax and explore the city at your own pace. Enjoy your first evening in Kunming!

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Home2 Suites by Hilton in Xishan, Kunming

Attractions and Activities

Nanping Pedestrian Street in Kunming Jinma Biji Archway in Kunming Kunming Old Streets (Old Kunming Areas)

Morning: Visit to Stone Forest (Shilin)

Location: 80 km southeast of Kunming, approximately 1.5 hours by car.

Experience:
Start your day with a visit to the famous Stone Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of China\’s most iconic natural landscapes. The Stone Forest, or \”Shilin,\” showcases unique karst formations that have evolved over 270 million years due to marine sedimentation, volcanic activity, and erosion.

• What to See: Explore the Big and Small Stone Forests by sightseeing bus, where towering stone pillars and intricate rock formations create a mesmerizing scene.

• Cultural Insight: Learn about the Yi ethnic culture, especially through the legend of Ashima, a beloved heroine, and visit some of the filming locations for the 1986 TV series Journey to the West.

Late Morning: Yuantong Temple

Location: In the city center of Kunming.

Experience:
After your visit to the Stone Forest, head back to Kunming and visit the Yuantong Temple, one of the oldest and most significant Buddhist temples in the city.

• Historical Importance: With over 1,200 years of history, this temple is dedicated to the Buddhist goddess Guanyin and is the oldest Guanyin Temple in China.

• Unique Design: Yuantong Temple is famous for its “Downhill Temple” layout, where visitors descend into the temple grounds, unlike most temples where one ascends. Explore its stunning architecture, including the Bronze Buddha Hall, and enjoy the peaceful ambiance.

Afternoon: Green Lake Park (Cuihu Park)

Location: Just 700 meters from Yuantong Temple.

Experience:
After visiting the temple, take a leisurely stroll through Green Lake Park, often called the \\\\\\\”jade within the city.\\\\\\\” The park is a peaceful oasis loved by locals for walking, relaxing, and birdwatching.

• Activities: Feed the koi fish, watch the seasonal migration of Black-headed Gulls, and enjoy the lotus blooms in summer.

• Atmosphere: The park is divided by embankments and features historical buildings and sculptures, including one dedicated to Nie Er, the composer of China’s national anthem.

Evening: Yunnan Cross-Bridge Rice Noodles Dinner

Cuisine:
Enjoy a traditional Yunnan meal with Cross-Bridge Rice Noodles, a dish that is both famous and steeped in legend. Delicate rice noodles served in a rich broth with a variety of toppings make for a flavorful and comforting dinner.

• Story: Listen to the fascinating tale behind this iconic dish, which is believed to have been created during the Ming Dynasty to keep food hot across long bridges.

Accommodation: After dinner, return to your hotel in Kunming for an overnight stay.

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Attractions and Activities

The Stone Forest, Kunming Yuantong Temple, Kunming Jingxing Flowers and Birds Market in Kunming The Green Lake Park, Kunming

Morning: High-Speed Train to Dali

Train Journey:
After breakfast, take the high-speed train from Kunming to Dali. The journey takes about 2.5 hours, and upon arrival, your guide will meet you at the train station and transfer you to the day\\\\\\\’s first sightseeing destination.

Late Morning: Three Pagodas of Chongsheng Temple

Location: 3 km from Dali Old Town, with a view of the Cangshan Mountains and Erhai Lake.

Experience:
Begin your Dali tour with a visit to the Three Pagodas of Chongsheng Temple, a historical and architectural wonder.

• Historical Significance: These pagodas have stood for over 1,800 years, symbolizing Dali’s ancient history and Buddhist heritage. The central pagoda, Qianxun Pagoda, stands at 69 meters, flanked by two smaller ones.

• Legend: Local legend states that the pagodas were built to keep away the dragons that once inhabited the swampy area. The pagodas are stunningly reflected in the surrounding ponds, offering the perfect photo opportunity.

• Chongsheng Temple: After viewing the pagodas, explore the nearby temple complex, which was once the royal temple of the Nanzhao Kingdom. The peaceful temple grounds offer stunning panoramic views of the lake and mountains.

Afternoon: Erhai Lake Ecological Corridor and Dali Ancient Town

Erhai Lake:
After the pagodas, take an electric cart along the ecological corridor of the west side of Erhai Lake. Erhai Lake is the second-largest highland lake in China, and this leisurely ride allows you to take in the beautiful landscapes of the lake framed by the Cangshan Mountains.

