10 Days Classic Yunnan Tour from Hong Kong

Nihao! Welcome to Hong Kong, the Pearl of the Orient and the shoppers' paradise with a mix of Chinese and Western influences. Upon arrival at Hong Kong, your local tour guide and driver will meet there and escort you to your hotel. The rest of the day is yours to have fun on your own. You are welcome to ask your tour guide for some useful tips to spend your free time based on your time and interest.

Arrival Ideas:

As Asia's World City, travelers can arrive in Hong Kong easily by air. There are numerous international and domestic airlines for you to enter China and the rest of Asia from Hong Kong. You can visit Hong Kong by air from most cities in China, like Guilin, Beijing, Xian, Shanghai, Kunming, Chengdu, and more. In addition, travelers can take high speed train to Hong Kong from Guilin (3.5 hours), Guangzhou (1 hour), Shenzhen (0.5 hour), Kunming (7.5 hours), etc.

After breakfast, your guide and driver will pick you up at your hotel. It is time to enjoy your half-day Hong Kong trip. The first stop is to pay a visit to the highest point of Hong Kong - Victoria Peak (about 552 meters). You will take the famous Peak Tram, which was operated for more than 110 years, and travel through the verdant woods to explore some hidden old buildings left by the old Hong Kong. Get atop to the observation deck to overlook the amazing Hong Kong skyline and beautiful harbor views. Seize the rare time to take some photos from atop. The second stop is to go to the Aberdeen Fishing Village, a peaceful traditional fishing village with the rows of old junks and sampans where you will get a very interesting contract and change of pace to the Hong Kong business district and Kowloon. The third stop is Stanley Market. Walk through the bustling market selling fancy petty commodities and enjoy browsing the stalls with clothing and souvenirs can’t find elsewhere. To relax a little bit, you can order a cup of coffee or beer at the seaside café or pub to spend time getting away from the crowds. After the tour, you will be escorted back you your hotel.

Free Time Ideas:
If your energy permits, you can explore on your own to Sik Sik Yuen Wong Tai Sin Temple and Nan Lian Garden in this afternoon. And enjoy a memorable walk along the Avenue of Stars and admire the stunning views of Victoria Harbor and Hong Kong Island with its numerous skyscrapers. If time allows, watch “A Symphony of Lights” at 20:00, which transforms the Hong Kong skyline into an outdoor audio visual feast for the senses.

After breakfast, you will be free until your guide and driver escort you to Hong Kong West Kowloon Railway Station for a high speed train to Kunming (about 7.5 hours). Welcome to Kunming, the Spring City! Upon arrival in Kunming, your guide will meet you at the train station and escort you to your hotel. Have a good rest tonight!

Transfer Option Note: If it is difficult to book the high speed train tickets during peak season, you could use the Plan B to take a flight directly to Kunming (about 2.5-3 hours).

This morning, drive 78km (about 1.5 hours) from Kunming to the must-see Stone Forest (Shilin), which covers an area of more than 300 square kilometers. You will see a large forest of black limestone standing through winds and rains that formed about 270 million years ago. This amazing natural scenery used to be covered by an ancient sea. There are thousands of meters of calciferous shells that would one day become limestone and dolomite. This deep layer was later uplifted and shaped like trees at an altitude of 1,500 meters. You will take a sightseeing bus to visit Big Stone Forest and Small Stone Forest. With its touching legend of Ashima and unique minority culture, you will fall in love with this famous tourist spot.

After that, you will head back to Kunming (91km, about 1.5 hours) and have a walk in the Yuantong Temple (Yuantong Si). It is the largest Buddhist temple in Kunming with a history of more than 1,200 years (founded in the Tang dynasty). Differing from most other temples that were built with an ascending entrance, you will enter the Yuantong Temple (Zen Buddhist Temple) from above. The temple's great hall is at the lowest point of the temple. It gains a high reputation in the Southeast Asia area and attracts many pilgrims and locals to visit every year. To the rear, a hall has been added with a statue of Sakyamuni, a gift from Thailand's King. You will see people throngs swarm to the temple, especially during the Qingming Festivals and the first and fifth days of each lunar month. If there is time, you can hike in the Green Lake Park (Cui Hu Park, Jade in Kunming), an urban park in Kunming. Then have a good rest at your hotel.

In this morning, your guide and driver will take you to the train station for a high speed train from Kunming to Dali (about 2 hours). Upon arrival at Dali Railway Station, the local guide and driver will meet you and take you to Dali Ancient Town area for today’s sightseeing.

