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Kunming Travel Guide

Stone Forest

Pictures

Kunming, capital of Yunnan Province, is known as 'the City of Eternal Spring' for its pleasant climate and flowers that bloom all year long. With a history of more than 2,400 years, it was the gateway to the celebrated Silk Road that facilitated trade with Tibet, Sichuan, Myanmar, India and beyond. Today it is the provincial political, economical and cultural center of Yunnan as well as the most popular tourist destination in southwest China.

The city center is an attraction with its two squares (Jinma Biji Square, Dongfeng Square) and five intersecting roads (Dongfeng Road, Jinbi Road, Zhengyi Road, Renmin Road and Qingnian Road). Of these, Jinma Biji Square (also known as Jinbi Square) has the most eye-catching archways and stylish architectures. Qingnian Road, Zhengyi Road and Renmin Road are the main commercial areas. The most popular pedestrian streets are Nanping Street, Jingxing Flowers & Birds Market, and Jinma Biji Fang. The city is also the focal point of Yunnan minority culture. Some 26 ethnic minorities such as Yi, Bai, Miao, Dai, and Hani inhabit this region.

Since January 1, 2019, the 144-hour visa-free transit will be introduced to Kunming, allowing passengers from 53 countries to have a visa-free layover in the city.

Attractions

Transportation

With convenient transport links in and out of the city, Kunming welcomes and sees off tens of thousands of visitors every day. As southwest China’s transportation hub, the city plays a significant role for connecting Southeast Asia and China. The city also provides links to many popular destinations elsewhere in Yunnan such as Dali, Lijiang, and Shangri-La.

Weather

Maps

Dining

In addition to attractive scenic spots, Kunming is also renowned for its many delicious dishes. Due to the multi-cultural nature of the province, the city brings together the most representative food of the various nationalities residing in Yunnan, so eating here is an experience not to be missed. The famous food includes Steaming-Pot Chicken, Across Bridge Rice Noodles, and Xuanwei Ham. The night market is the best place to sample and enjoy the local snacks.

Shopping

Do not forget to purchase some locally produced souvenirs for your friends or family before leaving this charming city. The local wood carvings and minority tie-dye products are highly recommended. Jinma Biji Square is considered the best place to go for your purchases.

History

As one of China’s famous ancient and cultural cities, it boasts a history which can be traced back to 30,000 years ago. The Dianchi Lake area was one of the cradles of mankind. The city got its name from the Yuan Dynasty (1271 - 1368) and since then, it has become Yunnan’s center of politics, economy and culture.

Travel Tips

See below for some fast facts and useful tips to facilitate your visit to the city whether it is for travel, business or study.

72-Hour Visa-Free Transit
Area Code & Zip Code
Festivals & Events
Famous Universities
Nightlife
Banks

Kunming Tours

Minority People
12-Day Small Group Tour to Beijing/ Xi'an/ Guilin/ Kunming/ Lijiang from $1639
Local Dance

11-Day Private Trip to Beijing/ Kunming/ Dali/ Lijiang/ Shanghai from $2029
Local People in Yunnan

8-Day Private Kunming/ Dali/ Lijiang/ Shangri-La Tour from $999
Stone Forest

6-Day Kunming/ Jianshui/ Yuanyang from $739
Ethnic Minority People

7-Day Private Tour of Kunming/ Dali / Lijiang from $929

Train Tickets Booking

Flights Booking

- Last modified on Nov. 11, 2018 -

Questions & Answers on Kunming Travel

Asked by phim from THAILAND | Nov. 11, 2018 00:32

Is there have bathroom at Kunming airport. And do you know, how much does it cost?

Answers (1)

Answered by Ethan from UNITED KINGDOM | Nov. 11, 2018 23:49

You mean you want take a bath at the airport? There seems no bath room and you can find a hotel to live in near the airport.

Asked by Fong from MALAYSIA | Oct. 11, 2018 20:50

Hello,how can I travel from Kunming Airport to Jinjiang Inn , 659, Beijing Road? Metro or bus?

Answers (1)

Answered by Darnell from USA | Oct. 15, 2018 23:02

There is one direct bus that can drive you to the hotel: Take the Route 1 at the airport and get off at North Railway Station. Then walk about 7 minutes, you will see the hotel. The whole ride may take about 45 minutes and CNY25.

Asked by TC from CANADA | Sep. 26, 2018 17:51

Is the high speed train to from Hong Kong to Kunming a direct train?

Answers (1)

Answered by Grace from USA | Sep. 26, 2018 20:49

Yes, there is. Since September 23 of 2018, a pair of bullet trains has been operated daily to serve passengers travelling between the two cities. The duration is around 7.5 hours and the ticket fare for booking a second class seat is CNY 750. By the way, you can buy the ticket on this website.

Asked by Bea Kola | Sep. 05, 2018 18:35

A place to buy wedding dresses in kunming?

Answers (1)

Answered by Jessie from NEW ZEALAND | Sep. 06, 2018 19:31

You can have a try in this store, LOVEST, located at 303-304, 27, Huaqian Fang, Chunrong Street, Chenggong District.