• What to See: Pass through Bai villages, lush fields, and vibrant flower gardens. Capture the breathtaking views of the \\\\\\\”Ear-shaped Sea\\\\\\\” and the serene atmosphere.

Dali Ancient Town:
After your scenic lake tour, explore Dali Ancient Town, a well-preserved historical area dating back over 600 years. Wander through the charming streets and alleyways, where traditional Bai architecture remains intact.

• Highlights: Visit Renmin Road and Foreigner Street, filled with local markets, workshops, temples, cafes, and bars. Enjoy the lively atmosphere of the town as the night markets come to life, offering a mix of local snacks, crafts, and souvenirs.

Evening: Leisure Time in Dali

Free Time:
Spend the evening relaxing in one of Dali’s cozy cafes or enjoy a drink at a bar. You may also explore the night markets or simply enjoy the local ambiance at your leisure.

Accommodation: After your day of exploration, return to your hotel in Dali for a well-deserved rest.

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Honglongjing Hotel in Dali Old Town

Attractions and Activities

Three Pagodas and Chongsheng Monastery, Dali Dali Ancient Town Erhai Lake, Dali

Morning: Xizhou Town – Bai Culture and Architecture

Location: Xizhou Town, Dali

Experience:
Start your day by heading to Xizhou Town, renowned for its well-preserved Bai architecture. Known as the \\\\\\\”Premier Town of the Bai People,\\\\\\\” this town gives you an authentic view of Bai culture and traditional life.

Highlights:

• Explore traditional Bai-style courtyards and homes, where you’ll see architectural styles such as the \\\\\\\”Three-Room and One-Screen Wall\\\\\\\” and the \\\\\\\”Siheyuan\\\\\\\” (Courtyard), which are common in Bai villages.

• Three-Course Tea Ceremony: Participate in the iconic Three-Course Tea Ceremony, an important part of Bai culture. The ceremony takes you through three different tea flavors — bitter, sweet, and aftertaste — symbolizing the philosophical journey of life: hardship, joy, and reflection.

• Wander through the vibrant streets of Xizhou, where the Bai culture comes alive in daily activities, from the vibrant market scenes to the intricate architecture that dominates the town.

• Take time to appreciate the rolling fields of wheat that surround the village, offering scenic views of the harmonious coexistence between the Bai people and nature.

Late Morning: Zhoucheng Village – Bai Tie-Dye Workshop

Location: Zhoucheng Village, Dali

Experience:
After exploring Xizhou, head to Zhoucheng Village, famous for its traditional Bai tie-dye (Zha Ran) art, an ancient technique passed down through generations.

Highlights:

• Visit local tie-dye workshops where skilled artisans handcraft intricate fabrics using natural dyes. Learn about the symbolism behind common motifs, like lotus flowers, fish, and birds, which are featured prominently in their designs.

• Observe live demonstrations of tie-dyeing techniques and understand how these patterns reflect the cultural significance of the Bai people.

• Shopping: Take the opportunity to purchase some unique Bai textiles as souvenirs. These fabrics make great mementos of the region’s rich artistic heritage.

Early Afternoon: Drive to Lijiang

Travel: After visiting Zhoucheng, your journey continues to Lijiang, which is approximately a 2-3 hour drive from Dali.

Experience:
As you arrive in Lijiang, enjoy the breathtaking scenery along the way. Lijiang is a UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its traditional Naxi culture, ancient architecture, and stunning landscapes.

Late Afternoon: Lijiang Old Town – Cultural Exploration

Location: Lijiang Old Town

Experience:
In the late afternoon, explore Lijiang Old Town, one of the most well-preserved ancient towns in China. Situated at an elevation of 2,400 meters, it offers beautiful views of surrounding mountains, rivers, and fields.

Highlights:

Wander through the charming cobblestone streets and narrow alleys of the old town. Admire the Naxi-style architecture, characterized by wooden houses with intricate carvings, covered courtyards, and bright-colored decorations.

• Sifang Street and Black Dragon Pool are must-see attractions within the Old Town, offering picturesque views of the town’s reflection in the tranquil water and the majestic Jade Dragon Snow Mountain in the background.

