Things to Do in Kunming: An Unforgettable Journey Awaits!

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Things to Do in Kunming

Wondering what to do in Kunming, the lively capital of Yunnan Province? Known as the "City of Eternal Spring" because of its pleasant weather all year, Kunming has a lot to offer – from beautiful nature and exciting activities to rich culture and history. Whether you're a nature lover, a history fan, or just looking for a relaxing getaway, this guide has put together the Top 10 Things to Do in Kunming that you won’t want to miss!

Stone Forest Scenic Area

Explore the Majestic Stone Forest Scenic Area in Kunming

Stone Forest Scenic Area (Shilin) is one of Kunming’s top attractions, showcasing the stunning natural beauty of limestone formations that seem like ancient, petrified trees. This UNESCO World Heritage site offers breathtaking landscapes and a unique experience for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts.

Key Features:

  • Location: Shilin Yi Autonomous County, Kunming
  • Operating Hours: Open daily from 7:30 AM to 6:00 PM (last entry at 6:00 PM)
  • Recommended Visit Duration: 3-4 hours
  • Ticket Price: Starting from US$36.19 for a 1-day tour.

Tour Option:

Welcome Suica&JR Line One Day Pass (Pick up at Haneda Airport)
Stone Forest Scenic Area1-day Tour
Departs from Kunming
Mandarin / English / German / French / Spanish / Italian
Duration:10hrs | Booking Confirmation
From US$36.19 Learn More >
Kunming Stone Forest Scenic Area 1-day Tour – Explore the natural wonders of the Stone Forest with a guided tour for US$36.19.

Yun Nan Nation Village

Yun Nan Nation Village

The Yun Nan Nation Village is a vibrant cultural theme park located in Kunming, showcasing the diverse ethnic groups of Yunnan province. With traditional villages, folk performances, and stunning landscapes, this attraction provides an immersive experience into the unique cultures and customs of various minority groups.

Key Features:

  • Location: 1310 Dianchi Road, Xishan District, Kunming
  • Operating Hours: Open daily from 9:00 AM to 9:10 PM
  • Recommended Visit Duration: 3-5 hours
  • Ticket Price: Starting from US$13.11 for admission.

Tour Option:

  • Yunnan Ethnic Village + Xishan Scenic Area + Dianchi Lake Tour – Explore the ethnic villages, scenic spots, and beautiful Dianchi Lake on this 1-day tour for US$25.94.

Dianchi Lake

Dianchi Lake

Dianchi Lake (also known as Kunming Lake) is one of the most stunning natural attractions in Kunming, offering visitors breathtaking views, peaceful surroundings, and unique wildlife. Located just outside the city, it is an ideal spot for relaxation, nature walks, and photography.

Key Features:

  • Location: 1318 Dianchi Road, Xishan District, Kunming
  • Operating Hours: Open year-round, 24/7
  • Free Entry
  • Recommended Visit Duration: 2-4 hours
  • Ticket Price: Free entry; additional activities such as boat tours start from US$13.11.

Tour Option:

  • Western Hills + Yun Nan Nation Village + Dianchi Lake + Round-trip Attraction Shuttle Bus – Explore the beautiful surroundings with this package for US$25.94.

Western Hills

Western Hills

The Western Hills (Xishan Scenic Area) is one of Kunming's most iconic natural and cultural destinations. Offering panoramic views of Dianchi Lake and featuring ancient temples and historical landmarks, the Western Hills is perfect for nature lovers and those interested in Chinese culture. Whether you want to take a cable car up the mountain or enjoy a peaceful hike through the scenic spots, this area is a must-visit for your Kunming trip.

Key Features:

  • Location: Xishan District, Kunming City
  • Operating Hours: Open daily from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM
  • Recommended Visit Duration: Half to 1 full day
  • Ticket Price: Starting from US$4.14 for entrance.

Day Tour Options:

Welcome Suica&JR Line One Day Pass (Pick up at Haneda Airport)
Kunming Private Day Tour: Dianchi lake, West Hill, Minority village
Departs from Kunming
Mandarin / English / Korean / Japanese
Duration:8hrs | Booking Confirmation
From US$79.33 Learn More >
Kunming Private Day Tour: Dianchi Lake, Western Hills, Minority Village – A private, personalized tour to explore Dianchi Lake, Western Hills, and a traditional minority village for US$79.33.

