Top 50 Best Things to Do in Kunming
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Top 50 Best Things to Do in Kunming

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Trip.Best is a collection of travel rankings that takes into account the travel choices and genuine preferences of hundres of millions of Trip.com users. It is updated monthly based on real data.
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  • Dianchi Laketop_1
    󰺂8.8
    Kunming23.8 km from downtown
    trip best TravelHotspot logoTyndall effect frequently appears over Dianchi Lake in Yunnan, creating a picturesque scene of light and shadow
    trip best small logoFeatured in 2026 China 100 - Best Things to Do
    Highlights:
    󰀆Surrounded by mountains & Daguan Tower
    󰋄Majestic plateau freshwater lake
    󱨠Saved by 1291 users󱨠4773 positive reviews
    4.7/5
    M67***87M67***87

    The cable car ride downhill covers most of the Haigeng Dam and park area, taking you from the mountain to Dianchi Lake. The route is quite interesting, and if you're short on time but still want to visit Dianchi Lake, you can take the cable car directly.

  • Stone Forest Scenic Areatop_2
    󰺂8.8
    Shilin66.8 km from downtown
    trip best TravelHotspot logoMagnolias in full bloom: the perfect time to admire blossoms at Stone Forest scenic area | Jan 2026-Jan 2026
    trip best small logoFeatured in 2026 China 100 - Best Things to Do
    Highlights:
    󱨜See the bizarre karst peaks
    󰀆Ashima rock: unique & captivating
    󱨠Saved by 1747 users󱨠8240 positive reviews
    4.7/5
    Anonymous userAnonymous user

    Shilin Scenic Area is located in Shilin Yi Autonomous County, Kunming City, Yunnan Province, China, about 78 kilometers from Kunming. It is a World Natural Heritage Site, a World Geopark, and a National 5A-level tourist attraction. Its core feature is the karst landform formed 270 million years ago. The core scenic area consists of five major sections, including the Greater Stone Forest and the Lesser Stone Forest, encompassing diverse landscapes such as sword-shaped stone peaks, waterfalls, and lakes. The core scenic area comprises the following five sections, showcasing typical karst landforms: Greater Stone Forest: A dense cluster of bluish-gray stone peaks, with the tallest rock pillar exceeding 40 meters. Representative attractions include: * Stone Forest Scenic Spot: A group of iconic giant stones inscribed with the characters "Stone Forest." * Sword Peak Pool: The pool reflects the sword-shaped stone peaks, creating a stunning interplay of light and shadow. Lesser Stone Forest: A sparse and beautiful stone peak area, primarily featuring cultural landscapes: * Ashima Stone Statue: The embodiment of a "golden and beautiful girl" in Yi legend, a solitary stone peak beside the Jade Bird Pool.​​

  • Yunnan Nationalities Villagetop_3
    󰺂8.3
    23.63
    Kunming.Dianchi Lake Scenic Area/ Sunac World9 km from downtown
    trip best TravelHotspot logoWarm Winter Seagull Watching at Yunnan Ethnic Village: Where Black-Headed Gulls Dance with Ethnic Culture | Dec 2025-Jan 2026
    trip best small logoAchieved a 3-year streak on the annual lists
    Highlights:
    12 villages & 26 cultures
    󰀆Experience lively folk shows & festivals
    󱨠Saved by 918 users󱨠6225 positive reviews
    4.3/5
    ……Momo…………Momo……

    Although opinions on this site vary across different platforms, I think it's actually quite good. It's suitable for getting a basic understanding of different ethnic groups and is worth watching, especially with kids. It's a great outdoor activity that also helps you learn more.

  • Yunnan Wild Animals Park
    4
    󰺂8.1
    24.87
    Kunming.Kunming Wild Animal Park/The Golden Temple scenic spot10.4 km from downtown
    trip best TravelHotspot logoThe pelican family successfully unlocks a new continent
    trip best small logoFeatured in 2026 Asia 100 - Family-friendly Attractions
    Highlights:
    󰀆Elephant shows & red panda meetups
    󰌌Feed & interact with red pandas
    󱨠Saved by 309 users󱨠4113 positive reviews
    4.7/5
    Anonymous userAnonymous user

    A very nice wildlife park where the animals are very lively and interact with nature in a close environment. The café at Giraffe Manor is excellent, and there's also a unique binturong exhibit, making it perfect for relaxation and family outings.

