8 Days Yunnan Golf + Vacation Tour: 4 Rounds in Kunming Lijiang on Beautiful Plateau

Welcome to Kunming, the Capital City of Yunnan Province! Kunming is known as the "Spring City春城" due to its mild year-round climate, making it a popular destination for people from other cities to escape harsh winters or scorching summers. The pleasant climate also results in flowers blooming throughout the year, earning Kunming the nickname "Flower City花都". Kunming is the hometown of Zheng He (郑和1371-1433), the famous Ming Dynasty navigator who led seven voyages from 1405 to 1433, visiting numerous countries in Asia and Africa. Whether you're looking for a relaxing escape, cultural immersion, or a chance to explore breathtaking natural wonders and indulge in delicious Yunnan cuisine, Kunming has something to offer everyone.

On this day, upon arrival in Kunming, your guide and driver will meet you at the airport or train station and escort you to Spring City Golf & Lake Resort. This golf resort is located by Fuxian Lake, about 62 km (50–60 minute drive) from downtown Kunming.

Spring City Golf & Lake Resort features five-star resort hotel, modern clubhouse, spa, and restaurants. The resort offers lake-view rooms, mountain-view villas, and various other accommodation options. Enjoy the beautiful natural landscape of the resort and have a restful night.

Spring City Golf & Lake Resort is considered one of the best golf resorts in China. It is often ranked among “Asia’s Best Golf Courses” and “China’s Top 10 Golf Courses” by Golf Digest and Asian Golf Monthly. The resort has hosted major tournaments such as the China Open, National Amateur Championships, and international invitational events. Set amidst mountains and beside a beautiful lake, it offers fresh air and an abundance of natural negative ions.

The resort features two international-standard 18-hole golf courses: the Lake Course and the Mountain Course. Since opening in 1998, it has been a favorite destination for golf lovers from China and around the world. It’s known as a “highland challenge sanctuary” for golfers seeking both beauty and excitement.

Today, you will enjoy an 18-hole round at the Mountain Course, designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr. This course makes full use of Yunnan’s rolling plateau landscape. Fairways wind through valleys, hills, and woodlands, with some holes featuring dramatic elevation changes. Playing here requires accurate shots, smart strategy, and careful attention to the wind.

Pay special attention to the following three holes:

Hole 8: This is the signature hole of the Mountain Course, featuring a peninsula-shaped green surrounded by a pond and sand traps. The tee shot is quite challenging, especially considering the wind conditions and flagstick position.

Hole 17: A classic par-4 and one of the last two challenging holes. The tee box is located at a high point, and a sand trap in the middle of the fairway increases the difficulty of the tee shot.

Hole 18: The final hole has been selected as one of the top 500 holes worldwide. It is also the longest and most difficult par-4 on the Mountain Course.

After your golf experience, relax and unwind at your hotel in Spring City Golf & Lake Resort.

On this day, you will continue your golf trip at Spring City Golf & Lake Resort and play 18 holes on the Lake Course. In 2021, the Lake Course at Spring City Golf & Lake Resort was recognized by Golf Travel magazine as the fifth-best course in Asia, and by the renowned Golf Digest as one of the "World’s Top 100 Golf Courses" (ranked #77 in 2022). Nestled in the Asia-Pacific region, the Lake Course at Spring City Golf & Lake Resort blends seamlessly with its natural surroundings. It takes full advantage of the captivating landscape, rolling terrain, and expansive views to create a delightful and unforgettable golfing experience.

When you reach Hole 3, you’ll find that natural beauty comes with a windy challenge. Taking a swing in strong wind conditions is tough, and extra caution is needed when aiming for the green - a ball drifting to the right will truly test your skills. At Hole 8, you’ll find yourself at a poetic riverside. This may be the most challenging hole on the course when it comes to club selection. The green is set downhill from the tee, with a lake lurking behind and to the right.

During this 4-hour round of golf, you will enjoy a relaxing and enjoyable experience while surrounded by the natural beauty of the highlands.

