[2025 Gejiu Attraction] Travel Guide for Laoyinshan Scenic Area (Updated Mar)

🌄 “Appreciating the gentle east wind, a riot of color heralds the spring.” March is the season of nature's most generous gifts, and Gejiu, a small city nestled in the mountains and rivers of Yunnan, is particularly enchanting in March. When the spring breeze gently blows, Gejiu awakens from its slumber, brimming with vitality and making it a must-see destination for travel enthusiasts. Let's embark on this March journey to Gejiu together! 🗺️ Overview Gejiu is a charming small city, embraced by mountains and adorned with Jin Lake, a picturesque landscape resembling a natural painting 🖼️. With a spring-like climate year-round, March in Gejiu offers comfortable temperatures, averaging between 15-25°C (59-77°F), perfect for outings. The city boasts a rich history, culture, and unique ethnic customs. Strolling through its streets, you can sense the passage of time and experience the vibrant local life. 🚗 Transportation - External Transportation: - Airplane ✈️: You can fly to Kunming Changshui International Airport and then take an airport bus to Gejiu. The journey takes about 3 hours and is convenient and efficient. - Train 🚉: If you choose to travel by train, you can arrive at Kunming Railway Station or Kunming South Railway Station and then transfer to a bus to Gejiu. There are frequent buses from Kunming to Gejiu, departing from Kunming South Bus Station, with a journey time of approximately 2.5 hours. - Internal Transportation: - Bus 🚌: Gejiu has a comprehensive bus network, with fares ranging from CNY1-2. It's an economical and affordable way to get around. However, be mindful of the operating hours, as some routes end early in the evening. - Taxi 🚕: Taxis have a starting fare of CNY7 and are a convenient option, especially for groups or travelers with luggage. - Shared bicycles/e-bikes 🚲: Gejiu is a small city, and riding a shared bicycle or e-bike through its streets and alleys allows you to freely admire the scenery and stop for photos whenever you like. It's a popular mode of transportation for many tourists. 🌅 Attractions 1. Jin Lake 🌊: Gejiu's iconic landmark, Jin Lake, boasts clear, turquoise waters that shimmer under the sun. In March, the lakeshore is adorned with weeping willows and vibrant flowers. Strolling along the lake, feeling the gentle breeze, is incredibly relaxing. You can also take a boat ride 🛶 for a closer look at the picturesque scenery and enjoy a leisurely time. 2. Baohua Park 🌳: With lush greenery and pavilions scattered throughout, Baohua Park is a popular spot for locals to relax and unwind. It features various rare plants and a zoo where you can see adorable animals. In March, cherry blossoms, peach blossoms, and other flowers bloom in abundance, creating a sea of flowers 🌸, perfect for taking stunning photos. 3. Lao Yin Mountain 🗻: Ascend Lao Yin Mountain for a panoramic view of Gejiu. Hike along the mountain trails, enjoying the natural scenery and fresh air. Once you reach the summit, the breathtaking view of Jin Lake and the city below is truly awe-inspiring. You can also savor local snacks like grilled tofu at the top, adding a unique touch to your experience. 4. Yashadi Waterfall Hot Springs 💧: Located about 40 km (25 miles) from Gejiu, Yashadi offers a unique combination of waterfalls and hot springs. In March, the weather is neither too cold nor too hot, making it ideal for soaking in the hot springs while listening to the cascading waterfalls, immersing yourself in the wonders of nature and achieving ultimate relaxation. There are also farm stays nearby where you can enjoy authentic local cuisine. 5. Manhao Scenic Area 🌄: This scenic area features dense forests, murmuring streams, and beautiful natural landscapes. In March, wildflowers bloom across the mountains, making it a great place for hiking and exploration. Here, you can admire the spectacular Red River Valley scenery, experience the rich ethnic customs, and savor the local specialty – tamarind-stewed fish. 🍜 Local Cuisine 1. Gejiu Small Meat Skewers 🍖: One of Gejiu's signature dishes, these skewers are made with fresh beef or pork, cut into small pieces, grilled over charcoal, brushed with a special sauce, and sprinkled with sesame seeds and chopped green onions. The aroma is irresistible, and the tender texture will leave you wanting more. 2. Cross-Bridge Rice Noodles 🍜: A Yunnan classic, Gejiu's version of Cross-Bridge Rice Noodles has its own unique characteristics. The rich and flavorful broth is served with a variety of ingredients, including meat slices, vegetables, and quail eggs. The ingredients are added to the boiling hot broth one by one, and the smooth and chewy rice noodles are then added. Every bite is a burst of flavor and pure satisfaction. 3. Grilled Tofu 🧈: Gejiu's grilled tofu is exceptional. The tofu undergoes special processing, resulting in a crispy golden-brown exterior and a tender, juicy interior. It's served with a unique dipping sauce, available in dry or wet versions. The dry sauce is spicy and addictive, while the wet sauce is sour, spicy, and appetizing. Each bite is incredibly satisfying. 4. Iced Rice Porridge 🥣: This sweet and soft glutinous rice porridge is topped with rose sugar, sesame seeds, crushed peanuts, and a scoop of shaved ice. The refreshing and sweet taste makes it a summer favorite in Gejiu, but it's also a delightful treat in March. 5. Tamarind-Stewed Fish 🐟: This dish embodies the local culinary traditions. The unique sourness of tamarind perfectly complements the fresh fish, creating a rich and flavorful broth. The tender fish meat, infused with a hint of sweet and sour flavor, is truly unforgettable. 🏠 Accommodation Guide 1. City Center Area 🏢: We recommend choosing hotels or guesthouses near Jin Lake. This area offers convenient transportation, comprehensive amenities, and easy access to dining and shopping. You can enjoy the beautiful view of Jin Lake from your balcony and take evening strolls along the lakeshore. Prices range from CNY200-800, depending on the hotel's rating. 2. Old Town 🧭: For travelers who prefer to experience the local atmosphere, the old town offers a variety of traditional guesthouses at affordable prices, typically between CNY100-300. While the facilities may not be as modern, you'll be immersed in the authentic charm of Gejiu. 3. Hot Spring Resort Area ♨️: If you're looking for a relaxing hot spring getaway, the hot spring hotels near Yashadi Waterfall Hot Springs are an excellent choice. Rooms usually come with private hot spring pools, allowing you to unwind and rejuvenate whenever you like. Prices are slightly higher, ranging from CNY500-1500 per night. ⚠️ Travel Tips 1. Sun Protection 🌞: Gejiu enjoys ample sunshine, and even in March, the UV rays can be strong. Be sure to take sun protection measures, such as applying sunscreen, wearing a hat and sunglasses. 2. Mosquito Repellent 🦟: As the weather warms up in March, mosquitoes become more prevalent, especially in mountainous areas and near water. Remember to bring mosquito repellent to avoid bites. 3. Dining Notes 🍽️: Gejiu cuisine tends to be flavorful and some dishes can be quite spicy. If you're not a fan of spicy food, inform the waiter when ordering and ask for recommendations for mild or non-spicy options. 4. Travel Time 🕙: Traffic congestion can occur during rush hour in Gejiu. Try to avoid traveling during these times to prevent delays. 5. Respect Local Customs 🙏: Gejiu is home to several ethnic minorities. During your visit, respect local customs and traditions to avoid any misunderstandings due to cultural differences. We hope this Gejiu travel guide for March helps you have a pleasant trip and create wonderful memories in Gejiu 💕!

