Yunnan Essence Tour From Kunming to Dali & Lijiang

Head out on a scenic drive to the Stone Forest (Shilin), a UNESCO site famous for dramatic limestone formations and rich Yi ethnic legends. Explore its maze-like pillars as your guide shares its unique geology and cultural stories. In the afternoon, visit Dounan Flower Market, Asia’s largest fresh-cut flower hub, bursting with vibrant roses, orchids, and more. Watch live auctions and soak in the colourful, fragrant atmosphere – perfect for souvenirs or photos.

Afterward, return to your hotel for some free time. Enjoy Kunming’s mild evening with a stroll, try local dishes like Crossing the Bridge Rice Noodles, or relax in a tea house sampling Pu’er tea. A day filled with nature, culture, and vibrant local life.

Begin your day with a transfer to Kunming Railway Station for a high-speed train to Dali (around 2 hours). Enjoy views of Yunnan’s rolling hills and terraced fields along the way. Upon arrival, head to the Three Pagodas of Chongsheng Temple, a 1,200-year-old Buddhist site set against the majestic Cangshan Mountain. Then explore Dali Ancient Town, where cobbled streets, Bai-style homes, and Foreigner Street’s cafés and boutiques offer charm and culture.

In the evening, treat yourself to a wild mushroom hotpot – featuring fresh picks in season (June – October) or ice-preserved varieties year-round. Check in to your hotel and relax, perhaps with a peaceful lakeside stroll or a glass of local plum wine.

Travel along scenic East Erhai Road, where turquoise waters meet lush farmland. Stop at Ideal Homeland of Santorini, a whitewashed lakeside resort with Mediterranean vibes – perfect for photos and coffee with a view. Then explore Shuanglang Ancient Town, a Bai fishing village with charming alleys, traditional homes, and peaceful piers.

In the afternoon, visit Xizhou Ancient Town, known for Qing-era architecture and tasty Xizhou baba. Continue to Zhoucheng Village for a hands-on Bai tie-dye workshop, crafting your own keepsake with traditional methods. As the sun sets behind Cangshan Mountain, return to your hotel. Spend the evening at leisure or enjoy local dishes like Dali grilled fish or rose-flavored desserts.

After breakfast, enjoy a scenic 2-hour drive to Lijiang, passing terraced fields and Naxi villages. Begin your visit at Black Dragon Pool Park, where the Five-Arch Bridge and Jade Dragon Snow Mountain create a postcard-perfect scene. Stroll past pavilions and watch locals dance near jade-green waters.

Continue to Shuhe Ancient Town, once a Tea Horse Road stop, with cobbled lanes, canals, and artisan silver shops. In the evening, explore Lijiang Old Town starting at the Great Water Wheel, then wander Wuyi Street’s lantern-lit alleys lined with cafes and boutiques in ancient Naxi homes. Return to your hotel or join the joyful bonfire dance in Old Town Square for a magical end to the day.

Today, head to Jade Dragon Snow Mountain and ascend by Glacier Park Cable Car to 4,506m for stunning alpine views. Then visit Blue Moon Valley, where turquoise pools shimmer beneath the snow peaks. At noon, enjoy the “Impression Lijiang” show, featuring 500+ locals performing traditional dances and horse processions.

After lunch, explore Jade Water Village, home to Naxi culture and sacred spring-fed ponds. Visit the Dongba Sanctuary to learn about ancient scripts and spiritual beliefs.

End your day in Baisha Old Town, birthplace of Naxi culture, where you can admire Ming-era murals and browse herbal stalls. A perfect blend of natural wonders, ethnic heritage, and cultural depth in one unforgettable day.

After breakfast, enjoy a comfortable transfer to Lijiang Railway Station for your scenic bullet train ride back to Kunming (approx. 3.5 hours).
Upon arrival in Kunming, your driver will meet you and escort you to the airport for your onward flight. With cherished memories of ancient towns, alpine wonders, and cultural treasures, your Yunnan journey concludes.