- Travel Guide
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Beijing 
Xi'an 
Zhangjiajie 
China Silk Road 
Shanghai
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Experience the charm of Yunnan with a 7-day Yunnan Holiday Tour by train. This carefully planned tour itinerary takes you to three of Yunnan’s most iconic destinations: Kunming, Dali, and Lijiang. Start in Kunming, known as the “City of Eternal Spring.” Explore the stunning Stone Forest and enjoy the pleasant weather. Then, journey by train to Dali, a picturesque town set between Erhai Lake and the Cangshan Mountains. Here, immerse yourself in Bai culture and take in the peaceful atmosphere.
Finally, travel to Lijiang, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The ancient town of Lijiang is famous for its charming cobblestone streets and vibrant culture. Throughout your Yunnan Holiday Tour by train, you will also experience breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural traditions, and unique local lifestyles.
The combination of scenic train rides and visits to historic cities makes this tour a perfect way to explore one of China’s most beautiful regions. Enjoy the comfort and ease of train travel as you discover Yunnan’s natural and cultural wonders.
- Round way private transfer in each destination
- Professional licensed English-speaking guide
- Entrance tickets for all historical & cultural attractions as listed in the itinerary
- High-Speed Rail based on 2nd class soft seats from Kunming to Dali
- Hotel accommodations in each destionation based on twin-sharing basis
- Meals as specified in the itinerary ( B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner)
- Bottled drinking water and wet tissue
Included
- China visas and international flights entry & exit of China
- Hotel single room supplement in Kungming, Dali and Lijiang
- Tipping for guide and driver
- Other expenses if not listed in the itinerary
Excluded
Highlights of the Tour
- Stone Forest: Explore the UNESCO-listed Stone Forest, known as the " Wonder of the World," featuring stunning limestone formations and rich Yi minority culture.
- Erhai Lake Cruise: Enjoy a serene cruise on Erhai Lake in Dali, surrounded by breathtaking mountain scenery and learn about the local Bai culture.
- Lijiang Old Town: Wander through the charming streets of Lijiang, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its traditional architecture and vibrant local life.
- Tiger Leaping Gorge: Experience the awe-inspiring views at Tiger Leaping Gorge, one of the deepest gorges in the world, where you can witness the powerful Jinsha River.
- Black Dragon Pool Park: Visit Black Dragon Pool Park in Lijiang, known for its stunning reflections of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain and traditional Naxi architecture.
- Cultural Performances: Attend "Impression Lijiang," a spectacular outdoor show directed by Zhang Yimou that showcases Naxi culture against a dramatic mountain backdrop
Itinerary
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- Upon arrival at Kunming Changshui International Airport, you will be met by your dedicated tour guide outside the baggage claim area. They will be holding a sign with your name and will escort you to the hotel.
- Your guide will assist you with checking in at the hotel and ensure you have a smooth arrival experience. The rest of the day is yours to relax or explore the hotel precinct at your leisure.
- Dining Recommendations
- If you decide to dine out, be sure to consult with your local guide about the best options in the area. With their knowledge and insights into the best local eats, they can assist with making reservations and ordering meals if required.
- Stay in Kunming
- We drive for about two hours in the morning to the renowned Stone Forest, one of China's most impressive natural wonders. This vast expanse of karst formations creates an otherworldly landscape, with towering limestone pillars resembling a petrified forest. Your guide will explain the geological processes that shaped this unique terrain over 270 million years ago.
- As you wander through the labyrinthine paths, you'll discover various rock formations that resemble animals, plants, and even human figures. The area is also home to the Yi minority, known for their rich cultural traditions
- Kunming's Bird and Flower Market
- In the afternoon, you'll return to Kunming to explore the vibrant Bird and Flower Market. This bustling bazaar offers a sensory feast, with a diverse array of flora, fauna, and local handicrafts. You'll have the opportunity to practice your bargaining skills as you browse the stalls, immersing yourself in the local culture and daily life.
- At the end of your excursion, you'll be transported back to your hotel.
- Explore the Stone Forest
- Browse at Kunming Bird and Flower Market
- Stay in Kunming, B, L
- Our guide and driver will meet you at the hotel lobby for a private transfer to the Bullet Train Station.
