Kunming, the capital of Yunnan Province, is a vibrant city full of culture, history and stunning scenery. Located in southwestern China, Kunming is known as the “City of Eternal Spring” due to its mild climate and year-round blooming flowers. With its picturesque lakes, lush green hills, and colorful ethnic minority villages, Kunming is a great destination for those looking to explore the beauty of China. Here are the top 20 places to see in Kunming.
1. Dianchi Lake – Located just south of Kunming, Dianchi Lake is the sixth largest freshwater lake in China. It is an important source of drinking water for the city and has a rich history dating back to the Ming Dynasty. Visitors can take a boat tour of the lake and explore its small islands.
2. Yuantong Temple – Built in the 8th century, Yuantong Temple is one of the oldest and most famous temples in Kunming. Inside the temple is a large statue of Guanyin, the Goddess of Mercy, which is said to have miraculous powers.
3. Western Hills – West of Kunming, the Western Hills are a stunning forested area with spectacular views of the city. There are several temples and pagodas scattered throughout the hills, and visitors can take a cable car to the top of the mountain.
4. Green Lake Park – Located in the center of Kunming, Green Lake Park is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. The park features a large lake, pavilions, and a variety of plants and flowers.
5. Bamboo Temple – Built in the 16th century, the Bamboo Temple is one of the most famous temples in Kunming. It is home to a large statue of the Buddha and is surrounded by lush bamboo forests.
6. Stone Forest – Located about 90 kilometers from Kunming, the Stone Forest is a stunning natural landscape of limestone formations. It is said to be the inspiration for the Chinese idiom “The stones are like forest”.
7. Cuihu Park – Located in the center of Kunming, Cuihu Park is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. The park features a large lake, pavilions, and a variety of plants and flowers.
8. Grand View Park – Located in the western part of Kunming, the Grand View Park is a large park with a variety of attractions. Visitors can take a boat ride on the lake, explore the temples, or take a cable car to the top of the mountain.
9. Western Hills Zoo – Located in the Western Hills, the Western Hills Zoo is home to a variety of animals from all over the world. The zoo also has a petting zoo, a dinosaur park, and a large aquarium.
10. Golden Temple – Located in the eastern part of Kunming, the Golden Temple is one of the oldest and most important temples in the city. It is home to a large statue of the Buddha and is surrounded by lush gardens.
11. Yunnan Nationalities Village – Located just outside of Kunming, the Yunnan Nationalities Village is a great place to learn about the culture and customs of the various ethnic minorities in Yunnan Province.
12. Yunnan University – Founded in 1922, Yunnan University is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in China. The university campus is a great place to explore and is home to a variety of museums and gardens.
13. Xishan Park – Located in the western part of Kunming, Xishan Park is a large park with a variety of attractions. Visitors can take a boat ride on the lake, explore the temples, or take a cable car to the top of the mountain.
14. Cuihu Lake – Located in the center of Kunming, Cuihu Lake is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. The lake is surrounded by lush gardens and pavilions, and visitors can take a boat ride on the lake.
15. West Pagoda – Located in the western part of Kunming, the West Pagoda is one of the oldest and most famous pagodas in the city. It is home to a large statue of the Buddha and is surrounded by lush gardens.
16. Golden Temple Park – Located in the eastern part of Kunming, the Golden Temple Park is a great place to explore and learn about the culture and customs of the various ethnic minorities in Yunnan Province.
17. Yunnan Provincial Museum – Located in the center of Kunming, the Yunnan Provincial Museum is a great place to learn about the history and culture of Yunnan Province. The museum houses a large collection of artifacts and artworks.
18. Daguan Park – Located in the western part of Kunming, Daguan Park is a large park with a variety of attractions. Visitors can take a boat ride on the lake, explore the temples, or take a cable car to the top of the mountain.
19. Dongchuan Red Land – Located about 200 kilometers from Kunming, the Dongchuan Red Land is a stunning landscape of red soil and mountains. It is one of the most beautiful places in Yunnan Province and is a great place to take photos.
20. Dali – Located about 200 kilometers from Kunming, Dali is a beautiful city full of culture and history. Visitors can explore the old city walls, take a boat ride on Erhai Lake, or take a cable car to the top of Cangshan Mountain.