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[My Chef Friend: 7-Day Kunming, Dali & Lijiang Tour] Kunming Citywalk + Dali Ancient Town + Chongsheng Temple's Three Pagodas + Lijiang Old Town + Jade Dragon Snow Mountain + Chef-Style Crossing-the-Bridge Rice Noodles + Alpine Coaster Park + Bai Ethnic Group's Three-Course Tea Ceremony + Xizhou Morning Market + Erhai Lake Cruise

Destination Place

Kunming

Travel Days

7 days

Highlights

  • Learn about the preparation process and historical background of Cross-Bridge Rice Noodles with a chef friend.

  • In Kunming, connect sunshine, floral scents, and the hustle and bustle of daily life through a Citywalk.

  • Cycle along the Erhai Lake corridor and take the Mingzhu cruise to fully enjoy the stunning scenery of lake and mountains.

Itinerary

Day1
Kunming
Arrive in Kunming, the “Spring City” · A First Glimpse of Yunnan’s Charm

Today marks the start of your journey. Fly independently to Kunming. Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by our dedicated staff and transferred to your accommodation. Enjoy some free time to rest and acclimate. Relax and look forward to tomorrow’s gentle encounter with the Spring City, as your personalized journey through colorful southern Yunnan begins!
Day2
Kunming
Kunming City Walk — Fu Family Residence Private Kitchen Cross-Bridge Rice Noodles — Wolong Ancient Fishing Village — Dianchi Lake Greenway

Today, immerse yourself in the charm of Kunming’s old town with a healing city walk: Start from Qianwang Street, which carries a century-old commercial heritage, stroll to the antique-style Ma Family Courtyard, feel the warmth of local life amidst the bustling atmosphere of Jingxing Street, check out the snack street on Wenming Street, and savor authentic Yunnan delicacies that delight your taste buds. Step into Nie Er’s Former Residence to listen to the echoes of history, pause at the popular Oriental Bookstore to soak in Kunming’s artistic vibe amid the scent of ink, pass by Duoyue Tower and Shengli Hall, and finally wander along Wuyi Road and Huanggong East Street by Cuihu Lake, encountering the slow-paced beauty of this Spring City.

Lunch features an exclusive upgrade at Fu Family Residence Private Kitchen for Cross-Bridge Rice Noodles. Our chef friend will personally host, explaining the meticulous craftsmanship behind this iconic dish and sharing the century-old stories embedded in this famous Yunnan culinary treasure.

In the afternoon, escape the urban hustle and head to Wolong Ancient Fishing Village, with its 600 years of history, to enjoy the tranquility and peace of the ancient village. Then take a leisurely stroll along the Dianchi Lake Greenway, feeling the gentle lake breeze while awaiting a romantic sunset over Dianchi Lake, capturing all the tenderness and poetry of Kunming.

Special Bonus (April 20–May 10 each year): Jacarandas bloom across Kunming, wrapping the entire city in purple romance—every snapshot becomes a stunning photo!
2 Attractions
  • Wolong Ancient Fishing Village

    Wolong Ancient Fishing Village

    A traditional fishing village with a history of over 600 years, renowned for its well-preserved ancient architectural complexes from the Ming, Qing, and Republican eras, as well as the cultural heritage of “Fishery Harbor Starry Lights,” one of the Eight Ancient Scenes of Chenggong. It is one of the core attractions in the historical and cultural conservation area around Dianchi Lake in Kunming.

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  • Dianchi Greenway

    Dianchi Greenway

    The Dianchi Lake Greenway is an ecological corridor built around Dianchi Lake in Kunming City. With a planned total length of 137 kilometers, 108 kilometers have already been opened to the public. The greenway connects four administrative districts, including Guandu and Chenggong, as well as 54 wetlands and 46 beautiful countryside villages, offering eco-friendly leisure experiences for cycling and walking.

