Reverse tourism is truly amazing! I've fallen in love with this hidden gem of a city.

Tired of crowded tourist traps? Why not try reverse tourism? This time, I'm recommending a hidden gem of a city often overlooked amidst Yunnan's many scenic spots—Yuanmou. Many people's impression of Yuanmou only stays in the history textbooks as the "Yuanmou Man" site. They may pass by but never delve deeper, unaware of the stunning natural scenery and rich cultural heritage hidden here. Compared to popular tourist destinations like Dali and Lijiang, Yuanmou receives less publicity and few tourists, except for some people from other places who come for winter retreats. But once you visit, you'll be deeply impressed by its magnificent scenery, making it an ideal destination for avoiding crowds during holidays like the Lunar New Year. Here's a guide I've put together after spending a few days exploring. Don't forget to like and save it! 1. Transportation Guide Yuanmou has a high-speed rail station. It only takes 1.5 hours from Kunming. Enjoy a comfortable high-speed rail journey to this mysterious land. 2. Travel Itinerary - Day 1: Arrive in Yuanmou → Experience the charm of Leiding Village with its vibrant atmosphere and ancient trees → Admire the breathtaking spectacle of the Langbapu Earth Forest. - Day 2: Explore the Yuanmou Man Museum → Head to Jiangbian Township, stroll along the beach, and visit the Red Army Long March Memorial Hall → Optionally visit Bingnong Village. - Day 3: Visit Waipula Ancient Village to experience Yi ethnic customs → Pass through Yongren → Return to Yuanmou. - Day 4: Explore the ancient charm of the millennium-old salt capital, Heijing Ancient Town → Embark on your return journey. 3. Recommended Attractions - Langbapu Earth Forest: A natural wonder formed by hundreds of millions of years of wind and rain erosion, it is one of the largest earth forests in China. Of the two earth forest scenic areas in Yuanmou, Langbapu is larger and less crowded. The towering earth pillars are visually striking, and stepping into them feels like being on an alien planet. The lighting is fantastic in the afternoon. Tickets are only 50 yuan. - Yuanmou Man Museum: As the discovery site of Yuanmou Man, the museum displays thousands of ancient fossils, offering a great window into the origin and evolution of humankind. Admission is free. - Leiding Village: Hundreds of sturdy, centuries-old acacia trees grow in the village, including a 1,600-year-old acacia tree king. The ancient trees are tranquil and full of spiritual energy. The village is filled with a vibrant atmosphere. No tickets are required. - Jiangbian Township: A beautiful village located on the banks of the Jinsha River. Here, you can stroll along the beach, enjoy leisure time, and visit the Red Army Long March Memorial Hall to revisit that magnificent period of history. All free of charge. - Bingnong Village: Known as the "California of Yunnan," it boasts a unique Mars-like landscape. However, it's a bit far, about a 3-hour drive. You can choose to visit based on your time and energy. No tickets are required. - Waipula Ancient Village: An ancient Yi village hidden deep in the mountains. Although it belongs to Yongren, it's very close to Yuanmou. The entire village is arranged along the cliffs, with hundreds of houses scattered in an orderly fashion. The unique red earth exterior walls are full of rustic charm. No tickets are required. - Heijing Ancient Town: A salt-producing area with thousands of years of history, it belongs to Lufeng but is also very close to Yuanmou. The ancient town preserves a large number of Ming and Qing Dynasty houses, as well as dozens of cultural relics such as stone pagodas, inscriptions, ancient stages, and chastity archways. Temples like Feilai Temple, Dalong Temple, and the Confucian Temple are grand in scale, and the Wu Family Courtyard is not to be missed. All are free to visit. Yuanmou, a hidden gem, is truly worth a visit!