China, a country with countless and diverse tourist destinations, has been increasing in popularity due to its many attractions and resorts. Moreover, Singaporeans don’t need a visa to enter the country, making it an even more popular choice for leisure travel. If you’re looking for an adventure beyond just Shanghai, Beijing and Guangzhou, we’ve got a captivating suggestion for you. 

Nestled in the heart of Yunnan Province is none other than Kunming, often called the "City of Eternal Spring", which offers a delightful mix of natural beauty, rich culture, and vibrant local life. Most people travel through Kunming to get to places like Dali or Lijiang, but take it from us—Kunming is the perfect mix of historical ancient towns, scenic nature and shopping districts.

Let’s go! Kunming is just a four-hour flight from Changi Airport, and airlines like Scoot and China Eastern operate frequent, inexpensive and direct flights to this eclectic destination.

1. Dragon Gate (Longmen)

If there’s one thing you have to do while in Kunming, it’s visiting the Dragon Gate. It’s located in the Western Hills Forest Park (Xi Shan) and is perched right on the edge of the cliffs. From here you’ll be treated to stunning panoramic views of Dian Lake and the greater Kunming City.

There’s more to Dragon Gate than just the view. The path leads to the Dragon Gate Grottoes—carved out over a century ago to worship Taoist figures—as well as San Qing Pavilion—a former summer palace now turned tea house to catch a break at. 

According to locals, just the act of passing through the Dragon Gate is said to bring you good luck, fame and success.

The journey to Dragon Gate is equally enchanting, with a scenic cable car ride and winding pathways through lush forests. This serene escape provides a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage, making it a must-visit for any traveller in Kunming.

How to get there: Take a tour bus from the city centre or book a taxi or ride hailing service (the preferred app in Kunming is Didi) and you’ll be in Xi Shan in 40 minutes, depending on traffic.

2. Stone Forest (Yunnan Shilin)

As far as definitions go, this isn’t quite your average forest, if the lack of trees is anything to go by. Instead, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a limestone karst formation, towering over visitors and somewhat looking like petrified trees of yore. 

The entire area is split into the Small Forest and Big Forest, both of which will get rather packed once the tourist buses start arriving. It’s therefore highly recommended to head on over early (it opens at 7am!) and spend roughly four to five hours exploring the area before adjourning for a good brunch elsewhere. 

It’s six whole kilometres from the main entrance to the actual starting point of the forest, so you’d definitely want to be appropriately dressed in breathable clothes and comfortable supportive shoes before heading on down. 

How to get there: Take a 30-minute high-speed train from Kunming South Railway Station to Shilin West Railway Station. From there, a local taxi will take you to the Stone Forest in under 15 minutes. If you take a taxi from Kunming or a long-distance bus from Kunming East Coach Station, you’ll arrive in 90 minutes to two hours.

3. Jiuxiang Scenic Area

Apart from the Stone Forest, Jiuxiang Scenic Area is another one of nature’s wonders you have to see for yourself. It’s an extensive underground cave system that’s nothing short of breathtaking.

The whole route takes roughly three hours to cover, going up and down stairs through the different sections of the cave system. The main scenic spots within the region include Green Shady Valley, Grand Underground Valley, Grand Lion Hall, Fairy Palace, Twin Waterfalls, Fairy Fields, and Bat Cave, among others. You can even take a boat ride across the river that flows between the attractions. 

Movie enthusiasts might recognise The Grand Lion Hall as the film site for The Myth (2005) featuring Jackie Chan. You won’t be able to recreate his slick moves, unfortunately, but you will get to take some awesome photos here anyway. 

How to get there: You’ll have to take a taxi or a two-hour bus from Kunming East Coach Station. If you take the high-speed rail from Kunming South Railway Station to Yiliang Railway Station, you’ll still need to ride with a local taxi in Yiliang for half an hour to get to Jiuxiang Scenic Area.

4. Yunnan Nationalities Village

China is home to many minority ethnic groups, and especially so in Yunnan where 26 groups practise their customs and traditions. 

Yunnan Nationalities Village offers an immersive journey through the rich cultural mosaic of Yunnan Province. Here you’ll get to ooh and aah at the intricately designed villages representing various ethnic groups, each with distinctive architecture, traditional crafts, and vibrant costumes. 

The park's layout allows you to stroll through diverse settings, from the traditional homes of the Bai people to the colourful decorations of the Yi community. It’s pretty big, so maybe consider renting a bicycle to explore the entire area. 