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2 Experiences
  • Cross-Bridge Rice Noodle Tasting Office

    Cross-Bridge Rice Noodle Tasting Office

    Guo Yiting (Robin), from Qujing in central Yunnan, is a high-end culinary executive who blends the tenacity of a craftsman with polished professionalism. From Jinlong Hotel to the InterContinental Kunming, his career reads like an evolving chronicle of refined taste. He upholds the principle that “technique must serve flavor,” breathing new life into ingredients through his craft. In every bowl of southern Yunnan rice noodles, diners can sense a chef’s profound reverence for food, nature, and the philosophy of life.

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  • Kunming Citywalk

    Kunming Citywalk

    Discover the Spring City on foot, immersing yourself in its artistic flair, everyday vibrancy, and rich history. Stroll along Kunming’s Old Street, Wenlin Street, and Huanggong East Street, where you’ll encounter the enduring spirit of old Kunming and the fresh romance of the new, all amidst streets that enjoy spring-like weather year-round.

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Day3
Kunming-Dali
Kunming – Three Pagodas of Chongsheng Temple – Dali Ancient City – Dali
After breakfast, depart for Dali (approximately 4 hours by car), and begin to uncover the first layer of romance embodied in Dali’s famous “Wind, Flowers, Snow, and Moon.” Upon arrival, visit the Three Pagodas of Chongsheng Temple, where you can soak in the regal ambiance of this former royal monastery of the Nanzhao Kingdom.
As night falls, take a leisurely stroll through Dali Ancient City, walking along its bluestone-paved streets and wandering through time-honored alleys. Explore the vibrant local life and rich stories along Renmin Road and Fuxing Road.
2 Attractions
  • Dali ancient city

    Dali ancient city

    Dali Ancient City, also known as Zicheng (the “Purple City”), lies to the east of Erhai Lake and rests against the Cangshan Mountains to the west. It is one of China’s 24 famous cities of historical and cultural significance. The city’s history dates back to the Tianbao era of the Tang Dynasty, when King Geluofeng of the Nanzhao Kingdom built Yangqiemie City as his new capital. The fortified city had a gate on each of its four sides—east, west, south, and north—each topped with a gate tower, while corner towers stood at the four corners. The two Chinese characters for “Dali” above the South Gate are rendered in calligraphy by Guo Moruo. Designated as a National AAAA-level tourist attraction, Dali Ancient City was included in the inaugural list of “Model Towns of Aesthetic Excellence” in October 2019. Its main attractions include the South Gate Tower, Wenxian Tower, Wuhua Tower, and the North Gate Tower, among others.

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  • The footprints temple tower

    The footprints temple tower

    The Three Pagodas of Chongsheng Temple are a national 5A-level tourist attraction in Dali City, Yunnan Province, China. Originally constructed during the Nanzhao Kingdom period of the Tang Dynasty, the site now features the main Qianxun Pagoda along with two smaller pagodas to its north and south. As an iconic historical monument, it integrates Buddhist culture, historic architecture, and natural scenery. Once a renowned royal monastery of the Nanzhao and Dali Kingdoms, it witnessed nine kings of the Dali Kingdom renounce their thrones to become monks and practice Buddhism there. The temple also served as the inspiration for the Tianlong Temple in Jin Yong’s martial arts novel “Demi-Gods and Semi-Devils,” offering visitors the sensation of stepping into the wuxia world crafted by the celebrated author.

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Day4
Dali
Xizhou Ancient Town – Explore the Morning Market with Locals – Stroll Through Historic Residences – Bai Three-Tea Ceremony – Cycling Along Erhai Lake

In the morning, take a vehicle to Xizhou Ancient Town. Join locals at the bustling morning market to experience a different side of Dali and immerse yourself in the daily life of the Bai people. Browse fresh local fruits and vegetables and sample distinctive regional snacks. Afterwards, follow your guide on a leisurely walk through historic Bai residences, appreciating the craftsmanship and charm of Bai architecture amid its iconic white walls and gray-tiled roofs.

Next, learn about the Bai Three-Tea Ceremony from an inheritor of this intangible cultural heritage. Savor the three stages of the tea—bitter, sweet, and lingering aftertaste—while gaining insight into the Bai people’s philosophy of life, their optimism, warm hospitality, and deep respect for etiquette.