🌳In March, as the spring breeze blows gently and everything comes back to life, it's the perfect time to travel. If you're looking for a place to escape the hustle and bustle, get close to nature, and experience local life, Gejiu is definitely the place to be. This small city, hidden among the mountains and rivers of Yunnan, has a unique charm waiting for you to explore. Travel Itinerary Day 1: Exploring Tin Culture 📍Morning: After arriving in Gejiu, head to the Gejiu Museum to delve into the history and rich tin culture of the "Tin Capital". The museum's abundant artifacts and materials will take you on a journey through time, witnessing the city's glorious past built on tin. 📍Noon: Enjoy authentic Gejiu cuisine at a restaurant near the museum. Try the chicken rice noodles—smooth rice noodles paired with tender chicken and rich broth—a truly satisfying experience. 📍Afternoon: Visit Jinhu Lake and stroll along the shore, taking in the picturesque scenery. Jinhu Lake is like a sparkling pearl nestled in the heart of the city. Weeping willows line the shimmering lake, with birds occasionally skimming the surface—a captivating sight. Don't forget to take photos at the landmark buildings by the lake!📸 📍Evening: Find a barbecue restaurant near Jinhu Lake and savor Gejiu's distinctive barbecue. Known for its unique dipping sauces and grilling techniques, Gejiu barbecue offers grilled tofu, chicken wings, pork belly, and more—each bite a burst of local flavor. Day 2: Experiencing Natural Beauty 📍Morning: Head to Laoyin Mountain and take a cable car up, enjoying panoramic views of Gejiu city along the way. At the summit, the observation deck offers breathtaking vistas of rolling mountains and magnificent natural scenery. It's a photographer's paradise, where every shot is a masterpiece. 📍Noon: Have lunch at a farmhouse restaurant on Laoyin Mountain. Fresh vegetables and free-range poultry from the mountains create the most authentic and delicious dishes. 📍Afternoon: After descending Laoyin Mountain, visit the Yashadi Waterfall Hot Springs. Relax and rejuvenate in the warm spring water while admiring the surrounding waterfalls, experiencing the magic and beauty of nature. 📍Evening: Return to the city and explore the snack street, sampling various local snacks like Pao Luda and cold rice noodle rolls. Day 3: A Leisurely Stroll through the Countryside 📍Morning: Visit Jiaji Village, a sea of pear blossoms. March is the peak season for pear blossoms, and the pure white flowers blanket the mountains, creating a breathtaking spectacle. Wander through the pear blossom forest, as if stepping into a fairy tale, and capture the beauty with your camera. 📍Noon: Enjoy a farmhouse meal in a nearby village, experiencing the simplicity and warmth of rural life. 📍Afternoon: After a short rest, prepare for your departure, carrying with you wonderful memories of your unforgettable Gejiu trip. Food Recommendations 🍜Besides the aforementioned chicken rice noodles, Gejiu offers many other specialties. Try the small meat skewers, marinated and grilled over charcoal, sprinkled with special seasonings—irresistibly fragrant and perfect for snacking. There's also ice porridge, soft glutinous rice with sweet brown sugar, various preserved fruits, and shaved ice—a refreshing treat on a hot day. Accommodation Suggestions 🏨For budget-conscious travelers, there are many convenient and affordable hotels in the city center with good amenities. For a more luxurious experience, resort hotels offer beautiful surroundings and attentive service, ensuring a relaxing stay. Travel Tips 📌Check the weather forecast in advance, as Gejiu's weather in March can be unpredictable. Pack appropriate clothing. 📌Be mindful of safety and follow the rules when visiting Laoyin Mountain and Yashadi Waterfall Hot Springs. 📌Protect the flowers and trees when taking photos in Jiaji Village. Avoid trampling on them. 📌Pay attention to food hygiene to avoid stomach upset. 🌄Gejiu's beauty lies not only in its natural scenery and cuisine but also in its cultural atmosphere and relaxed pace of life. Here, you can slow down, appreciate the beauty of life, and forget all your worries. I hope this guide helps you embark on a wonderful journey to Gejiu and create your own cherished memories.💕

