Yunnan Highlights 7-Day Tour

Tour Overview

Discover the enchanting province of Yunnan, where dramatic landscapes meet ancient cultures. This 7-day journey takes you from the spring city of Kunming through the romantic shores of Erhai Lake to the mystical old town of Lijiang beneath snow-capped peaks. Experience the rich traditions of the Bai and Naxi ethnic minorities while exploring some of China’s most breathtaking natural scenery.

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Kunming

Arrive at Kunming Changshui International Airport, known as the “City of Eternal Spring” for its year-round pleasant climate. Private transfer to your hotel in the city center. Depending on your arrival time, enjoy a leisurely evening stroll around Green Lake Park.

Accommodation: 4-star hotel in Kunming

Day 2: Stone Forest - Kunming to Dali

Morning excursion to the magnificent Stone Forest (Shilin), a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring 270-million-year-old limestone formations. Walk through this geological wonderland with towering karst pillars resembling a petrified forest. Learn about the local Sani people and their legend of Ashima.

Afternoon transfer to the train station for a scenic high-speed rail journey to Dali (approximately 2 hours).

Meals: Breakfast (hotel), Lunch (Yunnan cuisine) Accommodation: Boutique hotel in Dali Ancient Town

Day 3: Dali - Erhai Lake - Three Pagodas

Wake early for a spectacular sunrise over Erhai Lake. Enjoy a cycling tour along the lake shore, passing through traditional Bai villages with their distinctive white-washed architecture. Visit the ancient fishing village of Shuanglang with its stunning lake views.

Afternoon explore the iconic Three Pagodas of Chongsheng Temple, standing for over 1,000 years as symbols of Dali. Wander through Dali Ancient Town’s marble-paved streets, browsing local handicrafts and tie-dye textiles.

Meals: Breakfast (hotel), Lunch (Bai ethnic cuisine)

Day 4: Dali to Lijiang - Shaxi Ancient Town

Depart Dali for Lijiang with a stop at Shaxi Ancient Town, a remarkably preserved stop on the ancient Tea Horse Road. Walk through this quiet village largely untouched by tourism, visiting the Xingjiao Temple with its Ming Dynasty frescoes.

Continue to Lijiang and check into your hotel near the Old Town. Evening free to explore the atmospheric lanes of Lijiang Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Meals: Breakfast (hotel), Lunch (local restaurant) Accommodation: Boutique hotel in Lijiang

Day 5: Jade Dragon Snow Mountain

Full day excursion to Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, sacred to the Naxi people. Take the large cable car to Glacier Park at 4,506 meters elevation for breathtaking views of the glacier and surrounding peaks. Visit Blue Moon Valley with its stunning turquoise lakes at the mountain’s base.

Afternoon attend the impressive “Impression Lijiang” outdoor performance directed by Zhang Yimou, featuring local Naxi performers against the mountain backdrop.

Meals: Breakfast (hotel), Lunch (mountain restaurant)

Day 6: Lijiang Old Town - Baisha Village

Morning in-depth exploration of Lijiang Old Town. Visit the Mu Family Mansion, former residence of the Naxi chieftains, and learn about Naxi Dongba culture at the Dongba Culture Museum. See the unique Naxi pictographic script, one of the world’s last living hieroglyphic languages.

Afternoon excursion to Baisha Village, the original seat of Naxi power. View the famous Baisha Frescoes depicting Buddhist, Taoist, and Lamaist imagery. Meet local Naxi elders and learn about traditional medicine and embroidery.

Evening enjoy a farewell dinner featuring Naxi hotpot and local specialties.

Meals: Breakfast (hotel), Lunch (Naxi cuisine), Dinner (farewell dinner)

Day 7: Depart Lijiang

Morning at leisure for last-minute shopping or exploration. Transfer to Lijiang Sanyi International Airport for your onward flight.

Meals: Breakfast (hotel)

Travel Tips

• Yunnan has significant altitude variation; Jade Dragon Snow Mountain reaches over 4,500m, so take it slow and stay hydrated
• The region has strong UV rays year-round; bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat
• Pack layers as temperatures vary between locations and times of day
• Comfortable walking shoes are essential for exploring ancient towns and natural sites
• Try local specialties: Crossing the Bridge Noodles, Erkuai rice cakes, and Pu’er tea
• Respect local ethnic minority customs and ask permission before photographing people
• Best photography times are early morning and late afternoon for golden light on the mountains