Kunming is the capital of Yunnan, and the largest city within the province. Because of its constantly temperate climate, which allows plants and flowers to grow all year round, it’s also known as the ‘City of Eternal Spring’.
What to see
Standing for 270 million years, the huge, maze-like limestone formations of the beautiful Stone Forest are a must-see. And since it’s heading out into the same direction, you can often combine a Stone Forest tour with a trip to see the Jiuxiang Caves and scenic area, too.
What to do
Take a hike in Xishan Forest Park (or take the cable car for a relaxing scenic journey up), discover the province’s array of ethnic minority groups at Yunnan Nationalities Ethnic Village, and visit the Golden Temple – which is made with bronze tiles, and is the biggest bronze temple in China.
What to eat
Erkuai rice cakes are a local favourite – they can either be found fried with vegetables and meat, or rolled up with various fillings like a sandwich. Rice noodles are also a must, particularly ‘云南过桥米线’ Crossing the Bridge Noodles, which are served with hot broth and separate ingredients like a personal hotpot. Baba – a kind of flatbread – is also popular a snack, with one of the most famous being the Guandu baba (which are made in Guandu Old Town).
Kunming is the gateway to the modern Silk Road: a trade route that connects China to Southeast Asia and reaches Thailand and Indonesia.
Combine your one-on-one classes with exciting tours accompanied by your teacher in Kunming. This is your opportunity to experience the city with a local while improving your Chinese skills.
Each tour has a five-hour duration and you can customise it as you wish, choosing where to visit and counting on your teacher’s help to decide the best itinerary for the day.
Our teachers have selected interesting places they would love to show you around. Here are their suggestions for a one-day tour in Kunming.
We’ve partnered with organisations that will offer you the opportunity to volunteer in a range of activities, from teaching English to supporting disadvantaged children.
This unique experience will allow you to have a positive impact while learning more about local culture and practising the language.