The first stop today is to the Symbol of Dali - Three Pagodas and Chongsheng Temple. It consists of one big pagoda and two small pagodas, an ensemble of three independent pagodas arranged in an equilateral triangle. The big pagoda, called Qianxun Pagoda, was originally erected in the mid-9th century by engineers from Xian. Move to Chongsheng Temple which was the royal temple of Dali, and walk to the Reflection Pond to capture the awesome scene of the Three Pagodas. Later, transfer to Erhai Lake, the second largest highland lake of China which was reputed as “Immaculate Jade Between Mountains”. Take a relaxing cruise sailing on the lake and you’ll enjoy the green Cangshan Mountain and Three Pagodas from afar as well as lots of birds and seagulls flying over the lake. (Note: If you want to explore Erhai Lake by cycling with 2 hours’ ride or take a sightseeing bus trip for 1 hour, please feel free to tell us your ideas.)

The last stop today is the famous 1200-year-old Dali Old Town, which was the capital of the Nanzhao and Dali Kingdoms. It is an authentic ancient town with many historic sites, ancient buildings, temples, and streets lined with featured shops, restaurants, and bars. Take a stroll along the historic streets with weeping willows dancing and colorful flowers blooming in the sunshine. Pay a visit to Wuhua Tower and climb up the tower for a panoramic view of the ancient town. Continue your walk on Renmin Road to see bustling shops selling Yunnan specialties and have a look at the Christianity church. Don’t miss the famous must-visit Foreigner Street to soak in the busy atmosphere along the old path and in those boutique shops and old coffee shops. Enjoy your time roam in this famous old town and feel like going back to the old times.

Start your delightful day by immersing yourself in the lively Xizhou Local Market (喜洲市场)! There's no better way to get under the skin of a place than by exploring its local market, here you can witness firsthand the local customs and mouth-watering dietary habits. This market has been a gathering spot for over a century where locals trade a wide array of goods - from farm-fresh produce and unique handicrafts to tantalizing local snacks. Yunnan, fondly known as the "Kingdom of Flora and Fauna," is a place where flowers and insects find their way into the local cuisine! Don't be surprised if you come across unfamiliar vegetables, fruits, and wild mushrooms. While you're there, don't miss your chance to try local favorites like Xizhou baba (a tasty stuffed pancake, savory or sweet) and a cup of freshly brewed Yunnan coffee.

After exploring the market, take a walking tour of Xizhou Ancient Town (喜洲古镇), acclaimed as the "Premier Town of the Bai people" due to its exceptionally the largest and best-preserved cluster of Bai ethnic group's traditional dwellings. Xizhou Village is ideal for those seeking a more authentic and tranquil cultural experience of Bai life and traditions. As you wander through the village, visit some of the old mansions and Bai residences like Yan Family Compound (严家大院), you'll notice the most distinctive features of Bai architecture known as "Three-Room and One-Screen Wall (三房一照壁)" and "Siheyuan/Courtyard (四合院)”. These homes are adorned with exquisite details such as flying eaves, ornately carved wooden doors and beautifully painted walls typical of Bai aesthetics. Don't miss the "Three Courses of Tea" ceremony (三道茶), a Bai cultural practice you must experience. This tea ceremony, which transitions from bitter to sweet to an aftertaste, encapsulates the philosophy of "embraces hardship, values the sweetness that follows struggles, and reflects on the profound aftertastes that life experiences leave behind". In addition, Xizhou is surrounded by vast wheat fields, creating a striking contrast against the grey-and-white tones of the Bai minority dwellings. This harmonious coexistence with nature provides a healing, wonderful feeling. The beautiful scenery, especially in spring and autumn, draws tourists to appreciate Xizhou's charms.

Next, make your way to Zhoucheng Village, which is just a short drive from Xizhou. Zhoucheng Village (周城), is often referred to as the “Hometown of Bai Embroidery ”. It is Bai people village, famous for its traditional tie-dye art (扎染), which has been preserved and passed down through generations. The Bai tie-dye technique has been listed as a National Intangible Cultural Heritage. Explore workshops within the village that showcase exquisite Bai embroidery. These pieces often depict traditional motifs such as lotus flowers, fish, and birds, which carry significant cultural symbolism. Engage with the local craftsmen and women, many of whom have inherited their skills from generations. If you're lucky, you may witness live demonstrations of Bai embroidery and tie-dye techniques. Optional Activity: If interested, participate in a hands-on workshop and craft your own tie-dye fabric under the guidance of expert artisans.

Later, continue driving to Lijiang (about 140 kilometers, around 2 hours). 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.

Stay overnight in Lijiang.

Free Time Ideas at Black Dragon Pond Park:

On this day, you can explore on your own to Black Dragon Pond Park (黑龙潭公园), located at the northern edge of Lijiang Old Town. This picturesque location 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 on the tranquil water of the Black Dragon Pool creates a breathtaking scene.

After breakfast, it's time to venture beyond Lijiang Old Town and explore the renowned Jade Dragon Snow Mountain (玉龙雪山). 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.

