Yunnan Cultural & Natural Family Tour

Today you will fly to Kunming. On arrival, your private guide will be ready to welcome you at the arrival hall, and transfer to your hotel with a private car and driver. Your guide will help you with luggage and hotel check-in, and ensure your arrival is worry-free.

Start your exploration at the breathtaking Stone Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its unique limestone formations and stunning landscapes. Wander through this natural wonder and take in the awe-inspiring views.

Next, enjoy a leisurely walk along the picturesque shores of Dian Lake, where you can relax and soak in the tranquil atmosphere while enjoying the scenic views of the lake and surrounding mountains.

As the highlight of your day, indulge in a Kunming food experience, featuring local specialties such as Crossing-the-Bridge Rice Noodles and Steam Pot Chicken. Savor the rich flavors and unique culinary traditions that make Kunming a gastronomic delight.

Enjoy your free time until your guide comes and escort you to the high-speed train station.

Take a 2-hour bullet train from Kunming to Dali.

Your adventure begins with a convenient private pickup directly from Dali High-Speed Railway Station, where your driver will be waiting to welcome you to this picturesque region of Yunnan Province. After settling into your vehicle, you'll head straight to the stunning Erhai Lake, one of the most beautiful alpine lakes in China. At Erhai Lake, you'll embark on a refreshing bike ride along the shoreline, pedaling through scenic routes that offer breathtaking panoramic views of the crystal-clear waters against the backdrop of the Cangshan Mountains. This leisurely cycling experience allows you to appreciate the natural beauty of the area while enjoying the fresh mountain air. The well-maintained paths take you past traditional fishing villages, flowering fields, and numerous perfect spots for photographs. Following your lake excursion, you'll visit the charming Dali Old Town, a well-preserved historical district surrounded by ancient city walls dating back to the Ming Dynasty. Wander through the cobblestone streets lined with traditional Bai minority architecture featuring distinctive white walls and carved eaves. The old town is home to numerous craft shops selling local specialties such as tie-dye fabrics, silverware, and marble products.

Begin your day with a morning pickup as you embark on this highly recommended private countryside tour around Dali. Your first stop will be the charming Xizhou Bai Village, a well-preserved traditional settlement showcasing the unique culture of the Bai ethnic minority. Wander through the village's distinctive architecture featuring ornate gateways, intricate wood carvings, and beautiful courtyards. You'll have the opportunity to interact with local residents and learn about their customs, traditional clothing, and daily life that has remained largely unchanged for centuries.

Next, you'll visit Zhoucheng Village, famous throughout China for its traditional tie-dye craftsmanship. This ancient art form, known locally as "Bai Tie-Dye" or "Blue Calico," has been practiced here for over 1,000 years. During your visit, you'll observe skilled artisans creating beautiful patterns using natural indigo dye and traditional techniques. You'll also have the chance to participate in a hands-on workshop where you can create your own tie-dye souvenir to take home.

After exploring the villages, take a relaxing break at the picturesque Wheat Field Café. This charming countryside café offers stunning views of the surrounding landscapes, where you can enjoy freshly brewed local coffee and light refreshments while soaking in the peaceful rural atmosphere.

The highlight of your day will be a visit to a local flower farm where you'll participate in a special baking workshop to learn how to make traditional Yunnan flower cakes. These delicate pastries, filled with a sweet rose or jasmine-infused paste, are a beloved local specialty. Under the guidance of experienced bakers, you'll learn to select fresh edible flowers, prepare the filling, and master the technique of creating these fragrant treats. At the end of the workshop, you'll be able to taste your creations and take some home as a delicious souvenir.

Your journey begins with a scenic drive to Shaxi Ancient Town, a hidden gem nestled in the picturesque valley between Dali and Lijiang. Unlike its more commercialized neighbors, Shaxi remains one of the most authentic and well-preserved caravan towns along the ancient Tea Horse Road, offering visitors a glimpse into China's historic trading past without the crowds.

Upon arrival, you'll explore the heart of this historic settlement, starting with Square Street (Sideng Square), the remarkably intact marketplace that once served as a bustling trading hub for tea merchants and horse caravans. The square is surrounded by traditional wooden buildings featuring distinctive Bai minority architecture with beautifully preserved facades and intricate carvings.

