Kunming 昆明
The City of Eternal Spring – parks, markets and the gateway to Yunnan.
Yunnan's capital has a mild climate all year round, which earned it the name "City of Eternal Spring". Most trips start and end here. Spend a day in the parks and markets before heading to the Stone Forest or flying on to Dali, Lijiang or Xishuangbanna.
What to see
Green Lake Park 翠湖公园
Kunming's favourite park, in the heart of the city at the foot of Wuhua Hill. Locals come here to dance, sing and practise tai chi; in winter thousands of black-headed gulls from Siberia gather on the lake. Next to the park is the historic Yunnan Military Academy.
Jinma Biji Square 金马碧鸡坊
The Golden Horse and Jade Rooster archways, built in the Ming dynasty, are the symbol of Kunming. The pedestrian streets around them are full of Yunnan snacks – a good place for a first evening walk.
Dounan Flower Market 斗南花市
Asia's largest fresh-flower market, in Chenggong south of Kunming. Most of China's cut flowers pass through here. Come in the evening, when traders auction mountains of roses, lilies and orchids – a colourful and lively side of Yunnan few visitors see.
For professionals in the flower trade, Dounan is the place to be, with a large wholesale market and a flower auction. We can arrange a business visit with an interpreter.
Kunming Haihong Wetland 昆明海洪湿地
A quiet wetland park on the northern shore of Dianchi Lake. Every winter, from about November to March, thousands of black-headed gulls fly in from Siberia. Feeding them along the shore is a favourite pastime of Kunming locals, and a wonderful place for photography.