In the afternoon, you will be transferred to the Stone Forest (about a 1-hour drive from the golf resort). It is a World Heritage Site of the South China Karst and a must-see natural wonder that was once submerged under an ancient sea.The Kunming Stone Forest (Shilin) is a national geological park famous for its unique stone forest scenery, which represents the magnificent transformations of the natural world over 270 million years (marine sedimentation → crustal uplift → volcanic lava coverage → erosion and leveling → formation of the Stone Forest). Within the Stone Forest, you can closely observe the traces left by the passage of time and gain an understanding of its distinctive karst landforms, rich geological history, and the accompanying Yi ethnic culture. A sightseeing bus will take you to explore the Big Stone Forest and Small Stone Forest. In addition to the touching legend of Ashima (阿诗玛a symbol of Yi ethnic culture), the Stone Forest also served as a filming location for "Journey to the West" (1986 TV series西游记), where Sun Wukong (Monkey King) was depicted as being trapped under Wuxing Mountain (五行山). Use your imagination to discover the magical shapes of the stone forests.

After the tour, be escorted to Kunming downtown area for accommodation.

After breakfast, you will be transferred to Sunshine Golf Club, located in the north of Kunming city (about 30-minute drive). The club sits on the Kunming plateau at an altitude of around 1,900 meters. Nestled among hills, some holes run alongside lakes and streams. Players can enjoy distant views of Dianchi Lake and the Western Hills, all surrounded by the stunning beauty of the Yunnan highlands.

Designed by the renowned Robert Trent Jones Jr., this par-72 course stretches over 7,217 yards and is an international standard tournament venue. Set against a backdrop of mountains and lakes, the course incorporates natural caves, wildflowers, pine woods, fruit trees, and water hazards to create an aesthetically pleasing yet challenging layout. The front nine holes feature gentle topography, making them relatively approachable, while the back nine present undulating terrain that demands precision and strategy. Enjoy playing 18 holes here for happy and relaxing experience.

After golf, you will be transferred back to Kunming city for the best city tour. First, explore Yuantong Temple. Located in the city center, Yuantong Temple combines tranquility amidst the bustling surroundings, offering a unique water courtyard temple. The temple has a history of over 1,200 years and is the oldest Guanyin Temple in China. Particularly noteworthy is its "Downhill Temple" design, where instead of ascending steps after entering the mountain gate, one descends gradually, creating a rare architectural feature among temples in China. Yuantong Temple is the only sacred place in the country that simultaneously accommodates the Han, Southern, and Tibetan Buddhist traditions. At the rear of the temple, there is a typical Southeast Asian Buddhist architectural structure called the Bronze Buddha Hall (铜佛殿), which was built in 1985 specifically to house a bronze statue of Shakyamuni Buddha presented by the Buddhist Association of the Kingdom of Thailand. It has gained a high reputation in the Southeast Asian area and attracts many pilgrims and locals to visit every year. In March each year, Yuantong Temple becomes a popular place for locals to admire the cherry blossoms.

Then, you can hike in Green Lake Park (翠湖) which is 700m away from Yuantong Temple. Cuihu Park was once a marshy bay of Dianchi Lake, which later became a city lake during the Ming Dynasty. It earned its name from its "emerald waters on all sides, bamboo green in all seasons, willow green in spring and summer," and is renowned as the "green gem" and "jade within the city" of Kunming. Two embankments divide the lake into four parts. The north and south embankments, known as Ruandi (阮堤), were constructed during the reign of Emperor Daoguang by Governor Ruan Yuan, inspired by the Su Causeway in West Lake. The east and west embankments, called Tangdi, were built during the Republican era. Besides historical buildings and former residences of famous people, there is a sculpture of Nie Er (聂耳;1912-1935), one of the pioneers of modern Chinese music, who composed China's national anthem, "The March of the Volunteers". Today, Cuihu has become a place where locals take walks, feed fish, observe Black-headed Gulls migrating from Siberia during winter, enjoy lotus flowers, watch flower lanterns, dance, and savor life.

