5 Days Kunming Travel Itinerary

How would you plan a 5-day trip to Kunming? We offer both a 5-day itinerary with in the city and a 5-day itinerary that includes Kunming's surrounding areas. Besides city attractions like the Stone Forest,Dianchi Lake, Cui Lake Park, we also include trips to Western hill and Dongchuang Red Land, Jianshui Ancient Town. Our itineraries not only cover the usual tourist spots but also include local cultural experiences such as cooking Yunna cuisine, cycling Dianchi Lake, Watch and Feed the Red-Billed Gulls, experiencing local life in tea houses, and Boat on the wetland.

Actually, all the itineraries are flexible. If none of these suits your needs, please feel free to contact us. We would be honored to customize a perfect, personalized itinerary specifically for you.

5 Days Itinerary in Kunming for Family with kids

Day 1: Arrival in Kunming – Old Town & Flower Market Exploration

Arrive in Kunming and check into your hotel. Take some time to settle in and rest from your journey. Head to the Jingxing Flower and Bird Market, where you can discover cultural treasures such as tie-dyed fabric bags and Wa Cats (traditional clay figurines). You can browse fresh bouquets and unique souvenirs, while kids will be delighted by the colorful displays and the wide variety of flowers, birds, fish, antiques, and handcrafts.

In the evening, explore Kunming Old Street, where cobblestone lanes, traditional courtyards, and the iconic Jiubei Tower create a charming atmosphere. You and your family can soak in the vibrant sights and experience the unique charm of Yunnan culture.

Day 2: Dianchi Lake & Stone Forest Adventure

In the morning, visit Dianchi Lake, Kunming’s iconic natural landmark. Families can stroll along Haigeng Park, watch flocks of seagulls (seasonal in winter), and take a boat ride across the lake. It’s a relaxing outdoor experience for both adults and kids. Enjoy a local lunch and try specialties like Crossing-the-Bridge Rice Noodles and Steam-Pot Chicken.

After lunch, drive to the Stone Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site about 90 km (1.5 hours) from Kunming. The dramatic limestone formations, shaped like towers, pagodas, and bamboo shoots, offer endless fun for kids to explore. Don’t miss the Yi ethnic legend of “Ashima,” which brings the Stone Forest to life through storytelling.

Day 3: Western Hill and Yunna Nationalities Village

In the morning, take a cable car ride up to the Western Hill (Xishan), where panoramic views of Dianchi Lake and the city await. Families can explore the Dragon Gate grottoes carved into cliffs and enjoy light hiking suitable for kids.

In the afternoon, visit the Yunnan Nationalities village, where children can see traditional house, costumes, and performances from Yunnan’s 25 ethnic groups. Families can also join in handicraft workshops or sample snacks from different minority cuisines.

Day 4: Green Lake and Kunming Science Adventure

Spend the morning at Green Lake Park (Cuihu Park), a peaceful urban oasis. Kids will enjoy watching fish, feeding birds, and seeing the lotus ponds in bloom during summer.

In the afternoon, visit the Kunming Natural History Museum of Zoology, where fascinating dinosaur fossils, wildlife specimens, and interactive exhibits will capture children’s curiosity. End the day with a relaxed walk along Nanping Pedestrian Street, perfect for light shopping and evening snacks.

Day 5: Cultural Walk & Departure

In the morning, take a cultural stroll to Yuantong Temple, one of the oldest Buddhist temples in Kunming, where children can see traditional architecture and peaceful gardens. Then explore the nearby Yunnan University campus, known for its beautiful old buildings and leafy lanes.

Take a relaxing boat ride through Laoyu River Wetland Park, where the family can enjoy the fresh air, lush greenery, and peaceful waters.

Departure with wonderful experience.

5 Days Kunming Itinerary for Seniors with Slow Travel Pace

Day 1: Arrival, City Exploration and Leisurely Strolls

After landing, you will be met by our friendly guide. Along with the driver, the guide will escort you to your hotel. Enjoy some free time to rest and recover from your journey

Visit Green Lake Park (Cuihu Park), a serene urban oasis ideal for a leisurely stroll, birdwatching, and enjoying the scenic lotus-filled ponds. Or enjoy the performance (playing Taichi, Mahjong and local opera) by local people. Stroll through Kunming’s old street and savor Crossing-the-Bridge Rice Noodles, the city’s most famous dish.

Day 2: Scenic and Cultural Highlights

After breakfast, take a short drive to the Western Hills (Xishan Forest Park). Ride the cable car up to avoid strenuous hiking, then enjoy panoramic views of Dianchi Lake and Kunming city. Visit Dragon Gate Grottoes, accessible via gentle paths with handrails (choose sections suitable for seniors).

Have lunch at a restaurant near the park. At last, feel the Buddhism atmosphere at one of the oldest Buddhist temples of Kunming, Yuantong Temple.

Day 3: Explore Ethnic Villages and Historical Sites

In the morning, head to Yunnan Nationalities Village to explore the culture, architecture, costumes, and performances of 25 ethnic groups. Participate in tea ceremonies or traditional dances.

After lunch, Visit the Stone Forest (1.5hours driver), marvel at the unique limestone formations, and enjoy local Yi cultural performance and learn about their unique traditions, and taste regional delicacies.

Day 4: Dianchi Lake and Wetland Leisure Cruise

Spend a relaxing day by Dianchi Lake, the largest freshwater lake in Yunnan. Take a gentle stroll along the scenic wetlands, where you can enjoy fresh air, peaceful views, and spot migratory birds in season. For a more leisurely experience, aboard a boat cruise to admire the lake’s tranquil waters and surrounding mountain scenery at a comfortable pace.

