KunmingLijiang
Find your perfect Kunming & Lijiang travel guide with a 5D4N itinerary. Travel between the two cities by high-speed train in around 3 hours! Explore Kunming’s natural scenery and local culture before discovering Lijiang’s ancient towns, snow mountains and unique Naxi heritage.
- 5-Day 4-NightItinerary
- About 3.5 hoursHigh-speed train
- From S$31.91High-speed train price
Day 1–3
Kunming
2 nights · Stone Forest / Dianchi Lake / Green Lake Park
Direct High-Speed Train
About 3.5 hours
Day 4–5
Lijiang
2 nights · Lijiang Old Town / Jade Dragon Snow Mountain / Shuhe Ancient Town
Trip.Pulse
💬 What You Need to Know About Kunming & Lijiang
Plan your Kunming and Lijiang trip with ease. From itinerary ideas, transport options to accommodation recommendations, discover useful tips for your Yunnan getaway.
How many days do I need for a Kunming and Lijiang itinerary?
A 5-day 4-night itinerary is ideal for exploring both destinations at a comfortable pace. Spend 2 nights in Kunming to discover its natural landscapes, local food and city attractions, then continue to Lijiang for ancient towns, snow mountain scenery and cultural experiences.
What is the best way to travel from Kunming to Lijiang?
The high-speed train is the most convenient way to travel between Kunming and Lijiang. The journey takes around 3 hours, offering a comfortable and efficient option for travellers exploring both destinations.
Which area is best to stay in Kunming for first-time visitors?
For first-time visitors, staying near Green Lake Park, Kunming Old Street or the city centre is recommended. These areas offer convenient access to popular attractions, local restaurants and transport links, making it easier to explore Kunming’s highlights.
Where should I stay in Lijiang for the best experience?
For first-time visitors, staying near Lijiang Old Town is a popular choice for easy access to traditional streets, local dining and cultural attractions. Shuhe Ancient Town is also a great option for travellers looking for a quieter and more relaxed atmosphere.
When is the best time to visit Kunming and Lijiang?
The best time to visit Kunming and Lijiang is generally from March to May and September to November, when the weather is mild and comfortable for sightseeing. These seasons are ideal for outdoor activities, exploring ancient towns and enjoying Yunnan’s natural scenery.
Should I visit Kunming or Lijiang first?
Many travellers choose to start in Kunming before heading to Lijiang. Kunming offers a gentle introduction to Yunnan with its city attractions and local cuisine, while Lijiang provides a more immersive experience with ancient towns, snow mountains and ethnic culture. The route can be adjusted based on your travel schedule.
Kunming & Lijiang: Two Cities, Two Experiences
Discover two unique cities in Yunnan, combining Kunming’s natural landscapes and local culture with Lijiang’s ancient towns, snow mountains and Naxi heritage. Travel between the two cities easily by direct high-speed train in around 3 hours.
昆明 KUNMING
Natural Landscapes · Local Culture
Kunming is a city where nature and culture come together. First-time visitors can explore Stone Forest, Dianchi Lake and Green Lake Park, while discovering Yunnan cuisine and local traditions. From scenic landscapes to vibrant neighbourhoods, Kunming is best enjoyed at a relaxed pace through its natural beauty, food and cultural experiences.
丽江 LIJIANG
Ancient Towns · Snow Mountain Views
Lijiang offers a unique travel experience with its ancient towns, mountain scenery and ethnic culture. Visit Lijiang Old Town, Jade Dragon Snow Mountain and Shuhe Ancient Town, or enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of traditional streets and local Naxi heritage. With its stunning landscapes and rich history, Lijiang is a perfect addition to a Yunnan journey.
📅 Kunming & Lijiang 5 Days 4 Nights Itinerary
Start planning your Kunming‑Lijiang adventure now!
Kunming
Arrive in Kunming · Lakeside Scenery & Downtown Night Tour
Settle down in Kunming, visit Dianchi Lake, Green Lake Park and wander the historic‑commercial districts for local food and night views.
