Independent travel and view of the city of Kunming! History of Kunming City Kunming is located on the Yunnan-G...
Kunming is located on the Yunnan-Guizhou Plateau, at an altitude of about 1890 meters above sea level, near the shore of the large Dianchi Lake (е). Due to this, the climate here is mild all year round - the city received the poetic nickname "City of Eternal Spring" ( ).
Ancient history
Preoin
The territory of Kunming has been inhabited since ancient times. Archaeological finds in the Dianchi region (bronze drums, objects of worship, ornaments) testify to the developed bronze culture of the Dian Kingdom (а国), which existed from about the IV-III centuries BC. It was one of the most influential kingdoms in southwest China before the region was incorporated into the Han Empire.
The era of the Han Empire (206 BC – 220 AD)
In 109 BC, Emperor Wu-di of the Han dynasty sent an expedition to these lands under the command of Guo Chang, as a result of which the Dian kingdom was annexed to China. The region received the status of an administrative unit - the Izhou Command (ы). Then began the active development of local lands by Chinese settlers, and Kunming became an important point on the road between China and Southeast Asia.
Medieval Kingdom of Nanzhao and Dali
The Kingdom of Nanzhao (738–902)
In the VIII century on the territory of modern Yunnan formed a powerful state of Nanzhao (й), with the capital in Dali. The Kunming area was an important military and commercial center, defending the approaches to the Dali Valley. It is during this period that the region becomes a strategic crossroads between China, India and Southeast Asia.
The Kingdom of Dali (937–1253)
After the fall of Nanzhao, the kingdom of Dali (大о国) arose. It inherited previous political and cultural traditions. Kunming continued to be an important regional center through which trade and cultural ties with China and Tibet flowed.
Mongol conquest and Yuan dynasty (XIII-XIV centuries)
In 1253, the Mongols led by Kublai (the future emperor Yuan) conquered the kingdom of Dali. Kunming was rebuilt and became the center of Yunnan Province, administratively incorporated into the Yuan Empire. It was then that the city received its modern name – Kunming. Under the Mongols, Chinese from the central regions actively moved here, agriculture and trade developed.
Ming and Qing (XIV-XIX centuries)
The Ming Dynasty (1368–1644) restored Chinese rule and strengthened control of Yunnan. Kunming became a key military garrison and administrative center. Here temples, pagodas, walls were built. At this time, it became the main city of the region.
The Qing Dynasty (1644–1911) continued to develop trade. Through Kunming came goods from Burma, Vietnam and Laos. In the XIX century, Europeans began to penetrate the city - missionaries and traders. Yunnan gradually opened up to the outside world.
Early XX century and the Republic of China
After the Xinhai Revolution (1911), Kunming became the capital of Yunnan Province. In the 1910s, the construction of the Yunnan Railway (from Kunming to Vientiane and Haiphong via Lao Cai), built by the French, was completed. This has significantly strengthened the region’s economic ties with Indochina.
During World War II, Kunming played an important role:
Chinese troops and educational institutions retreated after Japan captured coastal areas.
Through Kunming passed the famous “Burman road” – the strategic route of supply to China;
The city served as a base for Allied aviation (in particular, the American Flying Tigers group).
After the formation of the PRC (since 1949)
After 1949, Kunming became the administrative, cultural and industrial center of Yunnan. Developed:
engineering and electronics,
extraction and processing of non-ferrous metals,
production of fertilizers, cement, textiles.
In the 1970s and 1980s, the city became one of the most open in western China, and since the 1990s, a major transportation hub between China and Southeast Asia. In 2015, the Kunming-Yunnan high-speed station opened, connecting the city with Chengdu, Guangzhou and Beijing.
Modern Kunming
Today, Kunming is:
a city with a population of over 6 million people,
large scientific and educational center (Yunnan University, institutes of the Chinese Academy of Sciences),
an important transport and logistics hub on the routes of the One Belt, One Road Initiative,
tourist destination: Stone Forest (о), Dianchi Lake, Yuantong Temples, Cuihu Parks and Western Mountains.
