Home / Destinations / J-N / Kunming

Kunming


Spring in China
Spring in China
Spring in China
Spring in China

Intro

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.


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.


Top Attractions
  • Stone Forest
  • Dianchi Lake
  • Green Lake Park
  • Provincial Museum
  • Western Hills
  • Grand View Park
  • Golden Temple
  • Horticultural Expo Garden

    • Dinning
    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.
    Transport
    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.