- Your journey from Kunming to Dali begins with a high-speed train ride, offering a glimpse of China's rapidly changing landscape. Upon arrival in Dali, your guide will greet you and escort you to Erhai Lake for a scenic cruise. This ear-shaped lake, nestled beneath Cangshan Mountain, holds great cultural significance for the local Bai minority.
- The cruise will take you to Jinsuo Island, where you can explore historic buildings and enjoy the serene atmosphere. Next, you'll visit Chongsheng Temple to see the iconic Three Pagodas, impressive structures dating back to the Nanzhao period (738-902 AD). These pagodas house valuable cultural relics and Buddha statues.
- We will then visit Dali Ancient Town, a vibrant and atmospheric small town that was once the cultural and political heart of Yunnan province during the Tang and Song dynasties. Here, you'll experience a fascinating blend of ancient and modern China. Be sure to explore Foreigner Street, known for its ethical clothing, local crafts, and delicious street food.
- Cruise Erhai Lake
- Visit Chongsheng Temple
- Wander Dali Ancient Town
- Stay in Dali, B, L
- We check out of the hotel in the morning, your journey begins with an immersive experience in Xizhou Town, a vibrant center of Bai minority culture. At the lively morning market, you'll witness locals purchasing fresh seafood, produce, and regional specialties, offering a glimpse into daily life that has remained largely unchanged for generations. Many Bai women still wear their colorful traditional attire, adding to the town's authentic atmosphere.
- As you explore Xizhou, you'll visit the Yan Family Mansion, an impressive example of traditional Bai architecture that showcases the town's prosperous history. The mansion features intricate woodcarvings, colored patterns, and unique structural elements like "Three Rooms and a Wall Screening" and "Four Joints and Five Courtyards".
- Your next stop is Zhoucheng, the largest Bai village in the area. Here, you'll observe how traditional customs and lifestyles have been preserved, including the renowned tie-dyeing craft. You may have the opportunity to visit a family workshop and witness the tie-dyeing process firsthand.
- Private transfer by car drive to Lijiang, where you'll explore the picturesque Black Dragon Pond Park. This scenic spot features ancient temples, towers, and pavilions reflected in the tranquil pond, with the majestic Jade Dragon Snow Mountain as a backdrop.
- To delve deeper into local culture, you'll visit the Dongba Culture Museum, home to over 12,000 artifacts that showcase the rich heritage of the Naxi minority.
- Your day concludes with a climb up Lion Hill to the Wangu Pavilion, a five-story structure adorned with intricate carvings representing the region's 23 ethnic groups. From the top, you'll enjoy a panoramic view of Lijiang Ancient Town, particularly stunning at sunset.
- After this full day of cultural exploration, you'll retire to your hotel in Lijiang, a town that seems frozen in time, offering a tranquil end to your journey through Yunnan's diverse ethnic landscapes.
- Browse Xizhou morning market
- Explore Yan Family Mansion
- Visit Zhoucheng village
- Stroll Black Dragon Pond Park
- Learn Naxi culture at Dongba Culture Museum
- Climb Lion Hill reaching Wangu Pavilion
- Stay in Lijiang, B, L
- Your day begins with a journey to the majestic Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, a sacred site in Naxi culture known for its stunning landscape of peaks, glaciers, and forests. Here, you'll experience a unique blend of modern artistry and traditional culture through the "Impression Lijiang" show.
- Directed by Zhang Yimou, the acclaimed filmmaker behind the 2008 Beijing Olympics ceremonies, this outdoor spectacle takes place against the breathtaking backdrop of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. The performance features:
- About 500 local performers from various ethnic groups, including Naxi, Bai, and Yi
- 100 horses, adding to the visual spectacle
- Traditional music, dance, and storytelling that showcase Naxi culture and legends
- The show is divided into six acts, each highlighting different aspects of local life, history, and traditions.
- After the show, you'll ascend to Spruce Plateau via cable car. This vast meadow, surrounded by ancient spruce forests and often shrouded in mist, offers a fairytale-like landscape. The plateau provides stunning views of the surrounding snow-capped peaks, living up to its reputation as an earthly paradise.
- Your journey continues to Baisha Village, where you'll experience a more tranquil side of Bai culture. The village is renowned for its:
- Distinctive cultural characteristics
- Precious historical artifacts
- Unique Baisha Murals, which feature an intriguing blend of Buddhist, Taoist, and Lamaist imagery
- These murals are considered significant cultural relics, offering insights into Chinese art history and religious practices.