Yunnan Wild Animals Park

Yunnan Wild Animals Park

The Yunnan Wild Animals Park is a must-visit destination for nature and animal lovers in Kunming. With a wide range of wildlife and interactive experiences, it's an exciting stop for families and adventure seekers. The park showcases a variety of animals, including giant pandas, sloths, red pandas, peacocks, and many more. It’s a great place for kids to enjoy animal interactions and for adults to appreciate the natural beauty of the region.

Key Features:

  • Location: Yunnan Zoo, Panlong District, Kunming
  • Operating Hours: Open daily from 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM
  • Recommended Visit Duration: 4-5 hours
  • Ticket Price: Prices available upon booking.

Tour Options:

Welcome Suica&JR Line One Day Pass (Pick up at Haneda Airport)
Yunnan Wildlife Park + Nanping Pedestrian Street + Cuihu Park + Haigeng Park + Dounan Flower Town one-day tour in Kunming, Yunnan, China
Departs from Kunming
Mandarin / English
Duration:9hrs | Booking Confirmation
From US$195.96 Learn More >
Yunnan Wildlife Park + Nanping Pedestrian Street + Cuihu Park + Haigeng Park + Dounan Flower Town one-day tour for US$195.96.

Old Street Kunming

Old Street Kunming

Kunming Old Street (昆明老街) is a historic and vibrant area in Kunming, rich in culture and tradition. The street offers a unique glimpse into the city's past, with charming architecture, bustling markets, and an array of food options. It’s an ideal spot for those looking to explore local Yunnan flavors or halal cuisine, as there are several restaurants offering delicious dishes.

Key Features:

  • Location: Wuhua, Kunming, Yunnan, China
  • Operating Hours: Open year-round, 24/7
  • Free Entry
  • Recommended Visit Duration: 1-2 hours

What Travelers Say:

“Kunming Old Street is a lively, charming place with great history and culture. It’s perfect for exploring and offers delicious halal food options!” – Jane

Yunnan Provincial Museum

Yunnan Provincial Museum

Yunnan Provincial Museum (云南省博物馆) is a must-visit cultural site in Kunming, offering a fascinating insight into the history, culture, and ethnic diversity of Yunnan. With a wide range of exhibits, this museum provides a deeper understanding of the region's rich heritage.

Key Features:

  • Location: No.6393 Guangfu Road, Guandu District, Kunming City
  • Operating Hours: 09:00–17:00 (Admission ends at 16:30)
  • Free Entry
  • Recommended Visit Duration: 2-3 hours

What Travelers Say:

“The Mutu teacher gave an engaging and humorous explanation, guiding us through the key exhibits of Yunbo. We learned a lot about Yunnan's historical culture and humanistic characteristics. Highly recommended!” – Anan

Ticket & Tour Options:

Welcome Suica&JR Line One Day Pass (Pick up at Haneda Airport)
Yunnan Kunming + Guandu Ancient Town + Yunnan Provincial Museum + Kunming Old Street + Cuihu Park one-day tour
Departs from Kunming
Mandarin / English
Duration:9hrs | Booking Confirmation
From US$180.28 Learn More >
Yunnan Kunming + Guandu Ancient Town + Yunnan Provincial Museum + Kunming Old Street + Cuihu Park One-Day Tour from US$180.28

Colorful Yunnan Paradise

Colorful Yunnan Paradise

Colorful Yunnan Paradise (七彩云南欢乐世界) is a vibrant amusement park in Kunming, perfect for a fun-filled day with family and friends. It offers thrilling rides, exciting entertainment, and breathtaking views, making it one of the top attractions in the city.