🗼
Attraction
4 Recommendations
14:30
Green Lake Park
翠湖公园
A beloved urban lakeside park for local residents, ideal for slow walking and relaxing after your arrival.
Free Entry
Recommended Stay 1.5–2 Hours
17:00
Dianchi Lake
滇池
Famous waterfront viewing spot to overlook the vast Dianchi Lake. Perfect for sunset photography.
Free Entry
Lakeside View
Recommended Stay 1.5 Hours
Check Details
19:00
Kunming Old Street
昆明老街
Well‑preserved historic quarter with ancient buildings, boutique shops and numerous local snack stalls.
Free Entry
Historic Street
Recommended Stay 1‑1.5 Hours
20:30
Nanping Street · Jinma Biji Archway
南屏街 · 金马碧鸡坊
Bustling night‑time downtown landmark, full of restaurants, street food and vibrant evening atmosphere.
Free Entry
Night Market
Recommended Stay 1.5–2 Hours
🍜
Restaurant
2 Recommendations
Laoxian Rice Noodles
建新园
Time‑honoured Kunming chain restaurant serving authentic crossing‑the‑bridge rice noodles and local Yunnan snacks.
Yunnan Rice Noodles / Local Snacks
Affordable
Fuzhaolou (Nanping Street)
福照楼(南屏街店)
Well‑known local restaurant famous for steam‑pot chicken, Yunnan ham and classic home‑style Yunnan dishes.
Steam‑pot Chicken / Yunnan Cuisine
Mid‑range
🏨
Accomodation
Day 1
Kunming Papuman PAPMAN (Xishan Wanda)
★★★★★
📍 31st Floor, Building 3, Runcheng Fourth Avenue, Qianxing Road, Qianwei Subdistrict
S$ 153
1 night
Book Now →
Moonlight Courtyard Hotel (Kunming Nanping Street and Near the train station)
★★★★
📍 No. 1 Courtyard, North Arcade, Dongxisita Pedestrian Street
S$ 82
1 night
Book Now →
🚇
Transport
Day 1
Airport / Train Station → City Centre — From Kunming Changshui International Airport, take the airport shuttle bus or ride‑hailing service to downtown. Kunming Railway Station is connected to the city centre via taxi or public bus.
Downtown Hotel → Green Lake Park — Short taxi or public bus ride, 10‑15 minutes from Nanping Street area.
Green Lake Park → Haigeng Dam (Dianchi Lake) — One‑way taxi journey takes roughly 30‑40 minutes, public bus options are available but slower. Taxi is strongly recommended to save sightseeing time.
Haigeng Dam → Kunming Old Street & Nanping Street — Taxi ride back to the old town downtown area, approximately 35‑45 minutes. Kunming Old Street and Jinma‑Biji Archway are within 10‑minute walking distance of each other.
Kunming‑Lijiang
Yunnan Ethnic Village & Dounan Flower Market, Transfer to Lijiang
Explore Yunnan’s rich ethnic culture, visit Asia’s largest fresh‑flower market then take an evening high‑speed train to Lijiang.
🗼
Attraction
2 Recommendations
11:00
Yunnan Ethnic Village
云南民族村
Large scenic park reproducing villages of 26 Yunnan ethnic minorities, with cultural performances and traditional architecture.
Ticket Required
Cultural Landmark
Recommended Stay 3‑3.5 Hours
Book Now
15:00
Dounan Flower Market
斗南花市
Asia’s biggest fresh flower trading market, colourful blooms and affordable cut‑flowers for souvenirs. Best visited in the late‑afternoon trading session.
Free Entry
Flower Market
Recommended Stay 2 Hours
🍜
Restaurant
2 Recommendations
Ethnic Village Riverside Restaurant
云南民族村周边滇味小馆
Casual local‑flavour eatery close to the scenic‑park gate, serving Yunnan fried rice, wild vegetable dishes and braised chicken.
Local Yunnan Home‑cooked Food
Affordable
Dounan Flower Market Food Street
斗南花市美食街
Wide selection of fast‑casual dining options near the flower market, convenient quick meal before heading to the railway station.
