Top 10 Famous Tourist Attractions Must-Visit in Kunming

Kunming, the capital city of Yunnan, is known for its beautiful scenery, pleasant weather, and rich cultural heritage. The city gives visitors an impression of romance and vibrancy, as flowers bloom throughout the year, adorning every corner and attraction, making it feel as if spring is eternal. This is why Kunming is also called the 'Spring City.' It is one of the most popular destinations in Yunnan.

Discover the top attractions in Kunming and its surroundings to plan your trip through the vibrant ‘City of Flowers’.

Top 1: Stone Forest

Stone Forest

The Stone Forest, known as Shilin in Chinese, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site spanning more than 350 square kilometers. It features a spectacular landscape of limestone formations that rise like a forest of stone pillars, jagged peaks, and striking natural shapes. These unique rock formations have been created over millions of years by the forces of nature, such as Deposition, Uplift, Erosion Magma, water erosion and tectonic activity.

The area is divided into several scenic zones; there are two famous sites: the Greater Stone Forest and the Lesser Stone Forest. The area is not only a geological paradise but also rich in cultural and ethnic heritage. Visitors can explore the labyrinthine paths among the stones, enjoy the beautiful natural scenery, and learn about the local traditions and folklore. It attracts tourists from all over the world who come to marvel at its.

Tips: The Shilin Scenic Area is quite large, and the ticket office is about a 10-minute drive from the main entrance. It is recommended to take the sightseeing shuttle bus to reach the entrance.

• Address: Shilin Yi Autonomous County, Kunming City, 85 km from Kunming Downtown
• Open Hours: 8:00-18:00
• Tour Length: 2-4 hours

Top 2: Dianchi Lake

Dianchi Lake

Dianchi Lake also known as Kunming Lake, Dianchi Lake lies at the heart of Kunming and is the largest freshwater lake in Yunnan, covering an area of 300 square kilometers. Surrounded by dozens of peaks, including Xishan, Jinma, Biji, She, and He Mountains, the lake is embraced by stunning natural scenery.

From November onward, thousands of red-billed gulls migrate from Siberia, gliding gracefully above the water in search of food. Visitors can experience the unique romance of “dancing gulls” while feeding them at Haigeng Dam. In addition, you can take a boat ride across the lake or hike along scenic trails to fully appreciate the breathtaking views.

Tips: The best time to see the red-billed gulls is from November to March. They particularly like yellow-striped bread, and the optimal time for feeding them is in the morning.

• Address: No. 1318, Dianchi Road, Xishan District
• Open Hours: All day
• Tour Length: 1-3 hours

Top 3: Western Hill (Xishan)

Western Hill (Xishan)

Western Hill (Xishan), resembling a giant dragon guarding Dianchi Lake, stretches more than 40 kilometers along its western shore. It is formed by peaks such as Huating, Taihua, and Luohan mountains, composed of marine sedimentary rocks dating back 250 million years. Weathering and erosion have carved steep cliffs and dramatic landscapes. Highlights include the Longmen Grottoes, an incredible cliffside wonder with 22 Taoist statues, along with Datian Pavilion, Yunhua Cave, Xiaoniu Spring, Taihua Temple, and Huating Temple. Known as the foremost of the ‘Eight Scenic Spots of Kunming,’ Xishan offers breathtaking views of Dianchi Lake and the city below. Watching the sunset from Longmen Peak is an unforgettable experience, where natural beauty meets rich cultural heritage.

• Address: Xishan Highway, Xishan District
• Open Hours: 08:30-18:00
• Tour Length: 1-3 hours

Top 4: Dongchuan Red Land

Dongchuan Red Land

Dongchuan Red Land, located northeast of Kunming, is renowned for its strikingly colorful landscape. The soil here is rich in iron and aluminum, which creates a dazzling palette of hues. Over generations, local farmers have carefully cultivated this land, shaping a one-of-a-kind spectacle often compared to the red soil of Rio de Janeiro in Brazil. It is regarded as the most magnificent red land in China.

