12-Day Yunnan In-Depth Private Tour: Explore Kunming, Dali & Lijiang

Your Yunnan adventure begins when you arrive in Kunming, the "City of Eternal Spring." After your flight lands in the evening, our driver will meet you at Kunming Airport and provide a smooth private transfer directly to your hotel. Since today is mainly for arrival and rest, we keep the schedule relaxed. Once you arrive at your hotel, you can take some time to rest or explore the nearby streets at your own pace. Kunming's mild climate and relaxed atmosphere make it the perfect introduction to Yunnan before your deeper exploration begins tomorrow.

After breakfast, your local guide will meet you at your hotel, and we begin exploring Kunming on foot. Today is designed to help you understand the city beyond famous attractions — from its history and architecture to its everyday food culture.

Our first stop is Yunnan Military Academy, one of the most important historical sites in modern Chinese history. Walking through the old campus, you'll see traditional yellow-brick buildings and learn how this academy played an important role in China's early military education.

From history, we move into one of Kunming's most photogenic streets — Huanggong East Street. With its colorful buildings, local shops, and relaxed neighborhood atmosphere, this small street has become a favorite spot for travelers looking for authentic city scenes and great photos.

Around lunchtime, your guide will take you to enjoy a true Yunnan specialty: wild mushroom hot pot at Juncai Yunnan Wild Mushroom Hot Pot, located inside Kunming Jade Park. Yunnan is famous for its incredible variety of edible mushrooms, and this meal gives you a chance to taste the unique flavors of the region.

In the afternoon, continue exploring Kunming's lively old neighborhoods. You'll stroll through Nanping Pedestrian Street, a bustling commercial area where locals shop and meet, before walking into Kunming Old Street, where preserved traditional buildings reveal the city's history.

Along the way, you'll discover hidden architectural gems such as Duiyue Tower and the modern Sky Eye viewpoint (Weicheng Building / Aocheng Building). Standing above the city, you can enjoy a different perspective of Kunming's mix of old streets and modern skyline.

In the evening, we'll take you to Nanqiang Street Alley to enjoy Kunming's signature dish — crossing-the-bridge rice noodles. More than just a meal, this dish represents Yunnan's food culture and is a perfect ending to your first full day.

After breakfast, your driver will pick you up from your Kunming hotel and take you to explore one of Yunnan's most famous natural wonders — the Stone Forest.

Walking among the towering limestone formations, you'll feel like you have entered a natural stone maze created over millions of years. The sharp peaks, unique shapes, and wide-open landscapes make this UNESCO World Heritage Site one of the most impressive geological wonders in China. Your guide will help you explore the most scenic areas while sharing stories about the local Yi ethnic culture connected with this land. Compared with simply visiting viewpoints, we arrange the route at a comfortable pace so you can enjoy the scenery without rushing.

After sightseeing, your driver will transfer you to Kunming Railway Station for your bullet train journey to Dali. The high-speed train ride offers a relaxing transition from modern Kunming to the peaceful landscapes of western Yunnan. Upon arrival at Dali Railway Station, your driver will meet you and transfer you to your hotel.

Take the evening to relax and enjoy the slower rhythm of Dali.

After breakfast, your private guide and driver will meet you at your hotel. Today introduces you to the heart of Dali — where ancient Buddhist culture, Bai ethnic traditions, and beautiful lake landscapes come together.

Start your morning at the iconic Three Pagodas of Chongsheng Temple. Standing against the backdrop of Cangshan Mountain, these elegant white pagodas have watched over Dali for more than a thousand years. The combination of ancient architecture, mountain scenery, and peaceful surroundings creates one of the most memorable views in Yunnan.

After visiting the pagodas, enjoy an authentic Bai-style lunch. Instead of standard tourist meals, we select local restaurants where you can experience traditional Bai dishes prepared with fresh regional ingredients.

In the afternoon, head to the Erhai Ecological Corridor, one of Dali's most beautiful areas. With the Cangshan Mountains on one side and the blue waters of Erhai Lake on the other, this is the perfect place to slow down and enjoy nature. You'll use an electric sightseeing vehicle to explore the lakeside route comfortably, stopping at scenic areas for photos and peaceful moments.

Later, we take you to Fengyang Village, known for its relaxed countryside atmosphere and connection with the famous "Windy Courtyard" lifestyle. Enjoy afternoon tea here while looking out over traditional village scenery — a simple but unforgettable Yunnan experience.

