Kunming - Discovering China

Travelling to Kunming

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Kunming, a pretty good destination in China (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Kunming and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Kunming, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through China, here's everything to know about Kunming for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Kunming

Kunming is the capital city of Yunnan province in Southwest China. It is known as the “City of Eternal Spring” due to its mild climate and has a population of over 6 million people. Kunming is a popular destination for tourists and is famed for its beautiful natural scenery, rich cultural heritage, and diverse ethnic groups. Some of the top attractions in Kunming include the Stone Forest, Dian Lake, Green Lake Park, and the Yuantong Temple. The city is also a transport hub for other popular destinations in the Yunnan province, such as Lijiang, Dali, and Shangri-La.

What to visit in Kunming

Sure, here are some of the top tourist attractions in Kunming, China, along with some information about each one: 1. Stone Forest: The Stone Forest, also known as Shilin, is a natural wonder consisting of karst limestone formations that resemble petrified trees. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most popular attractions in Kunming.
2. Dianchi Lake: Dianchi Lake is the largest freshwater lake in Yunnan Province and a popular destination for boating and fishing. There are also several scenic spots around the lake that offer great views of the water and surrounding mountains.
3. Yuantong Temple: Yuantong Temple is one of the oldest and largest Buddhist temples in Kunming, dating back over 1,200 years. It is known for its beautiful architecture, scenic location, and peaceful atmosphere.
4. Golden Temple: The Golden Temple is a famous Taoist temple in Kunming that dates back to the Ming Dynasty. It is known for its impressive architecture, including a giant copper statue of the Taoist god, while the surrounding park offers scenic views of the city.
5. Green Lake Park: Green Lake Park is a popular park located in the heart of Kunming that is known for its beautiful scenery, including blooming lotus flowers in the summer. There are also several attractions within the park, including a zoo, temples, and pagodas.
6. Western Hills: The Western Hills, also known as Xi Shan, is a range of mountains located just outside Kunming that offers magnificent views of the city and surrounding countryside. There are also several attractions within the hills, including temples, parks, and scenic trails.
7. Jindian Park: Jindian Park is a popular park in Kunming that is famous for its pagoda, which is made entirely of gold. It is said to be one of the most valuable artifacts in China and a must-see for visitors to the city.
8. World Horticultural Expo Garden: The World Horticultural Expo Garden is a large park located on the outskirts of Kunming that features exhibitions on various horticultural topics, including plants, gardening, and landscape design. It is a great place to visit for nature lovers and those interested in gardening.
I hope this information is helpful in planning your trip to Kunming, China!
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in China, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Kunming.

When to go on holiday to Kunming

The best time to go on holiday to Kunming (China) is from March to May or from September to November. During these times, the weather is mild with comfortable temperatures and less rainfall compared to the summer months. Additionally, you can also witness the blooming of flowers in Kunming's many parks and gardens during the spring season. However, it's important to note that Kunming does experience a bit of rainfall year-round, so it's always a good idea to pack an umbrella or rain gear.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Kunming

There are several ways to get to Kunming, China. The most common ways are: 1. By air: Kunming Changshui International Airport is the primary airport of the city, operating both domestic and international flights. You can fly to Kunming from major cities in China and many international destinations.
2. By train: Kunming is well-connected by rail to major cities in China. High-speed trains are available from cities such as Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Chengdu, and more.
3. By bus: Long-distance buses are another option to get to Kunming from nearby cities and provinces. 4. By car: If you plan to drive, Kunming is connected to major cities in China through a network of highways.
It's worth noting that if you're arriving from overseas, you may need to obtain a visa before you travel to China.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Kunming, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Kunming

Kunming, the capital of southwest China's Yunnan province, is known for its delicious and diverse cuisine. Here are some typical foods of Kunming and their descriptions: 1. Crossing-the-bridge Rice Noodles (过桥米线 Guò qiáo mǐxiàn): This is a popular dish in Yunnan Province. The dish, consisting of a broth, meat and vegetables, noodles, and various condiments, is served separately. To eat it, diners put all the ingredients together in a bowl and then pour hot broth over them.
2. Steam-pot Chicken (汽锅鸡 Qì guō jī): This is a Yunnan-style hotpot dish that is made up of chicken, mushrooms, and other ingredients served in a special steaming pot. The chicken is cooked in a special marinade and the broth is made from chicken bones.
3. Yunnan rice noodle soup (云南米线 Yúnnán mǐxiàn): This is a must-try dish in Yunnan province. It is made up of a rich broth, rice noodles, and different vegetables, meat, or seafood toppings. It can be served with chili, onion, cilantro, and other condiments to enhance the taste.
4. Guoqiao Mixian (锅巴米线 Guō bā mǐxiàn): This is a special type of rice noodle soup that includes crunchy fried rice along with the noodles. The dish gets its name from the Guoqiao, the crispy layer of rice that is added to the soup.
5. Yiliang Roast Duck (宜良烤鸭 Yíliáng kǎoyā): This is a local specialty that is well-known in Yunnan province. The duck is roasted over charcoal and then served with a special sauce made from garlic, coriander, and spicy chili.
6. Baba (粑粑 bābā): This is a type of flatbread that is unique to Yunnan cuisine. Usually made from cornmeal or wheat flour mixed with water and then baked or grilled, it can be consumed with different toppings like honey, scallions, or meat.
7. Er Kuai (饵块 ěr kuài): This is a type of rice cake that is sliced into thick, flat pieces and then pan-fried until crispy. It can be served with sweet or savory condiments like honey, soy sauce, or chili oil.
You can find general info about typical foods in China here.