From above, the rolling mountains and open fields unfold in layers of deep red, purplish red, and brick red, interwoven with vibrant seasonal colors — golden wheat in spring, blooming rapeseed flowers in autumn, and patches of snow in winter. This ever-changing scenery makes it a paradise for photographers. The main sightseeing routes include the Northwest Line, Northeast Line, and South Line, with highlights such as Damakan, Jinxiu Garden, Luoxiagou, and Lepu’ao. Viewed from above, these spots reveal breathtaking natural compositions, like a giant canvas painted by nature itself.

Beyond its natural wonders, Dongchuan Red Land is also a cultural treasure. It is home to several ethnic minorities, including the Yi and Miao people, whose traditional attire, customs, and heritage are well preserved and vividly displayed here.

Tips: The best time to visit the Red Land is from April to May when the wheat ripens, from September to December when the rapeseed flowers are in full bloom, and in February to March when remnants of snow may still cover the fields.

• Address: Huashitou Tourist Resort, Dongchuan District, Kunming City, Yunnan Province
• Open Hours: All day
• Tour Length: 3 hours

Top 5: Dounan Flower Market

Dounan Flower Market

Kunming, known as the “Spring City” and the “City of Flowers,” is home to the Dounan Flower Market, the largest fresh-cut flower trading market in Asia. Here, millions of flowers are traded every day, including roses, lilies, tulips, and orchids, freshly harvested from the fertile lands of Yunnan and beyond. Step into Dounan Flower Market and you’ll feel as if you’ve wandered into a boundless ocean of blossoms.

Covering 1,020 acres with a total construction area of 810,000 square meters, the market handles over 80% of Yunnan’s flowers, along with blooms from neighboring provinces and countries. Its trading volume supplies about 70% of the flower market in China’s major cities, with exports reaching 46 countries and regions. With its vibrant atmosphere and dazzling variety of blossoms, Dounan has become the heart of Asia’s floral trade.

• Address: Longxing Road, Chenggong District, Kunming City, Yunnan Province
• Open Hours: 09:00-21:00
• Tour Length: 1 hours

Top 6: Yunnan Nationalities Village

Naxi pepole

The Yunnan Nationalities Village is a cultural showcase that brings together the architectural essence and living traditions of Yunnan’s 25 ethnic minorities. Visitors can wander among Dai white pagodas, Yi adobe houses, and the Bai people’s classic “three squares and one wall,” as if traveling across the province in just one day. The Tibetan prayer wheel here, with a diameter of 2.5 meters and a height of 10 meters, stands as an iconic landmark of the village. Beyond the scenery, you can watch the graceful Dai peacock dance, take part in the Bai “Three-Course Tea” ceremony, or strike the ancient wooden drum in the Wa people’s Drum House, each experience offering a vivid glimpse into Yunnan’s diverse cultural heritage.

• Address: No. 1310, Dianchi Road, Xishan District, Kunming
• Open Hours: 09:00-18:00
• Tour Length: 2-3 hours

Top 7: Green Lake Park (Cui Hu)

Cui Hu

Green Lake Park, located in the heart of Kunming, was once called Jiulong Pond. It later earned the name Cuihu (“Green Lake”) for its shimmering waters, lush bamboo, and graceful willows that remain verdant year-round. The park is a poetic scene of rippling waters, winding corridors, and stone bridges, carrying a touch of Jiangnan charm. Spring Morning at Green Lake is celebrated as one of Kunming’s Eight Famous Views. Many of the park’s pavilions and halls date back to the Qing Dynasty, with elegant architecture harmonizing beautifully with the lake and surrounding hills. The Biyi Pavilion, built during the Kangxi reign, reflects the grandeur of imperial gardens. Visitors can rent paddle boats to drift across the lake, stroll shaded pathways, or sip fragrant tea in traditional teahouses while enjoying the tranquil scenery.

