Where to Drink in Yunnan

In Yunnan, there are several places where you can enjoy a variety of drinks, from traditional tea houses to modern bars and cafes. Here are some recommendations on where to drink in Yunnan:

Tea Houses and Traditional Venues

  1. Lijiang Old Town: Known for its ancient tea houses where you can savor local teas like Pu’er and Yunnan black tea in a traditional setting.
  2. Dali Ancient City: Offers quaint tea houses with views of the Erhai Lake, where you can relax with a cup of tea and enjoy the serene atmosphere.
  3. Shangri-La: Tea houses here often serve Tibetan butter tea (po cha) and local herbal teas, providing a cultural experience along with your drink.

Cafes and Coffee Shops

  1. Kunming: The capital city has numerous cafes and coffee shops, especially around Green Lake Park and Nanping Pedestrian Street, offering a range of coffees and beverages.
  2. Dali: The cafes along Foreigner Street (Yangren Jie) and in the Old Town serve specialty coffees and teas, perfect for relaxing after exploring the area.
  3. Lijiang: Cafes around the Old Town and Shuhe Ancient Town offer a blend of local and international coffee selections amidst traditional architecture.

Bars and Nightlife Spots

  1. Kunming: The city’s nightlife district near Dongfeng Square and Wenhua Alley features bars and pubs offering cocktails, beers, and live music.
  2. Dali: Foreigner Street (Yangren Jie) transforms into a vibrant nightlife hub with bars and pubs serving local and imported beers, as well as cocktails.
  3. Lijiang: Nightclubs and bars around Bar Street in the Old Town offer a lively atmosphere with music and drinks, popular among tourists and locals alike.

Specialized Drink Experiences

  1. Yunnan Wineries: Visit wineries in places like Shangri-La and Lijiang to sample locally produced wines, often made from unique fruits like kiwi and peach.
  2. Local Markets: Explore local markets in cities like Kunming and Dali for fresh fruit juices, herbal drinks, and traditional Yunnan snacks.

Scenic Locations

  1. Lakeside Views: Enjoy a drink with a view at lakeside cafes in places like Erhai Lake in Dali or Green Lake Park in Kunming.
  2. Mountain Retreats: Resorts and retreats in areas like Shangri-La and Tengchong offer peaceful settings where you can sip tea or coffee while enjoying mountain views.

Whether you prefer tea in a serene setting, coffee in a cozy cafe, or cocktails in a lively bar, Yunnan offers a diverse range of drinking experiences that cater to different tastes and preferences.