Yunnan
A land blessed by nature, Yunnan is home to breathtaking scenery and rich ethnic diversity. From the Cangshan Mountains and Erhai Lake in Dali to the cobblestone streets of Lijiang Ancient Town and the alpine meadows of Shangri-La, Yunnan invites you to immerse yourself in its natural and cultural wonders.
Every corner of Yunnan holds unparalleled beauty, whether it’s the hidden ancient towns shaded by towering trees or the mist-shrouded peaks of the region’s mountainous terrain.
The province’s cuisine is equally memorable. From the famous guoqiao mixian (crossing-the-bridge rice noodles) to spicy fish dishes to savory Dai-style barbecue, Yunnan’s food is a feast for the senses. Tea lovers will also enjoy the world famous Pu’er tea.
Whether you’re enjoying the warm climate of Kunming or exploring the tropical Dai culture of Xishuangbanna, Yunnan’s diversity and beauty will leave a lasting impression.
The Old Town of Lijiang
Lijiang Ancient City is a world cultural heritage, where there is a unique Naxi culture. You can stroll along the stone road of the ancient city, admire the ancient buildings such as Sifang Street and Mufu, and feel the historical flavor of the ancient city. Here, you can also experience the melodious Naxi ancient music and understand the mystery of Dongba writing!
Yulong Snow Mountain
Yulong Snow Mountain in Lijiangis a famous 5A scenic spot in Yunnan and a sacred mountain for the Naxi people. It consists of 13 peaks, with the main peak, Fansizuo, reaching an altitude of 5596 meters. It’s the southernmost large snow mountain in the Northern Hemisphere. The landscape changes dramatically from subtropical to temperate to frigid zones as you climb from the base to the summit.
You can easily take a cable car to appreciate the magnificent high-altitude glaciers. When I arrived at the foot of the mountain and saw the towering snow peak, I was utterly amazed! On the cable car, the scenery along the way was breathtakingly beautiful. The valleys and meadows below looked like a living painting. In the distance, yaks grazed leisurely, and the fresh air was so invigorating.
Once I reached the top, the winter wonderland before my eyes left me speechless. The snow crunching under my feet made me feel like I had stepped into a dream. I strolled around and took countless photos, but I knew they could never fully capture the beauty I witnessed. If you’re looking for an adventure that will take your breath away, Yulong Snow Mountain is definitely the place to go! Get ready to make some unforgettable memories!
Erhai Lake, Dali
Dali is a charming city in Yunnan, China, and Erhai is its sparkling gem. The name “Erhai” literally means “Ear Sea” because of its shape, which resembles a human ear.
Erhai is a large, high-altitude lake surrounded by picturesque mountains and lush greenery. It’s a serene body of water that stretches out as far as the eye can see, with gentle waves lapping at the shores. The lake is not only a natural beauty but also a place steeped in local culture and history.
You can rent a bike or hop on a horse-drawn carriage to explore the lakeside. As you ride along the winding paths, you’ll be greeted by quaint villages, traditional Bai ethnic architecture, and locals going about their daily lives. The best part? The stunning sunsets over the lake. Find a cozy spot by the water, and watch as the sky turns into a canvas of oranges, pinks, and purples. It’s a sight that never gets old.
If you’re a foodie, you’re in for a treat. The local seafood is fresh and delicious, especially the Erhai fish, which is a must-try. And don’t forget to sample the Bai ethnic snacks and drinks. They’re a perfect accompaniment to your lakeside stroll.
Erhai is not just a lake; it’s an experience. It’s a place where you can slow down, breathe in the fresh air, and let the beauty of nature wash over you. So, if you’re planning a trip to China and want to add a touch of tranquility and charm to your journey, make sure to put Dali and Erhai on your list. Trust me; it’s a destination that will leave you with a heart full of happy memories!
Xishuangbanna Tropical Rainforest
Xishuangbanna Tropical Rainforest is truly a place that captures your heart! Walking through the rainforest, you can look up to see towering trees weaving a green canopy overhead, while the air is filled with the fresh scent of soil and vegetation. This is no ordinary forest – it’s the largest tropical rainforest in northern Asia! The tree crowns stack in layers, with vines intertwining between them, and the joyful songs of birds can be heard everywhere.
What excited me most was encountering various rare animals and plants here. Wild Asian elephants make their home in this forest! When the weather is warm, you might even spot peacocks strolling through the forest, their leisurely grace creating an incredibly beautiful sight!
Travel tip: I recommend visiting between November and April of the following year, when the weather is cool and comfortable, perfect for hiking and exploration. Remember to bring insect repellent and rain gear to make your rainforest adventure more comfortable!
