Where to Go in Kunming 2025: Top 10 Best Places to Visit

Known as the “Spring City,” Kunming’s weather stays comfy all year round. Kunming has this easygoing vibe that just draws you in. Ready to explore? Here’s where to go in Kunming!

1. Kunming Old Street

When I first walked into Kunming Old Street, it felt like time slowed down. I saw old wooden buildings, red lanterns, and narrow stone paths that looked like something from a movie. There were small shops selling handmade crafts, silver jewellery, and local snacks. I stopped many times just to take photos and enjoy the peaceful vibe.

📖 About Kunming Old Street

Kunming Old Street is one of the best neighborhoods in Kunming to see the city’s history and culture. The area keeps the old Yunnan style but has modern cafés, shops, and street food stalls. 

📅 Best time to visit Kunming Old Street

Visit around sunset — the street looks beautiful with the warm lights.

🚇 How to get to Kunming Old Street?

Take Metro Line 2 or 3 to Dongfeng Square Station, Exit C, and walk about 10 minutes. 

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Is Kunming Old Street family-friendly?

Yes! Great for families, couples, or anyone who loves taking a relaxing walk.

💡 Pro tips

• Try local rose cakes and rice noodles.
• Some small shops sell handmade gifts, perfect for souvenirs.

2. Dianchi Lake

When I arrived at Dianchi Lake, the cool breeze from the water hit my face and it felt so refreshing. The view was stunning — calm blue water, mountains in the distance, and white seagulls flying above. I walked along the lakeside path, stopped for some grilled fish snacks, and just enjoyed the peaceful sound of the waves.

📖 About Dianchi Lake

Dianchi Lake, also known as Kunming Lake, is the largest lake in Yunnan and one of the best places to visit in Kunming. It’s famous for its relaxing views, beautiful sunsets, and the chance to see thousands of seagulls in winter.

📅 Best time to visit Dianchi Lake

November to March for seagull season, or late afternoon for sunset.

🚇 How to get to Dianchi Lake?

Take Metro Line 5 and get off at Haigeng Dam Station. Then have a short walk there.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Is Dianchi Lake family-friendly?

Yes! Great for families, couples, and anyone who enjoys nature walks.

💡 Pro tips

• Visit Haigeng Dam for the best seagull photos.
• Try a short boat ride for lake views.
• Bring a jacket — it can get windy by the wate.

3. Green Lake (Cuihu)

The lake sparkled under the sunlight, and the sound of birds mixed with soft music from street performers. In winter, seagulls fly from Siberia and fill the lake with life, and everyone comes to feed them. It’s such a nice break from the busy city.

📖 About Green Lake (Cuihu)

Green Lake, or Cuihu Park, is one of the best neighborhoods in Kunming to experience local life. It’s right in the city centre, surrounded by cafés, snack shops, and little book cafés.

📅 Best time to visit Cuihu

Morning for fresh air, or winter (Nov–Mar) to see seagulls.

🚇 How to get to Cuihu?

Take the Metro Line 2 to Chuanxin Drum Tower Station and have a short walk.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Is Cuihu family-friendly?

Yes! Perfect for families, couples, and anyone who enjoys nature and local culture.

💡 Pro tips

• Try a cup of Yunnan coffee or milk tea at cafés around the park.
• Great spot for photos — especially near the bridges and lotus ponds.

4. Nanping Street

At night, the street feels extra lively — lights shining, buskers performing, and the whole place full of energy. It reminded me a bit of Orchard Road in Singapore, but with a more relaxed, local vibe.

📖 About Nanping Street

Nanping Street is one of the best places to visit in Kunming for shopping, food, and nightlife. It’s right in the city centre and always full of life — from big malls to small street stalls. If you’re looking for where to go in Kunming to feel the city’s modern side, this is the spot.

📅 Best time to visit Nanping Street

Evening, when the lights turn on and shops get busy.

🚇 How to get to Nanping Street?

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

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Is Nanping Street family-friendly?

Yes! Fun for families, couples, or friends who love shopping and food.

💡 Pro tips

• Try local snacks like grilled tofu and Yunnan rice noodles.
• Look out for small alleys — some have cute cafés and photo spots.

5. Dounan Flower Market

Everywhere I looked at Dounan Flower Market, there were flowers — bright sunflowers, orchids, tulips, and even tiny succulents in cute pots. It felt so lively and colourful, like walking through a rainbow made of flowers.

📖 About Dounan Flower Market

Dounan Flower Market is the largest flower market in Asia and one of the best places to visit in Kunming. It’s famous for its huge variety of flowers and affordable prices. This market is a must-see.

📅 Best time to visit Dounan Flower Market

Morning, when the flowers are freshest and stalls are full.

🚇 How to get to Dounan Flower Market?

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

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Is Dounan Flower Market family-friendly?

Yes! Kids and adults will love the colours and scents — perfect for a fun morning visit.

💡 Pro tips

• Go early for the best flower selection.
• Some shops can pack flowers for travel, great for souvenirs.

6. Guandu Ancient Town

Walking through Guandu Ancient Town felt like entering an old movie set. The streets were lined with grey brick houses, red lanterns hanging above, and the sound of temple bells in the distance. Everything here moves at a slow pace.