- After a full day of cultural immersion and natural wonders, you'll return to your hotel in Lijiang for a relaxing evening.
- Watch Jade Dragon Snow Mountain backdrop
- Ride cable car ascending to misty Spruce Plateau
- Explore ancient spruce forests
- Photograph snow-capped peaks from Spruce Plateau
- Visit Baisha Village
- Stay in Lijiang, B, L
- Private tour in the morning by a scenic 3-hour drive to Tiger Leaping Gorge, one of China's most spectacular natural wonders. En route, you'll stop at the First Bend of the Yangtze River, a significant geographical landmark where the river makes a dramatic 90-degree turn. This area offers breathtaking views of the broadening river, surrounded by overlapping mountain peaks, terraced fields, and picturesque local villages.
- Upon reaching Tiger Leaping Gorge, you'll be awestruck by its sheer magnitude. The gorge, formed by steep vertical ridges rising over 3,900 meters on both sides, forces the Jinsha River through a narrow channel, creating powerful whirlpools and rapids. From well-maintained pathways, you can safely observe the thunderous waters crashing against massive boulders. For a closer view, you can use the viewing deck to witness the river's raw power as it roars between the mountains.
- Tiger Leaping Gorge is divided into three sections: Upper, Middle, and Lower. The Upper Gorge is the most accessible and offers stunning views of the narrowest part of the gorge. If time permits, you might explore part of the Middle Gorge, known for its more challenging terrain and thrilling hiking trails.
- On your return journey to Lijiang, you'll visit the Zhiyun Lamasery, a Tibetan temple built in 1727 that showcases a unique blend of Han, Tibetan, Bai, and Naxi architectural styles. The temple is notable for its mysterious stone tablet inscribed with Sanskrit verses and its five ancient trees, estimated to be 200-300 years old. The lamasery's location overlooking a lake adds to its serene and enchanting atmosphere.
- Back in Lijiang, you'll have the evening free to relax at your hotel or explore the city's charming streets and sample local cuisine.
- Admire First Bend of Yangtze River
- Explore Upper Gorge
- Visit Zhiyun Lamasery
- Stay in Lijiang, B, L
- After checking out of your hotel in the morning, you'll visit Black Dragon Pool Park, a picturesque site located just north of Lijiang's Old Town.
- Black Dragon Pool Park Overview
- Historical Significance: Established during the Qing Dynasty in 1737, originally known as Longwang Temple (Temple of the Dragon King), this park is a cultural landmark in Lijiang.
- Scenic Beauty: The park is celebrated for its stunning views of the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, with the clear waters of the pool reflecting the majestic peaks. The water is often described as jade-like in color, adding to its charm.
- Architectural Highlights: Within the park, you'll find several notable structures:
- Moon-Embracing Pavilion: A beautiful pavilion that offers great views and is a perfect spot for photos.
- Five Phoenix Tower: Originally built during the Ming Dynasty, this tower adds historical depth to the park.
- Longshen Temple: A key feature of the park, dedicated to the Dragon God, showcasing traditional Naxi architecture.
- As you stroll through the park, take in the serene atmosphere and enjoy the harmonious blend of nature and ancient architecture. The park is a great place for photography and relaxation.
- Departure
- After your visit to Black Dragon Pool Park, you will have a private transfer to Lijiang Airport. The airport is well-connected to major cities across China, including Shanghai, Beijing, Xi'an, and Guangzhou, making it convenient for your onward journey. Enjoy your travels!
- Admire Jade Dragon Snow Mountain
- Explore ancient Moon-Embracing Pavilion
- Visit historic Five Phoenix Tower
- Discover Longshen Temple
- Departure, B
Frequently Asked & Question
The key highlights include Lijiang Ancient Town, Tiger Leaping Gorge, Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, Stone Forest, and Yuanyang Rice Terraces.
Daily breakfast at your hotels is included. I can also arrange some lunches and dinners at local restaurants to give you a taste of Yunnan's diverse cuisines.
Absolutely! Yunnan is known for its ethnic diversity. I can include visits to villages of the Naxi, Bai, Yi, or other ethnic groups in your itinerary.
Certainly! If you'd like to spend more time in Kunming, Dali, Lijiang, or any other location, I can easily arrange additional nights and activities for you.
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