7-Day Yunnan Tour: Kunming, Dali & Lijiang Highlights

Summary

Day 1 Kunming Arrival
Day 2 Kunming: Stone Forest, Flower and Birds Market
Day 3 Kunming-Dali by car: Three Pagodas, Erhai Lake Scenic Area, Dali Ancient Town
Day 4 Dali-Lijiang: Xizhou Town, Black Dragon Pond, Dongbu Culture Museum, Lijiang Old Town
Day 5 Lijiang: Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, Baisha Old Town
Day 6 Lijiang: Visit First bend of Yangtze River and Tiger Leaping Gorge on the way, return to Kunming by car
Day 7 Departure from Kunming

Day 1 Kunming Arrival

As soon as you step out of the train station or airport in Kunming, a representative from Your Way Holiday will be ready to welcome you. They’ll be easy to spot and will gladly assist with your belongings, making sure that both seniors and young travelers in your group are taken care of. After a comfortable transfer to your hotel in a private vehicle, you can settle in while your guide introduces highlights of the journey ahead and shares useful local insights. With Your Way Holiday, your adventure in Kunming starts in a relaxed and thoughtful way, ensuring you feel supported right from the beginning.

Depending on when you arrive and how you’re feeling, the first evening can be spent with a light introduction to Kunming’s charm. A gentle walk through one of the city’s serene parks offers an easy way to stretch your legs after the journey. Shady trees, flowering plants, and tranquil waters create a soothing backdrop, while locals often gather for evening dances, music, or simple games that give a glimpse into everyday life. You might pause at a traditional teahouse to enjoy a refreshing cup while taking in the atmosphere. This relaxed activity sets a welcoming tone, helping you ease into Yunnan’s culture at a comfortable pace.

Day 2 Kunming

After enjoying breakfast, your driver and guide will meet you in the hotel lobby and take you on a journey to the world-famous Stone Forest, around a two-hour drive from Kunming. This UNESCO-listed site is celebrated for its dramatic limestone pinnacles, rising like a sea of stone from the earth. As you wander through the maze-like paths, you’ll encounter impressive formations that inspire countless folk tales from the Sani people, one of Yunnan’s ethnic minorities. Your guide will share stories, point out the most striking shapes, and help you appreciate both the natural artistry and cultural significance of the site. With well-maintained trails, open viewing areas, and places to rest, the Stone Forest offers an enjoyable and memorable outing for travelers of all ages, whether you’re seeking striking photographs, cultural insights, or simply a leisurely walk in a unique landscape.

Following your exploration of the Stone Forest, you’ll be treated to a leisurely lunch featuring the rich culinary heritage of Yunnan. At a carefully selected local eatery, seasonal ingredients from nearby farms are transformed into colorful and flavorful dishes. You may sample signature tastes such as wild mushroom stir-fries, fragrant herbs unique to the region, or delicate steamed fish prepared with traditional spices. The welcoming atmosphere provides a chance to sit back and enjoy the distinct balance of freshness and diversity that characterizes Yunnan’s dining culture. As you share this meal, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation of how food here reflects both the province’s natural abundance and its vibrant mix of ethnic traditions.

In the afternoon, you’ll return to Kunming and step into the bustling atmosphere of the city’s Flower and Birds Market. A stroll through this lively district reveals rows of stalls offering everything from potted plants and exotic pets to handicrafts, antiques, and small curiosities. The market captures the everyday rhythms of Kunming life, with locals chatting over tea, shopkeepers proudly displaying their goods, and artisans demonstrating their craft. It’s a delightful place to take photos, pick up meaningful souvenirs, or simply soak in the cheerful, authentic ambiance. Your guide will be on hand to provide cultural context, assist with conversations, and ensure your experience is smooth and engaging.

As evening approaches, your driver will bring you back to the hotel where you can unwind after a day filled with discovery. The quiet ride offers a chance to rest, review the highlights of the Stone Forest and the lively market, or simply watch the city lights of Kunming appear along the way. Upon arrival, your guide will be available to assist with any practical needs, such as recommending nearby restaurants, helping with activity planning for the next day, or offering advice for a relaxing evening. With all logistics smoothly handled, you’re free to settle into the comfort of your hotel and look forward to the adventures that await tomorrow.