📖 About Guandu Ancient Town

Guandu Ancient Town is one of the best cultural districts in Kunming and one of the city’s oldest areas. It keeps much of its traditional Yunnan style, with temples, food stalls, and folk performances.

📅 Best time to visit Guandu Ancient Town

Morning or late afternoon when it’s cooler and less crowded.

🚇 How to get to Guandu Ancient Town?

Take Metro Line 1 to Xingyao Road station. Then take bus 261.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Is Guandu Ancient Town family-friendly?

Yes! Great for families and couples who enjoy history, food, and a relaxed walk.

💡 Pro tips

• Try the famous Guandu rice cakes and bean curd.
• Visit the Guandu Temple for a quiet moment and great photos.
• Some weekends have local performances — check ahead if you can.

7. Haigeng Dam

When I reached Haigeng Dam, the view took my breath away — the lake stretched endlessly, with mountains standing quietly in the background. The wind was cool and gentle, and white seagulls flew all around. It was so peaceful that I almost forgot I was still in the city.

📖 About Haigeng Dam

Haigeng Dam is one of the best nature spots in Kunming, famous for its wide lake views and seagulls in winter. It’s part of the Dianchi Lake area and a favourite place for locals to walk, jog, or relax.

📅 Best time to visit Haigeng Dam

November to March for seagull season, or sunset for great views.

🚇 How to get to Haigeng Dam?

Take Metro Line 5 to Haigeng Dam Station.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Is Haigeng Dam family-friendly?

Yes! Perfect for families, couples, and anyone who loves nature and open views.

💡 Pro tips

• Bring some bread or bird food for the seagulls.
• It can get windy — a light jacket helps.

8. Xishan

As I started walking up Xishan, I could feel the air getting fresher with every step. The path was quiet except for the sound of birds and rustling trees. Along the way, I saw temples hidden in the forest, old stone steps, and small pavilions with amazing views of Dianchi Lake below. The higher I climbed, the cooler it got — and when I finally reached the top at Dragon Gate, the view was incredible!

📖 About Xishan

Xishan, or Western Hills, is one of the best nature spots in Kunming and a must-visit for anyone who loves hiking and fresh air. The mountain is famous for its scenic trails, temples, and the Dragon Gate viewpoint.

📅 Best time to visit Xishan

Morning for cool weather and clear views.

🚇 How to get to Xishan?

Take Metro Line 3 and get off at Xishan Park Station.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Is Xishan family-friendly?

Good for active families, couples, and anyone who enjoys light hiking and nature views.

💡 Pro tips

• Wear comfy shoes for walking and stairs.
• Bring water and snacks — it’s a long climb to Dragon Gate.

9. Yunnan Nationalities Village

Walking into Yunnan Nationalities Village felt like stepping into a mini world tour. Each area showed a different Yunnan ethnic group’s home — wooden houses, colourful clothes, and traditional music playing in the background. 

📖 About Yunnan Nationalities Village

Yunnan Nationalities Village is one of the best cultural attractions in Kunming, showing the traditions of Yunnan’s many ethnic groups. It’s great for learning about local culture, food, and architecture — all in one scenic park.

📅 Best time to visit Yunnan Nationalities Village

Morning to afternoon, when performances are happening.

🚇 How to get to Yunnan Nationalities Village?

Take Metro Line 1 to Fude Station and then transfer to Bus A9.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Is Yunnan Nationalities Village family-friendly?

Yes! Great for families, couples, and anyone curious about Yunnan’s diverse cultures.

💡 Pro tips

• Don’t miss the traditional dance shows and costume parades.
• Try ethnic snacks from different Yunnan groups.
• Combine your visit with nearby Dianchi Lake or Haigeng Park for a full-day trip.

10. Yunnan Provincial Museum

The large, modern building of Yunnan Provincial Museum is filled with light, and the displays are beautifully arranged. I started with the ancient artefacts — shiny bronze pieces, old pottery, and jade carvings that tell stories from thousands of years ago. Further inside, I found colourful clothes, musical instruments, and photos showing the lives of Yunnan’s ethnic groups. 

📖 About Yunnan Provincial Museum

The Yunnan Provincial Museum is the top place to learn about Yunnan’s history, art, and diverse ethnic heritage. The exhibitions cover everything from ancient kingdoms to modern culture — perfect for travellers who love discovering local stories.

📅 Best time to visit Yunnan Provincial Museum

Morning or weekday afternoons for a quieter visit.

🚇 How to get to Yunnan Provincial Museum?

Take Metro Line 1 to Xingyao Road Station, then take a short walk.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Is Yunnan Provincial Museum family-friendly?

Yes! Perfect for families, students, and anyone interested in Yunnan’s history and traditions.

💡 Pro tips

• Bring your passport for free admission.
• Don’t miss the ethnic culture hall — it’s colourful and fun to explore.
• Visit the museum shop for lovely local souvenirs and books.

Why Kunming Is Worth Visiting?

Looking back on my time in Kunming, what really sticks with me isn’t just the big sights, but the small streets, colourful markets, and quiet corners that make the city feel alive. If you’re planning your trip, check flights to Kunming and browse hotels in Kunming for great stays. Now’s a great time to plan—there are amazing travel promotions for Kunming right now. Trust me, you’ll fall in love with this city just like I did!