Kunming - Yuanyang

Yuanyang Rice Terraces - Begin your adventure with a pickup from your hotel by your guide and driver, embarking on a journey through the diverse landscapes of China’s most stunning province, starting in Kunming, the regional capital. Travel south for 7 hours to reach the breathtaking Yuanyang Scenic Area, one of Yunnan’s most renowned UNESCO World Heritage sites. Yuanyang is expansive, with its magnificent rice terraces spread across several small villages. The first stop is Qingkou Village, nestled in a valley. Qingkou is a typical Hani ethnic minority village, where the Hani people have harmoniously practiced agriculture with nature for over a millennium. This area maintains its primal rural life, where forest, village, irrigation systems, and fields form a unique working ecosystem. Next, visit Bada Rice Terraces, the largest in the Yuanyang area, covering the entire valley like a vibrant carpet.

Yuanyang Rice Terraces - In the evening, head to the Laohuzui rice terraces, also known as ‘Tiger Mouth’. This fierce name reflects the intensity and magnificence of the terraced valley, with vivid and iridescent reflections on the water at sunset, changing colors like a kaleidoscope. It’s a must-visit for photographers and anyone wanting to experience this magical moment without a lens.

Yuanyang - Jianshui

Yuanyang County - Rise early and drive through the twilight hours to Duoyishu Village. This is the best spot in the area to witness the golden sunrise over the mountains, casting pink and azure hues on the shimmering rice paddies.

Jianshui Ancient City - In the afternoon, continue to Jianshui ancient town, which retains the original style of the Ming dynasty (1368-1644). Many buildings remain intact, such as the impressive Chaoyang Tower, the only city gate to have survived wars, weather, and time. You will be dropped off at your hotel in Jianshui, with time to explore this ancient town independently.

Jianshui - Kunming - Dali

Zhu’s Family Garden (Zhu Jia Huayuan) - After breakfast, visit the most famous attraction in Jianshui, Zhu’s Family Garden. This 20,000 square meter private complex was constructed over 30 years in the late Qing dynasty (1644-1911) by the influential Zhu brothers, and is impressive in its size and historical significance. The brothers amassed their wealth through trading various goods, from tin to opium, until they fell victim to the political chaos in 1911.

Jianshui Confucius Temple - Next, visit the Confucius Temple, the second largest of its kind in China. Built in 1285 and remarkably well-preserved, this temple is a valuable architectural and cultural relic.

Dali - Proceed to Kunming (about 3 hours), then head directly to the Kunming railway station to catch a train to Dali (about 2 hours). Upon arrival at Dali Railway Station in Xiaguan City, your Dali driver will be waiting to take you to your hotel in Dali Old Town, the heartland of the Bai ethnic minority, also home to Yi and Hui minorities.

Dali

Xizhou Town - After breakfast, travel to Xizhou to visit the charming morning market. Observe locals in traditional minority attire buying and selling local fruits, unique vegetables, freshly cut meat, fragrant spices, and more. Explore the town and visit beautifully preserved old Bai-style traditional courtyards and taste Three Courses Tea. Xizhou is a small town with a rich history, dating back thousands of years as an ancient economic hub along the tea-horse road.

Zhoucheng Village - Later, continue to Zhoucheng village, known as ‘the Hometown of tie-dyeing’, and explore a traditional Tie-Dye workshop. All tie-dye products are handmade with natural materials and dyes. Witness grandmothers passing this century-old tradition to mothers and daughters, follow their process, and even create your own tie-dye product.

Erhai Lake - In the afternoon, enjoy a short boat trip on Lake Erhai, taking in the majestic views of the green and clouded Cangshan Mountain Range looming over Dali’s lands, while flocks of birds fly peacefully around you over the tranquil lake.

Dali Ancient - In the late afternoon and evening, enjoy free time in Dali Old Town, renowned for its relaxed and laid-back atmosphere. Climb the City Wall and stroll through the famous shopping streets of Dali. Explore the vibrant Dali street culture, enjoy a drink in one of Dali’s cozy bars or charming coffeeshops, or wander its lively main streets where local artists sell beautiful handicrafts.

Dali - Shaxi - Lijiang

Yunnan Shaxi Ancient Town - After breakfast, drive to Shaxi (about 2 hours) through beautiful farmlands and ethnic villages. Shaxi Old Town boasts thousands of years of history, allowing you to stroll through the streets and feel transported back in time.

