8-Day Yunnan Tourist Route

8-Day In-Depth Yunnan Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Kunming

• Arrive at Kunming Changshui International Airport (KMG) and check into your hotel.
• Visit the Yunnan Nationalities Village to learn about Yunnan’s rich ethnic minority cultures.
• Enjoy a traditional Yunnan dinner, featuring the famous crossing-the-bridge rice noodles.

Day 2: Stone Forest and Jiuxiang Caves

• Visit the World Heritage-listed Stone Forest and marvel at the bizarre karst formations.
• Head to Jiuxiang Caves to explore spectacular subterranean caves adorned with stalactites and stalagmites.

Day 3: Dali Ancient City

• Take a train or bus to Dali Ancient City.
• Explore Dali Ancient City, experience Bai culture, and wander through historic streets.
• Visit the Three Pagodas of Chongsheng Temple, an iconic landmark of Dali.

Day 4: Cangshan Mountain and Erhai Lake

• Hike up Cangshan Mountain for panoramic views of Erhai Lake.
• Take a boat ride on Erhai Lake and explore Bai villages and temples along its shores.

Day 5: Lijiang Ancient City

• Take a train or bus to Lijiang Ancient City.
• Visit Lijiang Ancient City, explore Naxi culture, and stroll along charming lanes and canals.
• Watch traditional Naxi song and dance performances for a taste of local life.

Day 6: Yulong Snow Mountain and Blue Moon Valley

• Head to Yulong Snow Mountain for breathtaking glacier and alpine scenery.
• Visit Blue Moon Valley to admire the crystal-clear blue waters and surrounding snowy peaks.

Day 7: Lashi Lake

• Visit Lashi Lake, a highland wetland teeming with birds and wildlife.
• Take a boat tour of the lake to observe various bird species and aquatic creatures.

Day 8: Depart

• Return to Kunming Changshui International Airport (KMG) for your departure.

Suggested Accommodation:

• Kunming: Pullman Kunming Downtown, Grand Park Kunming
• Dali: Jun’an Quiet House Dali Old Town, Poetic Home Dali Old Town
• Lijiang: Banyan Tree Lijiang Resort, Lijiang Gulou Yard

Recommended Dining:

• Crossing-the-bridge rice noodles: Lao Dian Wei Crossing-the-Bridge Rice Noodles, Jianxin Yuan
• Dali milk fan: Cangshan Milk Fan Workshop
• Lijiang baba: Lijiang Gucheng Baba King

Tips:

• Yunnan is located at a high altitude; acclimatize gradually to avoid altitude sickness.
• Dress warmly, especially when visiting snow-capped mountains.
• Respect local cultures and customs.
• Book your accommodation and transportation in advance, especially during peak season.