Depending on when you arrive, you might even get to catch some traditional dance performances, folk music or exhibitions by local craftsmen. Timings are all listed at the park entrance, just remember to snap a picture of that before entering. 

How to get there: Local buses and the subway go to this cultural village (Fubao Station). A taxi or Didi ride hailing service will take half an hour.

5. Guandu Ancient Town

Guandu Ancient Town is Kunming’s old town—once a quaint ol’ fishing village, now the epicentre of Yunnan history. Fair warning though, it might strike some of you as a little bit odd, as most of its old architecture still remains standing, but the tenants mostly cater to the tourist crowd.

Still, you can’t go wrong pigging your way through the town. This is still one of the best places to get all your Yunnan souvenirs—from flower cakes to tea leaves, silverware to accessories. Oh and of course, all-you-can-eat local street food. If you’re here in winter, the local cheese is a great warming snack as it’s often served grilled or deep-fried. 

Just take it easy and take it slow and wander through narrow, cobblestone streets lined with ancient buildings, traditional shops, and teahouses that evoke the spirit of old China.

How to get there: Several buses and the subway go to Guandu Ancient Town (University Town South Station). A taxi or ride hailing service will take half an hour.

6. Green Lake Park

Green Lake Park, or Cuihu, is a serene urban oasis in Kunming. If you’re ever looking to take a breather from the bustling streets, it’s the perfect place to admire the lotus-filled ponds and relax by the charming pavilions that speckle the park's expansive grounds. 

Vibes aside, it’s a great place to take photos, especially if you’ve purchased or rented a traditional costume to walk around in. The background here is nothing like what you’d get back home, so snap away.

While it’s generally a pretty quiet place, it does get a little bit noisier during the weekends when the locals gather to dance and make merry. You’re free to join in on the fun too—the locals are more than welcoming and will take you through the footwork. 

How to get there: Many buses and the subway go to this park (Chuanxingulou Station) located near the city centre. A taxi will take 20 minutes or less.

7. Wenlin Street

Wenlin Street in Kunming is a lively hub known for its eclectic mix of boutiques, cafes, and street food vendors. It’s located within the university district, so you can be assured all the prices are pretty affordable and wallet-friendly. A big win, in our opinion, because you’ll probably be shopping a whole lot here. Even if you’re not into shopping, there are little art museums and bookstores dotted all over the place. 

Despite its tea history, Wenlin Street isn’t home to tea houses anymore. Instead, you’ll find plenty of artistic cafes and aesthetic coffee shops. Think of it as a young hipster hangout and you’ve pretty much got Wenlin Street. 

At night, the bars and restaurants all come alive as the students come pouring out after a day of school. Better snag your seats fast, or be left waiting in queue for the hottest dinner spots. 

How to get there: This centrally located street is easily accessed by foot, bus, taxi or subway (Chuanxingulou Station).

8. Dongchuan Red Land

Located a little northeast of Kunming lies the Dongchuan district, home to a terraced landscape unlike any other. The rich red soil contrasts beautifully with green crops, golden wheat, and flowers in every colour of the rainbow, creating a patchwork of vivid hues.

Dongchuan Red Land offers an unforgettable visual feast, perfect for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts. It’s even more of a treat during the golden hours when the light hits the land just right. It’s only then that you truly understand why Dongchuan Red Land is also known as ‘God’s Magic Palette’. 

You get to see a different colour palette depending on the time of year you visit. Fall (September to December) has a warmer tone from the red lacquer trees, and the wheat and potatoes that turn gold in time for harvest. Meanwhile between the growing seasons of January to February, it’s cooler toned from the mild greens of the young wheat seedlings and the waters in the fields reflecting the blues of the vast skies above.

How to get there: Take a bus from Kunming North Bus Station or take a taxi, and you’ll reach Dongchuan Red Land in three to four hours. You can also look out for tour companies in the city that offer day tours and overnight tours to Dongchuan.

 

Kunming, with its blend of natural wonders, vibrant culture, and historical treasures, offers an unforgettable experience for every traveller. From the breathtaking Stone Forest to the colourful Dongchuan Red Land, each attraction adds to the city's unique charm. Discover the magic of Kunming and create memories that will last a lifetime.

If you’re smitten by China, you can check out other gorgeous and culturally immersive destinations like Linyi, Chongqing and Hunan.

 

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