After the tour, be escorted to your hotel in Kunming.

This morning, you will head to the train station in Kunming for your bullet train to Lijiang (around 4h). Welcome to Lijiang, the most popular destination in the Yunnan province! Upon your arrival at Lijiang's train station, our local tour guide and driver will meet you at the exit, greet you, and escort you to the Lijiang Old Town area. They will assist you in checking in at your hotel.

Lijiang (丽江), nestled under the breathtaking Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, forms a beautiful and peaceful link between Shangri-La to the north and Dali to the south. A UNESCO World Heritage site named "Old Town of Lijiang", it's not only a living ancient town complex, encompassing Dayan, Shuhe, and Baisha, but also the heartland of the Naxi ethnic group, with about 74% of the population being Naxi. A visit to Lijiang allows you to enjoy endless snow-capped mountain views, appreciate the charming old town, experience the rich Naxi culture, and unwind in its peaceful atmosphere.

This afternoon, you will have some time to explore Lijiang Old Town (丽江古城), also known as Dayan Old Town. With over 800 years of history, Lijiang Old Town was once a bustling hub for trade along the famous "Old Tea Horse Caravan Trail". The town resembles a labyrinth, characterized by its numerous cobbled streets, traditional wooden houses with upturned eaves, ancient bridges, and an intricate network of waterways. If time permits (optional), you'll visit the Mufu Palace (木府), a sprawling complex located in the heart of Lijiang Old Town, often referred to as the “Forbidden City of the South”. It offers a captivating glimpse into the grandeur of Naxi royalty, showcasing rich Naxi culture and the fascinating history of the Mu family. You'll also discover why Lijiang Old Town, unlike the top three most famous ancient Chinese cities, has no city wall. Afterwards, walk to a higher vantage point to capture a breathtaking panoramic view of the sprawling old town, with snow-capped mountains forming a majestic backdrop in the distance. Take a short walk to Sifang Street (四方街), the most famous square. Here, you can explore Naxi handicrafts, souvenirs, and local specialties, and soak up the vibrant atmosphere of bustling bars with lively music spilling out onto the streets.

Further Exploration in the Evening (Optional, explore on your own):

Lijiang Old Town takes on a different ambiance in the evening, showcasing its unique charm. (1) Here are some recommended alleys for taking awesome photos: Xianwen Alley (现文巷, also known as Oil-paper Umbrella Street), Zhenxing Alley (振兴巷, Lantern Street), Nanmen Bridge (南门桥, Wind Chime Street), and Sakura Restaurant (樱花餐厅), among others. (2) For those seeking nightlife, bars, and local cuisine, the following alleys are recommended: Sifang Street (where you can witness a bonfire dance performed by the Naxi people around 19:00), Wuyi Street (五一街), Xinhua Street (新华街), Zhongyi Market (忠义市场), etc.

After breakfast, you will be escorted to Jade Dragon Snow Mountain Golf Club, located about 26 km from Lijiang Old Town. This is the longest golf course in the world! Set in a beautiful valley at the base of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, the course sits at an elevation of about 3,100 meters (10,800 feet).

Designed by Neil Haworth, this 18-hole, par-72 course stretches an incredible 8,548 yards from the pro tees, earning it a place in the Guinness Book of World Records as the world’s longest regulation par-72 golf course. Thanks to the high altitude - over 10,000 feet above sea level - golf balls fly about 20% farther, so the course "plays" more like a traditional 7,000-yard course.

While playing at Jade Dragon Snow Mountain Golf Club, you will be treated to breathtaking views of the snow-capped mountain from nearly every hole. The front nine holes are characterized by a Scottish links-style design, featuring open fairways and strategic bunkering. The back nine wind through mountainous terrain, with elevation changes and challenging doglegs that demand precise shot-making.

Some of the course highlights include:

• Hole 1: Opens with a direct view of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain - a stunning way to begin your round.
• Hole 5: At 711 yards, it is one of the world’s longest par-5 holes.
• Hole 18: The finishing hole offers a panoramic view of the mountain and clubhouse - perfect for memorable photos.

