7 Days Enjoyable Yunnan Tour from Kunming to Lijiang

Welcome to Kunming City, the capital of Yunnan. Getting off the plane or the train, you will find your tour guide is already waiting for you. Along the way to your hotel, you can enjoy the charming natural scenery and learn more about the history, culture and customs of the vast region from the guide. In the rest of the day, please rest well at the hotel.

After enjoying a chill morning, you'll meet your friendly tour guide at the hotel lobby and begin your exciting Yunnan adventure with a leisurely stroll around the enchanting Green Lake, where you can soak in the morning atmosphere and watch locals practicing Tai Chi.

Then, buckle up for an 86 km scenic drive to the world-famous Stone Forest, a must-see UNESCO site that locals say makes your trip worthwhile-you'll understand why when you witness its breathtaking karst landscape. Wander through this geological wonderland of towering limestone formations, learning about the unique Yi culture and snapping unforgettable photos among the maze-like stone pillars.

As the afternoon sun casts magical shadows across the rocks, you'll board a comfortable bullet train to Dali.

With a hearty breakfast at the hotel, you'll be first transferred to Xizhou, where you'll experience the famous Three-Course Tea Ceremony, a beloved Bai tradition reserved for distinguished guests—savor the unique flavors and warm hospitality.

Then, you will continue your journey to Zhoucheng, a village where traditional customs thrive, and visit a local Tie Dye Workshop to witness the ancient art of indigo dyeing and even try crafting your own souvenir.

When you have a good rest, you are going to enjoy a scenic drive along Erhai Lake's ecological corridor, taking in breathtaking views before exploring Dali Old Town—stroll down lively Foreigners'Street, admire the historic Ancient City Wall, and snap photos at the iconic Gate Tower.

Today, you'll embark on an unforgettable journey to Shangri-La, where you'll witness the breathtaking First Bend of the Yangtze River from a scenic viewpoint along the way, marveling at nature's grandeur as the mighty river curves dramatically through the rugged landscape.

Continuing the adventure, you'll stand in awe before the legendary Tiger Leaping Gorge, squeezed between the towering 5,596-meter Jade Dragon Snow Mountain and the majestic 5,396-meter Haba Snow Mountain, where you can almost picture the mythical tiger leaping across the roaring waters at the gorge's narrowest point.

Upon reaching the mystical Shangri-La, you'll lose yourself in the timeless charm of Dukezong Ancient Town, wandering its cobbled streets before climbing Guishan Hill to spin the massive Grand Prayer Wheel and soak in the panoramic views of this heavenly city, feeling the spiritual energy of the Himalayas as you take in the stunning vistas that stretch endlessly before you.

Let your guide pick you up at your hotel and take you on an unforgettable journey to the magnificent Songzanlin Monastery, the largest Tibetan Buddhist monastery in Yunnan that will leave you in awe with its traditional architecture and mystical atmosphere.

After immersing yourself in the spiritual beauty of Tibetan culture, you'll be at the breathtaking Napahai Lake where you'll witness stunning landscapes and visit a warm local Tibetan family to experience their legendary hospitality firsthand.

Start your day with a scenic 3-hour drive to the enchanting Lijiang, where you'll step back in time at the UNESCO-listed Lijiang Old Town, a breathtaking 800-year-old gem showcasing the Naxi people's exquisite wooden architecture. Wander through cobblestone alleys, soak in the vibrant atmosphere, and capture unforgettable moments at Black Dragon Pool Park, where the crystal-clear waters perfectly reflect the majestic Jade Dragon Snow Mountain.

Dive deeper into Naxi culture at the Dongba Culture Museum where you will uncover ancient traditions and fascinating artifacts that bring this ethnic minority's rich heritage to life.

Trust me, every corner of Lijiang promises a picture-perfect adventure, blending history, nature, and culture into an unforgettable journey!

This is your last day in Yunnan. But you still have some wonders to discover. First is the enchanting Shuhe Old Town where you'll step back in time wandering through this 1000-year-old UNESCO-listed Naxi settlement-once a vital hub on the legendary Tea-Horse Road. Feel the ancient rhythms of Naxi culture as you stroll along cobbled lanes lined with traditional wooden buildings before discovering the breathtaking Baisha Murals.

Then you will continue your cultural immersion in Yuhu Village where you'll encounter stone houses adorned with symbolic wooden fish carvings, meet Naxi women in their striking traditional dress, observe children playing in the courtyards.

This perfect introduction to Lijiang's rich heritage concludes with convenient transfer to Sanyi Airport, leaving you with lifelong memories.