{"id":33279,"date":"2025-06-19T05:31:26","date_gmt":"2025-06-19T05:31:26","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/hellochinatrip.com\/?post_type=product&p=33279"},"modified":"2025-09-12T05:55:15","modified_gmt":"2025-09-12T05:55:15","slug":"10-days-best-sichuan-yunnan-highlight-tour","status":"publish","type":"product","link":"https:\/\/hellochinatrip.com\/product\/10-days-best-sichuan-yunnan-highlight-tour\/","title":{"rendered":"10 Days Best Sichuan & Yunnan Highlight Tour"},"content":{"rendered":"\t\t
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10 Days Best Sichuan & Yunnan Highlight Tour<\/strong><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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Must-see & Must-do\uff1a<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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Highlight 1<\/span>: Step into the panda capital of the world, have memorable time at Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding and see pandas of different ages playing, climbing trees, rolling, eating, sleeping or fighting…<\/h6><\/div><\/div>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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Highlight 2<\/span>: Seek for the real reason why Chengdu has been voted the \u201cHappiest City in China\u201d and feel the leisure atmosphere and ancient cultures by visiting its lively city parks, monasteries, ancient streets.<\/h6><\/div><\/div>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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Highlight 3<\/span>: Stroll on the Old Town of Lijiang (World Heritage), enjoy ancient cobbled streets, stone bridges, and water-wheel-driven canals decorated with flowers.<\/h6><\/div><\/div><\/div>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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Highlight 4<\/span>: Transfer to the \u201cNatural Glacier Museum\u201d – Jade Dragon Snow Mountain soaring to 5596 meters and ascend to Glacier Park to fully view the breathtaking glaciers and have a visit to Blue-Moon Valley.<\/h6><\/div><\/div>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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Highlight 5<\/span>: Where is the real Shangri-La? Try to find it out by exploration in the northwestern part of Yunnan in Diqing, a beautiful and peaceful Tibetan world.<\/h6>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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Highlight 6<\/span>: Discover Kunming, the “Spring City”, by a visit to Stone Forest for “the best natural phenomenon” and “a model land of Karst characteristics\u201d.<\/h6>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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Itinerary Quick Look\uff1a<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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Nihao! Welcome to Chengdu<\/strong>, the Hometown of Giant Pandas! Your private driver and guide will be ready for you when you arrive in Chengdu. Enjoy a trouble-free transfer to your hotel. The rest of today is yours to relax in panda city on your own.<\/p>

Arrival Ideas:<\/strong>
Chengdu is well connected by air and high-speed rail. There are two airports – Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport and Chengdu Tianfu International Airport operating many international and domestic airlines. Travelers can go to Chengdu by air from most cities in China, like Hong Kong, Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Xian, Guilin, Hangzhou, Kunming, Lhasa, Lanzhou, Wuhan, Xiamen, Guiyang, Chongqing\u2026 In addition, travelers can take high speed train to Chengdu from Xian (3-4 hours), Chongqing (1.5-2 hours), Guiyang (3.5-4.5 hours), Kunming (6-6.5hours), etc.<\/p>

Free Time Ideas:<\/strong>
You are welcome to ask your tour guide for some useful tips to spend your free time based on your time and interest.<\/p><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t

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In the morning, you will be picked up at your hotel, then be driven about 2 hours from Chengdu to visit the\u00a0UNESCO World Heritage Site –\u00a0Leshan Giant Buddha<\/strong>\u00a0which is the largest and tallest stone-carved statue of Buddha in the world. Standing at the confluence of two rivers, the extraordinary, monumental 1200-year-old Buddha image at Le Shan is carved directly into the rock face. The monument stands 71m (233ft) tall and 28m (92ft) wide making it the largest ancient Buddha in the world. His shoulders span 28m, and each of his big toes is 8.5m long. His ears are 7m. He is indeed grand. There is a local saying: “The mountain is a Buddha and the Buddha is a mountain”.<\/p>

You will walk down and up and watch the Buddha from a very close distance. It allows you to\u00a0see each part of Leshan Giant Buddha closely\u00a0and presents you with a surprising experience with\u00a0many ancient Buddhist temples, sculptures, caves and religious relics\u00a0on the way up to mountain top near the head of the Buddha.(Recommended Optional Activity<\/strong>: the plank pathways are steep and narrow. If it is not convenient for you to walk, you can take a cruise\u00a0to get a panoramic view and fully appreciate this Buddha\u2019s magnitude on the river.)<\/p>