• Learn about the Naxi culture and Dongba religion, which is still practiced today by the locals, and explore the history of the town, which was once the capital of the Naxi kingdom.

Cultural Insight: The town is often called \\\\\\\”Dayanzhen\\\\\\\” (Town of Big Ink Slab), referring to its appearance that resembles an ink slab. It’s a perfect blend of nature, culture, and history.

Accommodation: 4-star hotel in Lijiang

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Attractions and Activities

Morning: Jade Dragon Snow Mountain Scenic Area

Travel: A short 30-minute drive from Lijiang to Jade Dragon Snow Mountain Scenic Area.

Experience:
Spend the morning exploring Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, a famous symbol of the Lijiang region. The mountain is known for its majestic snow-capped peaks and diverse ecological zones.

Highlights:

• Ganhaizi Meadow (3,100m): Start your visit at the Ganhaizi Meadow, where you’ll be surrounded by alpine meadows, coniferous forests, and sweeping views of the surrounding peaks.

• Baishuihe River: Take a scenic bus ride to the Baishuihe River, which is famous for its beautiful white-water rapids and the unique calcified formations along its banks.

• Spruce Meadow: Ride the cable car up to Spruce Meadow and enjoy a short hike (approximately 30 minutes) through the lush forest, which offers a peaceful experience with clear views of the mountain.

• Blue Moon Valley: Conclude your tour of the mountain with a visit to Blue Moon Valley, where the vivid blue waters create a striking contrast against the snow-covered peaks. You’ll take a ride in a battery-powered cart to the valley’s scenic spots, perfect for photographs.

Late Morning: Impression Lijiang Ethnic Show

Experience:
After exploring the mountain, enjoy a unique cultural performance at the Impression Lijiang Ethnic Show, directed by Zhang Yimou, the renowned director of the Beijing Olympics Opening Ceremony.

Highlights:

• This outdoor show, set against the backdrop of Ganhaizi Meadow, showcases the diverse ethnic cultures of the region through vibrant dance, music, and storytelling.

• The performance, staged at 3,100 meters above sea level, celebrates the cultural traditions of the Naxi, Yi, Tibetan, and other ethnic groups that inhabit the Lijiang region.

Afternoon: Baisha Old Town and Baisha Murals

Location: Baisha Old Town, Lijiang

Experience:
In the afternoon, head to Baisha Old Town, a less touristy and more tranquil alternative to the bustling Lijiang Old Town.

Highlights:

• Wander through Baisha Old Town and admire the old traditional architecture, narrow alleyways, and colorful Naxi-style houses.

• Visit the famous Baisha Murals, a collection of 600-year-old murals that are a part of the UNESCO World Cultural Heritage. These murals depict important events in the region’s history and showcase the fusion of Naxi, Tibetan, and Han Chinese cultures.

• Learn about the Naxi people and their Dongba religion, which is still practiced today in Baisha and other Naxi settlements.

Accommodation: 4-star hotel in Lijiang

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Attractions and Activities

Morning: Travel from Lijiang to Shangri-La via Tiger Leaping Gorge

Travel: Depart from Lijiang and drive along scenic, winding mountain roads toward Shangri-La. The journey takes you through picturesque landscapes, with magnificent views of towering mountains and deep valleys.

First Bend of Yangtze River:

Location: First View Platform, Yangtze River

Experience:

• Stop at the First Bend of the Yangtze River, where the mighty river forms a unique \\\”Ω\\\”-shaped bend as it meanders through the mountains.

• The sunlight reflects off the river, creating a sparkling effect, while the towering mountains provide a dramatic backdrop.

• Take some time to enjoy the peaceful, awe-inspiring atmosphere and capture breathtaking photographs of this natural wonder.

Late Morning: Tiger Leaping Gorge

Location: Tiger Leaping Gorge

Experience:

Continue your journey to Tiger Leaping Gorge, known as the deepest gorge in the world. This awe-inspiring natural wonder stretches over 16 kilometers with 34 rapids of the Yangtze River roaring through it.

Jinsha River (as the Yangtze is called in this area) is said to contain gold, adding to the mystique of this fascinating landscape.

You will have the option to walk along designated trails, enjoying views of the towering cliffs and the rushing river below.

Spend time absorbing the majesty of the gorge, which is a popular spot for trekking and nature photography.