Shangri-La
Shangri-La, the closest place to heaven in Yunnan. let me tell you just how breathtaking this place is!
Walking on the plateau at over 3,000 meters altitude, the azure sky seems within reach, with pristine white clouds drifting gently overhead. This is no ordinary plateau – it’s the legendary “Lost Shangri-La”! The vast meadows are dotted with colorful wildflowers, herds of yaks graze leisurely, and golden sunlight sparkles on the turquoise waters of Pudacuo Lake, creating a scene so beautiful it takes your breath away.
What touches my heart most is the rich Tibetan cultural atmosphere here. The magnificent halls of Songzanlin Monastery, devoted believers praying at prayer wheels, the aroma of butter tea wafting through the ancient town – it all makes you feel like you’re inside a living thangka painting. At sunset, when the sky over the ancient town turns golden-red and prayer flags flutter in the wind, the sense of awe is beyond words!
Travel tip: I recommend visiting between June and September when the weather is pleasant and wildflowers are in full bloom. Remember to bring sunscreen and warm clothing, as the plateau has strong UV rays and significant temperature differences between day and night. It’s also wise to prepare some altitude sickness medication like Rhodiola to make your plateau journey more comfortable!
What to Do in Yunnan
Experience Ethnic Minority Cultures in China: Yunnan is home to 26 ethnic minority groups, each with its own unique culture and traditions. For example, in Xishuangbanna, you can participate in the Water Splashing Festival of the Dai people and experience their songs, dances, and folk customs. In Lijiang, you can learn about the Dongba culture of the Naxi people and take part in performances of ancient Naxi music, where you can experience very different cultural activities.
Hiking: Yunnan has many excellent hiking locations, such as Tiger Leaping Gorge and Laojun Mountain. At Tiger Leaping Gorge, you can hike along the riverside trails, admire the magnificent views of the Jinsha River, and experience the grandeur of nature.
Tea Culture Experience: Yunnan is a famous tea-producing region in China. You can visit ancient tea forests in Pu’er and Xishuangbanna to learn about Pu’er tea production techniques, taste different varieties of tea, and experience the unique charm of tea culture. If you’re lucky, you might even get to try your hand at tea frying.
Join a Bonfire Party: At places like Lugu Lake, you can join the Mosuo people’s bonfire parties, dancing and singing with locals while learning about their unique “walking marriage” custom and distinctive lifestyle. You might be surprised by their walking marriage way of life.
Yunnan on Your Plate
Yunnan cuisine is renowned worldwide for its unique flavors and diverse cooking methods. Each dish here seems to tell a story of this enchanting land.
Crossing the Bridge Noodles: The Soul Food of Yunnan This famous dish not only carries a touching legend but also captivates with its unique way of eating. Piping hot chicken broth, paired with paper-thin meat slices, fresh bean sprouts, and yellow chives – when these ingredients meet the smooth rice noodles, they create a perfect bowl of Crossing the Bridge Noodles. In the rising steam, the noodles’ chewiness complements the soup’s rich flavor perfectly.
Steam Pot Chicken: A Primitive Flavor Sealed in Steam This is a distinctive Dai ethnic dish where fresh free-range chicken is placed in special bamboo tubes with various spices and wild mushrooms, then slowly steamed over a low fire. When the lid is lifted, the rich aroma fills the air, revealing tender and juicy chicken meat that leaves a lasting impression.
Wild Mushrooms: Nature’s Bounty During the rainy season, Yunnan’s wild mushrooms become a favorite among food enthusiasts. Precious varieties like porcini, matsutake, and bamboo fungi can be stir-fried or used in soups, with each cooking method perfectly showcasing their unique flavors.
Dai Sour Tea: A Unique Taste Experience This distinctive tea dish represents the minority food culture of Yunnan. With its complex flavors of sourness and astringency giving way to sweetness, served with peanuts and small side dishes, it’s a premium offering for honored guests.
Shuixing Yanghua: Edible Art This traditional snack may look simple but requires exquisite culinary skills. Made primarily from rice milk and steamed into various flower patterns, these delicate treats look like flowers and melt in your mouth, carrying a subtle rice fragrance.
Yunnan’s culinary offerings extend far beyond these dishes, including specialties like Shiping tofu, Jianshui intestines with blood pudding, and Xuanwei ham. Each dish carries rich local characteristics and cultural heritage worth savoring. Whether you’re enjoying authentic street food or dining in refined specialty restaurants, you’ll experience the unique charm of Yunnan’s food culture.
When visiting Yunnan, be sure to take your time and truly appreciate each dish, letting your taste buds guide you through the magic of this remarkable land.
ZH 
EN