Kunming China 2 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Exploring the Scenic Side of Kunming

Morning:

  • Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Yunnan Snack Street (云南小吃街), located near Green Lake. This street offers a variety of local Yunnan dishes to fuel up for the day ahead.
  • Visit the iconic and serene Green Lake Park (绿湖公园). Take a leisurely stroll around the lake, enjoy the beautiful scenery, and visit the Temple of Dragon Tortoise (龙龟庙) at its center.

Afternoon:

  • Head to the picturesque Golden Temple (金塔寺). It’s a bit of a hike, but the stunning views of Kunming city are worth it! Remember to respect local customs when visiting temples.
  • After that, visit the ethereal Flower and Bird Market (花鸟市场), where you can buy souvenirs, fresh flowers, and exotic birds.

Evening:

  • For dinner, head to Xiu Shui Jie Pedestrian Street (修水街步行街). This vibrant street is packed with delicious local food options, as well as shops selling everything from clothes to art.
  • Cap off your day with a visit to the Yunnan Provincial Museum (云南省博物馆) to learn more about the rich history and culture of Yunnan province.

Day 2: Discovering Nature’s Wonders

Morning:

  • Embark on a trip to the Stone Forest (石林) around 8 AM. It’s approximately 2 hours away by car or bus. The early morning visit is ideal to avoid the crowds and enjoy the unique rock formations in peace.
  • If you prefer, you can also visit the Tiger Leaping Gorge (悼江虎跳崖), which requires a full day trip but offers breathtaking views of the Yangtze River.

Afternoon:

  • Return to Kunming and have lunch at Restaurant Dian Dian Xin (点点心). This restaurant is famous for its traditional Yunnan dishes, especially the Crossing-the-Bridge Noodles.
  • Spend your afternoon exploring the vibrant Huan Cheng Square (环城广场) and its surrounding area, filled with shops, cafes, and street performers.

Evening:

  • For dinner, try out Dian Dao Jie (滇道街), another popular food street in Kunming. The street is lined with various stalls offering local delicacies.
  • End your day with a relaxing soak at the Qiongzhu Hot Spring Park (琼竹温泉公园). It’s a great way to unwind after a full day of sightseeing!

Things to Know:

  • Kunming has a subtropical highland monsoon climate, so pack layers and rain gear for your trip.
  • Mandarin (Putonghua) is the most widely spoken language, but many locals also speak Yunnanese or English.
  • Taxis in Kunming are relatively affordable, but downloading a ride-hailing app like Didi can make getting around easier.
  • Always be respectful of local customs and traditions when visiting temples or other religious sites.

Stay:

  • For budget travelers, consider staying at the Kunming Yunduan International Youth Hostel or Kunming Backpacker's Inn.
  • Mid-range options include Kunming Huaxia Hotel and Kunming City Inn.
  • If you prefer luxury accommodations, consider booking a room at the Shangri-La Hotel, Kunming or The St. Regis Kunming.