Day 5: Admire Flower and Bird Market & Guandu Ancient Town

Begin the day at Kunming’s famous Flower and Bird Market, a lively place filled with colorful blooms, bonsai, songbirds, handicrafts, and antiques. It’s a delightful spot for seniors to enjoy local culture at a relaxed pace. Later, visit Guandu Ancient Town, an old settlement with historic temples, traditional courtyards, and charming local snacks, where you can stroll slowly, soak up the atmosphere, and rest at tea houses.

Enjoy a farewell dinner at a renowned local restaurant, savoring the flavors of Yunan one last time.

5 Days Kunming Itinerary for Young Travelers

Day 1: Kunming Arrival, Adventure West Hill

Arrive in Kunming and check in to your hotel. Adventure Western Hills (Xi Shan). Hike scenic trails, admire views of Dianchi Lake, and visit the Dragon Gate.

In the evening, explore Kunming Old Street, enjoy street food, and soak in the local vibe.

Day 2: Private transfer from Kunming to Dongchuan (about 3hours drive)

Set out for an exciting tour today, head to Dongchuan by private transfer. After lunch, grasp your camera and be ready to get some nice pictures of Dongchuan Red Land, praised as “God’s Palette” and considered to be a paradise for photography lovers. It has a dazzling color due to the high content of iron and aluminum in the soil.

If weather permits, explore the Luoxiagou wait till the sunset, which makes the red land more charming. Stay overnight in Dongchuan.

Day 3: Extension Dongchuan Red Land

Continue your journey with the breathtaking views of Dongchuan Red Land. Discover Jinxiu Yuan, where layers of terraced fields stretch across the mountains. In spring, golden rapeseed flowers bloom across the colorful farmland, making the landscape look like a living oil painting. This is a photographer’s paradise and an unforgettable highlight for travelers who love nature and scenery. Return to Kunming.

Day 4: Hidden Spots and Dianchi Lake, Stone Forest

In the morning, explore Guandu Ancient Town, stroll through the town to admire landmarks like the towering Guandu Archway Square, the Miao Zhan Temple, and the iconic twin towers of the Vajra Throne Pagoda.

In the afternoon, visit the Stone Forest (1.5hours drive), marvel at the unique limestone formations, explore caves, and enjoy local Yi cultural performance. Try hot pot or Yunnan mushroom dishes with friends in the evening.

Day 5: Dianchi Lake and Temple Culture

After breakfast, Start the day at Haigeng Dam, feed the red-billed gulls (seasonal in winter), take a boat ride, or enjoy a relaxing cycling trip around Dianchi Lake, where you can take in stunning lake views, gentle breezes, and the surrounding mountains at your own pace.

Visit Yuantong Temple, Kunming’s most famous Buddhist temple, known for its serene atmosphere.

Finish the 5-day trip with wonderful experience.

5 Days Culture Tour in Kunming

Day 1: Feel Nature and Scenic Views of the City

Arrival in Kunming, start the day at Kunming’s largest freshwater lake, enjoy the lakeside views, and watch or feed the red-billed gulls. Explore Western Hills, enjoy panoramic views of Dianchi Lake, visit temples and pavilions along the trails.

In the evening, wander cobblestone lanes, explore traditional courtyards, and sample local snacks.

Day 2: History and Culture

Morning, visit Southwest Associated University (Xinan Lianda). Learn about the rich history of this prestigious wartime university. Visit Yunnan University, stroll through the scenic campus and enjoy its historic architecture.

After noon, Explore Green Lake Park (Cuihu Park), walk around this tranquil urban oasis, feed the fish, and relax among lotus ponds. Afterward, visit Lujun Jiangwutang (Army Lecture Hall), Explore modern historical sites. Admire the Yuantong Temple, one of Kunming’s oldest Buddhist temples, admire its architecture and serene atmosphere.

Day 3: Landmarks and Shopping

Head to Stone Forest Scenic Area (1.5hours drive), discover the UNESCO World Heritage Site with towering limestone formations and scenic trails.

In the afternoon, Visit the Golden Horse and Jade Rooster Archways. Head to Jianshui Ancient Town (approx. 3 hours by car from Kunming), stay overnight in Jianshui Ancient Town.

Day 4: Explore Jianshui Ancient Town

Set out for an exciting tour today, explore Jianshui Ancient Town, one of Yunnan’s historic gems. Stroll through the old streets, visit Chaoyang Gate Tower (the “Mini Tian’anmen”), and explore the well-preserved traditional courtyard houses.

In the afternoon, visit the magnificent Jianshui Confucius Temple, the second largest in China, and learn about its deep cultural significance. Return to Kunming.

Day 5: Ethnic Villages & Historical Sites

Head to Yunnan Nationalities Village to explore the culture, architecture, costumes, and performances of 25 ethnic groups. Participate in tea ceremonies or traditional dances. Visit Guandu Ancient Town, enjoy the historic architecture, local temples, and handicrafts, and learn about Kunming’s history along the Tea Horse Road.

Departure with wonderful Culture experience.

Customize Your Spring City Kunming Tour

If you are interested in the Kunming itineraries mentioned above, please contact us, and we will be happy to customize it and provide a quote tailored to your preferences.

Alternatively, if you would like to customize your Kunming Tour, please visit our Kunming Tour Customized Center. We assure you that you will receive a reply within 24 working hours.

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