| Explore Gejiu in One Day! This route is perfect for those who love "special forces-style" travel. The attractions are concentrated, so you can easily visit them all in one day and take lots of beautiful photos! ✅ Banshan Cable Car🚡 Starting point navigation: Xinyuan Hotel Highlights: Only 1 yuan for a one-way trip! The cable car shuttles through the mountains, making you feel like you're in "Little Hong Kong." Every photo you take is a Hong Kong-style blockbuster. ✅ Gejiu Station Site Highlights: A small yellow house with a strong literary style, perfect for taking photos. However, there are many cars parked at the entrance, so it's recommended to visit during off-peak hours. ✅ Railway Station Mall Highlights: It's bustling at night, with various snacks to satisfy your taste buds. During the day, it's perfect for taking retro-style photos, as if you've traveled back to the last century. ✅ Jinhu Park Highlights: Highly recommended to walk around the lake! The scenery along the way is picturesque, a perfect blend of city and nature, with every step being a great photo spot. ✅ Gejiu Museum Highlights: As a county-level museum, it surprisingly houses many first-class cultural relics! The evolution of the tin culture is explained in great detail, making it a must-visit for culture enthusiasts. ✅ Baohua Park & Laoyinshan Scenic Area Highlights: Baohua Park is the entrance to Laoyinshan. You can choose to hike (2,800 steps, a challenge for your heart and lungs!) or take the cable car (25 yuan one-way, 40 yuan round-trip). Laoyinshan Scenic Area: Glass Walkway on the Mountain Top: Overlook the entire city with a wide view. Jingang Tower: The ticket is only 6 yuan. After climbing the tower, you can enjoy a 360-degree bird's-eye view of Gejiu City, with stunning scenery.