Later you will be driven about 45 kilometers to\u00a0Baoguo Temple<\/strong>, which is\u00a0the biggest temple of Mount Emei at the mountain foot. After tour, drive to check in at your hotel and have a good rest.<\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t

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You will spend a full day visiting\u00a0Mount Emei,<\/strong>\u00a0which is\u00a0one of the World Heritage Sites for both cultural and natural heritages. Mount Emei is one of the four famous sacred Buddhist\u00a0mountains in China, with numerous Buddhist\u00a0temples and monasteries. Beyond its rich cultural heritage, the mountain also stands on the edge of the eastern Himalayan highlands and hosts a diverse range of plants and animals and amazing natural scenery.<\/p>

You will take a relaxing way to visit Mount Emei by sightseeing bus+hiking+cable car. Tourist Center – Sightseeing Bus to Leidongping ( about 1.5~2 hours) – Walk 30mins to Jieyin Hall – Go up to Golden Summit by cable car(5mins) – Sightseeing in Golden Summit – Ascend the Mountain in the Same Way.<\/p>

It will help you save energy and focus on the highlights of Mount Emei.\u00a0The Golden Summit<\/strong>\u00a0is an extravagance of natural wonders and Buddhism spiritualism, which comprises of four marvelous spectacles of Sunrise, Cloud Sea, Buddhist Light and sacred lamp. You can stroll around the Golden Summit to explore Buddhist architecture and tradition, and enjoy a panoramic view of Mount Emei and surrounding. If weather permits, you will have luck to enjoy its magnificent wonder of Cloud Sea. After the tour, be transferred back to Chengdu.<\/p><\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t

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After breakfast, you are going to fulfill your panda dream with a 17-kilometer drive to\u00a0Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding<\/strong>. Also called Chengdu Panda Base, accommodated over 100 pandas, it is the base with the largest population of captive giant pandas in the world. You will see giant pandas of different ages there. It\u2019s great fun to watch them playing, eating, climbing, sleeping\u2026 If you come in autumn, you will have the chance to see the pink newborn giant panda cubs in the Sunshine Nursery House and the Moonlight Nursery House. Besides giant pandas, you can also meet the cute red pandas walking by your side in the Red Panda Playgrounds. Then follow your guide to discover more about panda\u2019s secrets through the Panda Museum. (Note: Pandas like cool weather, so we advise you to arrive there early as pandas are more active in the morning.)<\/p>

Later, be transferred to the ancient Buddhist monastery in Chengdu –\u00a0Wenshu Monastery<\/strong>\u00a0to feel thousand years of history. Pay a visit to\u00a0Chengdu\u2019s Renmin Park<\/strong>\u00a0to witness the city\u2019s leisurely lifestyle and how the local people are doing. Order a cup of fragrant green tea while sitting in the He Ming tea house, chat with your friends and see local playing mahjong and having fun. After that, return to Chengdu downtown for a relaxing stroll at\u00a0Jinli Old Street.<\/strong>\u00a0With a history over 1,800 years, it showcases the profound cultures of Ancient Shu Kingdom. Take a nice walk on the traditional stone-paved street full of delicious local snacks, delicate artifacts, interesting folk shows, etc. (Optional Activity: Try some local spicy dishes such as hot pot, chuanchuan, dandan noodles, or even get out of your comfort zone and try some rabbit’s head!) After the tour, you will be escorted to a hotel in downtown.<\/p>

Recommended Optional Evening Activities<\/strong>: 1)Watch a wonderful Sichuan Opera performance which includes face changing, spitting fire, hand shadows, puppet show, dancing, singing and acrobatics. (usually from 20:00 to 21:30).2)Appreciate the city\u2019s night view by boat (30mins) along the Jinjiang River, which winds through central Chengdu ( 18:00~23:30).<\/p><\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t

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After breakfast, you will be free to enjoy more time in Chengdu until be escorted to the airport for a\u00a0flight to Lijiang<\/strong>\u00a0(about 1.5 hours).<\/p>

N\u01d0 h\u01ceo!\u00a0Welcome to Lijiang<\/strong>, the most popular destination in the Yunnan province! Upon your arrival at Lijiang’s airport or train station, our local tour guide and driver will meet you at the exit, greet you, and escort you to the Lijiang Old Town area. They will assist you in checking in at your hotel.<\/p>