Optional Activity: Impression Lijiang" Show This Afternoon

If you're interested, you can choose to watch the Impression Lijiang show this afternoon at Ganhaizi (altitude: 3,100 meters). Directed by the renowned filmmaker Zhang Yimou, this magnificent open-air performance features singing and dancing that showcase the traditions and lifestyle of the local Naxi ethnic people. It lasts about one hour.

Leaving the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, you'll continue your journey to Baisha Village (白沙村), the birthplace of the Mu chieftaincy and the ancient capital of the Naxi ethnic group. Part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site "Old Town of Lijiang", Baisha Village offers a unique glimpse into the Naxi group’s rich history and culture. Here, you can visit the Baisha Murals (白沙壁画), showcasing a unique fusion of Buddhist, Taoist, and local Naxi religious elements, reflecting the diverse spiritual beliefs of the region. These murals are found within several temples, including the Dabaoji Palace, the Liuli Temple, and the Wenchang Palace.

Later, you’ll have time to wander through Lijiang Old Town (Dayan Ancient Town), a UNESCO World Heritage Site that beautifully preserves the charm of an 800-year-old trading hub. The old town unfolds like a maze of cobblestone lanes lined with traditional wooden houses featuring sloping tiled roofs and carved eaves. Winding canals and stone bridges weave gracefully through the town.

Enjoy the freedom to stroll at your own pace, take photos, or simply soak in the timeless charm of this enchanting ancient town. And, 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.

After breakfast, your guide and driver will pick you up at the hotel and drive from Lijiang to Shangri-La (185km, about 4 hours). On the way, you will first visit the First Bend of the Yangtze River. It is called the “first bend” because the river makes a 90 degree turn from south to east within a distance of 1 kilometer. Reach the observation deck to capture the panoramic view of the bend and marvel at the beauty of the turn which like a wonderful landscape painting unfolding before your eyes.

Later, continue your driving to Tiger Leaping Gorge (1800m) on the way. The Upper Section of Tiger Leaping Gorge is 115km (about 2.5 hours) away from Shangri-La, it got its name from a legend about a hunter chasing a tiger through the gorge until they reached the narrowest point. The tiger found itself trapped between the hunter and the rushing river at the base of the gorge. As one of the deepest gorges in the world, Tiger Leaping Gorge is a good spot for you to view the roaring Jinsha River (part of the Yangtze River) and feel the strong power of nature. Also, as Jade Dragon Snow Mountain (5596m) and Haba Snow Mountain (5386m) stand on each side, you will immerse yourself in the beautiful and diverse landscapes.

After that, you will drive to Shangri-La, in the northwestern part of Yunnan in Diqing, a beautiful and peaceful Tibetan world. Stay overnight in Shangri-La.

In this morning, you will be transferred to visit Ganden Sumtsenling Monastery (Songzanlin Monastery, 3,380 meters), the largest Tibetan Buddhist Temple in Yunnan that built-in 1679. Built according to the structure of Potala Palace, Songzanlin Monastery is also reputed as the "Little Potala Palace". You will learn more about this monastery through its architecture which is a fusion of the Tibetan and Han Chinese. Currently, there are about 700 monks accommodated in its 200 associated houses. You may get the chance to discover the life of a Tibetan Lama and even meet monks who chant and meditate in the hall lit with incense and yak butter oil lamps.

Then with a drive of 25km (about 30min) to visit Potatso National Park (Pudacuo National Park), the first national park in China that open in 2007. Situated on the vast Tibetan Plateau, an important part of the "Three Parallel Rivers" scenic spot, the park is famous for its primitive landscape and features several scenic hills, meadows, lakes, plants, birds, and more than 100 endangered animals, including leopards, cranes, macaques, lynxes, and so on. Enjoy a relaxing hike in the amazing highland nature reserve, and view the mirror-like mountain lakes, pastures with clean water and green grass, wetlands full of flowers, and mystery forests hidden with birds and animals.

Before heading back to your hotel, you will visit a local Tibetan family to get a better understanding of Tibetan culture while trying some local snacks and yak butter tea.

After the tour, pay a leisure visit to 1300-year-old Dukezong Ancient Town with Tibetan cultures. It is a world of traditional Tibetan houses, ancient temples and beautiful pagodas, and narrow, winding alleyways, all adorned with iconic Tibetan prayer flags of various colors. Walk through the featured alleys to have a bite of Tibetan culture and climb to the Guishan Park for a panoramic view of the town.

It is time to end your 10-day China tour. You will have some free time in Shangri-La and explore more on your own till your guide escorts you to the airport for your flight to next destination. 

Thank you for choosing Asia Odyssey Travel for your China tour, and we are always here working for you and hope to see you again for your next trip to China/Asia. Safe journey!