👍️Recommended reasons Lao Yin Mountain towers over Yunnan Province. From the top, you can overlook the city and lake, and enjoy the beautiful scenery. The mountain has a pleasant climate and fresh air, making it a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and get close to nature. The mountain also has a rich history and culture, with ancient buildings and relics that tell stories of the past. Whether you are looking for natural scenery or cultural experiences, Lao Yin Mountain will not disappoint you. ❣️Detailed address Gejiu City, Honghe Hani and Yi Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan Province. 🕒Opening hours 08:00–22:00. 🎫Tickets: Free. 🎫Glass walkway tickets: - Adult: CNY 57. - Discounted (children/seniors/students): CNY 50. 🚘Transportation You can first go to Gejiu City, and then take a local bus or taxi to the foot of Lao Yin Mountain. You can also drive there. The mountain road is winding, so please drive carefully🚗. 📅Must-see attractions - Glass walkway: Suspended in mid-air, with a deep abyss below, walking on it is thrilling and exciting, and you can enjoy the surrounding scenery. - Viewing platform: With a wide view, it is a great place to watch the sunrise and sunset. The golden light shines on the city and the lake, creating a dreamlike scene. Tour route Walk slowly up the mountain path from the foot of the mountain, enjoying the beautiful scenery along the way. First, go to the glass walkway to experience the thrill, and then go to the viewing platform to wait for the beautiful moment. After that, you can continue to explore the ancient temples and other attractions on the mountain. Entertainment - Cable car: Take a cable car and enjoy the magnificent scenery of Lao Yin Mountain from all angles. 🏨Accommodation - Yunnan Tin Hotel: Fully equipped, with comfortable rooms and a restaurant serving local specialties. Prices range from CNY 200 to 500 per night. The hotel offers attentive service and a good rest after your tour. Nearby food recommendations - Gejiu barbecue: Various meats, vegetables, etc. are grilled over charcoal, with a rich aroma and taste, and a unique smoky flavor. - Mengzi rice noodles: Hot soup, rich side dishes, and long rice noodles are rolled in the soup. The noodles are smooth and the soup is fresh and delicious. 💗Other tips The temperature on the mountain varies greatly, so remember to bring warm clothes🧥. Pay attention to safety when climbing the mountain and follow the signs.

Gejiu is located in the southeastern part of Yunnan Province, on the north bank of the Honghe River. It has a subtropical mountain monsoon climate. With its unique geological and geographical environment and a long history of tin industry development, it has formed a rich and diverse landscape resource. It is known as the World Tin Capital. The glass walkway of Laoyin Mountain in Gejiu is the mirror of the sky above the city. It lets you experience breathtaking beauty. Finally arrived at the long-awaited glass walkway. The moment I stepped on the walkway, I felt both excited and a bit nervous. Through the transparent glass, I could clearly see the cliffs below, as if I were floating in the air. The skyscrapers of the city seemed so tiny at this moment. At first, I walked cautiously, but as I gradually adapted, I began to fully enjoy this unique perspective and thrilling experience. I even forgot that I was walking on such a high glass walkway. Standing at the edge of the glass walkway, the view was extremely wide. The rolling mountains in the distance contrasted beautifully with the blue sky and white clouds. The entire view of Gejiu City was visible below, with Jinhu Lake like a large emerald green mirror embedded among the city's tall buildings. Occasionally, a breeze would blow, gently lifting my hair. At this moment, it felt as if I had merged with nature, forgetting all my worries. The entire experience was both thrilling and wonderful. The glass walkway not only challenged my courage but also allowed me to appreciate a perfect blend of natural and urban scenery. 📍Scenic Spot Address: Glass Walkway, Laoyin Mountain Park, Gejiu City, Yunnan 🚗Transportation to the Scenic Spot: Take a taxi or walk. 👍️Must-visit Scenic Spot: Laoyin Mountain Glass Walkway 🎟️Ticket Information: Cable Car Ticket: Take a taxi to Laoyin Mountain Scenic Area, where you can buy a cable car ticket at a platform at the foot of the mountain. One-way ticket is 20 yuan, round-trip ticket is 40 yuan. We bought the round-trip ticket. Glass Walkway Ticket: After taking the cable car to the end, walk a short distance up the steps to the glass walkway ticket office. The original price is 100 yuan, now discounted to 70 yuan. Seniors aged 65 and above are free. 💗Other Tips: Before heading to the Laoyin Mountain Glass Walkway, make sure to check the weather forecast. On rainy days, both the cable car and the glass walkway are closed. Be sure to choose a day without rain. Prepare comfortable, non-slip sports shoes and a lightweight backpack, as well as a sun-protective jacket. Bring enough water and some snacks to replenish energy. There are very few restaurants selling things on the mountain. If you choose to hike up the mountain, it takes about 1.5-2 hours to reach the top. However, I personally do not recommend hiking up as it is hard on the knees, especially for the elderly and children. You need to wear shoe covers to enter the glass walkway. It is recommended to wear non-slip shoes to avoid falling. Tickets are purchased via mobile phone scan. Seniors aged 65 and above should bring their ID cards for free entry. There are self-service lockers at the entrance, so don't lose the locker receipt. It is recommended to bring a selfie stick, especially one that is over 1.6 meters long, to capture many unexpected angles, including drone-like views.

