Yuxi Travel Weather and Climate in January

Overview

Yuxi City (玉溪市), located in central Yunnan Province (云南省), is an important city in the Dianzhong region (滇中). Known as the “Hometown of Yunyan (云烟之乡)” and the “Hometown of Flower Lanterns (花灯之乡)”, Yuxi is a multi-ethnic hub with beautiful natural landscapes like Fuxian Lake (抚仙湖) and Tonghai Xiushan (通海秀山). It is also the birthplace of Huadeng Opera (花灯戏). With a strong agricultural, industrial, and tourism-based economy, Yuxi is a key transportation hub and tourist destination in Yunnan.

Climate in January

Temperature

  • Average Temperature: 3°C – 18°C.
  • Highest Temperature: 24°C (on January 18, 2025).
  • Lowest Temperature: 1°C (on January 26-28, 2025).

Precipitation

  • Average Monthly Rainfall: 16.2 mm.
  • Rainy Days: 4.4 days.

Weather Conditions

  • Sunny Days: 11 days.
  • Cloudy Days: 10 days.
  • Overcast Days: 2 days.
  • Rainy Days: 4.4 days.

Air Quality

  • Average AQI: 46 (Excellent).

Wind and Humidity

  • Wind Speed: 3-8 km/h.
  • Humidity: 30%-80%.

Climate Summary

January in Yuxi is mild, with warm days and plenty of sunshine, ideal for outdoor activities. However, the temperature difference between day and night is significant, so warm clothing is recommended.

Top Attractions

1. Fuxian Lake (抚仙湖)

  • Description: The second deepest freshwater lake in China, known for its crystal-clear water and stunning natural scenery. Ideal for walking, boating, and fishing.
  • Ticket Price: Free.
  • Address: Chengjiang City (澄江市), Jiangchuan District (江川区), and Huaning County (华宁县).
  • Highlights:
    • East Bank: Hot Spring (热水塘温泉) for relaxation.
    • North Bank: Moon Bay Wetland Park (月亮湾湿地公园) and Cherry Blossom Valley (樱花谷) for leisure.
    • West Bank: Luchong (禄充) and Mingxing Scenic Area (明星景区) for natural beauty.

2. Hongta Mountain (红塔山)

  • Description: A landmark of Yuxi, offering panoramic views of the city. The park features historical sites like the Red Pagoda (红塔) and White Pagoda (白塔).
  • Ticket Price: Free.
  • Address: Hongta District (红塔区), Yuxi City.

3. Yuxi Museum (玉溪博物馆)

  • Description: Showcases Yuxi’s history, culture, and ethnic customs.
  • Ticket Price: Free.
  • Address: Hongta District (红塔区), Yuxi City.

4. Chengjiang Maotianshan Cambrian Geopark (澄江帽天山寒武纪世界自然遗产旅游区)

  • Description: Known as the “Origin of Life,” it features rich geological relics and fossil specimens, ideal for educational trips.
  • Ticket Price: Approximately 60 RMB.
  • Address: Maotianshan, Chengjiang City (澄江市帽天山).

5. Biyun Temple (碧云寺)

  • Description: A historic Buddhist temple with beautiful natural scenery and geological wonders.
  • Ticket Price: Free.
  • Address: Jiangchuan District (江川区), Yuxi City.

Local Cuisine

1. Cross-Bridge Rice Noodles (过桥米线)

  • Description: Famous for its rich broth and variety of toppings.

2. Jiangchuan Bighead Fish (江川大头鱼)

  • Description: A specialty of Fuxian Lake, known for its tender and flavorful fish.

3. Tonghai Doumo Sugar (通海豆末糖)

  • Description: A local snack, sweet but not cloying.

4. Chengjiang Lotus Root Powder (澄江藕粉)

  • Description: Smooth and nutritious, a popular local product.

5. Yuxi Sour Fish Soup (玉溪酸汤鱼)

  • Description: A spicy and sour dish, perfect for winter.

Transportation

Getting to Yuxi

  • By Air: The nearest airport is Kunming Changshui International Airport (昆明长水国际机场), about 220 km away. Take a high-speed train or long-distance bus to Yuxi.
  • By Train: Yuxi Railway Station (玉溪火车站) connects to Kunming and other cities, taking about 3 hours.
  • By Bus: From Kunming East Bus Station (昆明东部客运站), tickets cost about 80 RMB, with a 4-hour journey.

Local Transportation

  • Bus: Covers major attractions and commercial areas, affordable.
  • Taxi: Starting fare 7 RMB, suitable for short trips.
  • Car Rental: Ideal for visiting nearby attractions like Fuxian Lake and Ailao Mountain (哀牢山).

Accommodation Recommendations

Near Fuxian Lake

  • Banshan Changle Hot Spring Hotel (半山常乐温泉酒店): Offers hot spring services, perfect for relaxation.
  • Huilong Hot Spring Cultural Manor (汇龙温泉文化庄园): Features extensive hot spring facilities.
  • Price: 200-500 RMB/night.

In Yuxi City

  • Hongta District (红塔区): Convenient location with various hotels and homestays.
  • Price: 150-300 RMB/night.

Recommended Itineraries

One-Day Trip

  • Morning: Hongta Mountain (红塔山).
  • Afternoon: Yuxi Museum (玉溪博物馆).
  • Evening: Fuxian Lake (抚仙湖) and Old Street Night Market (老街夜市).

Multi-Day Trip

  • Day 1: Explore Yuxi City (红塔山, 玉溪博物馆).
  • Day 2: Visit Fuxian Lake (东岸温泉, 北岸湿地公园).
  • Day 3: Discover Chengjiang Maotianshan Cambrian Geopark (澄江帽天山寒武纪世界自然遗产旅游区).

Shopping Recommendations

1. Chengjiang Lotus Root Powder (澄江藕粉)

  • Description: Nutritious and ideal as a gift.

2. Tonghai Doumo Sugar (通海豆末糖)

  • Description: A sweet local specialty.

3. Huaning Oranges (华宁柑橘)

  • Description: Fresh and flavorful, perfect for winter.

Shopping Locations**: Yuxi Pedestrian Street (玉溪步行街), Chengjiang Specialty Shops (澄江特产店).

Travel Tips for January

  1. Clothing: Bring warm clothes for chilly mornings and evenings.
  2. Sun Protection: Use sunscreen, sunglasses, and hats during the day.
  3. Cultural Respect: Respect local customs, especially in ethnic villages.
  4. Altitude Adjustment: Yuxi is about 1,600 meters above sea level. Rest well upon arrival and avoid strenuous activities.

Summary

Yuxi, nestled in the heart of Yunnan, is a place brimming with allure. Boasting breathtaking natural landscapes like the serene Fuxian Lake and lush mountains, as well as a rich tapestry of ethnic cultures, it’s a destination that unfailingly promises unforgettable experiences. This comprehensive guide will serve as your compass, helping you navigate and make the most of every moment of your trip, ensuring you don’t miss a single hidden gem.