Why This Tour

Discover a different side of Yunnan through a carefully designed journey that combines spectacular nature, ancient history, ethnic culture and authentic local experiences.

From Kunming’s lakeside scenery and vibrant flower market, travel through the Yi heartland of Chuxiong, where you can experience seasonal wild mushroom picking, DIY Yi embroidery and a lively bonfire dance. Continue to Dali to explore its ancient town, Bai villages and the beautiful landscapes of Cangshan Mountain and Erhai Lake, before following the historic Tea Horse Road to the peaceful ancient town of Shaxi.

In Lijiang, immerse yourself in the fascinating Naxi Dongba culture, discover traditional handicrafts and local village life, and experience the spectacular landscapes of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain and Blue Moon Valley.

More than simply sightseeing, this tour gives you opportunities to meet local people, learn traditional crafts, taste authentic regional flavors and experience everyday life — creating a deeper and more memorable discovery of Yunnan.

Tour Highlights

1. Authentic Ethnic Cultural Experiences

Go beyond sightseeing and experience the traditions of Yunnan’s Yi, Bai and Naxi communities. Depending on the season, join local villagers for wild mushroom picking, try your hand at DIY Yi embroidery, and enjoy an energetic Yi bonfire party and traditional left-foot dance.

2. Local Village Life & Traditional Handicrafts

Step into local communities and experience traditional craftsmanship firsthand. Try Naxi Dongba papermaking, learn about traditional handmade bean curd crafting, and experience authentic rural life away from the typical tourist routes.

3. Discover the Tea Horse Road Heritage

Explore the historic route that once connected Yunnan with Tibet and beyond. Wander through the beautifully preserved Shaxi Ancient Town, one of the most charming stops along the ancient Tea Horse Road, and discover its old streets, traditional architecture and peaceful local atmosphere.

4. Dali’s Ancient Towns, Bai Culture & Erhai Lake

Explore Dali Ancient Town and experience its blend of ancient heritage and relaxed local life. Discover Bai ethnic traditions and enjoy beautiful views of Cangshan Mountain and Erhai Lake, with time for a relaxing lakeside cycling experience and sunset views.

5. Kunming’s Flowers, Lakes & Prehistoric Wonders

Experience the lively atmosphere of Dounan Flower Market, one of Asia’s major flower trading centers, and enjoy Kunming’s beautiful Dianchi Lake and Haigeng Dam. Then travel back in time at Lufeng World Dinosaur Valley, home to remarkable prehistoric fossil discoveries.

6. Jade Dragon Snow Mountain & Blue Moon Valley

Experience the dramatic alpine scenery of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, with its snow-covered peaks, high-altitude landscapes and spectacular Blue Moon Valley. Take the glacier cable car for an unforgettable mountain experience, subject to weather and operating conditions.

7. Naxi Culture & Impression Lijiang

Discover the distinctive heritage of the Naxi people and experience the region’s rich cultural traditions. Watch Impression Lijiang, a spectacular outdoor performance set against the backdrop of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, showcasing the diverse ethnic cultures of Yunnan.

8. Extend Your Journey: Lugu Lake or Shangri-La

Add an optional 2-day extension to either Lugu Lake or Shangri-La. Experience the peaceful lake landscapes and unique Mosuo culture of Lugu Lake, or explore Shangri-La’s spectacular highlands, Tibetan heritage and mountain scenery. Choose the experience that best matches your travel style.

Itinerary

Day 1 | Kunming – Arrival & Flower Market Exploration

Upon arrival at Kunming Airport, private transfer to the hotel. Enjoy free time for self-exploration: Visit Dounan Flower Market, one of Asia’s largest fresh flower trading hubs, or explore Dianchi Lake and Haigeng Dam, where you can feed red-billed gulls during winter season.

Overnight: Kunming

Day 2 | Kunming – Chuxiong | Dinosaur Valley & Yi Ethnic Culture

Drive approximately 2 hours to Chuxiong. Explore Lufeng World Dinosaur Valley, a major prehistoric fossil site to discover dinosaur relics and evolutionary history. Continue to Yiren Ancient Town to experience authentic Yi ethnic traditions.