Finally, enjoy a free-and-easy cycling ride along the Erhai Lake Ecological Corridor. Glide between Cangshan Mountain and Erhai Lake, under blue skies and fluffy white clouds, passing by traditional Bai villages, with serene lake views and gentle breezes accompanying you every step of the way.
1 Attractions
  • xizhou

    xizhou

    Xizhou Ancient Town lies north of Dali Old Town, bordered by Erhai Lake to the east and nestled against Cangshan Mountain to the west. It boasts the most extensive and best-preserved ensemble of Bai ethnic residential architecture and is the birthplace of Xizhou baba (a traditional Bai flatbread). Strolling through the town, you’ll encounter elders dressed in traditional Bai attire, small shops selling baba, and characteristic Bai residences, all imbued with a rich Bai cultural ambiance. In 2017, Xizhou Ancient Town was included on the provincial list of towns designated for development as distinctive characteristic towns; in 2019, it was officially recognized as a “Yunnan Provincial Characteristic Town”; and in 2020, it was established as a provincial-level tourist resort and a renowned tourism town.

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4 Experiences
  • Follow the locals to go to the morning market

    Follow the locals to go to the morning market

    Life in Xizhou begins at the morning market, where the town’s warmth and vitality are most palpable amid the bustling crowds. You’ll find fresh, dewy seasonal fruits; wild greens foraged from the hills by Bai ethnic minority aunties; richly aromatic Hui-style rushan (milk fan) layered with rose jam; and local erkuai (rice cake) factories supplying the entire town. Exploring the morning market offers a blend of local history, ancient architecture, and culinary culture. As you wander through the streets and alleys, you’ll hear tales of Xizhou’s Tea-Horse Road merchant guilds, gain insights into the aesthetics and historical significance embedded in traditional Bai architecture, and discover the region’s abundant ingredients and cooking methods through the lively, down-to-earth atmosphere of Xizhou’s vegetable market. Brimming with people, the market is not only a vibrant gathering of diverse foods and a daily hub of Dali’s local scene, but also a doorway into the authentic everyday life of the Xizhou community. Join locals as they step into their neighborhood market—mostly frequented by Bai residents—where you can truly experience the town’s timeless customs and folk traditions.

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  • Guzhai Xiaoyou

    Guzhai Xiaoyou

    The ancient house was built in the late Qing Dynasty and the early Republic of China. It belongs to a national key cultural relic protection unit. We follow the footsteps of volunteers, listen to the stories of the owners of the ancient house, and explore the life and culture of the Bai people in Xizhou.

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  • Bai nationality tea

    Bai nationality tea

    Tea, called "Shao Dao Zhao" in the White language, is a custom of the Bai people to entertain guests. With its unique "bitter first, sweet second, and aftertaste" tea ceremony, it has become a etiquette for the Bai family to entertain guests and make friends as early as the Ming Dynasty.

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  • Erhai Cycling

    Erhai Cycling

    Ride a bicycle, choose a satisfying route, listen to the wind blowing in your ears, and enjoy the most pleasant scenery of Erhai Lake.

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Day5
Dali-Lijiang
Dali – Luge Park – Ideal邦 (Ideal State) – Wenbi Village – Luwo Mountain Ruins – Shuanglang Ancient Town – Erhai Lake Cruise – Nanzhao Culture Island – Lijiang

Today, unlock a leisurely tour along the eastern shore of Erhai Lake: Head to China’s first luge sports theme park, the “Yunxiang Mountain Luge Theme Park.” Ride the alpine coaster as you speed down the track, enjoying panoramic views of Cangshan Mountain and Erhai Lake, along with the cityscape of Dali. Experience the dual healing power of adrenaline and breathtaking scenery.