Is Kunming an expensive destination for tourists?

Kunming is generally considered to be a mid-range destination for tourists. Accommodations, food, and transportation costs are all reasonable, although prices can vary depending on the season and location within the city. However, the cost of attractions and activities can be on the higher side, especially if you are interested in visiting some of the more popular tourist spots. Overall, while Kunming may not be the cheapest destination in China, it is certainly possible to travel here without breaking the bank.

Where to find accomodation in Kunming

The two best areas to find accommodation in Kunming are the city center and the Green Lake area. The city center is the busiest area, with many shops, restaurants, and attractions such as the Yuantong Temple and the Golden Horse and Jade Rooster Archway. The Green Lake area, on the other hand, is a quieter residential area surrounding a large lake, which offers a peaceful atmosphere and is still within walking distance of attractions such as the Yunnan Provincial Museum and the Daguan Park.
You can check hotel prices at Kunming here:
Booking.com

Is Kunming a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Kunming is generally considered a safe place for tourists. Compared to other Chinese cities, the crime rate in Kunming is relatively low. However, as with any city, it is always recommended to take basic safety precautions, such as keeping an eye on your valuables and avoiding dark or deserted areas at night. Additionally, be aware that there have been reports of scams targeting tourists in the area, so it's always a good idea to be on guard and do your research before accepting any offers or deals.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in China here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Kunming.

What type of travelers will enjoy Kunming the most?

Kunming, known as the "Spring City", is a popular tourist destination in China and has attractions for various types of travelers. Couples will enjoy the city for its romantic atmosphere and beautiful natural scenery, including the Green Lake Park, Yuantong Temple, and the Stone Forest.
Young people looking for fun can explore Kunming's lively nightlife scene, with numerous bars and clubs located in the city's central business district.
Families will enjoy the city's cultural attractions such as the Golden Temple, Yunnan Nationalities Village, and the Dianchi Lake, where they can take a boat tour or enjoy outdoor activities such as cycling, fishing, and hiking.
Overall, Kunming is a destination that caters to a wide variety of travelers, from couples seeking a romantic getaway to families looking for an educational and fun-filled vacation.

How to get around Kunming

The most common forms of transportation to move around Kunming are buses, taxis, and subways. Electric bikes and rental cars are also available. Buses are the most affordable, while taxis and subways are more convenient and efficient for longer distances. However, during peak hours, the traffic can be congested, so you might want to consider using public transportation to save time.

What to see around Kunming

Certainly! Here are some nice places to visit on a day trip from Kunming in China: 1. Stone Forest (Shilin): A unique geological wonder of towering limestone formations that resemble trees.
2. Jiuxiang Scenic Region: A scenic area known for its limestone caves, karst formations, waterfalls, and minority culture.
3. Dian Lake (Dian Chi): The largest lake in Yunnan province, offering boating, hiking, and biking opportunities with beautiful views of the surrounding hills.
4. Western Hills (Xi Shan): A range of hills that offers stunning views of Kunming and the surrounding countryside, as well as historical temples and gardens.
5. Golden Temple (Jin Dian): A Taoist temple complex with a large complex of buildings, beautifully landscaped gardens, and a large bronze statue of the Taoist God.
6. Black Dragon Pool Park (Heilongtan Gongyuan): A scenic park featuring a multi-tiered waterfall, a picturesque lake, and traditional pavilions and bridges.
7. Daguan Park (Daguan Gongyuan): A public park that is famous for its beautiful views of Dianchi Lake and the distant Western Hills, as well as its traditional Chinese architecture.
8. Yunnan Ethnic Village (Yunnan Minzu Cun): A cultural theme park featuring the architecture, customs, and traditions of Yunnan's many ethnic groups.
I hope you find these suggestions helpful!
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