Optional experiences:DIY Yi embroidery, evening Yi Left Foot Dance Bonfire Party

Overnight: Chuxiong

Day 3 | Chuxiong – Dali | Seasonal Mushroom Picking & Dali Ancient Town

Join a unique seasonal wild mushroom picking experience with local villagers (May–November) to discover Yunnan’s famous mushroom culture and local culinary customs. Afterwards, drive to Dali and explore Dali Ancient Town and Foreigner Street at leisure, embracing the relaxed atmosphere of Bai ethnic culture.

Overnight: Dali

Day 4 | Dali – Shaxi Ancient Town | Tea Horse Road Heritage

Visit the iconic Three Pagodas of Chongsheng Temple, Dali’s symbol and precious Buddhist heritage site(exterior view only). Proceed to Shaxi Ancient Town, a well-preserved and peaceful ancient town on the historic Tea Horse Road. Experience traditional woodblock rubbing and create your own cultural souvenir.

Overnight: Shaxi Ancient Town

Day 5 | Shaxi – Shuanglang | Erhai Lake Scenic Leisure

Admire the tranquil morning mist over Shaxi before driving to Shuanglang. Visit Yujidao Island, enjoy relaxing lakeside cycling, and capture the panoramic view of Cangshan Mountain & Erhai Lake. Witness the stunning Erhai Lake sunset in the peaceful lakeside town.

Overnight: Shuanglang

Day 6 | Shuanglang – Lijiang | Authentic Naxi Village Experience

Enjoy a scenic coastal drive along Erhai Lake to Lijiang (approx. 3.5 hours). Visit Yuhu Village, a primitive Naxi village at the foot of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain.

Experiences:Traditional handmade bean curd crafting, Dongba handmade papermaking, and a gentle hike to Stone Village with panoramic snow mountain views.

Optional:Horse riding experience

Overnight: Lijiang

Day 7 | Lijiang | Jade Dragon Snow Mountain & Ethnic Show

Explore the legendary Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. Take the Glacier Cable Car to enjoy spectacular high-altitude alpine scenery. Visit Blue Moon Valley, famous for its crystal turquoise water. Watch the grand outdoor show Impression Lijiang, which showcases Yunnan’s diverse ethnic cultures.

Free time to self explore Lijiang Ancient Town independently at night, wander Bar Street and relax at local cafes on Square Street (optional).

Overnight: Lijiang

Day 8 | Departure from Lijiang

Private transfer to Lijiang Airport or high-speed railway station for your departure flight or onward journey.

Option 1：Lijiang Extension‑Shangri‑La 2‑Day Tour

Three Distinct Ethnic Cultural Immersion: Shaxi (Bai Tea‑Horse Legacy) — Lijiang (Naxi) — Shangri‑La (Tibetan)

D8｜Lijiang → Shangri‑La

• Morning: Depart Lijiang for Tiger Leaping Gorge (1.5hrs driving). Visit Tiger Leaping Gorge (1.5hrs sightseeing).

• Afternoon: Drive to Dukezong Ancient Town (2.5hrs driving). Visit Songzanlin Monastery, known as “Little Potala Palace” (1.5hrs sightseeing). Stroll through Dukezong Ancient Town in the evening, experience the giant prayer wheel and admire old‑town night views.

• Dinner: Authentic Tibetan‑style dinner

• Overnight：Shangri‑La

D9｜Shangri‑La → Lijiang

• Morning: Explore Potatso National Park

• Afternoon: Scenic drive around Napa Lake. Return to Lijiang (2.5hrs driving)

• Overnight：Lijiang

D10｜Lijiang / Departure

• After breakfast, private transfer to airport or high‑speed‑rail station for departure

Option 2：Lijiang Extension‑Lugu Lake 2‑Day Tour

Erhai & Lugu Lake Matriarch Culture Tour

D8｜Lijiang → Lugu Lake

• Depart Lijiang for Lugu Lake (4hrs driving).

• Sightseeing at Lugu Lake Viewpoint, Lige Peninsula, Lover’s Beach. Witness sunset at Goddess Bay. In the evening, join Mosuo bonfire cultural performance.

• Overnight：Lugu Lake

D9｜Lugu Lake → Lijiang

• Early morning: Enjoy peaceful lake sunrise. Take traditional Pig‑Trough wooden boat tour to Liwubi Island. Visit Caohai Grassland & Walking‑Marriage Bridge to learn about the unique Mosuo matriarch culture.

• Afternoon: Return to Lijiang (4hrs driving)

• Overnight：Lijiang

D10｜Lijiang / Departure

• After breakfast, private transfer to airport or high‑speed‑rail station for departure