Yunnan

Yunnan, also known as “Dian,” lies in China’s southwest and borders Vietnam, Laos, and Myanmar. As one of the most culturally diverse regions in China, Yunnan is home to a wide range of ethnic minorities. The provincial capital, Kunming, is famously called the “City of Eternal Spring.” Popular travel destinations such as Dali, Lijiang, and Xishuangbanna attract visitors with their natural beauty and unique cultural flair.

Geographically, Yunnan offers a stunning range of landscapes—from snow-capped mountains and highland lakes to lush rainforests and terraced rice fields. It’s a place where nature meets tradition, making it one of China’s most fascinating provinces for travelers seeking both adventure and cultural discovery.

Location of Yunnan Province in China

Major Cities in Yunnan

Yunnan includes 8 prefecture-level cities and 8 autonomous prefectures. Each destination features distinct landscapes and cultural traditions. From ancient towns to tropical jungles and scenic valleys, this province offers endless surprises.

While Kunming, Dali, Lijiang, and Xishuangbanna are the most visited, lesser-known gems like Shangri-La, Tengchong, Pu’er, and Honghe are perfect for in-depth travel.

City Map of Yunnan Province

Kunming

The provincial capital is known for its year-round spring climate. Key attractions include the Stone Forest, Dian Lake, Yunnan Nationalities Village, and the World Horticultural Expo Garden. Kunming is also a convenient hub for travel across Yunnan.

Lijiang

Lijiang Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You’ll find Naxi-style architecture, cobblestone lanes, and scenic waterways. The nearby Jade Dragon Snow Mountain and Black Dragon Pool are must-sees.

Dali

Nestled between Cangshan Mountain and Erhai Lake, Dali is the heart of Bai culture. The Dali Ancient Town, Three Pagodas, and Shuanglang Village all offer charming views and a relaxed vibe.

Shangri-La

Located in the Tibetan plateau, this area is rich in Tibetan culture and natural beauty. Highlights include Pudacuo National Park and Songzanlin Monastery.

Tengchong

Famous for volcanic hot springs and well-preserved historical towns like Heshun, Tengchong also features North Sea Wetlands and geothermal parks, making it a top wellness destination.

Top Places to Visit in Yunnan

From ancient towns to snow mountains, lakes, and forests, Yunnan offers an incredible mix of nature and heritage. Here are some of the best places to visit:

Top Tourist Attractions in Yunnan Province

Lijiang Old Town

A cultural gem filled with canals, bridges, and traditional Naxi culture. It’s a living museum and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Stone Forest (Kunming)

An otherworldly landscape of towering limestone formations, perfect for hiking and photography.

Erhai Lake (Dali)

Surrounded by mountains and dotted with charming villages, it’s ideal for cycling, boating, and slow travel.

Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden

China’s largest tropical garden, offering an immersive rainforest experience.

Jade Dragon Snow Mountain

One of the southernmost snow-capped mountains in China, popular for glacier views and alpine meadows.

Lugu Lake

A peaceful highland lake shared with Sichuan, known for the Mosuo matriarchal culture and crystal-clear waters.

Pudacuo National Park (Shangri-La)

Yunnan’s first national park, home to alpine lakes, virgin forests, and rare wildlife.

Heshun Ancient Town (Tengchong)

A tranquil village rich in literary history, perfect for leisurely strolls and quiet reflection.

Yunnan Cuisine

Yunnan food is a delightful fusion of ingredients and flavors from its diverse ethnic communities. Local chefs use wild mushrooms, herbs, and spicy seasonings to create bold yet balanced dishes. Regions like Kunming, Dali, Lijiang, and Xishuangbanna each offer signature flavors worth exploring.

Crossing-the-Bridge Rice Noodles (Kunming)

A hot, oily broth keeps the temperature high while you cook fresh ingredients tableside. It’s Yunnan’s most famous comfort food.

Steamed Chicken in Bamboo Pot (Jianshui)

Slow-cooked in a steam pot for hours, this dish is often seasoned with Chinese herbs for a light, healing taste.