Kunming remains a symbol of cultural diversity - representatives of more than 20 nationalities live here, including the Bai, Miao, Hui and others.
Kunming – The City of Eternal Spring in Southwest China
Imagine a place where flowers bloom all year round, the air smells of jasmine, and the soft breeze from the mountains brings freshness of lake water. This is Kunming ( ) – the capital of the sunny Yunnan Province, located almost two kilometers above sea level, between the mountains and the turquoise Dianchi Lake ( ).
Due to its surprisingly mild climate and rich cultural heritage, Kunming is called the City of Eternal Spring – and this is not a metaphor, but a reality.
Ideal climate all year round
The temperature in Kunming almost never drops below +10 ° C and rarely rises above +25 ° C. Here you can walk in a T-shirt in January, admire the cherry blossoms in February and swim in the lake in autumn. The locals joke: “If you want to avoid winter, come to Kunming – it does not come here.”
Natural wonders.
Stone Forest (), Shílín)
World famous nature reserve 80 km from the city. Huge limestone formations resembling frozen waves, towers and labyrinths create the impression of a fantastic world. This is one of the most photogenic places in China – especially at sunset, when the stones are dyed golden.
Dianchi Lake (о)
The lake at the foot of the Western Mountains is the heart of Kunming.On the shores there are cozy parks, tea houses and embankments. Here you can ride a boat, feed silver gulls, and in the evening admire the reflection of the sunset sky in the water. In winter, thousands of migratory birds flock here, turning the lake into a picturesque ornithological paradise.
Western Mountains ()大)
A chain of hills with panoramic views of the city and the lake. Here is the famous Dragon Gate Temple (ах), carved directly into the rocks. The path to it is a series of trails and tunnels leading along the cliffs, from where breathtaking views open.
History and culture
Yuantong Temple ())
One of the oldest Buddhist temples in Yunnan (founded in the VII century). Quiet courtyards, sandalwood fragrance and bell ringing create an atmosphere of peace.
Kunming Old Town
Narrow streets, ancient tea shops, spice and silk markets, craft workshops are a place where you can feel the spirit of old Yunnan. In the evening, the old quarter comes to life with music and the aromas of street food.
Yunnan People's Culture
In Kunming, you can experience the culture of 25 national minorities – from dancing and traditional costumes to cuisine and crafts. It is especially interesting to visit Yunnan Village (.), an ethnic park where each culture is represented in its architecture, music and food.
Yunnan Cuisine - A Festival of Taste
Yunnan cuisine is one of the most fragrant and unusual in China. Be sure to try:
“Bridge-crossing” rice noodles (я) are Kunming’s signature dish served with a variety of additives in hot broth;
Fried mushrooms from mountain forests are local delicacies known for their aroma.
Flower snacks and sweets – especially from rose petals and jasmine
Local rice wine and Puer tea are symbols of southern China.
City of Flowers and Scents
Every morning at the Kunming Flower Market is a real feast for the eyes: orchids, lilies, peonies, anthuriums and rare varieties of roses. Yunnan is the largest producer of cut flowers in Asia, and many tourists come here to see the flower paradise.
Kunming is not only ancient temples and natural beauty, but also a modern, cozy metropolis.
stylish cafes and tea bars overlooking the lake;
fashionable streets with street art and evening markets;
museums, art centers and music festivals where traditions and modernity meet.
At night, the city comes to life: the streets of Cuihu and Wenling are filled with music, grill fragrances and neon, and locals like to dance right in the open air squares.
1. Luxury/five-star hotels
For those who want maximum comfort, service, excellent location.
What to expect: spacious room, premium mattresses, swimming pool/spa, high-end restaurants, often business services.
Example:
Sofitel Kunming - 400 rooms, upper floors of the tower, panoramic view.
InterContinental Kunming is located on the shores of Dianchi Lake, a butterfly theme design, 536 rooms.
Grand Hyatt Kunming is a new project in Kunming in Spring City 66.
