7-Day Yunnan Adventure: Exploring Nature, Culture, and Cuisine

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

Kunming, China on April 22, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Green Lake Park Café

Enjoy a traditional Yunnan breakfast overlooking the scenic Green Lake, featuring local dishes such as rice noodles and steamed buns.
CNY30, 1h

9:30am

Visit Green Lake Park

Stroll around this peaceful urban park famous for its beautiful lotus blossoms and lively local atmosphere.
CNY0, 1h30m

11:00am

Explore Yunnan Provincial Museum

Discover the rich history and diverse ethnic cultures of Yunnan through well-curated exhibits.
CNY30, 2h

1:30pm

Lunch at Lao Fangzi Restaurant

Savor authentic Yunnan dishes including 'crossing-the-bridge noodles' and mushroom hotpot.
CNY70, 1h

3:00pm

Visit Stone Forest (Shilin)

Travel about 1.5 hours to this UNESCO World Heritage site featuring stunning limestone formations that resemble a forest made of stone.
CNY175, 3h

7:00pm

Dinner at Dian Restaurant

End the day with flavorful Yunnan cuisine emphasizing local mushrooms and spices.
CNY90, 1h30m

Day 2: Cultural Heritage

Dali, China on April 23, 2025

7:00am

Travel from Kunming to Dali

Take an early high-speed train or bus to Dali, a historic town known for its ancient architecture and vibrant culture.
CNY120, 3h

10:30am

Breakfast at Dali Ancient Town Café

Enjoy fresh coffee and local snacks in the charming old town.
CNY40, 1h

11:30am

Explore Dali Ancient Town

Walk through cobblestone streets lined with Bai ethnic architecture, handicraft shops, and local markets.
CNY0, 2h

1:30pm

Lunch at The Garden Café

A peaceful spot offering a mix of local and western dishes with fresh ingredients.
CNY60, 1h

3:00pm

Visit Three Pagodas and Chongsheng Temple

See the iconic Three Pagodas, a symbol of Dali and one of China's oldest Buddhist structures, set amidst serene temple grounds.
CNY120, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner on Foreigner Street

Try diverse global street food and local delicacies like 'Er Kuai' rice cakes at popular eateries.
CNY50, 1h30m

Day 3: Ancient Town Charm

Lijiang, China on April 24, 2025

7:30am

Travel from Dali to Lijiang

Morning bus or train ride north to Lijiang, famed for its UNESCO-listed Old Town.
CNY90, 2h

10:00am

Breakfast at Lijiang Old Town Café

Relax with a latte and fresh pastries amid cobblestone streets.
CNY35, 1h

11:00am

Explore Lijiang Old Town

Discover traditional Naxi culture by wandering through its ancient streets, waterways, and unique architecture.
CNY0, 3h

2:00pm

Lunch at N's Kitchen

Enjoy western and Chinese fusion options along with local specialties in a cozy setting.
CNY75, 1h

3:30pm

Visit Black Dragon Pool Park

Relax in this picturesque park featuring clear waters and views of the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain.
CNY50, 1h30m

6:00pm

Dinner at The Jade Yard

Dine on Naxi cuisine while enjoying traditional music performances.
CNY90, 1h30m

Day 4: Mountain Adventure

Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, China on April 25, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at hotel in Lijiang

Start early with a hearty breakfast before heading to the mountain.
Included, 1h

8:00am

Visit Jade Dragon Snow Mountain Scenic Area

Take a cable car up to Glacier Park to admire breathtaking mountain scenery and alpine views; open 7am to 6pm.
CNY260, 5h

1:30pm

Lunch at Glacier Park Café

Light meal with spectacular mountain vistas.
CNY60, 1h

3:00pm

Blue Moon Valley Visit

Explore the stunning turquoise pools and waterfalls at the foothills of the mountain.
CNY50, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at Lijiang Old Town

Relax with locally inspired dishes featuring fresh herbs and spices.
CNY80, 1h30m

Day 5: Tibetan Culture

Shangri-La, China on April 26, 2025

7:00am

Travel from Lijiang to Shangri-La

Morning drive or bus ride through scenic mountain roads to Shangri-La, known for its Tibetan culture.
CNY130, 3h

10:30am

Breakfast at Shangri-La Old Town

Enjoy flavorful Tibetan tea and snacks amidst traditional architecture.
CNY40, 1h

11:30am

Visit Songzanlin Monastery

Explore the largest Tibetan Buddhist monastery in Yunnan, showcasing impressive murals and prayer halls.
CNY85, 2h

2:00pm

Lunch at Shangri-La Tibetan Restaurant

Taste authentic Tibetan dishes such as yak meat and barley tsampa.
CNY70, 1h

3:30pm

Walk around Dukezong Ancient Town

Wander ancient streets, visit prayer wheels, and climb the hill for panoramic views.
CNY0, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at Bistro Lotus

Enjoy fusion cuisine reflecting Tibetan flavors in a cozy atmosphere.
CNY90, 1h30m

Day 6: Nature Hike

Tiger Leaping Gorge, China on April 27, 2025

7:00am

Travel from Shangri-La to Tiger Leaping Gorge

Early drive to one of the deepest and most scenic river canyons in the world, perfect for hiking.
CNY150, 2h

9:00am

Breakfast at Gorge Guesthouse

Start your day with local breakfast fare surrounded by stunning gorge views.
CNY40, 1h

10:00am

Hike along Tiger Leaping Gorge Trail

Enjoy a moderate hike with spectacular views of cliffs, waterfalls, and the Jinsha River; allow 4-5 hours.
CNY0, 5h

3:30pm

Relax and snack at Halfway Guesthouse

Take a break with tea and local pastries after hiking.
CNY30, 1h

5:00pm

Return to Shangri-La

Drive back in the late afternoon.
CNY150, 2h

7:30pm

Dinner at Shangri-La Old Town

Relish a comforting meal featuring local grains and vegetables after your adventure.
CNY80, 1h30m

Day 7: Return and Relax

Kunming, China on April 28, 2025

8:00am

Travel back to Kunming

Take a morning flight or bus back to Kunming for your departure day.
CNY200, 1h

10:00am

Breakfast at Kunming downtown café

Enjoy a relaxing breakfast in the city center with Yunnan coffee and pastries.
CNY35, 1h

11:00am

Visit Kunming Flower and Bird Market

Explore this lively market with local handicrafts, flowers, and exotic birds for souvenirs.
CNY0, 1h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at Wang's Restaurant

Indulge in a last taste of Yunnan with authentic dishes before heading to the airport.
CNY65, 1h

3:00pm

Departure from Kunming

Head to Kunming Changshui International Airport for your onward journey.
Varies, N/A