Lijiang (\u4e3d\u6c5f)<\/strong>, nestled under the breathtaking Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, forms a beautiful and peaceful link between Shangri-La to the north and Dali to the south. A UNESCO World Heritage site named\u00a0“Old Town of Lijiang”<\/strong>,\u00a0it’s not only a living ancient town complex, encompassing Dayan, Shuhe, and Baisha, but also the heartland of the\u00a0Naxi ethnic group<\/strong>, with about 74% of the population being Naxi. A visit to Lijiang allows you to enjoy endless snow-capped mountain views, appreciate the charming old town, experience the rich Naxi culture, and unwind in its peaceful atmosphere.<\/p>

This afternoon, you will have some time to explore\u00a0Lijiang Old Town\u00a0(\u4e3d\u6c5f\u53e4\u57ce)<\/strong>, also known as Dayan Old Town. With over 800 years of history, Lijiang Old Town was once a bustling hub for trade along the famous\u00a0“Old Tea Horse Caravan Trail”<\/strong>. The town resembles a labyrinth, characterized by its numerous cobbled streets, traditional wooden houses with upturned eaves, ancient bridges, and an intricate network of waterways. If time permits (optional), you’ll visit the\u00a0Mu Palace (\u6728\u5e9c)<\/strong>, a sprawling complex located in the heart of Lijiang Old Town, often referred to as the \u201cForbidden City of the South\u201d. It offers a captivating glimpse into the grandeur of Naxi royalty, showcasing rich Naxi culture and the fascinating history of the Mu family.\u00a0You’ll also discover why Lijiang Old Town, unlike the top three most famous ancient Chinese cities, has no city wall. Afterwards, walk to a higher vantage point to capture a breathtaking\u00a0panoramic view of the sprawling old town<\/strong>, with snow-capped mountains forming a majestic backdrop in the distance.\u00a0Take a short walk to\u00a0Sifang Street\u00a0(\u56db\u65b9\u8857)<\/strong>, the most famous square. Here, you can explore Naxi handicrafts, souvenirs, and local specialties, and soak up the vibrant atmosphere of bustling bars with lively music spilling out onto the streets.<\/p>

Afterward, let’s head to\u00a0Black Dragon Pond Park (\u9ed1\u9f99\u6f6d\u516c\u56ed)<\/strong>, located at the northern edge of Lijiang Old Town. This picturesque location offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape, highlighted by the majestic Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. On clear days, the reflection of the snow-capped peak on the tranquil water of the Black Dragon Pool creates a breathtaking scene.<\/p><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t

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After breakfast, it’s time to venture beyond Lijiang Old Town and explore the renowned\u00a0Jade Dragon Snow Mountain (\u7389\u9f99\u96ea\u5c71)<\/strong>. This majestic mountain is famous for its towering peaks, stunning scenery, and abundant biodiversity. It was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2003. The mountain gets its name from its resemblance to a stainless jade dragon, especially during winter when its peaks are covered in thick snow.<\/p>

The crown jewel of the region is the sight of 13 snow-capped peaks, with the highest peak named Shanzidou, reaching an impressive elevation of 5,596 meters (18,360 ft). To fully experience the mountain, it is recommended to take a 10-minute cable car ride up to\u00a0Spruce Meadow<\/strong>, situated at 3,240 meters. The cable car ride itself is a remarkable experience, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Once you reach the top, you’ll be greeted by awe-inspiring panoramic views and have the opportunity to explore meadows and pristine forests.\u00a0After the tour, take cable down the mountain.<\/p>

Afterward, take a sightseeing bus to\u00a0Blue Moon Valley\u00a0(\u84dd\u6708\u8c37)<\/strong>. The valley is a breathtaking sight, with its almost surreal turquoise blue water, reflecting the majestic Jade Dragon Snow Mountain in the background. This valley boasts four lakes and a White Water Terrace. Each lake presents unique scenery, but the most beautiful one is the Jade Liquid Lake. The best time to admire the splendor of Blue Moon Valley is during a sunny midday when the lake’s water, under the radiant sunlight, becomes as clear and blue as a mirror. You can capture many awesome photos here.<\/p>

Optional Activity: Impression Lijiang” Show This Afternoon<\/strong><\/p>

If you’re interested, you can choose to watch the Impression Lijiang show this afternoon at\u00a0Ganhaizi<\/strong>\u00a0(altitude: 3,100 meters). Directed by the renowned filmmaker Zhang Yimou, this magnificent open-air performance features singing and dancing that showcase the traditions and lifestyle of the local Naxi ethnic people.\u00a0It lasts about one hour.<\/p>