Encountering the tin city of Gejiu, I felt a secret joy in my heart. I love the cool sensation it brings, I love the traces of high-rise buildings built around the lake, I love that it is surrounded by mountains— The forest protects the buildings, and the buildings lean on the lake. I was stunned by the price of ribs at 18 yuan per jin, I was infected by the Gejiu people full of happiness, I climbed to the top of Laoyin Mountain by following a wild path! Eating local hawthorn peaches and watermelons, Sweetness lingers on my tongue... I like this small city where you can take a walk anytime, anywhere, See you next time!

Gejiu is the birthplace of Yunnan's industrial civilization, a niche tourist destination full of historical charm～ 🚄Travel Kunming➡️Gejiu 2h35min 💰64 Food Forest Ranch - Zhadian fresh dairy products are a must-try Double skin milk 7r Milk white wine 5r Delicious and not greasy! Fresh milk popsicle 3r Train station food street Sugar powder small meat skewers 1r/skewer Recommended Bu Niang small meat skewers, the meat is very fresh～ Shuai Shou Baba 10r Hobo tofu 12r Jiang San BBQ It is said to be a barbecue restaurant that locals frequent, with an average cost of 50 per person, and the taste is quite good! 🚠Sightseeing ✔️Gejiu Milk Station Ticket 10r, personally feel it's not necessary to go inside specifically, it might be in a renovation phase now, not much to see inside, the photo-worthy walls are all outside ✔️Ge Bi Lin Ping Railway Site Now converted into a French restaurant, open for casual visits ✔️Lao Yin Mountain Scenic Area (Glass walkway under maintenance until next year, don't go if you're planning to) Round trip 40r, one way 25r, if you don't want to climb, it's recommended to buy a round trip ticket, the view from the top is particularly good, you can also enjoy the scenery of Gejiu from the cable car. There is a temple at the top, you can go to pray for blessings for the New Year! Incense 6r is very affordable! ✔️1r half-mountain cable car hidden in the community Whose commuting tool is a cable car!!! It's really interesting, this cable car is the transportation tool for residents on the mountain to go home, and it was our most interesting experience during the trip～ ✔️Boarding point🔍New Vision Sales Office

Lao Yin Mountain is located beside the Jinhu Lake in Gejiu, and it is the mother mountain of Gejiu. From the west bank of Jinhu Lake, Lao Yin Mountain resembles a mother in deep slumber, nurturing generations of Gejiu people. It is the mountain that makes Gejiu, and the people of Gejiu are destined to have an unbreakable bond with it. Opening their doors to see the mountain, leaning on the window to gaze at it, even living among the mountains, the people of Gejiu find their own joys in life. The park is open to the public for free. To reach the top of Lao Yin Mountain, one can choose to hike or take the mountain cable car, which has a fee. The round-trip cost is 40, and from the top, one can overlook the entire Gejiu city area, which is quite spectacular. Friends who like it can come and take a look when they are in Gejiu.

Gejiu is known as the 'Little Hong Kong' of Yunnan and once made headlines for its low housing prices. I've always wanted to take the time to visit. I didn't want to go to crowded cities during the Spring Festival, so I arranged to spend a day here during my trip to Yunnan. It's very close to Jianshui. I citywalked in Gejiu for a day and felt that the city is indeed very suitable for living. 🚄 Take a D-train to Gejiu Station (Gejiu Station is some distance from the old town of Gejiu. There is a shuttle bus for 10 yuan/person every day according to the train arrival time. Get off and take it right away, don't miss the time, and don't ask me why). 🚶 How to play in the city? - 🚠 Mid-mountain Cable Car For just 1 yuan, you can get on the retro cable car. I rode it 3 or 4 times. The cable car is actually a bus and is very suitable for taking photos. 📍 New Horizon Sales Office (next to it) - Old Train Station Barbecue There are many barbecue places next to the old train station. The sugar-coated meat skewers are delicious, 1 yuan per skewer, so tasty that you can't stop. 📍 Zhang's Couple Meat Skewers There's also the special rice milk baba which is very delicious. - After eating, walk along the lake to 📍 Zhangzhaidian Dairy Fresh Milk Bar Have fried yogurt and milk baijiu. In the afternoon, you can take a boat tour of the lake. For dinner, find a barbecue restaurant by the lake and eat special snacks. - If you have time, you can also go to Laoyin Mountain to see the panorama. I personally think that Gejiu as a city doesn't need a special trip from a tourist perspective, but if you are on a road trip, you can stop by to experience the charm of the small city. I heard that many elderly people also like to come here to escape the summer heat.