Things to Do in Kunming 2026: Top Activities & Attractions

1. Explore the Enchanting Stone Forest (Shilin)

I’ll never forget the first time I stepped into the Stone Forest, and I was completely awestruck. The jagged limestone formations stretched as far as the eye could see, looking like a sprawling sea of stone waves frozen in time. The towering formations gave me a sense of adventure.

📖 What Makes It Special?

The Stone Forest isn’t just another park—it’s a UNESCO World Heritage site, steeped in both geological and cultural significance. Formed over millions of years, these limestone spires create a labyrinth of paths and hidden nooks to explore.

📍 How to Get There?

You can easily access the Stone Forest from Kunming by train or bus. Just take trains from Kunming East Railway Station to Shilin West Station, which takes about 20 minutes. Or you can choose to take bus. Take long-haul bus at Kunming East Bus Station to Shilin Scenic Area, which takes about 1.5 hours.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Is It Family-Friendly?

Yes, it’s perfect for families with older kids who can handle a bit of walking. However, it may not be suitable for very young children or those with mobility issues due to the uneven terrain.

💡 Pro Tips

• Wear comfortable shoes, as the paths can get rocky and uneven.
• Go early in the morning to avoid the crowds and to catch the light hitting the limestone formations just right.
• Bring a hat and sunscreen, as it can get quite sunny.

2. Immerse in Diverse Cultures at Yunnan Nationalities Village

Stepping into the Yunnan Nationalities Village was like taking a journey through time. The colours of the traditional ethnic costumes, the sound of festive music, and fresh herbs created an immersive experience. I wandered through the different cultural zones for their unique customs, architecture, and crafts of Yunnan’s ethnic groups.

📖 What Makes It Special?

The Yunnan Nationalities Village offers a rare opportunity to experience the traditions and lifestyles of many ethnic minorities. The village is divided into sections dedicated to specific groups, with colourful traditional houses and cultural performances.

📍 How to Get There?

You can easily access the village by taxi or public transport from Kunming city centre. Or you can take buses no. 24, 44 or 73. It’s also convenient to take Metro Line 5 to Yunnan Nationalities Village.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Is It Family-Friendly?

Absolutely! It’s a great spot for families to learn about Yunnan’s diverse cultures in a fun and interactive way.

💡 Pro Tips

• Don’t miss the cultural performances in the main square, they’re an absolute highlight.
• Take your time to explore the handicraft stalls—they offer unique souvenirs that you can’t find elsewhere.

3. Explore the Tranquil Beauty of Dianchi Lake

The moment I arrived at Dianchi Lake, I was struck by its vastness and serenity. The soft ripples on the water glistened in the sunlight, while the gentle breeze carried the scent of fresh water and wildflowers. As I strolled along the lakeside path, I felt like I had escaped into a quiet sanctuary.

📖 What Makes It Special?

Dianchi Lake is not just Kunming’s largest body of water but also one of the city’s most iconic natural landmarks. With its backdrop of mountains and lush greenery, it offers a stunning contrast to Kunming’s urban areas.

📍 How to Get There?

The best way to explore the lake is to take a leisurely walk around the lakeshore or hop on a boat for a peaceful ride. You can easily access Dianchi Lake by taxi or public transport. There are several piers where you can rent a boat.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Is It Family-Friendly?

Yes, it’s a peaceful place that families with young kids can enjoy, especially for a relaxed day out.

💡 Pro Tips

• Visit in the early morning or late afternoon to catch the best light and avoid crowds.
• Take your time to explore the surrounding parks and enjoy the views from different angles.

4. Taste Crossing Bridge Rice Noodles (Guo Qiao Mi Xian)

One of my most unforgettable culinary experiences in Kunming was tasting the iconic Crossing Bridge Rice Noodles. The moment the steaming hot bowl was placed in front of me, I could smell the fragrant broth. As I stirred in the raw ingredients—thinly sliced chicken, vegetables, and a soft boiled egg—the heat from the broth cooked everything right before my eyes.

📖 What Makes It Special?

This dish has a fascinating story. Legend has it that a scholar created it for his wife, who had to cross a bridge to visit him. The dish is served in a special way, where the noodles, meat, and vegetables are kept separate, and the boiling broth is poured in just before you eat.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Is It Family-Friendly?

Definitely! It’s a fun dish that can be enjoyed by the whole family, and kids will love watching the ingredients cook right in front of them.

💡 Pro Tips

• Don’t rush—let the hot broth cook everything for the best flavor.
• Try adding chili oil for an extra kick!
• Make sure to mix everything thoroughly before you start eating to get the full taste experience.

5. Wander Through Dounan Flower Market

When I first entered Dounan Flower Market, I was immediately hit by the explosion of colours and scents. Everywhere I looked, there were fresh blossoms—vibrant chrysanthemums, delicate orchids, and roses in every shade imaginable. As I strolled through the maze of stalls, I felt like I had walked into a garden paradise.

📖 What Makes It Special?

Dounan Flower Market is one of the largest flower markets in Asia and a must-try experience in Kunming. The market is not just about buying flowers—it's a sensory experience where you can explore the local flower culture, learn about different species, and even bring home a piece of Kunming’s beauty

📍 How to Get There?

Take Metro Line 1 to Dounan Station, then walk about 10 minutes.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Is It Family-Friendly?

Yes, it’s a great place for families. Kids will love the explosion of colours, and it’s a perfect spot for a relaxing afternoon walk while learning about different types of flowers.

💡 Pro Tips

• Visit early in the morning for the best selection and quieter atmosphere.
• If you’re into photography, this is an excellent spot for floral shots—take your time to capture the beautiful arrangements.

