1. Dianchi Lake (滇池)

Dianchi Lake is the largest lake in Kunming, known as the “Eye of Kunming.” The lake is vast with clear waters, surrounded by picturesque mountains. Visitors can stroll along the lakeside or take a boat ride to enjoy the peaceful scenery. The nearby Xishan (Western Hills) is also a popular spot for panoramic views of the lake.

2. Kunming Old Street (昆明老街)

Kunming Old Street, especially Nanping Street, is a traditional commercial area that preserves the city’s historical architecture. The street is lined with ancient shops and local restaurants, offering a wide variety of handicrafts and authentic Kunming snacks. It’s a great place to experience the local life and culture.

3. Dounan Flower Market (斗南花市)

Dounan Flower Market is one of China’s largest flower trading markets and epitomizes Kunming’s reputation as the “Flower City.” The market is full of vibrant flowers throughout the year, with visitors able to admire and purchase various types of flowers and potted plants. It’s a must-visit for flower enthusiasts and a key symbol of Kunming’s flower industry.

4. Stone Forest (石林风景区)

The Stone Forest is a famous karst landscape located about 90 kilometers southeast of Kunming. The site is known for its unique stone pillars, which form a “forest” of rocks, hence its name. Visitors can wander through this natural wonder and enjoy the breathtaking geological formations, a true marvel of nature.

5. Cuihu Park (翠湖)

Cuihu Park is a serene city park located in downtown Kunming, with clear waters and lush greenery. The park is home to several ancient buildings and cultural sites. It’s a peaceful place for relaxation, walking, or photography, and provides a great opportunity to enjoy the beauty of nature right in the heart of the city.

6. Haigeng Dam (海埂大坝)

Haigeng Dam is located on the western shore of Dianchi Lake and is an ideal spot to take in the lake’s beauty. With a spacious walking path, visitors can stroll or cycle along the dam while enjoying the surrounding scenic views. The area is also famous for birdwatching, especially in winter when large flocks of migratory birds gather.

7. Yunnan Wild Animal Park (云南野生动物园)

Yunnan Wild Animal Park is a large wildlife conservation area showcasing the region’s rich biodiversity. The park is home to a variety of rare animals, including giant pandas, Yunnan golden monkeys, and Asian elephants. It’s an excellent place for families and children to explore and learn about the region’s wildlife.

8. Haiyan Village (海晏村)

Haiyan Village, located near Dianchi Lake, is a typical Yunnan water town. Known for its tranquil environment and lush greenery, it offers a chance to experience rural life and traditional farming culture. Visitors can cycle or walk through the village, interacting with locals and enjoying the picturesque landscape.

9. Yunnan Military Academy (云南陆军讲武堂)

The Yunnan Military Academy, with its long history, was once a key institution for military education and training in China. The academy is a symbol of modern Chinese military history, and its historical buildings provide insight into China’s educational and military past.

10. Nanqiang Alley (南强街巷)

Nanqiang Alley is one of Kunming’s old streets, characterized by narrow lanes and traditional buildings. The area retains the old-fashioned charm of Kunming, offering visitors the chance to sample local food and experience the city’s rich cultural heritage.

11. Jinma Biji Square (金马碧鸡坊)

Jinma Biji Square is a historical and cultural landmark in Kunming. The name comes from two intricately carved stone archways, which are a signature feature of the square. It is a lively area, often bustling with markets and street performances, where visitors can buy local handicrafts and experience Kunming’s traditional culture.

1. Visit the Kunming Ethnic Village

Kunming is home to many ethnic groups, and the Ethnic Village showcases the traditional cultures and customs of various minorities in Yunnan. Visitors can explore different ethnic architectural styles, clothing, handicrafts, and folk activities. The village also offers ethnic music and dance performances, as well as the opportunity to sample unique local foods, providing a deep cultural experience.

2. Take a Boat Ride on Dianchi Lake

Dianchi Lake is one of Kunming’s most iconic natural attractions. Visitors can take a boat ride on the lake to enjoy beautiful views of the water and the surrounding mountains. Especially in the early morning or at sunset, the lake’s shimmering surface creates a poetic and tranquil atmosphere, allowing visitors to connect with nature.