Tip: if the budget allows - stay at a luxury hotel at least 1 night to relax and get the "chic" stay.
2. Middle segment (3-4 stars)
For travelers who want comfort, but without premium prices.
What to expect: good rooms, positive reviews, decent accommodation, often in a convenient area, but there may be fewer additional services.
Examples:
In Kunming you can find 4-star hotels of medium price category. For example, the average price of 4 stars is about 38 euros per night according to the data.
According to the sites: hotels with a rating of ~8-9 out of 10 and prices from ~50 US$ or equivalent.
Tip: Check the location – near the subway or key attractions. It is also helpful to make sure that breakfast is included or the price is reasonable.
3. Budget options / hostels / guest houses
For budget travelers, self-employed, and/or those who do not require luxury.
What to expect: minimal service, perhaps a shared bathroom or simpler conditions. But with this, you can save a lot.
Prices: You can find hotels/hostels at a price of ~15 US$ and even less.
Examples:
26 Life Hostel is a budget hostel in Kunming with good reviews.
Junao Hotel Nanping Pedestrian Street Branch is a low-cost hotel near Nanping pedestrian street.
1. Park and Lake Tsuihu (Green Lake, о)
Tsuihu is the heart of Kunming and one of the most popular places for walking. A small lake is surrounded by alleys, bridges, tea houses and gardens. In spring and summer, everything blooms here, and in winter thousands of white seagulls arrive. Around - cafes and cozy streets with the atmosphere of the old city.
How to get there: The lake is located in the heart of the city.
It is convenient to get from the central square or station by bus (routes 100, 101, 124, 133, 235, etc.).
A taxi from any area of the center will take no more than 10-15 minutes.
You can walk if you live in central hotels.
Advice: it is better to come in the morning or in the evening - these hours are especially beautiful and calm.
2. Yuantong Temple ())
Description: One of the oldest and most beautiful Buddhist temples in Yunnan. It was founded more than a thousand years ago and is a complex of halls, bridges and ponds with carp. The atmosphere here is peaceful, especially in the morning when bells and mantras sound.
How to get there:
Metro: Line 2, Chuanxinpo Station – 10-15 minutes walk from there.
Bus: Routes 4, 59, 83 stop nearby.
The taxi from downtown will take about 10 minutes.
Tip: it is convenient to combine a visit to the temple with a walk on Green Lake - they are located not far from each other.
3. Western Mountains and the Dragon Gate ()大))
Description: A chain of mountains along the western shore of Dianchi Lake. From the top there are stunning views of the city and the lake. The most famous site is "Dragon Gate" - a complex of terraces, tunnels and staircases carved into the rock. This is one of the best places for panoramic photos of Kunming.
How to get there:
From the center you can take a bus to the cable car station “Haigeng Park” or “Xishan Cableway”.
You can also take a taxi or take a tourist bus.
From the lower station - climb by funicular or on foot (about an hour).
Tip: Come in the morning – there are fewer people and the air is especially fresh.
4. Bamboo Temple (Quenzhu, ))
Description: One of the most revered temples of Kunming, located on a mountain slope 10 kilometers from the city. Known for its unique statues of 500 arhats – each face has its own expression, making this temple a masterpiece of sculptural art.
How to get there:
The taxi from the center will take 25-30 minutes.
There are also long-distance buses, but it is most convenient to take a taxi or excursion.
Tip: A great place to relax from the city noise, especially in the spring when everything is blooming.
5. Stone Forest (Shilin, енный)
Description: This is the calling card of Yunnan - giant limestone formations resembling a frozen stone forest. Some rocks reach a height of 30 meters and have bizarre shapes. The stone forest is included in the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites and is considered one of the most impressive natural wonders of China.
How to get there:
The distance from Kunming is about 80 km (the trip will take 1.5-2 hours).
You can take a high-speed train to Shilin station and then take a tourist bus or taxi to the entrance to the park.
There are also organized tours with departure from the city center in the morning and return in the evening.