Next, pass by the internet-famous “Ideal State,” often dubbed Dali’s Santorini, capturing its romantic ambiance. Stroll along the colorful rainbow road in Wenbi Village, effortlessly snapping photos where Erhai Lake meets the scenic roadway. Pause at the Luwo Mountain Ruins to embrace the tranquil and artistic charm of Erhai Lake.

Proceed to Shuanglang Ancient Town, where you’ll board the “Ocean Pearl” cruise ship for a relaxing journey across Erhai Lake. Feel the gentle lake breeze, watch the shimmering waves, and gaze at distant Cangshan Mountain. Immerse yourself in the poetic experience of “gliding on water while wandering through a living painting,” discovering the most delightful way to enjoy Erhai Lake.

After the tour, travel to Lijiang, check into your hotel, and begin the next chapter of your wonderful Lijiang adventure.
6 Attractions
  • The double gallery

    The double gallery

    Shuanglang Town sits on the northeastern shore of Erhai Lake, hugging its shimmering waters and offering distant views of the nineteen peaks of Cangshan Mountain. It brings together the finest scenery of both Cangshan and Erhai in one place, earning it the well-known title of “the premier town for Cangshan–Erhai vistas.” The town’s eclectic architecture is another major draw, featuring landmarks such as Dancer Yang Liping’s Sun Palace and Moon Palace, and Painter Zhao Qing’s Qinglu Residence. When visiting Shuanglang, it’s recommended to stay overnight. On sunny days, sunlight filters through the clouds and reflects off the lake, creating a sparkling, serene atmosphere that’s deeply relaxing.

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  • Nanzhao Fengqing Island

    Nanzhao Fengqing Island

    Nanzhao Folk Custom Island is one of the three islands in Erhai Lake, located within Shuanglang Town and forming part of the core area of the Cangshan–Erhai National Scenic Area. Bordered by the renowned Buddhist sacred site of Jizu Mountain to the east, Shibao Mountain to the north, Dali to the south, and facing Cangshan Mountain and Erhai Lake to the west, it enjoys exceptionally rich tourism resources. Visit Nanzhao Folk Custom Island to see the 17-meter-tall white marble Guanyin statue, capture stunning photos with Cangshan Mountain in the background, and explore the Nanzhao Palace to immerse yourself in the grandeur of the ancient kingdom.

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  • Ideal Town

    Ideal Town

    Nestled along Huanhai East Road on the eastern shore of Erhai Lake, Ideal Town is renowned for its seamless blend of European-style architecture with the natural landscape, earning it the nicknames “Santorini of Dali” or “Oriental Santorini.” Built in harmony with the natural contours of the hills, the town’s alleyways are lined with an abundance of flowers and plants, while its streets meander poetically. Strolling through them feels like a dreamlike escape, offering a truly enchanting experience. The town is divided into three main areas: a theme zone featuring Aegean-inspired architecture, a district of bespoke boutique inns, and a commercial zone with cliffside hotels.

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  • Luge Theme Park

    Luge Theme Park

    Dali Luge Theme Park is an integrated destination combining outdoor sports, entertainment, leisure, and sightseeing. Its flagship attraction is luge racing, with three themed tracks designed along the paths of ancient glacier movements. The “Tea-Horse Spiral” section recreates the geometric beauty of the 72 hairpin bends on the Yunnan–Tibet Highway, allowing riders to feel the contrasting sensations of cool mist from the pine forest brushing past as they speed downhill in their luge carts.

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  • Wenbi Village Rainbow Road

    Wenbi Village Rainbow Road

    Wenbi Village is renowned for its natural scenery and traditional Bai ethnic culture.

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  • Luwo Mountain Site

    Luwo Mountain Site

    The Luwo Mountain Site (also known as the Lu’e Mountain Site) is an ancient cultural relic dating from the Neolithic Age to the Han Dynasty, located along the shore of Erhai Lake in Dali City, Yunnan Province, China. Currently designated as a prefecture-level cultural relics protection unit, it has recently become a popular social-media hotspot due to the scenic “Window of Dali” viewpoint.