Leaving the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, you’ll continue your journey to\u00a0Baisha Village\u00a0(\u767d\u6c99\u6751)<\/strong>, the birthplace of the Mu chieftaincy and the\u00a0ancient capital of the Naxi ethnic group<\/strong>.\u00a0Part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site “Old Town of Lijiang”,\u00a0Baisha Village offers a unique glimpse into the Naxi group\u2019s\u00a0rich history and culture. Here, you can visit the\u00a0Baisha Murals<\/strong>, showcasing a unique fusion of Buddhist, Taoist, and local Naxi religious elements, reflecting the diverse spiritual beliefs of the region.\u00a0These murals are found within several temples, including the Dabaoji Palace, the Liuli Temple, and the Wenchang Palace.<\/p>

Then, if your energy permits (optional), on the way back to Lijiang, you can make a stop at\u00a0Shuhe Ancient Town\u00a0(\u675f\u6cb3\u53e4\u9547)<\/strong>. It is an important stop along the legendary Tea Horse Ancient Road. Unlike the bustling Lijiang Old Town, Shuhe offers a tranquil escape, with charming shops selling locally-made crafts lining the narrow cobbled streets. The gentle murmur of water flowing through canals and the aroma of Naxi cuisine wafting from cozy teahouses create a peaceful atmosphere where time seems to slow down.\u00a0(Note: You can try\u00a0local snacks<\/strong>\u00a0like Chicken Bean Cold Noodles, Grilled Milk Fan, Fresh Flower Cake, Cloud Leg Cake, and Jar-Roasted Rose Milk.)<\/p>

After the tour, head back to Lijiang.<\/p><\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t

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After breakfast, your guide and driver will meet you at your hotel and whisk you away on a scenic journey from Lijiang to Shangri-La and explore breathtaking natural landscapes\u00a0on the way.<\/p>

Your first stop will be the\u00a0First Bend of the Yangtze River\u00a0(\u957f\u6c5f\u7b2c\u4e00\u6e7e)<\/strong>. Here, you will witness the majestic river making a dramatic 90-degree turn from south to east within a short distance of 1 kilometer. Ascend to the observation deck for views of the Yangtze River. Continue your drive to Shigu Town for a\u00a0close view of the bend<\/strong>. Take a walk along the river and admire the historic Iron Chain Bridge. In the charming Shigu Old Town, don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Red Army’s Long March Memorial Monument.<\/p>

Later, continue your drive to the\u00a0Upper Section of Tiger Leaping Gorge<\/strong>\u00a0(\u4e0a\u864e\u8df3, altitude: 1,800 meters). According to legend, the section got its name when a tiger, chased by a hunter, took a legendary leap across the narrowest point, cornered by the rushing Jinsha River (part of the Yangtze River) at the gorge’s base. One of the deepest gorges in the world, Tiger Leaping Gorge offers a breathtaking view of the roaring Jinsha River, allowing you to feel the strong power of nature. As Jade Dragon Snow Mountain (5596m) and Haba Snow Mountain (5386m) stand on each side, you will immerse yourself in the beautiful and diverse landscapes. You will walk along the plankroad, both up and down. (Optional: If you want to save energy, you can use the lift, with an extra fee.)<\/p>

After that, continue your drive to\u00a0Shangri-La<\/strong>\u00a0(about 108km, 2-2.5 hours’ driving).\u00a0Welcome to Shangri-La (\u9999\u683c\u91cc\u62c9)!<\/strong>\u00a0Nestled in the northwestern part of Yunnan Province in Diqing Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Shangri-La was formerly known as\u00a0Zhongdian<\/strong>. This charming paradise is considered the real Shangri-La on earth. Inspired by the mythical paradise described in James Hilton’s novel\u00a0“Lost Horizon”<\/strong>,\u00a0Shangri-La lives up to its name. Hidden among majestic mountains, it beckons you with a landscape shrouded in mystery and legend, a place where fairytale scenery awaits.<\/p>