Key Features:

  • Location: South of Huanhu South Road, Jinning District, Kunming
  • Operating Hours: 10:00–20:00 (Tickets available until 18:00; admission ends at 20:00)
  • Recommended Visit Duration: 3-6 hours
  • Ticket Information:
    • 1-day ticket [Student (College student ticket)] from US$24.84
    • Available for tomorrow, with conditional cancellation and ticket redemption required

What Travelers Say:

“Really, really fun! Can’t wait to come back next time. I’m so happy! Highly recommend it!” – Anonymous User

Shangrila-Dynamic Yunnan

Shangrila-Dynamic Yunnan

Shangrila-Dynamic Yunnan (云南映象) is a dynamic and captivating live performance showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Yunnan. This spectacular show features original ecological performances, including traditional Tibetan and Yi dances, accompanied by impressive sound effects that will leave you in awe.

Key Features:

  • Location: Kunming Conference Hall, No.81 West Dongfeng Road, Wuhua District, Kunming, China
  • Operating Hours: 16:00–22:00
  • Recommended Visit Duration: 1-2 hours
  • Ticket Information:
    • Performance Ticket A (20:00-21:30, Adult) from US$49.67 (Save up to US$15.17)
    • VIP Tickets from US$64.57 (Save up to US$15.17)
    • VIP ticket with Lounge (Refreshments provided) from US$84.43

What Travelers Say:

“The children loved this show! The sound effects were impressive, and the performances, especially the Tibetan and Yi dances, were mesmerizing. Definitely a highlight of our Yunnan trip.” – Anonymous User

Book Your Tickets:

  • Over 8K+ tickets booked!
  • Ready to use immediately and non-refundable.
  • Save up to US$15.17 on selected tickets!

Jiu Xiang

Jiu Xiang

Jiu Xiang is a renowned scenic area in Yiliang County, Kunming, famous for its natural beauty and cave exploration experiences. It features dramatic landscapes with limestone caves, lush greenery, and picturesque rivers.

Key Features:

  • Location: Jiuxiang Yizu Huizu Township, Yiliang County, Kunming City, China
  • Operating Hours: 08:00–18:00 (Admission ends at 16:30)
  • Recommended Visit Duration: 2-3 hours

Ticket Information:

  • Tickets + One-Way Ropeway + Round-Trip Train to Scenic Spots + Chinese Food (Adult) from US$19.04
    59 Booked | Available for tomorrow

What Travelers Say:

"This place is quite large, requiring at least half a day to fully explore. During the Spring Festival, it was less crowded than Xishan or Shilin. Free services like the small train and the boat crossing Yincui Gorge were a great bonus. Overall, a good value for money, though I’d recommend adding cave exploration to the tour!" – 唐子禹

Day Tours Available:

Welcome Suica&JR Line One Day Pass (Pick up at Haneda Airport)
Kunming Day Tour of Stone Forest and Jiuxiang Cave Tour
Departs from Kunming
Mandarin / English / Korean / Japanese
Duration:8hrs | Booking Confirmation
From US$105.82 Learn More >
Kunming Day Tour of Stone Forest and Jiuxiang Cave from US$105.82

Kunming Food You Can’t Miss

Kunming is not only famous for its beautiful scenery but also for its unique and delicious food. The city’s diverse culture and rich traditions make its cuisine a blend of flavors you won’t find anywhere else. If you're visiting Kunming, be sure to try these three iconic dishes that will give you a true taste of the region:

1. Crossing the Bridge Noodles (过桥米线)

1. Crossing the Bridge Noodles (过桥米线)

One of Kunming's most famous dishes, Crossing the Bridge Noodles is a delicious noodle soup with a unique twist. The dish features rice noodles, meats, and fresh vegetables served in a flavorful broth. The special part? The ingredients are served separately, and diners add them to the hot broth themselves, allowing the ingredients to cook to perfection at the table.

2. Wild Mushroom Hotpot (野生菌火锅)

2. Wild Mushroom Hotpot (野生菌火锅)

Yunnan is known for its variety of wild mushrooms, and Wild Mushroom Hotpot is a must-try dish. This hearty hotpot is made with a selection of fresh wild mushrooms, cooked in a rich, savory broth along with meats and vegetables. It's the perfect dish to warm you up and experience the region’s natural flavors.