3. Participate in Yunnan’s Ethnic Festivals

Yunnan is home to the largest number of ethnic groups in China, and various traditional festivals are held throughout the year. Visitors can join celebrations from ethnic groups such as the Miao, Yi, and Bai, enjoying rich folk dances, music performances, and traditional customs, and experiencing the vibrant ethnic culture of Yunnan.

4. Experience Water Activities Around Dianchi Lake

Around Dianchi Lake, visitors can try a range of water activities, such as kayaking, boating, and fishing. The scenic environment of the lake, with its beautiful natural surroundings, makes it a perfect place for outdoor activities and enjoying the refreshing water and views of the nearby mountains.

Kunming is a food lover’s paradise, with a diverse range of dishes influenced by the region’s rich ethnic cultures and unique ingredients. Here are some must-try foods in Kunming:

1. Cross-Bridge Rice Noodles (过桥米线)

Cross-Bridge Rice Noodles is one of Kunming’s most iconic dishes. It consists of rice noodles, a rich broth, and a variety of ingredients that are cooked in the hot broth. The soup is flavorful, and the noodles are smooth and tender. It’s a dish that locals eat daily and a must-try for visitors.

2. Yunnan Small Pot Rice Noodles (云南小锅米线)

Yunnan Small Pot Rice Noodles is a local snack typically cooked in small pots, offering a lighter broth with a variety of ingredients such as pickled vegetables, shredded meat, and beef tripe. The combination of flavors makes it both refreshing and savory.

3. Steam-Cooked Chicken (汽锅鸡)

Steam-Cooked Chicken is a unique Kunming dish where chicken is steamed in a special pot, preserving its natural flavor. The meat is tender and juicy, while the broth is sweet and rich. It’s usually prepared with nourishing ingredients such as goji berries and cordyceps flowers, making it a healthful and flavorful dish.

4. Flower Cakes (鲜花饼)

Kunming is known as the “Flower City,” and flower cakes are a local specialty. These cakes are made with rose petals, chrysanthemum, and other flowers, giving them a fragrant, sweet filling inside a crispy pastry. They are popular as snacks or souvenirs for travelers.

5. Yunnan Snack Platter (云南小吃拼盘)

Yunnan is known for its variety of street snacks, and the Yunnan Snack Platter is a great way to sample several at once. It often includes fried treats, cold dishes, and pickled vegetables. You can taste crispy fried potatoes, steamed sticky rice cakes, fried intestines, and more.

6. Yi Minority BBQ (彝族烤肉)

Yi Minority BBQ is a traditional dish of the Yi people in Yunnan, where meats like beef, lamb, or pork are marinated and then grilled on skewers over charcoal. The meat is crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, with a rich, spicy flavor, often paired with aromatic spices and chili.

7. Wild Mushroom Hotpot (野生菌火锅)

Yunnan is famous for its wild mushrooms, and Kunming’s wild mushroom hotpot is a must-try. The hotpot is filled with fresh wild mushrooms like porcini, matsutake, and bamboo fungus, giving it a deep, earthy flavor. The broth is delicious, and the mushrooms are tender and full of taste.

8. Yunnan Sauerkraut Fish (云南酸菜鱼)

Sauerkraut Fish is a traditional Yunnan dish with tender fish and a tangy, sour broth made with pickled mustard greens. The soup is fragrant and flavorful, and the sourness from the vegetables makes it a perfect dish to pair with rice.

9. Kunming Cold Rice Noodles (昆明凉拌米线)

Kunming’s cold rice noodles are a refreshing snack, especially popular in the summer. The noodles are chewy, and the dish is topped with fresh herbs, crushed peanuts, and chili oil, making it spicy and flavorful. It’s a light yet satisfying option for hot weather.

10. Tofu Noodles (豆花米线)

This dish combines rice noodles with soft tofu, creating a unique and comforting flavor. The noodles and tofu are cooked together in a light broth, with some pickled vegetables or sour cabbage added for extra taste. It’s a traditional Kunming snack that is both delicate and flavorful.

These dishes, whether street food or traditional home-cooked meals, showcase the rich flavors and culture of Kunming and Yunnan. Trying these delicacies will surely leave you with a lasting impression of Kunming’s unique taste.