Day 3 Kunming - Dali

After breakfast, your guide and driver will meet you in the hotel lobby and begin the drive from Kunming to Dali, enjoying the scenic routes that showcase Yunnan’s diverse landscapes. Along the way, your guide will introduce the local Bai culture, share insights into traditional customs, and explain Dali’s historical importance as the ancient capital of the Nanzhao Kingdom. Once you arrive, you’ll visit the famous Three Pagodas, a striking ensemble that has stood for more than a millennium. The tallest, Qianxun Pagoda, towers above the others at 69 meters, while its two smaller companions complement the harmony of the site. Your guide will walk you through the temple grounds, highlighting inscriptions, architectural details, and the pagodas’ cultural and historical significance. The peaceful gardens and reflective pond nearby provide a perfect setting for photographs or quiet contemplation, suitable for visitors of all ages.

After visiting the Three Pagodas, your journey continues to the stunning Erhai Lake, a natural gem that defines the beauty of Dali. Covering an expansive area of 250 square kilometers, the lake is framed by gentle hills and dotted with quaint fishing communities. Your guide will share the story behind its name, which translates to “Ear-Shaped Sea,” and point out the best spots for leisurely strolls, photography, or simply taking in the tranquil views. Well-maintained paths and scenic pavilions make it easy for both older visitors and children to enjoy the surroundings comfortably. Depending on your preferences, you can opt for a short boat trip, a bike ride along the lakeshore, or a visit to a traditional Bai home, with your guide adjusting the activities to suit the pace and interests of your group.

After a morning of sightseeing, it’s time to relax with a traditional Bai lunch beside the sparkling waters of Erhai Lake. The restaurant offers sweeping lake views, creating a serene backdrop as you taste dishes made from fresh, local ingredients such as seasonal vegetables, river fish, and wild mushrooms. A highlight is the region’s signature sour soup fish, known for its lively, tangy flavor that perfectly complements the natural freshness of the ingredients. While you dine, your guide will share insights into Bai customs, including the Three-Course Tea Ceremony, which reflects the people’s cultural values and connection to nature. This meal is a chance to enjoy authentic local flavors while gaining a deeper appreciation of Bai traditions and their way of life.

As the afternoon turns to evening, you’ll stroll through the charming streets of Dali Ancient Town, a historic walled city set between the Cangshan Mountains and Erhai Lake. The town’s narrow lanes are lined with traditional whitewashed buildings, decorative blue-tiled roofs, and intricate Bai patterns. Your guide will share stories about Dali’s past as a bustling trade center and point out cultural highlights in the local architecture, handicrafts, and culinary offerings. Take time to browse artisanal shops, visit small galleries, or relax with a cup of tea in a serene courtyard. As night falls, the town comes alive with the glow of lanterns, creating a welcoming and atmospheric backdrop. Your guide will ensure your group enjoys a seamless experience, offering advice on dining or helping you return to your hotel at the end of the day.

Day 4 Dali - Lijiang

After breakfast, your adventure continues with a scenic drive from Dali to Lijiang, passing through picturesque countryside and witnessing the gradual shift from Bai to Naxi cultural influences. The first stop is Xizhou, a town celebrated for its traditional Bai architecture and vibrant local heritage. Stroll through the peaceful streets as your guide highlights the town’s characteristic features, such as elaborately carved wooden gates, colorful murals, and the unique “sanfang yizhaobi” courtyard layouts. You’ll also have the chance to explore a historic Bai residence, where your guide will explain the meaning behind the architectural details, local customs, and ancestral traditions. This visit provides an in-depth understanding of Bai culture, allowing you to experience the community’s heritage in an authentic and engaging way.

After a leisurely morning, it’s time to enjoy a traditional Bai lunch in Shaxi, set in a charming courtyard restaurant. The space, decorated with natural wood and softly glowing lanterns, provides a relaxed atmosphere for tasting local specialties. Highlights may include fresh Erhai Lake fish prepared with aromatic herbs, tender mountain-spiced beef, and stuffed tofu baked to golden perfection with a flavorful vegetable filling. While you dine, your guide will offer stories about Bai cooking methods and the importance of local, seasonal ingredients, giving you a deeper appreciation of the region’s culinary heritage. This meal provides a perfect pause and a memorable farewell to Shaxi before your journey continues into the mountains.