Tip: leave as early as possible to avoid crowds of tourists and have time to get around the main trails before lunch.
6. Dianchi Lake (о)
The largest lake in Yunnan Province, often referred to as the “Kunming Emerald”. Here you can ride boats, feed seagulls, walk along the embankment and enjoy the views of the mountains. The lake is particularly picturesque at sunset.
How to get there:
From the city center - about 20 minutes by bus or taxi.
Convenient points for a walk are Haigen Park and the zone at the foot of the Western Mountains.
Tip: Rent a bike and drive along the shore is one of the most enjoyable activities in Kunming.
Transport accessibility and travel advice
Metro: There are several subway lines in Kunming. They connect the city center, the airport and many areas. Convenient and inexpensive (2-5 yuan per trip).
Buses: The city is covered by a dense network of routes. The fare is usually 1-2 yuan, stops are signed in Chinese and English.
Taxi: the starting tariff is about 8 yuan (about 1 euro) for the first 3 km, then about 1.8 yuan per kilometer. Taxis are convenient and relatively inexpensive.
Car sharing and apps: DiDi and Meituan, analogues of Uber, can be called through the app.
Organized tours: Many hotels and agencies offer day trips to the Stone Forest, Western Mountains and other locations.
Jindian Camellia Festival (Jindian Camellia Festival)
Every January in Kunming is the famous festival of flowering camellias. Hundreds of varieties decorate the parks and botanical gardens of the city. The main sites are the Golden Temple (Jindian Park) and the Botanical Garden. During the festival, exhibitions, competitions of gardeners and photo shoots among flowering trees are organized.
Winter is a great time to visit Kunming: the weather is mild, not cold, and flowers bloom even in January.
"Double Third Festival" (Double Third Festival)
It is celebrated on the third day of the third lunar month (usually in late March or early April). It is an ancient folk festival of southern nationalities, accompanied by traditional songs, dances, carnival processions and fairs. At this time, ethno-concerts and street performances take place in the parks of the city.
Water-Splashing Festival (Water-Splashing Festival)
The most fun and bright spring event, held in mid-April. This is a holiday of the dai people, symbolizing the purification of the old and the wish of good luck. People take to the streets and pour water on each other — cheerful, noisy and very kind. Kunming celebrates with dances, music and street parades.
Kunming Culture and Tourism Festival
It is held annually for the May holidays (early May). The city hosts concerts, art exhibitions, theater productions and street shows. This is a good time to see modern Kunming in a festive mood and get to know the arts and crafts of Yunnan.
Dragon Boat Festival
One of the most important traditional Chinese holidays, celebrated on the fifth day of the fifth lunar month (late May or early June). In Kunming at this time, boat races are held on Dianchi Lake and in the Tsuihu Park, and traditional rice cakes are sold - Tsongtze.
Festival of Viticulture and Tourism
In August, a colorful festival dedicated to grape harvesting takes place in Chengong district (on the outskirts of Kunming). There are concerts, street parades, tastings and master classes on winemaking. The atmosphere is fun, family friendly, with treats and dancing until late at night.
City Festival of Lifestyle "Baili-Chungchiu"
A modern cultural event combining art, music, design and gastronomy. It is held in August-September at venues throughout the city: art spaces, galleries, embankments. Here you can listen to live music, watch exhibitions of young artists and taste the food of local chefs.
Coffee and Culture Festival
The end of October is a time of fragrant celebration for coffee lovers. Yunnan is known for its coffee plantations, and Kunming becomes the center of coffee culture. The festival hosts master classes from the barista, tasting rare varieties, competitions and live music. The atmosphere is relaxed, creative, like a street carnival.
Musical and cultural events throughout the year
Kunming is a city with an active music and art scene. Throughout the year there are open-air concerts, ethnic festivals and street fairs. In spring and summer, performances in squares and parks are especially popular - both traditional instruments and modern bands can be heard here.
In autumn, there are jazz evenings and street food festivals.