Afternoon: Dukezong Ancient Town and Guishan Hill

Location: Dukezong Ancient Town, Shangri-La

Experience:

After visiting Tiger Leaping Gorge, travel to Dukezong Ancient Town, an important hub along the ancient Tea-Horse Road, which historically connected Yunnan to Tibet and India.

Explore the town\\\’s traditional Tibetan houses, temples, narrow alleys, and unique architecture.

Guishan Hill (Tortoise Hill):

• Take a hike up to Guishan Hill, where you’ll find the largest prayer wheel in the world.

• Spin the prayer wheel and absorb the spiritual atmosphere that permeates the area.

• From the top, enjoy a panoramic view of Shangri-La County and Dukezong Ancient Town, with its Tibetan-style houses, pagodas, and vibrant prayer flags.

Cultural Insight: Learn about the local Tibetan culture and history, as well as the significance of Dukezong as an ancient Tibetan trading town.

Accommodation: 4-star hotel in Shangri-La

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Attractions and Activities

Morning: Visit to Pudacuo National Park

Location: Pudacuo National Park (普达措), Shangri-La

Experience:

Start your day by heading to Pudacuo National Park, a stunning haven of natural beauty located in the heart of the Tibetan Plateau.

As you enter the park, you\\\’ll immediately be greeted by crisp, fresh air and vibrant landscapes, with lush forests, pristine lakes, and wildflower-filled meadows.

Shudu Lake:

• Walk along the well-maintained trails that lead to Shudu Lake, the largest lake in the park. The serene waters of the lake perfectly mirror the surrounding mountains, creating a breathtaking scene.

• The peaceful atmosphere of the lake is ideal for reflection, photography, or simply soaking in the beauty of the landscape.

Bita Lake:

• Continue to Bita Lake, another gem in the park known for its strikingly clear waters, set against a backdrop of snow-capped peaks.

• You’ll have the chance to walk along a unique wooden plank road that stretches across the lake, providing a picturesque path through the heart of the wilderness.

The park is also a haven for wildlife, and you might have the opportunity to spot rare species as you hike through its tranquil trails.

Lunch: Scenic Picnic in Pudacuo National Park

Dining: Enjoy a light, scenic picnic lunch surrounded by nature. The park’s serene environment is a perfect spot to relax and take in the breathtaking views.

Afternoon: Visit Songzanlin Monastery

Location: Songzanlin Monastery (松赞林寺), Shangri-La

Experience:

After lunch, head to Songzanlin Monastery, one of the largest Tibetan Buddhist monasteries outside Tibet.

The monastery, with its grand golden roofs and intricate murals, stands as a testament to the rich Tibetan culture and Buddhist traditions.

Monastery Highlights:

• Explore the three grand halls: Zhacang Hall, Jikang Hall, and Sakyamuni Hall, each filled with sacred Buddhist artifacts, statues, and symbols.

• Witness the monks’ daily routines, including their chanting and the turning of the prayer wheels, creating a deeply spiritual and serene atmosphere.

The monastery is built at an altitude of 3,380 meters, and from the top, you can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding Lamuyangcuo Lake and Shangri-La.

Evening: Travel Back to Kunming

After the visit to Songzanlin Monastery, you will board a speed train for your journey back to Kunming.

Relax during the comfortable, scenic train ride, which will take you back to Kunming, the capital city of Yunnan Province.

Accommodation: 4-star hotel in Kunming (upon arrival)

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Morning: Visit to Western Hills Scenic Area

Location: Western Hills Scenic Area (西山), Kunming

Experience:

On your final day, head to the Western Hills, also known as the \\\”Sleeping Beauty Hills\\\” because of their unique shape that resembles a reclining woman.

As you ascend the hills, you’ll be surrounded by lush forests and clean mountain air, providing a refreshing start to your day.

Panoramic Views:

• From the top of the Western Hills, you’ll enjoy stunning panoramic views of Dianchi Lake, the largest freshwater lake in Yunnan, and the city of Kunming.

• The views from this vantage point are perfect for photography and offer a peaceful respite before you depart.

Departure: Kunming International Airport

After your visit to the Western Hills, your tour guide and driver will transfer you to Kunming Changshui International Airport for your departure.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: None (End of the Tour)

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