Continuing toward Lijiang, your next stop is the serene Black Dragon Pond, nestled at the base of Elephant Hill. Famous for its crystal-clear waters, the pond mirrors the majestic Jade Dragon Snow Mountain on calm days, offering one of the most picturesque sights in the region. As you stroll along the park’s winding paths, your guide will point out traditional pavilions, graceful stone bridges, and the historic Deyue Tower, explaining the pond’s cultural significance in local water worship and its role in the city’s ancient water system. The area is ideal for photography, while those curious about landscaping and local flora can appreciate the careful design that blends natural beauty with symbolic elements, creating a peaceful retreat in the heart of Lijiang.

Afterward, make your way to the Dongba Culture Museum, where you’ll explore the rich heritage of the Naxi people. The museum showcases a collection of rare manuscripts, ritual objects, and vivid paintings illustrating traditional ceremonies. Your guide will provide insight into the pictographic Dongba script, explain the Naxi’s spiritual connection with nature, and reveal the stories behind their customs and beliefs. This visit offers a deeper appreciation of the Naxi culture and lays the groundwork for understanding the traditions and historical layers found throughout Lijiang Old Town.

Conclude the day with a visit to Lijiang Old Town, a UNESCO-listed heritage site known for its charming canals, stone-paved streets, and traditional wooden houses. Your guide will lead you through the maze of alleys, highlighting notable sights such as the bustling Square Market, historic Mu Family Residence, and the town’s ingenious waterwheel system. Along the way, you’ll learn about Lijiang’s role as an important hub on the ancient Tea Horse Road and how its architecture reflects both mountain geography and communal traditions. There will be opportunities to explore artisanal shops, sample local delicacies, or enjoy a quiet moment in a teahouse overlooking the rooftops. The tour is designed for visitors of all ages, with plenty of breaks and engaging stories to enrich the experience. Finally, your guide will ensure a smooth hotel check-in so you can settle in comfortably for the evening.

Day 5 Lijiang

After breakfast, set out on a scenic journey to the majestic Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, the towering glacier-capped range just north of Lijiang. Your guide will lead you to the cable car that ascends to Glacier Park, where breathtaking views of icy peaks and sweeping valleys unfold at over 4,500 meters above sea level. Along the way, your guide will ensure the group’s comfort at high altitude, provide explanations about the mountain’s spiritual significance to the Naxi people, and highlight interesting geological formations and alpine flora. Stroll along the marked paths at each viewing platform, take in the crisp mountain air, and capture memorable photographs. For those who need extra support, oxygen canisters and warm clothing are available to make the visit safe and enjoyable for children and older travelers alike.

After your descent from Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, head to the serene Blue Moon Valley, nestled at the foot of the peaks. Renowned for its striking turquoise lakes and gently tiered waterfalls, the valley provides a calm setting for a leisurely walk through forests and open meadows. Your guide will describe the unique limestone formations that give the waters their vivid hue and highlight the best spots for photographs. Along the way, you’ll also hear local stories and legends that add cultural depth to the natural scenery. Visitors can choose to explore the lakeside trails at a relaxed pace or simply pause to soak in the peaceful surroundings.

After a morning of sightseeing, pause to enjoy lunch at a local Naxi-style eatery tucked inside a traditional courtyard. The setting is warm and inviting, with carved wooden beams, red lanterns, and the gentle sound of folk tunes in the background. On the table arrives one of Lijiang’s beloved specialties — Lapaiguo, a comforting hot pot of cured pork ribs simmered slowly with mountain herbs. The savory broth, enriched with wild mushrooms, seasonal greens, and handmade tofu, offers both hearty flavor and nourishing warmth. As you dine, your guide shares stories about how this dish became part of the Naxi winter tradition, when families relied on preserved meats to endure the colder months. The meal not only delights the palate but also offers a window into the daily life and ingenuity of the local people, preparing you for the adventures still ahead.