3. Flower Pastry (鲜花饼)

3. Flower Pastry (鲜花饼)

A beloved local snack, Flower Pastry is a sweet and savory pastry filled with edible flowers, often combined with sugar or sesame. Its light, flaky texture and floral flavor make it a perfect souvenir to bring home or enjoy as a snack while exploring the city.

When you’re in Kunming, these dishes will offer you a delicious taste of local culture and should definitely be part of your culinary adventure!

Kunming Tourist Guide: Travel Essentials

Kunming Tourist Guide: Travel Essentials

Whether you're visiting Kunming for a short trip or an extended stay, it's important to be prepared for the city’s unique features. Here's everything you need to know to make your visit as smooth and enjoyable as possible:

Transportation

  • Public Transport: Kunming has an efficient public transportation system, including buses and a metro system that covers the city well. The metro is fast and easy to navigate, ideal for tourists.
  • Taxis and Ridesharing: Taxis and ridesharing services like Didi are also available, providing convenient options to explore the city at your own pace.
  • Bicycles: For a more eco-friendly and leisurely option, you can rent bicycles to explore Kunming’s beautiful parks and streets.

Best Time to Visit Kunming

  • Kunming enjoys a mild, subtropical climate, earning the nickname “City of Eternal Spring”. The temperatures generally stay between 15°C to 25°C (59°F - 77°F) year-round.
  • Best Time: Spring and autumn are particularly pleasant, as the weather is cool and comfortable for outdoor activities. Summer is also a good time to visit, but expect a bit more rain.

What to Wear

  • Light and Comfortable Clothing: Since Kunming’s temperatures are moderate throughout the year, it's best to pack light, comfortable clothing.
  • Jacket or Sweater: Evenings can get cooler, especially if you’re heading to higher altitudes, so bring a light jacket or sweater.
  • Good Walking Shoes: You’ll want to explore the city's parks, lakes, and scenic spots, so make sure to bring comfortable walking shoes for all your adventures.

Language

  • Mandarin is the official language spoken in Kunming. While many locals may understand some English, it’s helpful to know basic Chinese phrases or use translation apps to make communication smoother.

Currency

  • The official currency in Kunming is the Chinese Yuan (CNY). ATMs are widely available, and credit cards are accepted in most places. However, it’s always good to carry some cash for smaller transactions, especially in markets or smaller shops.

Electricity and Plug Types

  • Voltage: 220V with a frequency of 50Hz.
  • Plug Types: China uses Type A, C, and I plugs, so be sure to bring a suitable adapter for your electronic devices.

Safety Tips

  • Kunming is generally a safe city for travelers. However, like any major city, always keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas or markets.
  • Emergency Numbers: In case of an emergency, dial 110 for police, 120 for medical emergencies, and 119 for fire emergencies.

Health Tips

  • Altitude: Kunming’s altitude is around 1,900 meters (6,200 feet), so if you're sensitive to altitude, make sure to stay hydrated and take things easy for the first day.
  • Water: It’s recommended to drink bottled water or boiled water instead of tap water.

Book Your Trip on Trip.com

Planning your trip to Kunming has never been easier with Trip.com. Whether you need flights, hotels, or car rentals, you can easily book everything you need in one place. Searching for great deals on flights? Trip.com offers a wide range of affordable options to help you reach Kunming with ease. With exclusive offers and discounts, you can save on your flight and enjoy a smoother journey.

Flight Recommendations to Kunming

Booking your flight to Kunming is simple with Trip.com. Choose from a variety of airlines and flight schedules to fit your needs. Whether you're coming from major cities in China or flying internationally, Trip.com helps you find the best flights at the best prices.

Flight Recommendations to Kunming
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Kunming Hotel Recommendations

Here are some top hotel picks for your stay in Kunming, each offering comfort, convenience, and a great location:

Kunming Hotels

5 star

9.4/10Outstanding5530 Reviews
Cuihu District Kunming|1.57km from city center
Located right by Cuihu Park, the hotel offers great views and is super convenient for dining, shopping, and entertainment. You can easily walk to Yunnan University's old campus, the Army Lecture Hall, and the zoo. It's an older, established hotel, but the service is quite reliable. Overall, I'd definitely stay here again.
FromSAR 195
9.5/10Outstanding3987 Reviews
Nanping Pedestrian Street Kunming|1.59km from city center
My check-in experience at Holiday Inn Kunming was very satisfying. The front desk staff were warm and attentive, and the check-in process was efficient and quick. The hotel's location is excellent, with convenient transportation access and close proximity to both the city center and major attractions. The room was clean and comfortable, well-equipped, and the bed was soft, ensuring a good night's sleep. The breakfast offered a rich variety, combining both Chinese and Western options to cater to different tastes. Overall, the experience was comfortable and convenient, making it a great choice for business trips or leisure vacations.
FromSAR 169
9.3/10Very Good6816 Reviews
Railway Station Area Kunming|1.72km from city center
I was going to write a review and then realized I didn't take a single photo of the hotel the whole time 😂 I usually like to document my life, so the fact that I didn't take any pictures probably means there wasn't anything particularly captivating about the place. The only photo I have saved is a screenshot of the hotel information from when I ordered takeout, just in case I filled in the wrong room number. Our three families traveled together and booked three rooms. There wasn't much of a view outside the window, and overall, it was pretty standard. The front desk service was neither overly enthusiastic nor bad, just average. The most frustrating part was that we arrived around 6 PM, expecting to check in smoothly and rest. Instead, we were told the rooms weren't ready yet. After a tiring day of traveling, not being able to check in immediately was a really poor experience and definitely put a damper on our mood. Hotels usually have a check-in time of 2 PM at the latest; this was the first time I've ever encountered a delay where we couldn't get into our rooms even by 6 PM.
FromSAR 215
9.3/10Very Good4564 Reviews
Nanping Pedestrian Street Kunming|0.72km from city center
A very satisfying stay. The location is excellent, not only in the city center but also right next to the Panlong River. Although the river in this area is more like a small stream, it still offers a pleasant water view. The room size isn't huge, but it's perfectly adequate. The city view is decent. All the in-room facilities meet Crowne Plaza standards, with no shortcomings, so you can check in with confidence. Both the hotel breakfast and dinner were amazing! The breakfast offered a rich variety, and the restaurant was elegant, even slightly exceeding what you'd typically find at a Crowne Plaza. As for dinner, it was primarily outstanding value for money. If it's second, I can't imagine which Crowne Plaza would be first... The swimming pool, labeled as outdoor, is actually in an 'air garden' on the 4th or 5th floor. In winter, it functions entirely as an indoor pool, so you can use it without worry. The fitness area isn't large, but it has all the necessary facilities. There even seems to be an aerial tennis court outside the pool area; I wonder if hotel guests can use it. There's one minor inconvenience: the underground parking garage doesn't lead directly to the 1st-floor lobby. Instead, it goes straight to the 4th-floor lounge. So, if you're checking in in the afternoon, you can take the elevator directly to the 4th-floor lounge to check-in. However, if you arrive at the hotel in the morning or forenoon when the lounge isn't open, you'll have to go to the 1st-floor lobby area to complete the formalities, which is a bit troublesome and roundabout.
FromSAR 228
9.6/10Excellent5032 Reviews
South Asia Feature No. 1 City Kunming|2.91km from city center
I booked two separate orders through Trip.com, one for a suite and one for a twin room. The hotel thoughtfully arranged a connecting family room with a suite and a twin room, which allowed our family to gather and watch the Spring Festival Gala together in Kunming – we were incredibly happy! The hotel also provided complimentary breakfast for the kids, which was very generous! I feel that Wanda Vista Kunming is the best Wanda hotel I've stayed at recently. The hotel is very new, the lobby is incredibly grand, and the rooms are very clean. The hotel isn't far from the main attractions, mostly within three to four kilometers. The parking lot has plenty of clean spaces, so if you're driving, I highly recommend staying at this hotel.
FromSAR 330

