This province of China, as large as Germany, is essentially mountainous. Moreover, its unspoiled nature makes it one of the most touristic areas in the country. Between ancient cities and natural wonders, why hiking in Yunnan has many answers. Discover some of them in this article.
Stroll in ancient cities
You can already start with Kunming, the capital of Yunnan and the former southern gateway to the Silk Road. Indeed, this city of nearly 5 million inhabitants owns some and is one of the least polluted in China. Among other things, you can enjoy its parks (green lake or around Dian lake), its temples (Yuantong, Golden temple) or its particular attractions (Yunnan Nationalities Village).
But it is not the only city of interest. Indeed, ancient cities such as those of Dali, Lijiang or Shaxi present many architectural testimonies of their history.
Visit Shangri-La temples
This mythical name shelters a city-district which owes its particularity to its common history with Tibet. Indeed, a minority is still present there. However, the rise of mass tourism in China has transformed the place and the local culture is being lost. It is nevertheless an admirable site.
See remarkable landscapes
Yunnan has natural wonders such as the Stone Forest, whose gray limestone rocks evoke a magical landscape. The site is also classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Another remarkable site is the Tiger Leaping Gorge. Indeed it is one of the deepest gorges in the world. It therefore offers breathtaking perspectives.
It is still possible to walk among the tiered rice fields of Yuanyang Hani (photo at the beginning of the article) or in the Potatso National Park near Shangri-La.
To discover different cultures
Yunnan alone brings together nearly half of China’s minorities, nearly twenty-five. You will be able to discover, among other things, the way of life of the Naxi and their use of hieroglyphics or the Bai and their trade in tea or marble.
For its various gastronomy
Yunnan cuisine represents its ethnic diversity. It is therefore very varied. Therefore, it is difficult to indicate a general trend, other than perhaps the frequent use of spices and mushrooms. To name some typical dishes:
- guòqiáo mǐxiàn: literally “noodles that cross the bridge”, a broth with noodles in which to cook food served fresh
- bōluó fàn: pineapple rice
- lǎonǎi yángyù: potatoes with chili and chives
- zhé’ěrgēn: roots of the chameleon plant, used as a vegetable.
Convinced of why hiking in Yunnan? In this case, you can contact our local partner (french speaking though).
Do not forget to check your visas, vaccines and others … You can consult our list to not forget anything!