Snacks / Rice‑based Dishes
Affordable‑Mid‑range
🏨
Accomodation
Day 2
Reclusion·Panoramic Ancient City Forest Wellness & Café (Lijiang Old Town Hillside Designer Resort)
★★★★
📍 Beside Wangu Building, No. 77, Huangshan Upper Section
S$ 65
1 night
Book Now →
🚇
Transport
Day 2
Downtown Kunming → Yunnan Ethnic Village — Taxi or ride‑hailing takes roughly 25‑30 minutes, public transport also available.
Yunnan Ethnic Village → Dounan Flower Market — One‑way taxi ride is approximately 40‑50 minutes. Allow sufficient travel buffer between the two attractions.
Dounan Flower Market → Kunming South High‑speed Railway Station — Very short 10‑15‑minute taxi ride.
Kunming South → Lijiang — High‑speed train journey takes around 3-4 hours. Select evening‑departure tickets.
Lijiang Railway Station → Ancient Town Hotel — Take a taxi to Lijiang Ancient Town north‑gate. Private vehicles cannot drive into the old‑town pedestrian‑only lanes; you will need to walk the final section with luggage.
Lijiang
Deep‑Dive into Lijiang Ancient Town Local Life
Experience authentic daily life at Zhongyi Market, then explore Mu’s Residence, Sifang Street and the winding cobblestone lanes of the old town.
🗼
Attraction
3 Recommendations
09:30
Zhongyi Market
忠义市场
The most authentic local wet market of Lijiang, far less touristy, great for experiencing everyday Naxi‑town life.
Free Entry
Local Market
Recommended Stay 1.5‑2 Hours
12:30
Mu’s Residence
木府
Former palace of the Naxi chieftain, a magnificent heritage site mixing Han and Naxi architectural styles.
Ticket Required
Historic Landmark
Recommended Stay 1.5 Hours
Book Now
15:30
Sifang Street & Ancient Town Alley Wander
四方街 & 古城街巷漫游
The historic central square inside Lijiang Ancient Town, surrounded by traditional shops, teahouses and craft stalls. Explore the old‑town lanes at a relaxed pace.
Free Entry
Cultural Heritage
Recommended Stay 2‑2.5 Hours
🍜
Restaurant
2 Recommendations
A‑Po Wax Ribs Hotpot (Old Town Branch)
阿婆腊排骨火锅古城店
Highly‑rated local hot‑pot restaurant serving Lijiang’s signature cured pork ribs hot‑pot, very popular with visitors.
Wax Ribs Hotpot / Naxi Cuisine
Mid‑range
Zhongyi Market Snack Stalls
忠义市场小吃摊
Budget‑friendly local street‑food stalls offering yak‑milk yoghurt, flower cakes, local rice noodles and fried snacks.
Street Food / Light Bites
Affordable
🏨
Accomodation
Day 3
Lijiang Old Town Fog Gallery · Misty Streamside Rain Corridor Panoramic View home (Mufu Branch)
★★★★
📍 No. 120, Chongren Lane, Qiyi Street
S$ 98
1 night
Book Now →
VENTO · Sunlit Golden Peak Lake View Vacation Hotel
★★★★
📍 No. 95-97 Qingxi Street
S$ 89
1 night
Book Now →
🚇
Transport
Day 3
Ancient Town Hotel → Zhongyi Market — 10‑15‑minute walk from most accommodation inside the old‑town southern district. No motor‑vehicle access within ancient‑town lanes.
Zhongyi Market → Mu’s Residence — 12‑18‑minute leisurely walk through old‑town stone streets.
Mu’s Residence → Sifang Street — 8‑10‑minute walk, all attractions today are within the pedestrian‑only Lijiang Ancient Town, travel entirely on foot.
Lijiang
Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, Blue Moon Valley & Spruce Meadow
Take a full mountain excursion to visit Spruce Meadow, the famous turquoise‑water Blue Moon Valley and admire the spectacular snow‑capped scenery.
🗼
Attraction
3 Recommendations
08:00
Jade Dragon Snow Mountain
玉龙雪山
Start your mountain trip from the main entrance, go through the scenic‑area check‑in and prepare for your sightseeing route.
