Wanderlust in the Nature Wonderlands
Yunnan and Hunan provide a one-of-a-kind chance to explore China's stunning natural landscapes and experience diverse cultures and histories.
Embark on this 12-day journey through time and space, blending breathtaking landscapes with rich cultural experiences. Contrast the tranquil allure of Lijiang's snow-capped peaks with the awe-inspiring vistas of Zhangjiajie's karst formations. Immerse yourself in the unique cultural heritage of Tibet in Shangri-La and the lively Miao customs in Fenghuang. Experience the joy of travel together and create lasting memories.
Take advantage of our free itinerary planning service to easily plan your China trip.
Suggested Yunnan & Hunan Itinerary
| Day | Highlights |
|---|---|
| 1-2 Kunming |
Stone Forest, Yuantong Tempe, Green Lake Park |
| 3-4 Lijiang |
Dayan Town, Black Dragon Pool, Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, Yuhu Village |
| 5-6 Shangri-La |
Tiger Leaping Gorge, Dukezong Town, Songzanlin Lamasery, Dress in Tibetan Finery |
| 7-9 Zhangjiajie |
Mt. Tianzi, Yuanjiajie, Mt. Tianmen, the Grand Canyon, the Glass Bridge |
| 10-11 Fenghuang |
Cruise along Tuojiang, Fenghuang Ancient Town |
| 12 Changsha |
Hunan Provincial Museum, Orange Island, Huangxing Road |
12 Day Yunnan and Hunan Tour Map
Tour 'Wow' Points
Admire the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain
Soar above the clouds in a cable car and discover the snow-capped summit of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain.
Strike a Pose in Tibetan Finery
Dress in traditional Tibetan attire, immerse yourself in local culture, explore breathtaking scenery, and capture unforgettable moments.
Witness Zhangjiajie's Landscape
Hike through the iconic Hallelujah Mountains, walk along the glass skywalk, and ascend Tianmen Mountain. Capture stunning photos and experience the unique Tujia culture.
Challenge Yourself on the Glass Bridge
Experience the Glass Bridge in the Grand Canyon, the world's longest and highest glass-bottomed bridge, offering a thrilling 300-meter-high walk.
Explore the Stone Forest
Wander through the Stone Forest with a tram and feel as if you've stepped onto another planet, with its otherworldly landscape of towering limestone spires.
Venture into the Yellow Dragon Cave
With a stunning array of formations, the Yellow Dragon Cave includes towering columns, delicate curtains, and crystal-clear pools.
Experience the Ethnic Cultures
Deepen your understanding of ethnic cultures by exploring a shaman's dwelling, trying on traditional clothing, and studying the ancient Naxi language.
Lost in Ancient Towns
Contrast the distinct atmospheres of the ancient towns of Dayan, Dukezong, and Fenghuang, and enjoy each with its own unique charm.
Discover real reviews of Highlights Travel Family's best-rated service across trusted platforms.
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Unforgettable 7 Day Travel Experience in Yunnan
Our 7 days Yunnan trip with China Highlights started at Kunming then took us all the way to Dali, Lijiang and Shangri La. Visiting Yunnan in December during winter time was interesting, less crowded and most importantly enable us to see Yunnan in a different landscape. A special mention to our fantastic guides, May (in Kunming) and Sunny (in Dali) and their respective drivers who were personable and shared a wealth of knowledge and insights of the places we visited. They spoke good English, helpful with our requests and ensured that we were comfortable and satisfied with our tours. We will not hesitate to use China Highlights again for our next trip to China! more
Jan 2025, Jess W
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Lijiang- family trip Dec 2024 Eleanor
My family really enjoyed our time with Eleanor in Lijiang. She was able to pass on a lot of knowledge about her city which made the trip lots more interesting! We enjoyed having her guide us to amazing places. She was really attentive when one of us were feeling sick at the top of the mountain and provided us all with adaquete preparation for the 4000km+ altitude ascension. more
Jan 2025, Nicole L
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Yunnan Province 2024
We spent a fabulous week traveling through Yunnan. Our guides, Jack (Shangri la) Alice (Lijiang) Frank (Dali) and Rosemary (Kunming) all have deep knowledge of their cities and did an excellent job showing us their home areas. Our driver Mr Liu was also excellent taking us safely from place to place. This China Highlights trip was as advertised and we highly recommend it. more
Dec 2024, Esteban C
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Suggested Itinerary
Here is a suggested itinerary. Feel free to let us know if you'd like to make any changes.
Upon arrival in Kunming, you will be warmly welcomed by our dedicated guide and driver. A comfortable vehicle will be at your service to transport you to the hotel.
Explore the Stone Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and be amazed by its breathtaking landscape of towering limestone spires resembling a magical stone forest (Tram included).
Explore the Yuantong Temple, a 1200-year-old Buddhist temple that offers a glimpse into the diverse cultural heritage of Yunnan Province.
Stroll through Green Lake Park, and you might stumble upon a vibrant local dance, where people in traditional dress create a cheerful atmosphere.
Transfer to Kunming Railway Station for a bullet train to Lijiang, where a private guide and driver will greet you.