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1 Experiences
  • The "Pearl of Erhai" Cruise Ship

    The "Pearl of Erhai" Cruise Ship

    Cruising across Erhai Lake, you can gaze at the rippling turquoise waters and take in the distant view of Cangshan Mountain. Standing on the deck, feeling the gentle breeze off the lake and listening to a folk singer’s soft, melodic chants—it’s an incredibly healing moment.

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Day6
Lijiang
Jade Dragon Snow Mountain – Blue Moon Valley – Lijiang Old Town

After breakfast, head to Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. The Glacier Park is the most must-see attraction here and is regarded as a sacred mountain by the local Naxi people. From the scenic area entrance, take the cable car up to Glacier Park, and finally reach the viewing platform at an altitude of 4,680 meters. Afterwards, visit Blue Moon Valley, often dubbed “Yunnan’s Little Jiuzhaigou.” This spot is essential for photos—come admire the valley’s strikingly vivid, almost still-blue waters.

In the afternoon, stroll through Lijiang Old Town, wandering its narrow lanes and alleys with distinctive Naxi architectural charm, and savor the unique highland ambiance reminiscent of the classic Jiangnan water-town scenery: willow trees swaying gently, small bridges arching over trickling streams, and homes nestled along the waterways.
3 Attractions
  • Jade dragon snow mountain

    Jade dragon snow mountain

    In the Naxi language, Jade Dragon Snow Mountain is known as “Tian Shan,” meaning “Heavenly Mountain.” Its thirteen snow-capped peaks stretch endlessly, resembling a mighty dragon soaring through the sky—hence the name “Jade Dragon.” Due to its predominant rock composition of limestone and basalt, which creates a striking contrast between black and white, it is also called “Black-and-White Snow Mountain.” Revered as a sacred mountain by the Naxi people, it is believed to be the earthly embodiment of “Sanduo,” the protective deity of the Naxi ethnic group. Within the mountain area, Yunshanping (Spruce Meadow) and Maoniuping (Yak Meadow) were once cherished romantic retreats for young Naxi men and women. The mountain’s cable car takes visitors directly to the Glacier Park at an altitude of 4,506 meters, offering an up-close encounter with ancient glaciers. At the foot of the mountain lies Blue Moon Valley, where mineral-rich waters shimmer in gradations of blue and green. Reflecting the snow-covered peaks, the valley has earned the nickname “Little Jiuzhai,” with every snapshot resembling a masterpiece straight out of a postcard—no filters needed. Jade Dragon Snow Mountain represents a harmonious blend of nature and culture, where awe-inspiring grandeur coexists with serene healing. Standing beneath its majestic peaks, gazing up at the vast sky, one can truly feel the solemnity and magnificence of this sacred mountain.

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  • blue Moon Valley

    blue Moon Valley

    Blue Moon Valley in Lijiang, also known as Baishui River (White Water River), earns its name from its striking appearance: on sunny days, the water takes on a vivid blue hue, and the valley itself is crescent-shaped. From a distance, it resembles a blue moon nestled at the foot of Yulong Snow Mountain, hence the name “Blue Moon Valley.” The alternate name “Baishui River” comes from the white sediment on the lakebed; when it rains, the water turns milky white, giving rise to this appellation. The lake’s waters are a translucent blue, an almost congealed azure subtly flecked with hints of green. Standing at the center of the lake and looking around, you see clouds stretching across the horizon, hovering along the mountain ridges and casting their reflections on the water’s surface like ethereal illusions, making one wonder if this is a fairyland.

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  • Lijiang ancient city

    Lijiang ancient city

    Lijiang Ancient City, also known as Dayan Ancient City, is a famous city with beautiful scenery, a long history and splendid culture. It is also a rare and well-preserved ancient ethnic minority town in China, a world cultural heritage, a national AAAAA tourist attraction, and a national civilized scenic area demonstration site.

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Day7
Lijiang
Today, I woke up naturally and, according to your flight schedule, arranged the airport transfer. With the warmth of Yunnan's local life, its poetic charm, and the chef's personalized touch, this customized trip has come to a perfect end.