Unforgettable 10 Day Journey Through Eastern Yunnan

Kunming(1N)-Dongchuan(1N)-Shilin(1N)-Luoping(1N)-Mile(1N)-Yuanyang(2N)-Jianshui(1N)-Kunming(1N)

Discover the other side of Yunnan on this tour. While famous destinations like Lijiang, Dali, and Shangrila are must-sees, the eastern and southern regions of Yunnan are equally captivating. Marvel at the vibrant red terraced fields in Dongchuan, the dazzling yellow rapeseed flowers that blanket Luoping each spring, and the mesmerizing cascading paddies of Yuanyang. Join us to uncover the hidden treasures of Yunnan.

Dongchuan Redland

Dongchuan Redland

Stone Forest

Yuanyang Terrace Fields

Yuanyang Terrace Fields

Jianshui Ancient Town

Dounan Flower Market

Yunnan Red Winery

Jianshui Ancient Town

Kunming West Hill

Day 1: Arrive in Kunming

Upon arrival in Kunming, you will meet with our private guide and be transferred to the hotel for check-in. After that, you can choose to explore the ever-spring city on your own, or enjoy a good rest at the hotel after a long flight.

Day 2: Dongchuan Redland

Nestled in central Kunming, Green Lake Park is famed for its willow-lined paths, tranquil lake views, and seasonal flocks of migratory birds. You may see locals and visitors gathering here to stroll, dance, or boat amid lush gardens and vibrant cultural energy. Continue to visit the bustling Flower and Bird Market, which brims with colorful blooms, exotic plants, caged songbirds, and traditional handicrafts. Drive to Dongchuan, which is a breathtaking natural wonder with its vibrant red soil and unique terraced fields, creating a stunning visual spectacle that changes with the seasons. We will stop at several observation points of red terraced fields, visit the Old Dragon Tree, and enjoy the sunset view of Red Land at Luoxia Valley.

Day 3: Drive to Shilin

In the morning, we continue to visit the Red Land at several different observation points, then drive to Shilin and stay overnight.

Day 4: Stone Forest and Drive to Luoping

We visit Stone Forest, a breathtaking karst landscape of jagged rock pillars, and drive to Luoping, which is renowned for its vast fields of bright yellow rapeseed flowers that bloom each spring, creating a stunning sea of gold. We first visit Nine Dragon Waterfall, a spectacular series of cascades flowing through lush green valleys, then the rapeseed flower fields at Niujie, including a sunset view.

Day 5: Luxi to Mile

In the early morning, we enjoy the sunrise view at Jin Ji Feng Cong, a unique and picturesque landscape featuring a sea of golden rape blossoms dotted with isolated peaks. Drive to Luxi and visit A’lu Ancient Cave, a stunning network of karst caves filled with intricate rock formations and crystal-clear underground streams, and Chengzi Ancient Village, a well-preserved traditional settlement with a history of over 600 years, featuring unique earthen houses that blend seamlessly with the surrounding natural landscape. Continue to Mile and visit Dong Feng Yun Art Zone, a unique artistic and cultural complex that combines modern architecture with natural landscapes. It features avant-garde buildings, vineyards, and art exhibitions, offering visitors a blend of creativity and tranquility.

Day 6: Drive to Yuanyang

If it’s available, we will visit Dian Dong Nan Market, which is market day on each Wednesday and Saturday; then Yunnan Red Winery, where fine wines are produced using locally grown grapes. Surrounded by rolling vineyards, the winery offers visitors a taste of Yunnan's unique terroir and a glimpse into the region's burgeoning wine culture. Drive to Yuanyang and enjoy the sunset view at Laohuzui Terrace Fields.

Day 7: Yuanyang

In the early morning, we drive to Duoyishu and enjoy a sunrise view of the terrace fields. After breakfast at the hotel, we visit an ancient minority village – A’zheke Village, which is known for its unique architecture, lush terraced fields, and rich cultural heritage, offering visitors a glimpse into the traditional way of life of the Hani people. We continue the sightseeing of terrace fields at Quanfuzhuang and Malipo observation points, and enjoy a sunset view at Bada at the end of the day.

Day 8: Drive to Jianshui

The last day at Yuanyang will take you to a vibrant and bustling market where locals gather to trade goods, showcasing a mix of colorful produce, handicrafts, and traditional Hani ethnic culture. It is a lively hub of daily life, reflecting the rich cultural heritage and community spirit of the region. Then visit Qingkou Folk Village, a charming traditional settlement that preserves the authentic culture and lifestyle of the Hani ethnic group. In the afternoon, we drive to Jianshui, a historic city renowned for its well-preserved ancient architecture, including the iconic Confucius Temple and Zhu Family's Garden. It is also famous for its unique pottery and rich culinary traditions, making it a cultural and gastronomic destination.

Day 9: Jianshui to Kunming

We start the tour today from the morning market, then visit an ancient well at the west gate of the old city, which is still used daily by local people. Close to the ancient well, there is a Tofu Workshop making tender and flavorful Tofu using the well’s water. We continue to visit Double Dragon Bridge, a remarkable stone bridge located about 5 kilometers west of the old city. It spans the confluence of the Lujiang and Tachong rivers and features 17 arches and three elegant pavilions, making it a masterpiece of ancient Chinese engineering. Then we visit Tuanshan Ancient Village, a well-preserved cluster of traditional Chinese courtyard houses built during the Ming and Qing dynasties. It showcases exquisite architecture, intricate wood carvings, and a harmonious blend of Han and local ethnic styles. In the late afternoon, we drive back to Kunming and visit Dounan Flower Market, Asia's largest fresh-cut flower trading market and the world's second-largest.

Day 10: Departure From Kunming

The activities on the last day in Kunming will be entirely up to you: either climb up West Hill and stroll along Dianchi Lake, or enjoy a rich and flavorful breakfast at the hotel after a good sleep, followed by some free time to explore the streets or parks.

According to the flight time, you will be transferred to the airport for your departure flight back home.