Discover Black Dragon Pool Park, a tranquil oasis in Lijiang. Enjoy the gardens and stunning views of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain.
Explore Lijiang Ancient Town (Dayan Town), a UNESCO site inhabited by the Naxi minority, where you can stroll cobblestone streets lined with traditional houses.
Explore Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, the holy mountain of the Naxi people. Take a cable car to the Glacier Park at 4,680 meters, where you'll find stunning scenery of forests, meadows and potentially snow-covered peaks.
Experience the Blue Moon Valley, a stunning Jade Dragon Snow Mountain Valley featuring an incredibly blue river winding its way through.
Enjoy a scenic tram ride through Yuhu Naxi Village, discover Longnu Lake's beauty, and witness Jade Dragon Snow Mountain's reflection. Enjoy a cup of coffee at Xing Cafe, savoring the breathtaking mountain views from their balcony or rooftop.
Step into the daily life of a Naxi family by trying on their vibrant traditional attire. And uncover the secrets of Dongba papermaking and learn to write the enigmatic Dongba characters.
Enjoy a seamless and private transfer from Lijiang to Shangri-La.
Explore the awe-inspiring beauty of Tiger Leaping Gorge, one of the deepest and most spectacular canyons. The mighty Jinsha River rushes through this narrow valley, carving a path around a central rock formation.
Following lunch, we'll ascend to Shangri-La, reaching an altitude of 3200 meters. Take some time to rest and adjust to the higher elevation at your hotel.
Dress in traditional Tibetan attire with hair-dressing, immerse yourself in local culture, feel the spirituality and capture unforgettable moments.
Discover the grandeur of Songzanlin Lamasery, Yunnan's largest Tibetan Buddhist monastery. Explore this architectural masterpiece, filled with Buddhist statues and cultural treasures, providing insight into Tibetan spirituality.
Wander through Dukezong Old Town, a vibrant Tibetan community, and immerse yourself in its rich culture. Visit Guishan Park and Moonlight Square, home to the world's largest spinning prayer wheel.
Proceed to Shangri-La Railway Station for a bullet train journey to Kunming, where you will be welcomed by a private guide and driver.
Explore Kunming in your free time before flying to Zhangjiajie. Upon arrival, your guide and driver will meet you and transfer you to the hotel.
Discover Tianzi Mountain's iconic sceneries such as Yubi Peak and Tianzi Pavilion with the cable car & tram ride. Enjoy an impressive view of thousands of peaks spread out beneath you from the summit.
Explore the scenic Golden Whip Stream, known for its lush greenery and cascading waterfalls.
Take the world's highest elevator, the Bailong Lift, and ascend to the breathtaking Yuanjiajie Scenic Area in just 2 minutes.
Marvel at the world-renowned "World's No.1 Bridge" and stand in awe of the otherworldly Hallelujah Mountain(Nantian Yizhu), before returning to your hotel.
Venture through "A Strip of Sky," a pathway so narrow that it accommodates only one person.
Ascend the "Sky Ladder," a wooden walkway and steps carved into cliffs, for breathtaking panoramic views.
Experience the Glass Bridge, the world's longest and highest glass-bottomed bridge, offering a thrilling 300-meter-high walk. If you'd rather not cross the bridge, other paths are available.
Explore Yellow Dragon Cave, admire towering stalagmites, and cruise through the underground river (home to rare creatures).
Ascend Tianmen Mountain on the world's longest cableway. Enjoy panoramic views through the glass-bottomed sections as you travel 1,400 meters to the peak.
Thrill yourself as you walk the 60-meter Glass Skywalk, suspended 1,430 meters above the breathtaking valley.
Enjoy the scenic escalator ride to visit the breathtaking Tianmen Cave, a towering natural wonder that showcases the immense power of nature.
Journey to the captivating Fenghuang Town, a place renowned for its ancient architecture and rich cultural heritage.
Cruise the Tuojiang River and explore Fenghuang Town from a unique perspective. Admire the Duocui Building, a towering stilt house, and pass under the historic Rainbow Bridge. End your journey at the impressive Wanming Tower.
Stroll through the Fenghuang Town and explore notable landmarks like the East Gate Tower, Yang's Ancestral Hall and the Ancient City Museum.
Take a comfortable transfer to the train station for a high-speed train to Changsha. Upon arrival, your guide and driver will ensure a smooth transfer to your hotel.
Discover the Hunan Provincial Museum, home to the exceptionally preserved artifacts of the Mawangdui Han Tomb.
Enjoy the charm of Orange Island with the tram, home to the iconic Mao Zedong Youth Sculpture and boasting a variety of beautiful parks and gardens.
Go on a shopping spree at Huangxing Road before heading to the airport for a flight back home.
Hotel Selection
—the Icing on the Cake
Comfort 4-star hotels are recommended to enrich your travel experience.
Price includes:
- Private air-conditioned business car with big windows and ample space
- First-class seats on the bullet trains listed
- Economy-class seat on the flight between Kunming and Zhangjiajie
- English-speaking local guides
- Activities, hotels, and meals listed in the itinerary
- A 24/7 helpline is available throughout your trip
Tour code: cht-yn-1