  • Kunming Xishan Scenic Resort
    5
    󰺂7.8
    44.27
    Kunming.Dianchi Lake Scenic Area/ Sunac World11.3 km from downtown
    Highlights:
    󱓊50-foot natural stone gateway
    Cable car ride overlooking temples
    󱨠Saved by 749 users󱨠1615 positive reviews
    4.5/5
    Delia_ZhangDelia_Zhang

    I bought a package ticket for Longmen Grottoes + eco-friendly bus + electric cart for 70 yuan, for a leisurely trip. A single ticket for Longmen Grottoes costs 30 yuan, the eco-friendly bus costs 12.5 yuan one way (25 yuan round trip), and the electric cart costs 10 yuan one way (optional).

  • Yunnan Provincial Museum
    6
    󰺂7.6
    Kunming.Guandu Ancient Town10.3 km from downtown
    trip best small logoFeatured in 2026 China 100 - Family-friendly Attractions
    Highlights:
    󱓊Near Kunming Zoo & Green Lake
    Diverse ethnic artifacts on display
    󱨠Saved by 349 users󱨠875 positive reviews
    4.6/5
    罗伊特林根忽必烈罗伊特林根忽必烈

    The day before yesterday afternoon, I visited the Yunnan Provincial Museum under the guidance of Professor Yu. This was my third time in Kunming, but my first time visiting the Provincial Museum. Before coming, I was full of curiosity because of the history books and martial arts stories; after arriving, I felt that there wasn't enough time, because I wanted to see more. It's especially worth mentioning that Professor Yu's vivid and engaging explanations were present throughout the entire visit. He used simple and easy-to-understand language to guide us through Yunnan's five thousand years of history, allowing us to appreciate its unique natural scenery and cultural spirit. Definitely worth a visit, highly recommended!

  • Old Street Kunming
    7
    󰺂7.6
    Kunming.Nanping Pedestrian Street731m from downtown
    trip best TravelHotspot logoBest places to see winter cherry blossoms in Kunming | Jan 2026-Jan 2026
    trip best small logoNo. 2 of Night Attractions in Kunming
    Highlights:
    󰋄Panoramic view & charming old town
    Local snacks & ethnic crafts gathered
    󱨠Saved by 1437 users󱨠431 positive reviews
    4.7/5
    康泰时康泰时

    Kunming Old Street is a must-see for travelers in Yunnan. It offers a glimpse into the authentic flavors of old Kunming. Enjoy a variety of Yunnan snacks, visit the Anti-Japanese War Memorial Hall, Nie Er's former residence, and explore the Ma Family Courtyard, home to Kunming's former mayor during the Republican era.

  • Colorful Yunnan Paradise
    8
    󰺂7.2
    52.23
    Kunming.Colorful Yunnan Paradise29.7 km from downtown
    trip best small logoFeatured in 2026 China 100 - Family-friendly Attractions
    Highlights:
    Ferris wheel view of park
    󰀆Ferris wheel view of Dian Lake
    󱨠Saved by 446 users󱨠2993 positive reviews
    4.7/5
    M52***87M52***87

    Nighttime tickets are cheaper, but wait times are shorter than during the day, allowing for a wider range of attractions, and the Torch Festival is also lively. The park's design reflects strong ethnic characteristics and cultural heritage. Objectively speaking, annual passes are relatively inexpensive, and for families traveling with children, you can rent very affordable B&Bs (over 1,000 yuan per month, or under 100 yuan per day), perfect for both study and leisure activities. However, the planned location fails to fully leverage the unique character of Dianchi Lake. Due to its locational constraints, its food, living facilities, and transportation are inferior to those of the main urban area. For example, the local economy (Jinning District) may be problematic. The road between the main urban area and the park is unlit early in the evening, and the road is uneven in some areas.

  • Shangrila-Dynamic Yunnan
    9
    󰺂7.2
    49.24
    Kunming.First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University/Pan Jia Wan950m from downtown
    trip best small logoFeatured in 2026 China 100 - Night Attractions
    Highlights:
    Yunnan's canyon terraces & rainforest
    Spectacular light & sound visual feast
    󱨠Saved by 465 users󱨠1149 positive reviews
    4.6/5
    Chanel 💃Chanel 💃

    The show was pretty good. We bought Class A tickets for 360 yuan each and two for 720 yuan. We were seated in the middle. The visuals were fantastic. There were also many foreign audiences who watched the show. It really embodied our national culture through the show. Yunnan Impression is definitely worth seeing when you're in Kunming.