Enjoy a wonderful morning of golf in this spectacular setting!

This afternoon, you will explore Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, just a short drive from the golf club.This majestic mountain is famous for its towering peaks, stunning scenery, and abundant biodiversity. It was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2003. The mountain gets its name from its resemblance to a stainless jade dragon, especially during winter when its peaks are covered in thick snow.

The crown jewel of the region is the sight of 13 snow-capped peaks, with the highest peak named Shanzidou, reaching an impressive elevation of 5,596 meters (18,360 ft). To fully experience the mountain, it is recommended to take a 10-minute cable car ride up to Spruce Meadow (云杉坪), situated at 3,240 meters. The cable car ride itself is a remarkable experience, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Once you reach the top, you'll be greeted by awe-inspiring panoramic views and have the opportunity to explore meadows and pristine forests. After the tour, take cable down the mountain.

Afterward, take a sightseeing bus to Blue Moon Valley (蓝月谷). The valley is a breathtaking sight, with its almost surreal turquoise blue water, reflecting the majestic Jade Dragon Snow Mountain in the background. This valley boasts four lakes and a White Water Terrace. Each lake presents unique scenery, but the most beautiful one is the Jade Liquid Lake. The best time to admire the splendor of Blue Moon Valley is during a sunny midday when the lake's water, under the radiant sunlight, becomes as clear and blue as a mirror. You can capture many awesome photos here.

After the tour, be transferred back to your hotel in Lijiang.

After breakfast, your guide and driver will meet you at your hotel and whisk you away on a scenic journey from Lijiang to explore breathtaking natural landscapes.

Your first stop will be the First Bend of the Yangtze River (长江第一湾). Here, you will witness the majestic river making a dramatic 90-degree turn from south to east within a short distance of 1 kilometer. Ascend to the observation deck for views of the Yangtze River. Continue your drive to Shigu Town for a close view of the bend. Take a walk along the river and admire the historic Iron Chain Bridge. In the charming Shigu Old Town, don't miss the opportunity to visit the Red Army's Long March Memorial Monument.

Later, continue your drive to the Upper Section of Tiger Leaping Gorge (上虎跳, altitude: 1,800 meters). According to legend, the section got its name when a tiger, chased by a hunter, took a legendary leap across the narrowest point, cornered by the rushing Jinsha River (part of the Yangtze River) at the gorge's base. One of the deepest gorges in the world, Tiger Leaping Gorge offers a breathtaking view of the roaring Jinsha River, allowing you to feel the strong power of nature. As Jade Dragon Snow Mountain (5,596m) and Haba Snow Mountain (5,386m) stand on each side, you will immerse yourself in the beautiful and diverse landscapes. You will walk along the plankroad, both up and down. (Optional: If you want to save energy, you can use the lift, with an extra fee.)

After the tour, you will be transferred back to Lijiang. If you have the energy, let’s visit Black Dragon Pond Park (黑龙潭公园), located at the northern edge of Lijiang Old Town. This picturesque park offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape, highlighted by the majestic Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. On clear days, the reflection of the snow-capped peak in the tranquil waters of Black Dragon Pool creates a truly breathtaking scene.

Enjoy your last night in Lijiang and have a restful sleep.

After breakfast, you will have some free time in Lijiang. Then, you will be escorted to Lijiang Sanyi International Airport or train station for your flight or high-speed train to your next destination. Your 8 days Yunnan Golf tour will come to an end.

Extension Ideas:

If you wish to extend your trip and explore other highlights of Yunnan - such as the Yuanyang Rice Terraces, Jianshui Ancient Town, Dongchuan Red Land, Dali, Lijiang, Shangri-La, Xishuangbanna, and more - we can help you with all the arrangements.

Thank you for choosing Asia Odyssey Travel for your Yunnan tour. We are always here to assist you and hope to see you again on your next trip to China or elsewhere in Asia. Safe journey!