Ticket Required
Natural Scenery
Recommended Stay 2‑2.5 Hours
Check Details
11:30
Blue Moon Valley
蓝月谷
Crystal‑clear turquoise glacial lakes at the foot of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, one of Lijiang’s most photographed natural sites.
Included in Snow‑Mountain Ticket
Lake View
Recommended Stay 2.5‑3 Hours
Check Details
15:30
Spruce Meadow (Yunshanping)
云杉坪
High‑altitude grassland platform with unobstructed, close‑up views of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, accessed by cable car.
Ticket Required
Cable‑car Fee
Alpine Viewpoint
Recommended Stay 2‑2.5 Hours
Book Now
🍜
Restaurant
2 Recommendations
Snow‑Mountain Scenic‑Area Canteen
雪山景区餐厅
Simple self‑service dining venue inside the scenic zone, convenient hot meals for lunch during your mountain trip.
Casual Hot Meals / Noodles
Affordable
Tiancun Yak‑Beef Hotpot Restaurant
田村·酸汤牦牛肉火锅
Comfortable dinner spot back in Lijiang Ancient Town, perfect for warming‑up after a long cold day at high altitude.
Yak‑Beef Hotpot
Mid‑range
🏨
Accomodation
Day 4
Tianmu Xueshan Snow Mountain Viewing Terrace Hote
★★★★
📍 No. 79 Huangshan Upper Section, Xinhua Street
S$ 89
1 night
Book Now →
The Old Town of Lijiang Time · Small House · View of the Ancient City Panorama (Beimen Store)
★★★
📍 No. 117 Wenmiao Lane, Beimenpo, Jinhong Road
S$ 19
1 night
Book Now →
🚇
Transport
Day 4
Lijiang Ancient Town → Jade Dragon Snow Mountain — Book a private‑charter car, join a group day‑tour shuttle service or hire ride‑hailing transport. One‑way journey takes approximately 1 hour. Remember to prepare warm clothing and oxygen supplies for high altitude.
Jade Dragon Snow Mountain Main Gate → Blue Moon Valley — Take the official scenic shuttle bus to reach Blue Moon Valley first.
Blue Moon Valley → Yunshanping Spruce Meadow — Ride the free intra‑scenic‑area shuttle bus then transfer to the Yunshanping cable‑car.
Yunshanping → Lijiang Ancient Town — Return journey by your pre‑booked private vehicle, around 60 minutes drive back to the old‑town area.
Lijiang
Shuhe Ancient Town, Baisha Ancient Village & Yuhu Village
Visit three quiet, authentic Naxi villages north of Lijiang, soak in rural mountain scenery before your final departure.
🗼
Attraction
3 Recommendations
09:30
Shuhe Ancient Town
束河古镇
A peaceful, laid‑back ancient Naxi town, far quieter than Lijiang Ancient Town, with tree‑shaded old lanes and boutique cafés.
Ticket Required
Historic District
Recommended Stay 2 Hours
Check Details
12:30
Baisha Ancient Village
白沙古镇
Lijiang’s oldest Naxi settlement, boasting panoramic, unobstructed views of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain.
Free Entry
Cultural Village
Recommended Stay 1.5‑2 Hours
Check Details
15:00
Yuhu Village
玉湖村
Remote stone‑built Naxi mountain village at the foot of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, famous for its rugged stone houses and rural highland landscape.
Free Entry
Mountain Village
Recommended Stay 1.5 Hours
🍜
Restaurant
2 Recommendations
Fuxian Small‑Pot Rice・Yunnan Folk‑Flavour Restaurant
浮娴小锅饭・云南民俗风味餐厅
Popular well‑established local eatery hidden inside Shuhe Ancient Town, set within a peaceful Naxi‑style courtyard. Famous for its signature bronze‑pot rice with crispy rice crust, plum‑braised ribs and wild‑mushroom dishes.