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Gym

9.1/10Good4828 Reviews
Nanping Pedestrian Street Kunming|0.87km from city center
I chose a hotel near Kunming Old Street for my layover in Kunming. The location is excellent, just a 10-minute taxi ride from Kunming Station. It's right next to the lively Old Street. The room was spacious and relatively quiet. I was satisfied with the facilities and cleanliness. GIN provided great service, proactively introducing the hotel's amenities and local attractions. It would be even better if the facilities and amenities could be upgraded.
FromSAR 186
9.6/10Excellent548 Reviews
South Asia Feature No. 1 City Kunming|0.82km from city center
I stayed at Cachet Boutique Hotel Kunming on 25–26 October and had a wonderful experience. The hotel is located a little away from the main pedestrian street, but the area around it has plenty of lively bars and cafés that attract a younger crowd — great if you enjoy a vibrant atmosphere. The hotel itself was clean, beautifully decorated, and thoughtfully designed. I was really impressed by the stylish decor, quality amenities, and the spacious room layout. We were also pleasantly surprised to receive a free room upgrade, which made our stay even more enjoyable. Checking in/out was fast and hassle free. As an additional benefit, the hotel is located 10 minutes from the train station. Overall, it’s excellent value for money — I’d definitely recommend Cachet Boutique Hotel to anyone visiting Kunming who’s looking for comfort, style, and a touch of local charm.
FromSAR 272
9.4/10Outstanding4011 Reviews
Cuihu District Kunming|1.6km from city center
Staying by Cuihu Lake in Kunming this time was definitely the right choice. Even though the hotel is a bit old, it still has its charm, and the location is superb – you can walk right to the beautiful Cuihu Lake. Waking up to see foreigners jogging by the lake in the morning, that unhurried, relaxed vibe, really captures the essence of Kunming. The room was clean and tidy, and the breakfast was excellent. But what truly stood out was the warm service. Mr. Xi and Ms. Wang at the front desk were incredibly friendly and attentive. They even helped me with a small errand like sending a package, making me feel less like a temporary guest and more like I was coming home. The value for money is outstanding, and if I ever return to Kunming, this will still be my top pick. 🏨
FromSAR 390
9/10Good3748 Reviews
Kunming Wild Animal Park/The Golden Temple scenic spot Kunming|8.44km from city center
Let's start with the positives: the shampoo was pretty good, and we got to see a flower exhibition next door, which wasn't crowded and the flowers were beautiful. I also felt the hotel was making an effort, hosting an exhibition and interactive activities in the crowded lobby during Chinese New Year. After this stay, I won't easily trust international chains anymore. Their aging facilities and typically low occupancy make it hard to guarantee quality. To be fair, the building looks grand from the outside, but it's quite rundown inside. Every time the elevator door opens, you have to immediately re-press your floor button, otherwise it just goes up and down endlessly. Luckily, only one of the two elevators had this issue. The room design is outdated, and the bathroom is very cramped. The small shower head had poor water pressure – are the fixtures just too old? Another thing was the check-in process, which was incredibly slow. Registering your car plate only works for one entry; you have to re-register it every time you enter or exit. However, for a 500 CNY room with breakfast for two during Chinese New Year, I guess it's acceptable. It's basically on par with an older budget hotel, but adding a laundry room would be a big plus.
FromSAR 172
9.5/10Outstanding6492 Reviews
Dianchi Lake Scenic Area/ Sunac World Kunming|8.2km from city center
Huge thanks to the front desk staff for upgrading us to a private hot spring room! This is a beautiful resort hotel. The room was spacious and comfortable with clear, bright views. The bedding was excellent, and the hot spring was incredibly relaxing. Every step offers a new scenic view, and the lush gardens are perfect for photos. The facilities are extensive and fantastic, including the spa, pool, hot springs, and breakfast. The staff provided thoughtful and attentive service. The lobby bar is lovely, and the afternoon tea latte was very good. It's truly an ideal hotel for a relaxing getaway.
FromSAR 340