In the afternoon, the journey leads you to Baisha Old Town, one of the earliest Naxi settlements that has preserved its authentic character over the centuries. The village exudes a timeless charm, with cobblestone pathways, weathered walls, and wooden houses that speak of its long history. Here, you will step into the Baisha Frescoes, where centuries-old murals illustrate a fascinating blend of Buddhist, Taoist, and Naxi influences. Though aged, the paintings still radiate vivid symbolism, and your guide will reveal the cultural narratives hidden within each detail. To round out the visit, stop by a Baisha embroidery studio, where skilled artisans continue the delicate craft that has been passed down through generations. Observing their work offers not only a glimpse into artistic mastery but also a living link to the traditions that define the identity of Baisha.

As the afternoon draws to a close, take a moment to unwind in the peaceful atmosphere of Baisha Old Town. The quiet lanes, framed by traditional homes and the distant view of snow-capped peaks, create a setting that invites reflection and gentle exploration. It’s an ideal way to end the day, surrounded by the unhurried rhythm of village life. When you are ready, your guide will accompany you back to your hotel in Lijiang, making sure everything is arranged comfortably for the evening and that you’re well prepared for tomorrow’s journey.

Day 6 Lijiang

After breakfast, begin your drive through the dramatic landscapes of northern Yunnan, with your first stop at the First Bend of the Yangtze River. At this remarkable spot near Shigu, the mighty Yangtze suddenly veers in a wide arc, creating a striking natural panorama of terraced fields, rolling hills, and shimmering waters. From the viewing area, you’ll have the chance to appreciate both the grandeur of the scenery and the stories connected to this bend of the river — from ancient trading routes to its pivotal role in China’s modern history. Nearby lies Shigu Old Town, a rustic village where cobbled lanes, traditional houses, and local markets reveal the charm of everyday life. Here, you may also visit the Red Army Memorial, a landmark honoring the site of the army’s historic crossing during the Long March, adding a layer of cultural and historical depth to your journey.

Your journey then carries on to the breathtaking Tiger Leaping Gorge, a natural wonder renowned for its immense depth and raw power. Here, the Jinsha River, an upper reach of the Yangtze, carves its way between sheer cliffs that soar thousands of meters above the water. From the upper gorge viewing platforms, you’ll feel the incredible force of the river as it crashes against giant boulders, echoing through the canyon. According to local legend, the gorge’s name comes from a tiger that once leapt across its narrowest span — a story your guide will bring to life while pointing out the very spot tied to this tale. For those eager to stretch their legs, a gentle walk along well-built boardwalks provides dramatic perspectives of the swirling rapids, while visitors who prefer a slower pace can enjoy panoramic viewpoints without strenuous effort. No matter how you choose to explore, the grandeur of Tiger Leaping Gorge is sure to leave a lasting impression.

After experiencing the awe-inspiring beauty of Yunnan’s landscapes, your guide and driver will accompany you on the return drive to Kunming. Sit back and enjoy the comfort of your private vehicle as the scenery shifts from rugged mountains to fertile valleys dotted with villages and farmland. Along the route, your guide may share stories of rural traditions, point out seasonal crops, or introduce you to roadside specialties if you’d like to pause for a short break. Upon arrival in Kunming, your guide will assist with the hotel check-in process and make sure everything is arranged for the following day, giving you peace of mind as you settle in for the evening.

Day 7 Kunming Departure

On your final day in Kunming, your guide and driver will be on hand to make sure your departure is handled with ease. No matter if you’re leaving by train or plane, the schedule will be arranged around your group’s timing to ensure a relaxed transfer. A spacious private vehicle will be provided to comfortably fit your group of 17 travelers, with plenty of room for luggage and convenient access for both children and elderly guests.

Your guide will assist with check-out at the hotel, organize the luggage, and confirm your tickets so everything runs smoothly. If there is extra time before heading to the station or airport, you may enjoy a light activity nearby — perhaps a stroll through a peaceful garden, or a pause at a local tea house to savor one last taste of Yunnan’s hospitality. These small touches allow you to end the journey at your own pace, with flexibility for everyone’s needs.

Throughout the transfer, your guide remains available for translation help, sharing travel tips, or answering any last questions about Yunnan. With thoughtful attention to detail, we ensure your trip concludes as comfortably and warmly as it began, leaving you with cherished memories to take home.

Price Per Person in US Dollars