Signature Small‑Pot Rice / Yunnan Home‑Style Dishes
Mid‑range
Yuhu Villager Restaurant
玉湖人家
Long‑time family‑run farmhouse restaurant in Yuhu Village at the foot of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, serving authentic Naxi countryside meals made with fresh local mountain‑sourced ingredients.
Yak‑beef Hot‑pot / Local Stir‑fried Ham
Affordable
🚇
Transport
Day 5
Lijiang Ancient Town → Shuhe Ancient Town — Taxi or ride‑hailing, travel time roughly 20‑25 minutes.
Shuhe Ancient Town → Baisha Ancient Village — Short taxi ride of around 15‑20 minutes, these two villages lie along the same northern mountain route.
Baisha Ancient Village → Yuhu Village — Taxi journey takes approximately 15‑20 minutes. Public transport options are very limited in this rural zone, chartering a car for the whole morning‑afternoon trip is highly recommended.
Yuhu Village → Lijiang Airport / Lijiang Railway Station — Allow at least 1‑1.5‑hours travel time to reach your departure terminal, take a direct taxi. Leave extra travel buffer time during peak tourist seasons.
Kunming to Lijiang Transport & Route Map
The two cities are around 500 km apart. The journey by direct high-speed train takes approximately 3 hours, making it the most convenient way to travel between Kunming and Lijiang for a smooth Yunnan getaway.
🏨 Kunming & Lijiang Accommodation Recommendations
Stay comfortably in both cities with carefully selected hotels in convenient locations, offering easy access to attractions, dining areas and transport links.
Kunming · 1 Night Recommended
Popular Areas to Stay
A
Green Lake Park / Wuhua District
A favourite area for first-time visitors, offering easy access to Green Lake Park, Yuantong Temple, local cafes and cultural attractions. It is a great choice for travellers who want to explore Kunming at a relaxed pace.
Cultural Experience
B
Kunming Railway Station / City Centre
Conveniently located for transport connections, this area provides easy access to railway services, shopping centres and local dining options, making it suitable for travellers with packed itineraries.
Convenient Transport
C
Dianchi Lake Area
Surrounded by natural scenery and waterfront views, this district is ideal for travellers looking for a more peaceful stay close to attractions such as Dianchi Lake and Western Hills.
Scenic Stay
Atour Hotel Kunming Nanping Pedestrian Street Old Street
★★★★
📍 No. 1 Dongfeng West Road
S$ 91
1 night
Book Now →
FourPoints by Sheraton Kunming City Centre Hotel
★★★★★
📍 No. 1, Dongfeng West Road
S$ 100
1 night
Book Now →
Lijiang · 3 Nights Recommended
Popular Areas to Stay
A
Lijiang Old Town / Dayan Ancient Town
The most popular area for first-time visitors, with traditional streets, local restaurants and easy access to Lijiang’s cultural attractions. Staying here allows travellers to experience the charm of the ancient town day and night.
Historic Charm
B
Shuhe Ancient Town
A quieter alternative to Lijiang Old Town, offering a slower pace with boutique stays, peaceful lanes and a more relaxed atmosphere surrounded by traditional architecture.
Relaxing Stay
C
Lijiang New Town
Located closer to modern facilities, shopping areas and transport links, this area is suitable for travellers who prefer convenience and easier access to daily amenities.
Convenient Location
Lijiang Fine Art · Ancient Town Panorama Art Resort Hotel (Old Town Waterwheel Store of Lijiang)
★★★★
📍 No. 62 Jishan Lane
S$ 88
1 night
Book Now →
Panoramic View of Snow Mountain in Shanye Rizhao Jinshan (Lijiang Ancient City Branch)
★★★
📍 No. 45 Huangshan Road Upper Section, Xinhua Street
S$ 32
1 night
Book Now →
💬 Kunming & Lijiang Traveller Reviews
See what travellers who have visited Kunming and Lijiang have to say about their experiences.
amirul asaad abd razak
5 / 5Discovering Kunming, Lijiang, and Dali Prefecture offers a journey through Southwestern China’s most photogenic vistas and diverse cultures—perfect for lovers of beautiful scenery and delicious halal cuisine.