Upon arrival, our local guide will assist you with hotel check-in. Afterwards, we will visit\u00a0Dukezong Ancient Town (\u72ec\u514b\u5b97\u53e4\u57ce)<\/strong>, with over 1300 years history, which is the best-preserved and largest Tibetan residential cluster in China. It holds the distinction of being the oldest castle along the Tea Horse Road. The name “Dukezong” translates to “Moonlight Castle built on a Stone” and it is also known as the City of Moonlight. Here, you will discover a world of traditional Tibetan houses, ancient temples, beautiful pagodas, and narrow, winding alleyways, all adorned with iconic Tibetan prayer flags of various colors. Take a hike up\u00a0Guishan Hill<\/strong>\u00a0and join the locals in turning the\u00a0world’s largest prayer<\/strong>\u00a0wheel for good luck and happiness. From this vantage point, you can capture a breathtaking panoramic view of the entire town. Afterwards, wander through the distinctive alleys and immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Tibetan culture.<\/p>

Optional Activities in the Evening:<\/strong><\/p>

In the evenings\u00a0around 19:00, you’ll often see local Tibetans gathering in Sifang Square for a chance to participate in some traditional Tibetan dancing. As the evening deepens (around 21:00), the entire ancient town transforms with a warm glow as the lights come on, creating a truly charming atmosphere.<\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t

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This morning, our guide will take you to visit\u00a0Songzanlin Monastery<\/strong>\u00a0(\u677e\u8d5e\u6797\u5bfa, also known as Ganden Sumtsenling Monastery), a sprawling complex perched at an altitude of 3,380 meters. Founded in 1679 by the Fifth Dalai Lama, Songzanlin Monastery is the largest Tibetan Buddhist monastery in Yunnan Province. Inspired by the Potala Palace in Lhasa, it’s often referred to as the\u00a0“Little Potala Palace”<\/strong>.<\/p>

The monastery’s architecture is a fascinating fusion of Tibetan and Han Chinese styles. Currently, around 700 monks reside in its 200 associated houses. Ascend the steps and enter the monastery’s\u00a0three grand halls<\/strong>: Zhacang Hall (the central and highest hall), Jikang Hall (dedicated to Tsongkhapa), and Sakyamuni Hall (dedicated to Shakyamuni Buddha). Here, you’ll witness Tibetan monks chanting and meditating, enveloped in the monastery’s solemn atmosphere. The climb will be rewarded with a breathtaking panoramic view of the entire monastery complex and the beautiful Lamuyangcuo Lake.<\/p>

This afternoon, take a 25km drive (about 30 minutes) to\u00a0Pudacuo National Park<\/strong>\u00a0(\u666e\u8fbe\u63aa, also known as Potatso National Park), the first national park in China. Situated on the vast Tibetan Plateau and forming an important part of the “Three Parallel Rivers” scenic spot, the park is renowned for its pristine landscapes. Encompassing scenic hills, meadows, lakes, diverse plant life, and abundant bird species, the park is also home to over 100 endangered animals including leopards, cranes, macaques, and lynxes.<\/p>

Your journey begins with a sightseeing bus ride to\u00a0Shudu Lake<\/strong>\u00a0(altitude: 3705 meters), the park’s largest lake famed for its crystal-clear water and serene beauty. Take a leisurely hike around the well-maintained path suitable for most fitness levels. Afterwards, hop on a\u00a0sightseeing bus to\u00a0Bita Lake<\/strong>\u00a0(altitude: 3568 meters). A jewel nestled amidst the mountains and considered sacred by the local Tibetans, Bita Lake’s turquoise waters and snow-capped backdrop create a picture-perfect scene. Take another short hike around the lake, a trail that leads you deeper into the heart of the park.<\/p>

As you make your way back to the hotel, to wrap up your day with a cultural immersion,\u00a0visit a local Tibetan family<\/strong>\u00a0and sample some local snacks and yak butter tea.<\/p>

After the tour, be escorted to your hotel in Shangri-La.<\/p><\/div>

\u00a0<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t
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After breakfast, you will have\u00a0some\u00a0free time in Shangri-La till your guide escorts you to\u00a0the\u00a0airport for a\u00a0flight to Kunming\u00a0<\/strong>(about 1 hour). Welcome to Kunming, the Spring City of China! Upon arrival, the local tour guide and driver will meet you in the arrival hall and escort you to your hotel and help you check in.<\/p>

