China's Grand Triangle & The Yangtze
A Deep Dive into the Traditions of Bai, Naxi, and Tibetan Communities
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Kunming - The Spring City
Upon your arrival in Kunming, our professional guide will greet you at the airport and transfer you to your downtown hotel. After settling in, begin your Yunnan exploration at the Golden Temple, a magnificent Taoist temple constructed entirely of bronze that shines like gold in the sunlight. Continue to Green Lake Park, often called the "jade of the city" for its beautiful waterscapes and tranquil atmosphere.
Evening Recommendation: For an authentic Yunnan dining experience, visit the historic Emerald Cloud Restaurant near Green Lake Park, offering both excellent cuisine and beautiful park views.
Day 2: Kunming Rural Life & Geological Wonders
Start your day experiencing local culture at Zhuanxin Farmers' Market, Yunnan's largest market where you'll discover unique regional produce including wild mushrooms and exotic vegetables. Afterwards, marvel at the spectacular Stone Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage site featuring extraordinary karst formations shaped over 270 million years. In the afternoon, take a high-speed train to Dali (approximately 2 hours) where you'll be transferred to your hotel in the ancient city.
Day 3: Dali's Bai Heritage
Immerse yourself in Bai minority culture today. Explore Dali Ancient City with its stone-paved roads, traditional Bai architecture, and bustling market streets. Visit the iconic Three Pagodas, symbolic structures of Dali with over 1,800 years of history. Conclude your day with a scenic walk along Erhai Lake's ecological corridor at Longkan Pier, with optional cycling available to further appreciate the stunning lakeside landscape.
Day 4: Bai Traditions & Journey to Lijiang
Before departing for Lijiang, visit Xizhou to admire traditional Bai architecture at a local compound, notable for intricate wood and stone carvings. Participate in a hands-on tie-dyeing workshop, learning this traditional Bai craft from local artisans. The scenic drive to Lijiang (3-4 hours) brings you to your next destination. After hotel check-in, explore Lijiang Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site centered around Square Street, where you can observe the distinct Naxi culture.
Evening Recommendation: Experience local flavors at No.88 Snack, a beloved restaurant housed in traditional courtyards, then enjoy Lijiang's magical atmosphere when lanterns illuminate the ancient streets.
Day 5: Naxi Culture Immersion
Discover the ancient capital of the Naxi people at Baisha Village, where you'll visit a local family to learn about Naxi customs and daily life. Admire the remarkable Baisha Murals that blend Naxi, Han, and Tibetan artistic traditions. Continue to Black Dragon Pool Park for stunning views of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, then deepen your understanding of Naxi heritage at the Dongba Culture Museum, which preserves the unique Dongba hieroglyphic writing system.
Day 6: Scenic Journey to Shangri-La
Travel through dramatic landscapes to Shangri-La, stopping at the First Bend of the Yangtze River and Stone Drum Town. Experience the breathtaking Tiger Leaping Gorge, one of the world's deepest gorges, where the Yangtze River forces through narrow passages between towering mountains. Your Shangri-La guide will greet you and assist with hotel check-in upon arrival.
Day 7: Tibetan Culture in Shangri-La
Explore the Tibetan heartland starting with Songzanlin Monastery, Yunnan's largest Tibetan Buddhist monastery often called the "Little Potala Palace" for its impressive architecture. Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Potatso National Park, wandering through pristine forests and alongside crystal-clear Shudu Lake. Conclude your cultural experience with a visit to a Tibetan family, where you'll enjoy traditional butter tea and gain insights into Tibetan lifestyle and hospitality.
Day 8: Departure from Shangri-La
Your journey through Yunnan's minority regions concludes with a transfer to Shangri-La Airport. Direct flights are available to Kunming, Chengdu, Guangzhou, and Lhasa for those continuing their travels.