Our educational adventure across Yunnan with Wendy Wu Tours

Our latest educational journey with Wendy Wu Tours took us deep into the heart of Yunnan, one of China’s most scenic and culturally rich regions. From towering limestone formations to tranquil lakeside towns and dramatic mountain landscapes, the itinerary delivered a beautiful balance of nature, history, and local life. Travelling with a small group of adventurous fellow consultants gave the trip an extra layer of fun and connection.

Guangzhou Welcome

After flying from Auckland to Guangzhou, we settled into the China Southern Airlines Pearl Hotel and enjoyed a half day city tour. It was the perfect way to stretch our legs and get a first taste of China’s vibrant urban culture. The city is so clean with beautiful gardens a mix of old and new buildings and flora garnishing the main roads and thoroughfares. A warm welcome dinner brought the group together, setting the tone for the days ahead.
Tips: Wear comfy shoes when arriving into Guangzhou as the airport is huge!
If you fly with China Southern and are only transiting then don’t forget to get your complimentary half day city tour which also includes lunch!
Overnight stopover is also complimentary with China Southern.
If you are planning on taking a power bank please make sure it has a “CCC” rating printed on the power bank or you risk getting it taken off you at customs. Our guide ordered some for us on arrival into Kunming and they were delivered to our hotel within an hour.

Kunming and the Otherworldly Stone Forest

The next morning we flew to Kunming and met up with our guide – Stone, before heading straight to the UNESCO listed Stone Forest. Walking through the towering limestone formations felt like stepping into another world. The pillars rose like trees in every direction, and the park’s winding paths created one striking viewpoint after another. Our local guide took us away from where all the tourists were and on an amazing hike through the forest. We hardly saw anyone on the hike so it felt like we had the whole place to ourselves. The hike itself was relatively easy – a little tight getting between some of the formations and the ground was quite uneven but I managed with a sprained ankle so not to hard going!

Back in Kunming we checked into the Jin Jiang Hotel and later sampled a local specialty, Across the Bridge Noodles. It was a delicious introduction to Yunnan cuisine, and we soon realised how proud the region is of its food culture. The whole district is famous for its produce including vegetables, fruit, coffee, teas and mushrooms!

Dali’s Charm and Culture

Driving into Dali the following day felt like arriving somewhere timeless. Surrounded by mountains and Lake Erhai, the town’s old quarter had an easy, peaceful atmosphere. We wandered through its lively market, browsed local crafts, and soaked up the rhythm of daily life. I tried some locally grown passionfruit which cost about 50 cents for 4 large passionfruit – divine! I don’t think I have ever seen so many different varieties of mushrooms. Some of them were the size of a small car tyre!

A visit to the iconic Three Pagodas offered a glimpse into the area’s long history, with the structures standing resiliently against the backdrop of nature. In the evening we explored Foreigners Street, a lively strip filled with food stalls, small shops, and a blend of Bai culture and international influence.

Tip: If you are planning to try local produce – like fruit, take a paring knife or pocketknife so you can cut into it!

Lakes, Mountains, and Traditional Villages

From Dali we travelled to Xizhou Village, where we wandered the local market and watched Naxi women in traditional dress going about their day. It was a beautiful example of how cultural heritage lives strongly in this region.

Arriving in Lijiang, set beneath the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, felt like stepping into a postcard. Before checking into the Wangfu Hotel which was the old Summer Palace and located in the middle of the ancient city, we explored the Black Dragon Pool, which offered stunning views of the mountain reflected in still water. The ancient city was full of shops and artisan workshops and many a bargain to be had for the shoppers in our group. In the evening the bars and restaurants really come alive. There is live music and entertainers, locals and tourists dress up in traditional costumes to get photos taken, even the pets are dressed up!
Tip: Don’t forget to barter when purchasing – it is accepted widely throughout the area.

Jade Dragon Snow Mountain and Baisha

On the way to Jade Dragon Snow Mountain we visited Baisha Old Town to see its remarkable Ming Dynasty frescoes, followed by a stop at the Mu Family Embroidery School. Watching the artisans at work was genuinely inspiring and showcased the region’s long tradition of fine craftsmanship.
Tips: Head over to the other showroom where they have some lovely smaller pieces at a fraction of the cost.
If you see the little baby goats all dressed up – be aware if you want a photo taken you will need to pay – agree on the price prior to taking the goat!

A highlight of the trip was the cable car ride up Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. The high meadows, fresh air, and sweeping views were unforgettable. Standing at altitude gave us a deep appreciation for the significance of the mountain to the Naxi people and other ethnic communities in the region. The high meadow is a very popular place for Chinese brides and grooms to get their photos taken – which they usually do around 6 months prior to the actual wedding. While we were strolling around the meadow, we couldn’t help but notice quite a few couples getting their photos taken. The high meadow is around 3300 metres above sea level so there were a lot of people carrying small portable oxygen tanks.

Tip: Make sure you are back on the cable car before 3:30pm to avoid the rush and make it down before the last cable car.

We stopped at the Blue Moon Lake where the water was crystal clear and a gorgeous shade of turquoise blue. Again – lots of steps but so worth it. More brides and grooms here getting pictures taken!

Tiger Leaping Gorge Adventure

Tiger Leaping Gorge was another standout, offering breathtaking scenery on a grand scale. With snow capped mountains towering above and the river churning far below, it was one of those landscapes that leaves you in awe. Be prepared for a lot of steps! After the visit we returned to Lijiang and enjoyed time wandering the old quarter with its bridges, wooden buildings, and cobbled streets.

Tip: You can pay for a return trip on the escalators. 75CNY for a return trip.

A Warm Farewell

On our final morning in Lijiang we took some time to enjoy the relaxed pace before heading to the airport for our flight home via Guangzhou. It was the perfect chance to reflect on the journey and the many moments of beauty, charm, and cultural insight that filled the time we had in China.

Reflections

Yunnan is a destination that feels both ancient and refreshing. Its landscapes are spectacular, its towns are full of character, and its people share their traditions with genuine warmth.

If you are a foodie – you will not be disappointed. Banquet lunches and dinners was a great way to taste many local dishes and try some new dishes that are local favourites. The food was so fresh and full of flavours. I have to say – I am glad we had a guide who did our ordering – he did a fabulous job of ensuring everyone’s tastes were catered for while keeping it authentic.

Travelling with Wendy Wu Tours made everything effortless, allowing us to focus on the experience itself.

We returned home inspired, grateful, and excited to share this remarkable corner of China with our clients.