Your tour continues to the impressive Xingjiao Temple, an ancient Buddhist sanctuary dating back to the Ming Dynasty. This well-preserved temple complex features colorful frescoes depicting religious scenes and historical events, offering insight into the spiritual practices that flourished alongside trade in this remote mountain town.

Next, you'll visit the Ancient Stage, a stunning wooden theater structure where traditional performances once entertained weary travelers and locals alike. The stage's detailed craftsmanship and acoustical design demonstrate the sophisticated cultural life that developed in this trading post.

Cross the historic Yujing Bridge, an elegant stone structure spanning the Heihui River that has served travelers for centuries. This picturesque bridge offers excellent photo opportunities and connects the main town to outlying villages.

The experience culminates with a leisurely 2.5-mile walk along a section of the actual Tea Horse Road trail leading from Shaxi to a neighboring village. This gentle hike follows in the footsteps of ancient traders, passing through terraced fields, small hamlets, and scenic countryside that has changed little over the centuries.

Your journey begins with a comfortable 2-hour scenic drive from Shaxi to Lijiang, traveling through the picturesque Yunnan countryside. As you leave the hidden gem of Shaxi behind, you'll make your way to one of China's most famous ancient towns nestled in the foothills of the magnificent Jade Dragon Snow Mountain.

Upon arrival in Lijiang, your first stop will be the enchanting Black Dragon Pool Park (Heilongtan Park), one of the most photographed locations in all of China. This tranquil park features crystal-clear waters that perfectly reflect the stunning Jade Dragon Snow Mountain in the distance on clear days. You'll have time to wander through the traditional pavilions, cross elegant marble bridges, and visit the historic Deyue Pavilion and Five-Phoenix Temple complex within the park. The iconic view of the Suocui Bridge with the snow-capped mountain in the background provides the perfect photo opportunity to capture the essence of Lijiang's natural beauty.

After enjoying the peaceful atmosphere of the park, you'll head to the renowned Lijiang Ancient Town (Dayan Old Town), a UNESCO World Heritage Site dating back over 800 years. Enter through one of the old town's gates and step into a world of winding cobblestone streets, bubbling canals, and distinctive Naxi minority architecture. Unlike many other ancient towns in China, Lijiang has no city walls but is instead defined by its unique water system of canals and bridges that has functioned for centuries.

As you stroll through the labyrinthine streets, your guide will point out notable landmarks such as the intricate water wheels, the central Square Street market area, and examples of traditional Naxi wooden buildings with their characteristic upturned eaves and detailed carvings. You'll learn about the fascinating Naxi culture, one of China's most interesting ethnic minorities with their own language, customs, and matriarchal traditions.

The afternoon allows free time to explore local shops and cafes at your own pace. Browse through stores selling Naxi handicrafts, including intricate embroidery, handmade silver jewelry, and unique musical instruments. You might choose to relax at one of the many courtyard cafes overlooking the canals, perhaps sampling local Yunnan coffee or tea while watching the sunset cast a golden glow over the ancient rooftops.

After breakfast, you will visit the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain (Yak Meadow section). You will take cable car up and down the mountain. Jade Dragon Snow Mountain now is a famous scenic spot for sightseeing, mountaineering, skiing, exploration, scientific research and taking holiday. Besides, widespread legends and myths of the Naxi ethnic minority and the unclimbed Shanzidou are all important attractive spots for those who come here. Besides, Jade Dragon Snow Mountain is a sanctuary for rare animals and wild plants.

After Lunch, the guide will take you to Baisha Village to see the ancient Fresco and visit Yufeng Monastery. Baisha Village is much quieter because it is not commercialized. If you want to witness the authentic life of the Naxi People and appreciate their culture, but are tired of overcrowded Lijiang, here, at Baisha Village, you can experience the Naxi people's peaceful daily life. Heading for this village, the Baisha Murals cannot be missed.The paintings were finished by Han, Tibetan and Naxi painters as well as painters from other nationalities.At about 4pm, the driver will take you back to your hotel.

Enjoy your free time until your guide come and escort you to airport for your onward flight.