As the sun begins to soften, you'll feel why so many people fall in love with Dali: not because of one single attraction, but because of its peaceful pace of life.

After breakfast, your guide and driver will pick you up from your Dali hotel and begin a relaxing cultural journey through the countryside around Dali before heading to Shaxi.

Start the day with a visit to Dali Ancient Town, where old stone streets, traditional houses, and local shops create a charming atmosphere. Unlike some larger ancient towns in China, Dali still keeps a slower rhythm of life. Take your time walking through the old lanes, discovering small courtyards, and enjoying views of the distant Cangshan Mountains.

Next, head to Xizhou Village, a beautiful Bai ethnic village famous for its traditional residences. The elegant Bai-style courtyards, white walls, and detailed decorations reflect the area's rich history and craftsmanship. Your guide will share the stories behind these unique buildings and help you discover the details you might otherwise miss.

Continue to Zhoucheng Village, known as the "hometown of Bai tie-dye." Here, you'll have the chance to experience traditional tie-dye craftsmanship and learn how local artisans create beautiful patterns using ancient techniques passed down through generations.

After the cultural experiences, your private driver will take you from Dali to Shaxi Ancient Town. The journey offers beautiful countryside views as you leave the lakeside scenery behind and enter a quieter landscape surrounded by mountains and farmland.

Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and enjoy a peaceful evening in this historic Tea Horse Road town.

After breakfast, your guide will meet you at your hotel and take you to explore the hidden charm of Shaxi Ancient Town.

Once an important stop along the ancient Tea Horse Road, Shaxi feels like a place where time has slowed down. Walking through the old streets, you'll discover traditional buildings, quiet courtyards, and local shops that still preserve the atmosphere of a historic trading town.

Visit the Ancient Stage, the heart of Shaxi's old marketplace, where local performances were once held for travelers and merchants passing along the Tea Horse Road. Continue to Xingjiao Temple, a peaceful Buddhist temple with beautiful architecture and a strong connection to the history of the region.

You'll also visit Yujin Bridge, an important landmark along the ancient trade route. Standing beside the river and looking at the surrounding mountains, you can imagine the caravans that once traveled through this route carrying tea, salt, and goods between Yunnan and Tibet.

After exploring Shaxi, continue your journey by private vehicle to Lijiang. The drive takes you through changing landscapes, from quiet valleys to mountain scenery, offering another beautiful side of Yunnan.

Upon arrival in Lijiang, your driver will transfer you to your hotel. The rest of the evening is free for you to relax or take a first stroll around the old town.

After breakfast, your guide and driver will pick you up from your hotel for a full day exploring the beauty and culture of Lijiang.

Begin at Lijiang Ancient Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its stone-paved streets, traditional Naxi architecture, canals, and mountain views. Instead of simply walking through the busiest areas, your guide will help you explore quieter corners, where you can discover local shops, old houses, and the unique lifestyle that has continued for centuries.

Next, visit Black Dragon Pool Park, one of the best places to appreciate the beauty of Lijiang. On a clear day, the reflection of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain appears beautifully on the calm water, creating one of the most iconic views in the region.

In the afternoon, continue to Lashi Lake, a peaceful wetland area surrounded by mountains and countryside. Away from the crowds, this is a great place to enjoy Yunnan's natural scenery and observe the slower pace of local life. Throughout the day, your guide will adjust the timing according to your interests, whether you prefer more photography time, cultural stories, or simply enjoying the scenery.

After sightseeing, your driver will return you to your hotel.

Today is one of the highlights of your Yunnan journey. After breakfast, your driver will pick you up from your hotel and take you toward the magnificent Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. At an altitude of around 3,100 meters, enjoy the spectacular outdoor performance Impression Lijiang, where local artists use the mountain landscape as a natural stage. Through music, dance, and traditional costumes, the show presents the culture and stories of Yunnan's ethnic communities.

After the performance, continue to the mountain area and take the cable car toward Glacier Park. As you ascend higher, the scenery changes dramatically — forests gradually disappear, revealing alpine landscapes, snowy peaks, and breathtaking mountain views.