Old Town of Lijiang - China - After the tour, continue to Lijiang (about 1.5 hours) and head directly to your hotel, so you can enjoy Lijiang Old Town by night, a place renowned as the most romantic spot in China. Its pretty streams wind through a maze of enchanting back alleys, part of an ancient water-supply system that still functions today. Lijiang was a key stop on the Tea Horse Road and has long attracted traders, merchants, bandits, and slavers. The town is set in an exceptional mountain landscape that will leave a lasting impression.

Lijiang

Yulong (Jade Dragon) Mountain - Start your day with a pickup from your hotel in or near Lijiang Ancient Town, where your expert guide and driver will take you on a scenic transfer to the iconic Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, a true natural wonder. This towering range features 13 majestic peaks, each offering stunning views. The mountain is revered for its untouched beauty and spiritual significance, providing a perfect blend of serene landscapes and rugged terrain.

Blue Moon Valley - Later, visit the serene Blue Moon Valley, a hidden gem within the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain scenic area. The valley’s turquoise waters, surrounded by dramatic landscapes, create a surreal, tranquil atmosphere. This enchanting spot is ideal for relaxation and reflection, as well as incredible photo opportunities.

Baisha Ancient Town - Continue to Baisha Village, known for its famous Buddhist Murals. These are part of local heritage with a history of over 600 years and are recognized as a World Cultural Heritage site by UNESCO since 1997. The old town is praised for its traditional Naxi style and as one of the earliest Naxi villages. The local traditional embroidery is also worth exploring, considered some of the finest handicraft in the world.

Shuhe Ancient Town - On the return to Lijiang Ancient Town, stop at Shuhe Ancient Town, one of the original towns along the Ancient Tea Horse Road, preserving its historical charm with cobbled streets and time-honored architecture.

Lijiang

Lijiang - This is your last opportunity to shop around Lijiang Old Town and purchase colorful souvenirs, fragrant flower teas, or yak jerky, before your guide and driver pick you up and drop you off at Lijiang Airport, Lijiang Railway Station, or one of Lijiang’s Bus Terminals.

We hope you had a wonderful time in Yunnan and look forward to welcoming you again!

• Travel-licensed vehicle according to group size and season with skilled driver
• 6 nights of comfort, superior or luxury accommodation, shared room with breakfast
• including gas, tolls and parking fees
• Supplement for meals for the guide and driver
• 2 half-liter bottles of drinking water per person
• Meals as listed in the itinerary: 6 breakfasts
• Entrance tickets to the attractions as listed in the itinerary
• Experienced local English-speaking tour guide
• Breakfast
• 24/7 English-speaking customer services
• Government taxes

• Chinese visa
• International and domestic flights
• Daily meals (lunch & dinner)
• Personal Travel Accident Insurance
• Personal expenses
• Tips for the driver and tour guide (highly appreciated but not requested)
• Optional sights
• Attractions not listed in the itinerary
• Additional days caused by unexpected nature disasters. e.g. Land Slide, Avalanche, etc.
• Single room supplement if the guest request a private room in the hotel
• Anything not listed in inclusions

Experience the wonders of Yunnan with its charming ancient towns and stunning mountain landscapes on this remarkable 7-day tour! This journey features some of China’s most historic towns. Discover the well-preserved architecture and rich traditions in Jianshui Ancient Town. Nearby, the Yuanyang Rice Terraces offer a breathtaking view of tiered fields, where the vibrant hues of the terraces shift with the seasons, creating a memorable natural spectacle. Travel the historic 1000-year-old Tea Horse Caravan Road and visit ancient trading hubs like the old Dali Kingdom and Xizhou, which have been home to prosperous Tea-Horse merchants for centuries. Venture off the beaten path in Shaxi Old Town, where the traditional Friday market continues as it has for centuries. Walk in the footsteps of Victorian explorers in the enchanting Lijiang Old Town.

• Children must be accompanied by an adult
• Please advise any specific dietary requirements at time of booking
• Please wear comfortable walking shoes
• Passport name, number, expiry and country is required at time of booking for all participants

If you cancel at least 6 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.
If you cancel between 2 and 6 day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a 50% refund.
If you cancel within 2 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.