Kunming, the capital of Yunnan Province, is known as the “City of Eternal Spring” thanks to its mild climate year-round. Whether you’re into exploring ancient towns, getting lost in lush parks, or standing in awe of unique rock formations, Kunming has it all. If you’re planning a trip, here are the best things to do in Kunming that you can’t miss!
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Table of Contents
- The Stone Forest
- Guandu Ancient Town
- Western Hills
- Golden Temple Park
- Yunnan Nationalities Village
- Green Lake
The Stone forest
Imagine walking through a maze of giant limestone pillars that seem to stretch endlessly into the sky—it honestly feels like you’re on another planet. The Stone Forest is about an hour and a half drive from Kunming, but trust me, it’s worth the trip. This natural wonder is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and looks like something straight out of a fantasy movie. I highly recommend exploring the entire scenic area, not just the popular parts. I spent an entire day wandering through every narrow path, climbing steps and finding incredible views with no one else around. The Stone Forest is truly the best thing to do during your visit to Kunming and you cannot miss this.
Guandu Ancient Town
Kunming isn’t all about nature, and Guandu Ancient Town is the perfect spot if you’re in the mood for some history and culture. With its quaint, cobblestone streets, charming temples, and traditional architecture, it’s a great place to get a feel for the local heritage. The town is super walkable, so it’s easy to spend an afternoon just wandering around, checking out the food stalls, and soaking up the atmosphere.
Western Hills
The Western Hills are also known as the ‘Sleeping Beauty Hills’ because the peaks resemble a woman lying down. You can choose to hike up to the top, or take the cable car and save your legs. At the top there are panoramic views of Dianchi Lake, and don’t miss the Dragon Gate for an incredible photo opportunity. This was one of the best things I did in Kunming, and walking along the narrow paths at the top was such an adventure!
Golden Temple Park
Nestled in the forest on Mingfeng Hill, the Golden Temple or Jindian Temple is made entirely of bronze and is one of the best things to do in Kunming! It almost feels like a hidden sanctuary, with a serene atmosphere and lush greenery throughout the park. Climbing up the steps to the temple is a bit of a workout, but the views of Kunming from the top are worth it.
Yunnan nationalities Village
Here you can take a whirlwind tour through Yunnan’s many ethnic minority cultures. This place almost feels like an interactive museum mixed with a theme park. The Yunnan Nationalities Village is a cultural park where you can explore the unique traditions, dances, and architecture of different ethnic groups. It’s a great place to learn about the incredible diversity of Yunnan without having to leave Kunming, and you could easily spend a full day here.
Green Lake
In the heart of Kunming lies Green Lake Park – a lush, tranquil escape from the bustle of the city. It’s the perfect place for a leisurely stroll around the serene lakes, willow-lined pathways and vibrant lotus flowers. Here you can find many locals dancing, practicing tai chi or playing musical instruments. My favourite thing to do here is sit in a coffee shop and people watch.
Full of surprises but with a laid-back vibe, Kunming blends nature, culture and history seamlessly. Whether you’re into hiking, exploring ancient architecture, or just looking for a place to relax, Kunming is a city that invites you to slow down and enjoy the journey. I left with my heart full and my camera roll packed—can’t wait to come back someday and discover even more of what the ‘Spring City’ has to offer!
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