Spicy & Sour Fish (Dali)

Using carp from Erhai Lake, this Bai-style dish is known for its tangy, refreshing flavor.

Dai-style Grilled Meats (Xishuangbanna)

Herbs like lemongrass and galangal are wrapped in banana leaves for grilling. These smoky, citrusy flavors are distinctly Southeast Asian.

Wild Mushroom Hotpot (Chuxiong)

During summer and fall, Yunnan’s wild mushrooms are served in bubbling pots. Delicious and aromatic—but know your fungi!

Rice Cakes (Central Yunnan)

Made from pounded sticky rice, these cakes can be grilled, stir-fried, or filled. A tasty alternative to wheat-based staples.

Basic Facts About Yunnan

Area and Population

Yunnan covers approximately 394,000 square kilometers with a population of about 47 million. Here are the major cities and prefectures:

  • Kunming – 21,400 sq km | ~8.6 million people
  • Qujing – 28,800 sq km | ~5.7 million
  • Yuxi – 15,300 sq km | ~2.3 million
  • Dali – 29,500 sq km | ~3.4 million
  • Honghe – 32,900 sq km | ~4.7 million
  • Zhaotong – 23,000 sq km | ~5.0 million
  • Chuxiong – 23,000 sq km | ~2.7 million
  • Wenshan – 32,000 sq km | ~3.4 million
  • Xishuangbanna – 19,100 sq km | ~1.3 million
  • Dehong – 11,500 sq km | ~1.2 million
  • Pu’er – 45,000 sq km | ~2.4 million
  • Lincang – 24,500 sq km | ~2.2 million
  • Diqing (Shangri-La) – 23,000 sq km | ~400,000
  • Nujiang – 14,700 sq km | ~550,000
  • Baoshan – 19,600 sq km | ~2.7 million
  • Lijiang – 20,600 sq km | ~1.3 million

Climate and Weather

Due to its complex geography, Yunnan’s climate varies dramatically from north to south and mountain to valley. Most areas enjoy year-round travel conditions. Here’s a month-by-month breakdown:

  • January: Sunny and dry in Kunming (3–17°C); cold in Lijiang and Dali; warm and mild in Xishuangbanna
  • February: Early spring begins; rising temperatures and blooming flowers
  • March: Peak flower season; ideal for hiking and countryside tours
  • April: Comfortable weather; start of summer in southern Yunnan
  • May: Great for mountain hiking and lakeside retreats
  • June: Rainy season begins; hot in the south, but Kunming remains pleasant
  • July: Lush scenery and cooler highlands; bring rain gear
  • August: Still rainy, but air is fresh and skies often clear after showers
  • September: Rain fades; one of the best months for travel
  • October: Clear skies and crisp air—peak travel season
  • November: Cooling down in the north, but Kunming and Xishuangbanna stay mild
  • December: Cold in highlands, but Kunming enjoys spring-like sunshine

Postal Codes and Area Codes

Here are the main zip and area codes for major cities:

  • Kunming – Zip: 650000 | Area Code: 0871
  • Lijiang – Zip: 674100 | Area Code: 0888
  • Dali – Zip: 671000 | Area Code: 0872
  • Xishuangbanna – Zip: 666100 | Area Code: 0691
  • Shangri-La (Diqing) – Zip: 674400 | Area Code: 0887
  • Tengchong – Zip: 679100 | Area Code: 0875
  • Pu’er – Zip: 665000 | Area Code: 0879
  • Qujing – Zip: 655000 | Area Code: 0874
  • Yuxi – Zip: 653100 | Area Code: 0877
  • Honghe (Mengzi) – Zip: 661100 | Area Code: 0873
  • Chuxiong – Zip: 675000 | Area Code: 0878
  • Wenshan – Zip: 663000 | Area Code: 0876
  • Baoshan – Zip: 678000 | Area Code: 0875
  • Zhaotong – Zip: 657000 | Area Code: 0870
  • Lincang – Zip: 677000 | Area Code: 0883
  • Nujiang (Liuku) – Zip: 673100 | Area Code: 0886