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Swimming pool

9.3/10Very Good3035 Reviews
Nanping Pedestrian Street Kunming|0.72km from city center
Came to Kunming for 3 days and 2 nights with my mom, and it was a perfect experience. I didn't have high expectations when booking the hotel, as I'd never been to Kunming before. It was only while chatting with the Didi driver that I found out it was a five-star hotel and located right in the city center. The hotel's thoughtful service began the moment we stepped out of the car – they proactively opened the door, asked if we needed assistance, and Ms. Luo at the reception center patiently answered all our questions. After checking in, we discovered that all the hotel facilities were comprehensive and still very new, including branded toiletries. The hotel also delivered fresh Yunnan fruits and snacks every day. The hotel's breakfast buffet was excellent with a wide variety of options, and from the 30th floor, we could enjoy panoramic views of Kunming's city skyline. My mom was very happy with her stay. Definitely worth coming back to.
FromSAR 215
9.3/10Very Good2420 Reviews
Colorful Yunnan Paradise Kunming|29.69km from city center
I chose the Crowne Plaza Kunming Ancient Dian, located near Dianchi Lake, for my trip to Kunming. It's conveniently next to the Colorful Yunnan Happy World amusement park, which is within walking distance. The hotel boasts a beautiful environment and a large private garden. The rooms are quite spacious and come with a balcony offering nice views. The service was excellent; we received welcome drinks and a fruit platter upon check-in. I highly recommend the Crossing-the-Bridge Noodles at the ground floor restaurant – the chicken broth is incredibly fresh and flavorful.
FromSAR 319
9.4/10Outstanding7483 Reviews
Dian Chi Exhibition Center Kunming|6.74km from city center
This is a great hotel! While the architectural style is a bit retro, it's clear they maintain it very well, and the rooms are spotlessly clean. The bedding in the guest rooms is incredibly comfortable, and the spacious balcony is perfect for a family vacation. The biggest bonus is unlimited access to the hot springs, with a wide variety of pools. The indoor water park has an amazing atmosphere, and there are dedicated entertainment and relaxation areas too.
FromSAR 267
9.4/10Outstanding538 Reviews
Chenggong New District/South High-Speed Railway Station Kunming|24.15km from city center
I ordered takeout, but the hotel doesn't allow the deliveryman to deliver to the room because it was inconvenient for me, so I asked the front desk for help, and it was delivered to the room very quickly. When I asked the reason, the front desk guy told me that it was for the safety of the guests that the deliveryman was not allowed to go upstairs. The hotel has trained guests that if they need takeout to the room, they can help deliver it. The overall feeling of the hotel is good, and the service attitude is very good. When I checked in, I asked about the surrounding attractions and routes, and they explained it very patiently. The room internet connection was very fast, and I asked the waiter, who told me that each room has an independent dedicated line. The room feels clean, and you can swim, exercise, and take a hot spring bath. Since I had a lot of fun, I didn't have time to take a few photos of the hotel. I will take more photos after I check in next time.
FromSAR 183
9.3/10Very Good4217 Reviews
Century City area Kunming|8.51km from city center
Incredible breakfast with dozens of things to choose from in a beautiful dining room with large glass windows overlooking a garden. Staff were very eager to help, though only the concierge spoke good English. The room was very large with a good bed and large bathroom. Very clean and comfortable. As with other hotels we visited in China, we occasionally smelled some cigarette/cigar smoke in the (non-smoking) room or in the hallway outside the room.
FromSAR 180