In this afternoon, drive to the\u00a0Stone Forest<\/strong>\u00a0(a World Heritage Site of South China Karst), a must-see natural wonder that was once submerged under an ancient sea. The\u00a0Kunming Stone Forest<\/strong>\u00a0(Shilin) is a national geological park famous for its unique stone forest scenery, which represents the magnificent transformations of the natural world over 270 million years (marine sedimentation \u2192 crustal uplift \u2192 volcanic lava coverage \u2192 erosion and leveling \u2192 formation of the Stone Forest). Within the Stone Forest, you can closely observe the traces left by the passage of time and gain an understanding of its distinctive karst landforms, rich geological history, and the accompanying\u00a0Yi ethnic culture<\/strong>. A sightseeing bus will take you to explore the\u00a0Big Stone Forest<\/strong>\u00a0and\u00a0Small Stone Forest<\/strong>. In addition to the touching\u00a0legend of Ashima<\/strong>\u00a0(\u963f\u8bd7\u739ba symbol of Yi ethnic culture), the Stone Forest also served as a\u00a0filming location for “Journey to the West”<\/strong>\u00a0(1986 TV series\u897f\u6e38\u8bb0), where Sun Wukong (Monkey King) was depicted as being trapped under Wuxing Mountain (\u4e94\u884c\u5c71).\u00a0Use your imagination to discover the magical shapes of the stone forests.<\/p>

After that, drive to Kunming downtown for accommodation.\u00a0<\/p><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t

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This morning, you will enjoy half day tour to West Hill (Dragon Gate, Taoist Grottoes) before depart Kunming.<\/p>

West Hill<\/strong>\u00a0(Xishan\u897f\u5c71), located by the shores of Dianchi Lake, is known as the West Hill because it is situated in the western suburbs of Kunming. In ancient times, West Hill held the reputation of being\u00a0The Best Scenic Spot in Yunnan<\/strong>. From the mountaintop, one can overlook the\u00a0panoramic view of Dianchi Lake<\/strong>, making it an excellent destination for leisurely hikes and enjoying the natural scenery. The\u00a0Dragon Gate Grottoes<\/strong>\u00a0on the mountain are the largest and most exquisite\u00a0Taoist grottoes<\/strong>\u00a0in Yunnan. It is said that they were completed by over 70 stonemasons after 22 years of work. It is said, “Without visiting the West Hill, one has not fully experienced Kunming; without ascending Dragon Gate, one has not truly explored the West Hill”. Additionally, nestled between Taihua Temple and Dragon Gate, there is a gently sloping, sparsely wooded area where\u00a0Nie Er’s tomb<\/strong>\u00a0is located, serving as a place of reverence and remembrance for the musician Nie Er. Nowadays, on the third day of the third lunar month, people gather at West Hill to go on outings, enjoy the spring scenery, sing mountain songs, and perform traditional dances to celebrate a festive occasion called “San Yue San, Shua Xishan”(\u4e09\u6708\u4e09, \u800d\u897f\u5c71).<\/p>

Notes:<\/strong>\u00a0A half-day tour to the West Hill usually includes a\u00a0shuttle sightseeing bus<\/strong>\u00a0(round trip), a\u00a0one-way cable car<\/strong>\u00a0ride, and another\u00a0one-way electric car<\/strong>\u00a0ride inside the West Hill Scenic Area.<\/p>

After that, you will head back to Kunming for\u00a0Yuantong Temple<\/strong>. Located in the city center, Yuantong Temple combines tranquility amidst the bustling surroundings, offering a unique water courtyard temple. The temple has a history of over\u00a01,200 years<\/strong>\u00a0and is\u00a0the oldest Guanyin Temple in China<\/strong>. Particularly noteworthy is its\u00a0“Downhill Temple” design<\/strong>, where instead of ascending steps after entering the mountain gate, one descends gradually, creating a rare architectural feature among temples in China. Yuantong Temple is the only sacred place in the country that simultaneously accommodates the\u00a0Han, Southern, and Tibetan Buddhist<\/strong>\u00a0traditions. At the rear of the temple, there is a typical\u00a0Southeast Asian Buddhist architectural\u00a0structure<\/strong>\u00a0called the\u00a0Bronze Buddha Hall<\/strong>\u00a0(\u94dc\u4f5b\u6bbf), which was built in 1985 specifically to house a bronze statue of Shakyamuni Buddha presented by the Buddhist Association of the Kingdom of Thailand. It has gained a high reputation in the Southeast Asian area and attracts many pilgrims and locals to visit every year.<\/p>

After the tour, it is time to end your\u00a010-day Sichuan Yunnan tou<\/strong>r. You will be transferred to the airport or train station for your flight\/high speed train to next destination.<\/p>

Thank you for choosing HelloChinaTrip<\/strong> for your China tour, and we are always here working for you and hope to see you again for your next trip to China\/Asia!<\/p><\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t

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