Spring (March-May)
The weather:
Average daily temperature: +18...+25 °C
Night temperature: +10... +14 °C
Rain a little, air dry and fresh
cherry blossoms, camellias and magnolias - the city is especially beautiful
Water temperature in Dianchi Lake: about +17... +20 ° C, you can swim only conditionally (the lake is not beach type, more walking).
What is important: Spring is the best time for walking, excursions and trips to the mountains. There are many festivals and flower exhibitions in the parks.
Season assessment: Ideal for tourism is a mild climate and a flourishing city.
Summer (June-August)
The weather:
Average daily temperature: +23 ... +27 °C
Night temperature: +16... +19 °C
The rainy season – July and August bring short-term, but heavy downpours, often in the evening.
Despite the summer, the heat is easily tolerated due to the altitude.
Water temperature: about +22 ... +24 ° C - pleasant for boat trips.
Important: Summer is a green, rich season: everything blooms, but you should take an umbrella or a light jacket. Great time for excursions outside the city: Stone forest, Western mountains, waterfalls and tea plantations look especially picturesque.
Season assessment: Good for active travel, but be prepared for the rain.
Autumn (September-November)
The weather:
Average daily temperature: +18... +23 °C
Night temperature: +10... +14 °C
Rainfall is small, the air is clear, the sky is clear.
The leaves change color, the parks are especially picturesque.
Water temperature: +18... +20 °C
Autumn is the second peak of the tourist season after spring. A great time to walk in the parks and travel to the mountains. There are also many festivals: coffee, gastronomic, cultural fairs.
Season assessment: The optimal balance of weather and events is very comfortable and beautiful.
Winter (December – February)
The weather:
Average daily temperature: +13... +18 °C
Night temperature: +6...+9 °C
Rain is almost absent, the air is dry and sunny.
Sometimes there are cool nights, but there is almost no snow.
Water temperature: +13 ... +15 ° C, cool.
In winter, camellias, roses and even orchids bloom in Kunming - the city does not lose its "spring" atmosphere. Ideal for those who want to escape from the northern cold, but without the heat.
Season Assessment: A quiet and pleasant period for leisurely rest and walks.
Language of communication
Official language: Putonghua ().) is Standard Chinese (Mandarin). It is used in business, official and tourist environments, as well as in schools and transport.
Local languages:- Dozens of ethnic minorities live in Kunming and Yunnan Province (Dai, and Bai, Nasi, Hui, Hani, etc.). Each nation has its own dialect or language, but most people understand Mandarin well. In Kunming, Yunnan Chinese is also common – it sounds softer and with a local accent.
English:- At major hotels, airports, restaurants and attractions, staff often speak English. In ordinary cafes, markets and transport, English is rarely known, so it is useful to have an interpreter on your phone (or learn basic phrases in advance).
Traditions and customs that should be respected
1. Greetings and behaviour
Chinese people don’t usually shake hands first — instead, a slight nod or smile is considered a normal greeting.
Avoid overly active hugs or touches – this can be perceived as a violation of personal space.
Pointing a finger at someone is considered impolite. Better point with your whole hand.
When transferring items (especially gifts or documents), it is customary to use both hands.
2. Respect for elders and culture
Respect for age and status is an important part of Chinese culture.
If you’re talking to an older person, speak politely, don’t interrupt, and bow slightly when greeting.
At family dinners or feasts, don’t start eating first – wait for the elders to take the food.
3. Food and behavior at the table
Do not place the sticks vertically in a bowl of rice - it resembles funeral rituals.
Do not point fingers at other people.
Please try at least a little of each dish.
In Kunming there are many spicy dishes and dishes with spices - specify the degree of spiciness with the words "bù là" ( ) - "not spicy".
Leave some food on your plate is a sign that you are full (not disrespectful).
4. Gifts and thanks
If you receive a gift, it is customary not to open it immediately, but to thank and open it later.
It is not recommended to give watches, knives or umbrellas - they symbolize separation.
Good gifts: souvenirs from your country, sweets, tea, books.