Peepoh26
5 / 5Some places leave you with beautiful photos. Lijiang leaves you with unforgettable memories. Lijiang isn’t just a destination—it’s a place that makes you slow down, breathe deeply, and appreciate the beauty of nature and culture.
Matcha-Lover
5 / 5Lijiang’s Ancient City is a mesmerizing blend of history and beauty, where time seems to pause. Walking through the lantern-lit streets, you’ll hear the soft trickle of canals, adding to the town’s dreamlike atmosphere. The wooden bridges, intricate Naxi architecture, and bustling markets create an unforgettable experience. Spring enhances the charm, with blooming flowers framing centuries-old rooftops. Whether sipping tea in a quiet courtyard or exploring hidden alleys, soaking in Lijiang’s magic feels like stepping into a fairytale.
❓FAQs About Kunming & Lijiang Travel
Get practical answers for your Yunnan journey, covering altitude‑sickness advice, high‑speed rail connections, accommodation and local tips.
Should I worry about altitude sickness when travelling to Lijiang?
Lijiang Old Town sits at roughly 2400 m above sea‑level. Many visitors experience mild headaches, fatigue or shortness of breath during their first 24‑48 hours. Move slowly, drink plenty of water and avoid alcohol. Rest well and give your body time to adapt before visiting higher‑elevation sites such as Jade‑Dragon Snow Mountain.
How long is the high‑speed‑train ride between Kunming and Lijiang?
Direct high‑speed services from Kunming to Lijiang run around 3‑3.5 hours. Trains depart mainly from Kunming South Railway Station. Book tickets several days in advance during peak holiday seasons, as popular morning departures sell‑out quickly.
Do I need to book Jade‑Dragon Snow Mountain cable‑car tickets ahead of time?
Yes, glacier‑park large cable‑way tickets are extremely limited and must be reserved online in advance via the official Lijiang Tourism Group mini‑program. Same‑day tickets are rarely available, so secure your slot 3‑7 days before your planned mountain visit.
Is it better to stay inside Lijiang Old Town or outside?
Staying within the ancient town puts you steps from bars, lanes and night‑time scenery, however most old‑town guesthouses cannot be reached by car. If you carry heavy luggage, pick accommodation just outside the old‑town gates for easier taxi drop‑offs and quieter evenings.
What clothing should I pack for Kunming and Lijiang?
Day‑night temperature gaps are large across Yunnan. Bring lightweight layers, sun‑protection gear, a waterproof jacket and comfortable walking shoes. If you plan to visit Jade‑Dragon Snow‑Mountain, pack a warm down jacket or rent winter clothing on‑site.
Can I visit Blue Moon Valley without taking the Jade‑Dragon Snow‑Mountain cable car?
Blue Moon‑Valley falls within the Jade‑Dragon Snow‑Mountain scenic‑zone. You will still need to purchase the main‑area entrance ticket, even if you skip the glacier‑park cable‑car and only explore the lake area.
Which area is best for accommodation in central Kunming?
Most first‑time visitors choose to stay near Cuihu Park, Nanping Pedestrian Street or Nanqiang Night‑Market district. These central neighbourhoods provide easy metro access, excellent local‑food options and short journeys to major downtown sights.
What local‑Yunnan food should I try in Kunming and Lijiang?
Sample crossing‑the‑bridge rice noodles, steam‑pot chicken, Yunnan wild‑mushroom hotpot and yak‑meat snacks in Lijiang. Always eat wild‑mushroom dishes at well‑established licensed restaurants for safety.
What are the cultural rules when visiting Naxi villages and temples in Lijiang?
Respect local Naxi and Tibetan customs. Do not take photographs inside temples without permission, walk clockwise around prayer‑wheels and avoid loud noise inside religious sites. Dress modestly when visiting sacred landmarks.
What popular day‑trips can I take out of Lijiang?
Top‑rated excursions include Shuhe Ancient Town, Baisha Village with its famous murals, Jade‑Water‑Village and one‑day tours heading towards Tiger‑Leaping‑Gorge. Many travellers book private‑car day‑trips for greater schedule flexibility.