Kunming Treasure Journey | Unmissable Spring City Guide

Dear friends! Kunming, this city with eternal spring, is like a colorful painting, with endless surprises hidden everywhere 🎨. Here, you can feel the profound heritage of ancient culture while enjoying the prosperity and convenience of a modern metropolis. Now, let me take you on this unforgettable journey to Kunming!

🌟 Itinerary

Day 1: Green Lake Park - Yunnan University - Nanping Street

● Green Lake Park: In the early morning, the first stop is Green Lake Park 🌳. The lake and mountains shimmer like a dazzling pearl embedded in the city. You can rent a small boat to leisurely row on the lake, feeling the gentle breeze on your face; or stroll along the lakeside, admiring the lotus flowers and surrounding ancient buildings, as if you are in a beautiful Jiangnan water town painting.

● Yunnan University: A few minutes’ walk from Green Lake Park brings you to Yunnan University 🏫. This historic institution is full of rich cultural atmosphere. The campus architecture is unique, blending Chinese and Western styles, especially Huize College and Gongyuan, which witness the century-old history of Yunnan University. Walking along the campus paths, you can feel the youthful vibe, as if returning to your student days.

● Nanping Street: In the evening, head to Nanping Street, one of Kunming’s busiest commercial streets 🛍️. It gathers various delicacies and specialty goods that will dazzle you. You can taste authentic Yunnan Crossing-the-Bridge Rice Noodles, flower cakes, and other local snacks to satisfy your taste buds; or buy some Yunnan-themed souvenirs as wonderful memories of this trip.

Day 2: Dianchi Lake - Haigeng Dam - Western Hills Scenic Area

● Dianchi Lake: In the morning, go to Dianchi Lake, a shining pearl of Kunming 🌊. Standing by the lake, you can see the vast water surface, crystal clear and sparkling. The distant Western Hills roll along, complementing Dianchi Lake to form a beautiful landscape painting. You can take a boat tour to enjoy the scenery and feel the charm of nature.

● Haigeng Dam: After Dianchi Lake, stroll along the lakeside to Haigeng Dam 🌉. This is one of the best spots to watch red-billed gulls. Every winter, thousands of red-billed gulls fly from Siberia to rest and feed here. You can buy some gull feed to have a close encounter with these lovely little creatures and experience the harmony between humans and nature.

● Western Hills Scenic Area: In the afternoon, visit the Western Hills Scenic Area ⛰️. The mountains and waters are clear and beautiful, making it one of Kunming’s famous attractions. You can take a cable car up the mountain to overlook Dianchi Lake and Kunming city; or hike to enjoy the natural scenery along the way. At the top of Western Hills, there is an ancient temple—Huating Temple, where you can experience the profound Buddhist culture.

Day 3: Guandu Ancient Town - Kunming Old Street

● Guandu Ancient Town: In the morning, visit Guandu Ancient Town, one of the best-preserved ancient villages in Kunming 🏘️. It has many old buildings and cultural relics, such as Jingangzuo Pagoda and Miaozhan Temple. Walking through the streets of the ancient town, you can feel the breath of ancient culture, as if traveling back in time.

● Kunming Old Street: In the afternoon, head to Kunming Old Street, one of the streets with the richest historical and cultural heritage in Kunming 🛣️. There are many old buildings and traditional handicraft shops where you can buy souvenirs with Kunming characteristics, such as handmade embroidery and wood carvings. Additionally, there are many food shops where you can taste authentic Yunnan cuisine.

🍜 Food Recommendations

● Crossing-the-Bridge Rice Noodles: One of Yunnan’s signature dishes, known for its fresh and delicious soup and rich ingredients. In Kunming, there are many authentic Crossing-the-Bridge Rice Noodle restaurants where you can choose different sets according to your taste.

● Flower Cake: A traditional Kunming delicacy filled with flowers, sweet and fragrant. You can find shops selling flower cakes all over Kunming’s streets and alleys, perfect as gifts.

● Wild Mushroom Hot Pot: Kunming is the hometown of wild mushrooms, and wild mushroom hot pot is one of its specialties. Various fresh wild mushrooms combined with rich broth create a delicious taste that lingers.

● Grilled Milk Fan: A Yunnan specialty snack made from milk and grilled to perfection. Grilled Milk Fan is crispy, sweet, and very popular.

🛏 Accommodation Suggestions

● Near Green Lake: Convenient transportation, many nearby attractions and food shops, a good choice for accommodation.

● Near Nanping Street: One of Kunming’s busiest commercial streets, with many hotels and guesthouses to choose from, very convenient for travel.

● Near Dianchi Lake: If you want to enjoy the beautiful scenery of Dianchi Lake, you can choose hotels or guesthouses nearby. The environment is beautiful and the air is fresh, allowing you to feel the charm of nature.

🚗 Transportation Guide

● Airport to City Center: Kunming Changshui International Airport is about 25 kilometers from the city center. You can take the airport shuttle bus, subway, or taxi to the city.

● City Transportation: Kunming has a well-developed public transportation system. You can take buses, subways, or taxis. Additionally, shared bikes are a very convenient way to get around.

Dear friends, Kunming’s beauty is far more than this, with many more surprises waiting for you to discover 🎉. Pack your bags quickly and embark on a spontaneous Kunming trip! Remember to share your travel stories in the comments 😘.