5. Temples and religious sites
Buddhist and Taoist temples do not make noise, laugh, smoke or take pictures without permission.
At the entrance, remove the headdress, do not touch the statues and offerings.
If you see monks, it is better not to start the conversation first, but to bow with a slight tilt of the head.
Laws and regulations that must be followed
1. Documents
Always carry a passport or a copy - the police can check the documents.
You will be registered in hotels – this is a normal procedure.
2. Visa and registration
Most countries require a Chinese visa, including Kunming.
If you are staying at a private hotel, they must report your stay to the local police station within 24 hours.
3. Street behaviour
Don’t throw away the garbage, there may be a penalty.
Crossing the street strictly on pedestrian crossings.
Smoking is prohibited in public areas (metro, cafes, hotels, parks).
4. Photos and videos
Photography of military installations, police posts and government buildings is not allowed.
In temples and museums - only if there is no sign "No photo".
5. Internet and communications
Many Western websites (Google, Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp) are blocked in China.
To access, you can install a VPN in advance.
WeChat is the main way of communication, payment and navigation in Kunming.
6. Alcohol and public order
Alcohol is allowed, but drinking outside or in parks is not allowed.
Disturbance of public order, disputes with the police or obscene behavior are taken very seriously.
Greetings and communication
) (N) h)o) - Hello / Hello
) (Z)oshang h)o) - Good morning
) (Xiàwù h)o) - Good afternoon
) (W)nshàng h)o) - Good evening
) (Zàijiàn) - Goodbye
) (Bàibài) - Until (informally)
) (Q)ngwèn) - Excuse me, may I ask...
) (Duìbuq)) - Excuse me
го (Méiguānxì) - It's okay / It's okay
Gratitude and courtesy
) (Xièxiè) - Thank you
) (Bù kèqì) - Please (in response to thank you)
) (Q)ng) - Please / Please
ы (Máfan nы) - Please help me
(Hěn gāoxìng rènshí n)) - Nice to meet you
Transportation.
Q,ngwèn, dìtiě zhàn zài n,r? - Excuse me, where is the metro station?
... (W yào qù ... de piào) - I need a ticket to...
(Duōshao qián?) - How much is it?
? (Hu chē shénme shíhou fāchē?) - When does the train leave?
(Bāng bāng w !) - Help me!
At the restaurant.
) (Q)ng gěi w) càidān) - Menu, please
(W bú yào là de) - I don't eat spicy
С (M Сidān) - Account, please
(Hěn h o chī!) - Very good!
) (Shu)) - Water
) (Chá) - Tea
) ) (Kāfēi) - Coffee
Purchases and markets
(Zhège duōshao qián?) - How much does it cost?
(Piányi yīdi n, kěy ma?) - Cheaper, please.
) (W) zh)shì kànkan) - I'm just looking
(Kěy shuāk ma?) - Can I pay with a card?
)י) (W) yào yī gè dàizi) - Need a package
Emergency situations
(Jiùmìng!) - Help me!
) (W) mílù le) - I'm lost
ую/ую (Qуюng jiào jуюngchá / jiùhùchē) - Call the police/ambulance
) (Yàodiàn) - Pharmacy
ница (Yīyuàn) - Hospital
Simple dialogues of the tourist
At the restaurant:
N h o! Q ng gěi w càidān. - Hello there! Menu, please.
I don't eat spicy food.
, ! (M idān, xièxiè!) - Check, please!
On the street / in transport:
, ? (Q ngwèn, gōngjiāo chē dào hu chē zhàn zěnme z u?) How does the bus go to the station?
(W ng qián z)u, ránhòu zu) zhu)n.) - Go straight, then go left.
On the market:
(Zhège duōshao qián?) - How much does it cost?
(Tài guì le, kěyшев piányi yīdiшевn ma?) - Too expensive, can it be cheaper?
(H o de, xièxiè!) - All right, thank you!
Food and drink
1. Tea
Pu-erh is a fermented tea from Yunnan, known for its beneficial properties for digestion and metabolism.