Later, visit the famous Blue Moon Valley, where turquoise rivers flow through a valley surrounded by snow-covered mountains. With the included electric sightseeing vehicle, you can comfortably explore different viewpoints and enjoy the scenery without rushing. Because of the altitude, we arrange the day at a comfortable pace and allow enough time for you to enjoy the mountain while adapting to the environment.

After the visit, your driver will take you back to your Lijiang hotel.

After breakfast, your driver will pick you up from your hotel and begin today's mountain adventure.

Your first stop is Tiger Leaping Gorge, one of the deepest and most dramatic river canyons in the world. Standing beside the roaring Jinsha River, surrounded by towering mountains, you'll feel the incredible power of nature. To make the experience more comfortable, this route includes a round-trip escalator, reducing physical effort while still allowing you to enjoy the spectacular viewpoints.

Continue to Baishuitai, a hidden natural wonder known for its beautiful white terraces formed by mineral deposits over thousands of years. The layered pools, surrounded by green mountains and traditional villages, create a peaceful landscape that feels completely different from the snowy peaks of Jade Dragon Mountain. The drive today takes you deeper into the mountain regions of Yunnan, where dramatic landscapes and ethnic cultures exist side by side.

After sightseeing, your driver will return you to Lijiang.

Today is designed as a more relaxed and memorable experience, combining local culture, beautiful scenery, and a special photography session.

In the morning, your driver will pick up your family members separately according to the photography schedule. The ladies can head to the studio when it opens around 9:30–10:00 am for hair styling and makeup preparation, while the rest of the family will arrive later to choose traditional costumes. After everyone is ready, enjoy your customized ethnic costume photography experience in the beautiful surroundings of Lijiang. Wearing traditional clothing against the backdrop of ancient villages and mountains creates wonderful memories and unique travel photos.

Enjoy lunch at Fangma Huotang Restaurant, where you can taste local-style dishes in a warm and rustic setting.

In the afternoon, visit Baisha Ancient Town, a quieter alternative to Lijiang Ancient Town. Known for its traditional Naxi culture and relaxed atmosphere, Baisha offers a glimpse into authentic local life away from the larger crowds.

Continue to Yuhu Village, located at the foot of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. With stone houses, open landscapes, and incredible mountain views, this peaceful village is one of the most photogenic places around Lijiang.

After the visit, return the costumes and your driver will take you back to your hotel.

After breakfast, your guide and driver will pick you up from your Lijiang hotel and take you to explore another side of Lijiang — a quieter world of Naxi culture, mountain scenery, and peaceful old towns.

Start your day at Yushui Village, located at the foot of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. Surrounded by forests, streams, and mountain views, this scenic area is closely connected with Naxi culture and is considered one of the important cultural sites of the region. Walking along the clear streams and traditional pathways, you'll discover the unique relationship between the Naxi people and the natural environment.

Continue to Dongba Valley, where you can learn more about the ancient Dongba culture of the Naxi ethnic group. Through traditional architecture, cultural displays, and local stories, your guide will introduce the fascinating history, beliefs, and artistic traditions that have been preserved for generations.

For lunch, enjoy local Lijiang cuisine at a carefully selected restaurant, giving you another chance to taste regional flavors before your journey ends.

In the afternoon, visit Shuhe Ancient Town, one of the best-preserved ancient settlements around Lijiang. Compared with the lively atmosphere of Lijiang Old Town, Shuhe offers a more relaxed experience with quieter stone lanes, small cafés, traditional courtyards, and beautiful views of the surrounding mountains.

Take your time wandering through the old streets, enjoying a coffee or tea break, and picking up some local souvenirs if you wish. It's the perfect place to slow down and appreciate the peaceful lifestyle of Lijiang before departure.

After sightseeing, your driver will return you to your hotel and help you prepare for your flight the next day.

Enjoy a relaxed final morning in Lijiang before your journey comes to an end. After breakfast, you'll have some free time to enjoy the last moments of your Yunnan trip at your own pace. You may take a slow walk around the old town, enjoy a cup of coffee with mountain views, revisit your favorite spots, or simply relax at the hotel and prepare for your departure.

In the afternoon, according to your flight schedule, your private driver will pick you up from your hotel and transfer you comfortably to Lijiang Airport.

As you leave Yunnan, we hope you take home not only beautiful photos of snow mountains, ancient towns, and lakes, but also the memories of the local flavors, cultures, and peaceful moments that made this journey special.