Things to do in Kunming

I recommend starting your hike from Xishan Park, then taking the cable car from the Longmen Grottoes entrance to Haigeng Dam. (The reverse route, starting from Haigeng Dam, is easier and I suggest going in the morning.) I don't recommend visiting the Longmen Grottoes.

I visited this well-known 5A scenic spot several years ago. I bought Ashima cigarettes there for 260 yuan a carton, but I heard they've been discontinued for a few years. There were many vendors selling ginseng fruit in the parking lot, the cheapest being 10 yuan for five bags. I bought quite a few.

Yunnan Ethnic Village in Kunming is a massive open-air park showcasing the traditional architecture, clothing, and culture of diverse ethnic groups living in the province. Located on the shores of Dianqi Lake, this cultural complex offers a rich exploration experience where you can witness local festivals and traditional performances!

Teacher Xiaowen's explanations were very detailed, humorous, and her speaking pace was just right. I really liked it and loved the exhibitions at the Yunnan Provincial Museum, as well as its rich historical atmosphere and cultural charm.

The children saw many animals, and the sightseeing bus was very convenient, with no long waits. The fox's eyes were so heartbreaking; I really wanted to take it home, haha. Hornbills, giraffes, raccoons, swans, baboons, pandas, tigers, red-crowned cranes, pelicans, turkeys, ostriches, macaws, brown bears… so many animals! It's definitely worth a visit.

It's definitely worth taking children and the elderly, as it saves a lot of energy. The Haigeng Dam and the Ethnic Village are nearby. I was lucky to go in mid-to-late October, and the first flocks of seagulls had already arrived. Apparently, they arrived half a month earlier than usual. Even though it was just the first flock, I felt it was already very beautiful.

I feel like I've only explored less than 5% of the Xishan Scenic Area, haha. There are definitely some special forces members in Kunming's Xishan Scenic Area! I had to catch the high-speed train to Dali this afternoon, otherwise I could have spent more time exploring. While taking the bus and sightseeing vehicle up the mountain, there were also many hiking routes. Seeing many signs and steps, it seems there are many other things to explore and experience besides Longmen. There was a senior citizen tour group from Guangdong, and their guide was saying, "Climbing Longmen will increase your worth a hundredfold!" Well, that strengthened my resolve to climb it! It definitely lived up to expectations. Although the climb wasn't long or too tiring, some steps were very steep, with angles of over 60 degrees. And the various caves and temples gave one the feeling that there were immortals and hermits hidden in the mountains—very mysterious and awe-inspiring. There weren't many people there early in the morning. It wasn't until I took the cable car down that I noticed a few people boarding, and very few people were going down. Finally, I hope this trip will really double my wealth! Everything goes smoothly, haha!

Colorful Yunnan is a very cost-effective amusement park. Families, the elderly and children have a great time. The prices are also very reasonable. Compared to Universal Studios, Happy Valley and Fantawild, it is much more affordable. I will definitely come again!

Kunming Old Street is a historical and cultural area comprised of over a dozen streets and alleys, including Guanghua Street, Wenming Street, Jingxing Street, and Qianwang Street. Located in the heart of Kunming, it is one of the few remaining century-old streets in the "Spring City." Here, cobblestone streets, Republican-era Western-style buildings, and traditional residences intertwine, carrying nearly 900 years of urban life and atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll and photography.

Located in Xishan District, Kunming City, Yunnan Province, China, the Haigeng Dam is a major engineering project connecting Dianchi Lake with the mainland and a landmark of Kunming. Haigeng Dam not only serves important flood control and drainage functions, but also attracts numerous visitors with its beautiful natural scenery and relaxing atmosphere. From the Haigeng Dam, one can admire the vast expanse of Dianchi Lake, shimmering in the sunlight, the water and sky blending into one, resembling a moving ink painting. In the distance, Dianchi Lake ripples with emerald green waves, occasionally soaring above, adding a vibrant and lively atmosphere. The dam's edges are shaded by lush trees, and there are walking paths and rest areas along the way, allowing visitors to stroll, feel the breeze, and enjoy the tranquil natural atmosphere. The Haigeng Dam presents a different beauty in different seasons. In spring, peach blossoms, cherry blossoms, and other flowers bloom in a dazzling display of color. In summer, the lake is lush and green, its waters emerald green and clear. In autumn, the leaves turn yellow, adding a golden warmth. In winter, mist occasionally lingers, adding a sense of mystery. Especially in the early morning or evening, when the setting sun shines on Dianchi Lake, the lake's surface shimmers with a golden glow, and the sky transforms into vibrant shades of orange, red, purple, and blue, creating a magnificent natural landscape. At these times, Haigeng Dam becomes a prime location for photography and leisure, a place that invites you to linger. In short, Haigeng Dam, with its vast expanse of water, rich natural landscapes, and tranquil atmosphere, is a rare and beautiful part of Kunming's scenic landscape.