• Address: No. 67, Cuihu South Road, Wuhua District, Kunming City, Yunnan Province
• Open Hours: 06:00-00:00 the next day
• Tour Length: 1 hours

Top 8: Jiaozi Snow Mountain

Jiaozi Snow Mountain

Jiaozi Snow Mountain (4,247 meters) is a precious nature reserve in Yunnan, named for its resemblance to a grand sedan chair when viewed from afar. Each season paints the mountain with a different splendor, in winter, it is wrapped in glistening white snow; in spring, thousands of rhododendrons bloom, transforming the slopes into a sea of flowers; summer brings lush greenery and vibrant vitality; while autumn veils the peaks in drifting mist, creating a dreamlike fairyland. The mountain is also famed as one of the best places in Yunnan to watch the sunset.

The mountain’s highlights include Heavenly Lake, the Waterfall Cluster, Crescent Rock, Rhododendron Forest, and the Mountain Summit. Each site reveals a different aspect of Jiaozi’s natural splendor, from tranquil waters to dramatic cliffs and flower-filled forests.

For adventurers, wooden boardwalks make hiking accessible and enjoyable, while cable cars offer a more relaxed way to admire the stunning scenery. In addition, Jiaozi is home to the only ski resort in Yunnan. Jiaozi Mountain International Ski Resort, making it a popular destination for skiing, snow play, and winter sports. With its mix of breathtaking landscapes, cultural charm, and outdoor fun, Jiaozi Snow Mountain is a year-round escape into nature’s beauty.

• Address: Jiaozi Snow Mountain in Wumeng Township, Luquan Yi and Miao Autonomous County, Kunming City, Yunnan Province
• Open Hours: 07:00-17:00
• Tour Length: 2-4 hours

Top 9: Yuantong Temple

Dianchi Lake

With a history of more than 1,200 years, Yuantong Temple is one of the oldest and most important Buddhist temples in Kunming. Nestled against the rocky hillside and built along the slope, the temple complex is adorned with exquisite carvings, painted beams, and sacred Buddhist statues. Originally known as Guanyin Temple, it was rebuilt in 1301 during the Yuan Dynasty and renamed Yuantong Temple, after the Buddhist name of Guanyin.

Unlike many other temples, Yuantong’s layout is unique: the entrance is at the top and visitors descend gradually to reach the main halls. Along the central axis lie the Hall of Heavenly Kings, Yuantong Main Hall, Sutra Depository, and the Five Buddha Hall. The temple is also remarkable as a place where Mahayana, Tibetan, and Theravada traditions converge.

The centerpiece, Yuantong Main Hall, is an architectural masterpiece with green-tiled roofs, grand eaves, and intricate wooden carvings. In front of the hall lies a large pond with a graceful octagonal pavilion connected by stone bridges, while behind rise dramatic cliffs, adding to the temple’s majestic and splendid setting.

• Address: No. 30 Yuantong Street, Wuhua District, Kunming City, Yunnan Province
• Open Hours: 06:00-00:00 the next day
• Tour Length: 1 hours

Top 10: Guandu Ancient Town

Guandu Ancient Town

Compared with the lively and bustling Kunming Old Street, Guandu Ancient Town feels quieter and more laid-back. Located only 4.5 kilometers from Dianchi Lake, it was once an important stop along the ancient Tea Horse Road. Within the town, visitors can explore traditional architecture from the Ming and Qing dynasties, local folk culture, and elements of intangible cultural heritage. Well-organized pathways and signage make it easy to navigate and find attractions and shops.

Notable landmarks include the Guandu Archway Square, the symbolic gateway to the town; Miaozhan Temple, the foremost of Guandu’s six temples; and the Vajra Throne Pagoda along with the Twin Pagodas of Miaozhan Temple, which are treasures of Chinese Buddhist art and iconic symbols of the town. Other highlights include the Stele Forest Museum, the Earth God Temple, and many more, all reflecting Guandu’s rich historical legacy and ethnic charm.

Beyond sightseeing, you will find Guandu is also a hub for traditional crafts. Visitors can step into workshops and experience the artistry of Yunnan’s heritage firsthand, such as rice cake making, Wutong silver inlay, Yunzi chess, and Dian-style dough figurines. These hands-on experiences make the town not only a place of history but also of living tradition.

• Address: Guangfu Road, Guandu District, Kunming City, Yunnan Province
• Open Hours: All day
• Tour Length: 2-4 hours

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