6. Stroll Through the Bustling Nanping Street

Walking down Nanping Street felt like stepping into the heart of Kunming. The neon signs lit up the evening, making the street come alive in a different way after sunset. As I browsed through the various shops, I couldn’t help but be drawn to the unique local handicrafts and fashion, many of which showcased Yunnan’s diverse culture.

📖 What Makes It Special?

Nanping Street is one of the most famous pedestrian streets in Kunming, offering a mix of modern shops, traditional markets, and a fantastic food scene. It’s a great place to explore the local culture through shopping and eating.

📍 How to Get There?

Take Metro Line 2 or 3 to Dongfeng Square Station, Exit B, then walk 5 minutes.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Is It Family-Friendly?

Yes, Nanping Street is family-friendly, with plenty of shops and food options for all ages. Kids will enjoy the colourful market stalls, and it’s a great spot for a casual family outing.

💡 Pro Tips

• Visit in the late afternoon to enjoy the shops and food stalls without the evening crowds.
• Don’t miss the local snacks like fried rice noodles or sweet potato balls—perfect for a quick bite.

7. Find Local Snacks at Shuangqiao Night Market

As night fell in Kunming, I headed to Shuangqiao Night Market, and it was a sensory overload in the best way possible. The street was alive with bright lights. The clinking of chopsticks on plates made the atmosphere electric. I was captivated by the variety of local snacks.

📖 What Makes It Special?

Shuangqiao Night Market is a must-visit for anyone who wants to dive into the local food scene and experience Kunming’s nightlife. It's a more authentic, local alternative to the typical tourist spots, offering a chance to try a wide range of Yunnanese street food.

📍 How to Get There?

Take Metro Line 1 to Rixin Road.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Is It Family-Friendly?

Yes, the market is family-friendly, especially for older kids who will enjoy the lively atmosphere and variety of street food. Just keep an eye on younger ones in the crowds.

💡 Pro Tips

• Come with an empty stomach—there’s so much to try!
• Stick to the busy stalls with lots of locals, as they tend to have the best and freshest food.

8. Go Coffee Hopping in Kunming

If you’re a coffee lover like me, Kunming’s café scene is an absolute treat. I could smell the rich aroma of freshly ground beans in the air, and the sound of milk frothing was like music to my ears. Kunming’s specialty coffees are also something to try—especially the 挂耳咖啡 (drip coffee), where the coffee brews slowly through a filter, giving it a rich, smooth taste.

📖 What Makes It Special?

Kunming’s coffee culture has blossomed in recent years, thanks to the region’s ideal climate for growing coffee beans. Coffee hopping here lets you explore both the city’s local roasts and its trendy café culture, making it a fun way to experience a different side of Kunming.

📍 Where to Start?

You can start at any popular café in the city centre. Some notable areas for coffee hopping include Nanping Street and the districts near Green Lake and Yuantong Temple. There’s no need to book—just pick a café and start sipping.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Is It Family-Friendly?

Yes! Coffee hopping can be a fun activity for families, especially with older kids who enjoy trying different types of drinks. Many cafés also offer pastries and snacks that younger children can enjoy.

💡 Pro Tips

• Try a local small bean coffee and drip coffee blend for something uniquely different.
• Look for hidden cafés tucked in narrow alleys for a more authentic, local experience.

9. Savour the Flavours of Yunnan Tea

During my time in Kunming, I made it a point to experience the local tea culture, and I’m so glad I did. The warm, golden liquid swirled in my cup, inviting me to take my first sip. Each variety—be it the famous Pu'er or the light and floral Green Tea—offered a unique flavour profile.

📖 What Makes It Special?

Yunnan is famous for its tea, particularly the world-renowned Pu'er tea, known for its deep, earthy taste. The tradition of tea drinking here is an important part of local culture, with centuries-old methods of cultivation and preparation that make each cup an experience. 

📍 Where to Start?

You can visit tea houses and shops throughout Kunming, with many found in the tea markets or near popular attractions. Some tea houses offer guided tea ceremonies where you can learn about the different types of tea and the brewing process.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Is It Family-Friendly?

Yes, tea drinking in Kunming is a calm and educational experience, making it ideal for families looking to unwind and learn about Yunnan’s tea culture together.

💡 Pro Tips

• If you’re new to tea, ask the staff to recommend a mild tea to start with.
• Consider buying some tea leaves to bring home as a souvenir—it’s a great way to share a piece of Kunming’s culture with friends and family.

10. Soar Through the Skies with Paragliding

The sense of freedom of paragliding was exhilarating. You can feel the cool breeze on my face and taking in the breathtaking panoramic views of the city, mountains, and countryside. It was both a peaceful and adrenaline-pumping experience.

📖 What Makes It Special?

Paragliding in Kunming is an adrenaline-filled adventure that offers a unique perspective of the city and its surrounding beauty. With the region’s perfect weather and diverse landscapes, paragliding here allows you to fly over stunning mountains, valleys, and lakes. 

📍 Where to Start?

There are several paragliding companies in Kunming, especially around the outskirts of the city, where the terrain is perfect for take-off. You can book your flight through these companies, many of which offer tandem flights with experienced pilots.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Is It Family-Friendly?

Paragliding is ideal for adventure-seeking families with older children and teens. While younger children might not be suitable, it’s an exciting experience for those who enjoy thrills and outdoor activities.

💡 Pro Tips

• Book in advance, especially if you’re visiting during peak tourist season.
• Wear comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes. It can get chilly up there, so bring a light jacket.

Why Kunming Should Be Your Next Travel Stop

As you can see, Kunming offers a perfect blend of nature, culture, and adventure. With its pleasant weather, vibrant food scene, and unique experiences, Kunming promises an unforgettable getaway that goes beyond typical tourist spots. So, if you’re planning your next adventure, make sure Kunming is at the top of your list—it’s a place where every moment feels like a new discovery.