Yunnan Green Tea is a mild taste, rich in antioxidants.
Flower teas (Jasmine, Chrysanthemum) are useful for immunity and relaxation.
Tea can be bought in special tea shops, packed in gift sets.
2. Local dishes
Yunnan cheese "Rufu" (Rufu) is a fermented soy cheese, sharp and aromatic, like a local delicacy.
Soup with mushrooms and medicinal herbs - often made from local wild mushrooms (for example, shiitake) and herbs that strengthen the immune system.
Rice and noodle dishes with minority spices are unique in taste and texture.
3. Snacks and sweets
Dried fruits (mango, lychee, durian) are natural and healthy.
Sesame candies and local nut sweets.
Spicy chips made from bamboo or potatoes.
Medicines and natural products
1. Traditional Chinese Medicine
Herbal fees - to improve digestion, sleep, immunity.
Ointments and balms from Yunnan herbs - for joints, muscles, against fatigue.
Plasters and tinctures of bark, roots, mushrooms - in herbalists' pharmacies, often packed in small boxes for tourists.
2. Fungi and superfoods
Shiitake, reishi (Lingzhi), Cordyceps - dry mushrooms or extracts.
Known as immune stimulants and energy support.
You can buy in pharmacies or in the markets of herbalists in the form of powder, tablets or dried mushrooms.
Souvenirs and gifts
1. Traditional products of ethnic minorities
Fabrics and embroidery - Dai, Nasi, Hani people create colorful fabrics and bags.
Silver jewelry - bracelets, earrings, pendants in ethnic style.
Dolls and figurines are traditional costumes and accessories of local peoples.
2. Tea and dishes
Tea in gift packaging (puerh, green, floral).
Clay teapots from Yunnan are beautiful and functional for brewing local tea.
3. Natural cosmetic and aromatic products
Yunnan butters and creams.
Soap with floral or herbal extracts.
Aromatic sticks with herbs and wood.
4. Ethnic pottery and decoration
Small clay figurines, cups, tea sets.
Carving wood and stone with ethnic motives.
Safety of rest
General safety: Kunming is considered a relatively safe city for tourists. The crime rate is low, but the usual precautions are:
Keep an eye on personal belongings in transport and markets.
Do not leave bags and phones unattended.
Avoid lighted streets at night.
Medical safety:
In Kunming, good city and private hospitals, pharmacies are common.
It is recommended to have international health insurance covering emergency care and hospitalization.
Natural conditions:
The city is at an altitude of about 1900 m, so it is possible slight dizziness or fatigue with a rapid change in activity.
In the rainy season (summer), heavy rains and road erosion are possible - plan your movement taking into account the weather.
Documents
Passport - valid at least 6 months from the moment of entry.
Most countries require a tourist visa (usually 30 days, extended as needed).
There and back tickets can be requested at the border.
Insurance policy – it is desirable to have a copy on a mobile device.
Keep copies of documents separately in case of loss of originals.
Health insurance
You must have international travel insurance that covers:
Emergency medical care.
Hospitalization.
Repatriation (if required).
Many insurance companies offer policies that include COVID-19 and other infectious diseases.
Emergency services phones
Police - 110
Ambulance - 120
Fire service - 119
Tourist assistance (city) – major tourist centers have tourist information telephones, usually 24/7.
Mobile and Internet
Local SIM cards: China Mobile, China Unicom, China Telecom – the connection is simple, you need a passport.
Roaming of foreign operators: works, but more expensive than local SIM.
Internet: Many foreign websites (Google, Facebook, WhatsApp) are blocked. You can use a VPN.
Mobile applications for transport and navigation: Didi (analogue of Uber), Baidu Maps, Amap.
Term of stay of the tourist
The standard tourist visa is 30 days with the possibility of renewal at the local immigration office.
Depending on the country, you can apply for a visa for 60 or 90 days, but most often a short visit is limited to a month.
Extension is possible, but you need to apply in advance to the immigration office before the visa expires.
Create a query and local guides will offer you the best options