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Breakfast

9.4/10Outstanding1191 Reviews
Nanping Pedestrian Street Kunming|0.16km from city center
The location is fantastic! It's right next to Jinma Biji Archway, and there's a night market with tons of street food just outside the hotel every evening. Plus, they offer free parking. You can easily walk to nearby attractions like Nanqiang Street and Kunming Old Street – they're not far at all.
FromSAR 140
8.9/101130 Reviews
Nanping Pedestrian Street Kunming|1.04km from city center
The inn's rooms are very ethnically distinctive. We booked a loft room, which was Naxi-style. The room incorporated Naxi Dongba script and other unique features, showing the owner's great attention to detail. The staff were also very enthusiastic. I'd love to come back next time and experience rooms with other ethnic styles.
FromSAR 122
9.5/10Outstanding834 Reviews
First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University/Pan Jia Wan Kunming|2.77km from city center
RAW Hotel was our first stop in Kunming. I was immediately drawn to the name 'RAW' when I first saw it online, so I booked it without hesitation. The sophisticated details throughout the hotel confirmed that I made the right choice. The hotel has an industrial feel overall. The gleaming black floors add a touch of mystery, while the abundant greenery provides a breath of fresh air. The receptionist and manager were very polite. They added us on WeChat to communicate important information, including breakfast arrangements. Breakfast options include Western and Chinese, and the latest dining time is 11 AM! This was a pleasant surprise for us! The room was very clean, and to my surprise, the bathtub room even came with bath bombs – something I've rarely encountered in any other hotel. The wet and dry areas of the bathroom were perfectly separated by sliding doors, creating three distinct zones. This design was unique and something we'd never seen before; it ensured ample space while maintaining privacy. We stayed here for three very comfortable days. The hotel also features a sun-drenched balcony. We spent an entire day there, basking in the sun and enjoying 'Zhen Gao Xing' coffee, soaking in Kunming's laid-back pace. The hotel still seems to be in a somewhat unfinished state. It appears the owner is building a complex that integrates a restaurant, a bar, and accommodation. I hope on my next visit, I'll get to tour the owner's wine cellar, haha, and perhaps enjoy a drink there.
FromSAR 135
8.9/102035 Reviews
Dianchi Lake Scenic Area/ Sunac World Kunming|8.11km from city center
I was quite hesitant when booking a hotel, but I figured Howard Johnson would be a safe bet, and it certainly didn't let us down. The hotel isn't far from Dianchi Lake, and the surroundings are very pleasant and quiet. It's convenient to get around, whether by car or shared electric scooter. There are many hotels in the vicinity, including some more upscale options, but I think Howard Johnson offers pretty good value for money. Our room even came with a terrace, which was a lovely touch. The only slight downside was that some of the facilities felt a bit dated, but otherwise, everything else was great.
FromSAR 228
9.4/10Outstanding1926 Reviews
South Asia Feature No. 1 City Kunming|2.4km from city center
Close to the train station, there are more than 2 kilometers, there are many places to eat downstairs. Although not a very new hotel, the facilities are still complete Service is also very good Especially the breakfast is remarkable, richer than expected, if the rice noodles can be optimized, it will be more perfect.
FromSAR 111

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FAQs about things to do in Kunming

  • What are the must-visit attractions in Kunming?

    Some of Kunming’s most popular attractions include: Stone Forest (Shilin) – A UNESCO World Heritage site with stunning limestone formations. Dianchi Lake – A beautiful lake offering scenic views and boat tours. Yunnan Provincial Museum – Learn about the region’s history and culture. Western Hills – For hiking and panoramic views of Kunming. Green Lake Park – A peaceful spot to relax in the city center.
  • When is the best time to visit Kunming?

    Kunming enjoys a mild climate year-round, with average temperatures between 15°C to 25°C (59°F - 77°F). The best time to visit is during spring (March to May) or autumn (September to November) when the weather is comfortable for outdoor activities.
  • What is the food like in Kunming?

    Kunming is famous for its unique Yunnan cuisine. Be sure to try: Crossing the Bridge Noodles (过桥米线) – A delicious noodle soup served with separate ingredients to cook at the table. Wild Mushroom Hotpot (野生菌火锅) – A flavorful hotpot with fresh, wild mushrooms. Flower Pastry (鲜花饼) – A sweet pastry made with edible flowers.
  • How do I get around Kunming?

    Public Transportation: Kunming has an efficient metro and bus system. The metro is a great way to get around the city. Taxis & Rideshare: Taxis and ridesharing services like Didi are widely available. Bicycles: Rent bikes for a more eco-friendly and leisurely way to explore.
  • Is Kunming safe for tourists?

    Yes, Kunming is generally a safe city for tourists. However, like in any city, always stay aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas. It’s also a good idea to keep your valuables secure.
  • What should I wear in Kunming?

    Pack light and comfortable clothing, as the weather is generally mild. Bring a jacket or sweater for cooler evenings, especially if you're heading to higher altitudes. Comfortable shoes are essential for exploring the city and nearby attractions.
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Jeffery

Jeffery

Trip.com Blogger

Hi, I’m Jeffery. I love visiting new cities, trying local food and finding fun, off-the-beaten-path spots. I share my real travel stories, easy itineraries and honest tips from my own trips. I hope my posts can help you plan better.

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