7-Day Yunnan Highlights: Kunming, Dali & Lijiang

Arrive in Kunming, the capital of Yunnan Province, known as the "Spring City" for its mild climate and pleasant atmosphere throughout much of the year.

Your private driver will welcome you at the airport or railway station and transfer you to your hotel. After checking in, enjoy time to relax after your journey.

Depending on your arrival schedule, take a leisurely walk around Green Lake Park, where local residents gather to dance, practice tai chi, and enjoy everyday life. You may also explore nearby cafés or sample Yunnan specialties such as crossing-the-bridge rice noodles.

After breakfast, travel to the famous Stone Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage landscape renowned for its extraordinary limestone formations.

Explore winding pathways through towering stone pillars, dramatic rock formations, and scenic viewpoints. Your guide will introduce the geological history of the landscape and the cultural traditions of the local Sani people, a branch of the Yi ethnic group.

Return to Kunming in the afternoon. If time permits, explore the city's historic streets or enjoy a relaxing walk around Green Lake.

Spend the evening discovering local cuisine and preparing for the next stage of your journey.

Continue your journey to Dali, a beautiful historic town surrounded by Cangshan Mountain and Erhai Lake.

Upon arrival, explore Dali Ancient Town, famous for its traditional architecture, stone-paved streets, historic city gates, and relaxed atmosphere.

Walk along the old streets, discover local handicraft shops, and learn about the region's Bai ethnic heritage.

Enjoy views of the surrounding mountains and spend the evening exploring the ancient town's charming cafés, restaurants, and local markets.

Spend a full day exploring the beautiful countryside surrounding Erhai Lake.

Begin with a scenic lakeside experience, admiring the reflections of Cangshan Mountain and the peaceful landscapes surrounding the water.

Continue to Xizhou Village, known for its beautifully preserved Bai-style courtyard houses, traditional architecture, and vibrant local atmosphere.

Explore the village streets and learn about Bai culture, customs, and daily life. Visit a local market when available and sample Xizhou Baba, a traditional regional flatbread.

Later, discover picturesque lakeside villages or enjoy a relaxing walk along Erhai Lake before returning to your hotel.

Continue to Lijiang, one of Yunnan's most celebrated historic destinations.

Upon arrival, explore Lijiang Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its traditional wooden buildings, stone-paved streets, canals, and picturesque bridges.

Walk through the historic lanes and discover the distinctive culture of the Naxi people, whose traditions have shaped the region for centuries.

Visit scenic viewpoints overlooking the old town and enjoy time exploring traditional shops, cafés, and local restaurants.

In the evening, experience the charming atmosphere of Lijiang as lanterns illuminate its historic streets.

After breakfast, travel to Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, one of Yunnan's most spectacular natural landmarks.

Admire the dramatic snow-capped peaks and alpine scenery while learning about the mountain's cultural significance to the Naxi people.

Depending on weather conditions, altitude considerations, and ticket availability, enjoy a scenic cable car experience to a suitable mountain viewpoint.

Continue to Blue Moon Valley, famous for its striking turquoise lakes, beautiful mountain backdrop, and picturesque walking paths.

If time permits, visit Baisha Village, known for its traditional Naxi architecture, historic murals, and peaceful atmosphere.

Return to Lijiang in the afternoon and enjoy a relaxing final evening in Yunnan.

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before your private transfer to Lijiang Airport or railway station.

Depending on your departure schedule, enjoy some free time for last-minute sightseeing, souvenir shopping, or a relaxing walk through the old town.

Your memorable 7-day journey through Kunming, Dali, and Lijiang comes to an end.