  • The Green Lake Park
    10
    󰺂7.0
    Kunming.Cuihu District1.8 km from downtown
    trip best TravelHotspot logoRed-billed gulls keep their winter appointment at The Green Lake Park | Nov 2025-Jan 2026
    trip best small logoNo. 4 of Family-friendly Attractions in Kunming
    Highlights:
    󱓊Autumn red maples & lake reflections
    󰋄Winter red-billed gulls gather
    󱨠Saved by 747 users󱨠1141 positive reviews
    4.7/5
    东仔的旅行札记东仔的旅行札记

    Green Lake truly lives up to its reputation as Kunming's People's Park. Just entering from the south gate, you're greeted by flocks of seagulls, especially lively on the left. Sunlight streams in, and the seagulls fly right under your nose – the emotional impact is incredible! Although it's crowded, everyone's there to see the seagulls, so it doesn't spoil the mood. I recommend coming in the morning; in winter, the sunlight is fantastic around 10 am! Also, you'll see chubby, round little squirrels everywhere, completely unafraid of people, occasionally swooping down for a snack. By the way, the flowers near the Fish Viewing Pavilion are in bloom – plum blossoms and magnolias – worth seeing. The Fish Viewing Pavilion is best visited in the afternoon for a stroll; at that time, the water shimmers, and the green roofs of the ancient buildings are reflected in the water like they're edged with gold. This is my last day of my Yunnan trip. I hope everyone has a pleasant and worthwhile journey!

Best things to do in Kunming (2026)

Looking for the ultimate experiences in Kunming? From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, Kunming offers an exceptional collection of activities and attractions that cater to every type of traveler.

Whether you’re here for sightseeing, adventure, or cultural exploration, these top-rated activities promise unforgettable memories.

Top-rated things to do in Kunming

If you want to make the most of your trip, these activities deliver the full Kunming experience. Expect popular attractions, unique local experiences, and must-see spots that capture the essence of the city.

Dianchi Lake

• Kunming | 23.8 km from downtown

• : Surrounded by mountains & Daguan Tower,Majestic plateau freshwater lake

Stone Forest Scenic Area

• Shilin | 66.8 km from downtown

• : See the bizarre karst peaks,Ashima rock: unique & captivating

Yunnan Nationalities Village

• Kunming.Dianchi Lake Scenic Area/ Sunac World | 9 km from downtown

• : 12 villages & 26 cultures,Experience lively folk shows & festivals

Things to do for unique experiences

These activities provide memorable experiences beyond the ordinary. Enjoy cultural tours, adventure sports, guided excursions, and immersive local experiences designed for all interests.

Things to do near Kunming

If you want to explore attractions just outside Kunming, there are plenty of activities that combine scenic surroundings with convenient access to the city, perfect for day trips or short excursions.

Each of these activities offers a unique escape within 1–3 hours of Kunming, ideal for travelers who want to combine sightseeing with local experiences.

What makes things to do in Kunming special

• Iconic landmarks: Visit must-see sights that define the city.
• Local experiences: Engage in culture, crafts, and unique activities.
• Accessible adventures: Easily reachable attractions for all travelers.
• Diverse options: From relaxing experiences to adventurous outings.

Tips for booking things to do in Kunming

1. Plan ahead for popular attractions to avoid long queues.
2. Book early for guided tours or seasonal events.
3. Compare prices and packages on Trip.com for exclusive deals and bundled experiences.
4. Consider weekday visits for a quieter and more personalized experience.

Experience the best things to do in Kunming

Ready to explore the best of Kunming? Discover Trip.Best's curated list of things to do and experience adventure, culture, and unforgettable memories.

Book your perfect activities on Trip.com today, where excitement and discovery awaits.

What are the best things to do in Kunming?
The best things to do in Kunming include: Dianchi Lake|Stone Forest Scenic Area|Yunnan Nationalities Village|Yunnan Wild Animals Park|Kunming Xishan Scenic Resort. These activities offer a mix of cultural experiences, sightseeing, and entertainment suitable for all types of travelers.
How much do the top attractions in Kunming cost?
Dianchi Lake:Free|Yunnan Nationalities Village:From NZD 23.63|Yunnan Wild Animals Park:From NZD 24.87|Kunming Xishan Scenic Resort:From NZD 44.27|Yunnan Provincial Museum:Free
What amenities or facilities can I expect at top attractions in Kunming?
Most attractions in Kunming provide facilities such as visitor centers, guided tours, parking, rest areas, dining options, and accessibility features to ensure a comfortable experience.
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