Dragon Boat Festival in Yunnan | An Unconventional Journey of Scenic Beauty and Cultural Charm

Celebrate Dragon Boat Festival in Yunnan! If you're still undecided about your plans for the Dragon Boat Festival, why not head to Yunnan? 🌄 Itinerary Day 1: Kunming - Dianchi Lake - Kunming Old Street Morning: Arrive in Kunming, take a short rest, and then head to Dianchi Lake to enjoy the lake view. If you're lucky, you might spot seagulls (though there may be fewer during the Dragon Boat Festival, the scenery remains stunning). Afternoon: Visit Kunming Old Street to explore historic buildings, sample local snacks, and experience the vibrant atmosphere of old Kunming. Day 2: Kunming - Dali - Dali Ancient Town Morning: Take a high-speed train to Dali. Upon arrival, head straight to Dali Ancient Town, check in, and settle your luggage. Afternoon: Stroll through the ancient town, visit Foreigner Street and Wuhua Tower, and soak in the artistic vibe of the town. In the evening, relax at a bar and enjoy some folk music. Day 3: Dali - Erhai Lake All-day: Explore Erhai Lake by car, rental vehicle, or electric scooter. The recommended route is the west side of the lake, featuring picturesque spots like Xizhou Ancient Town, Panxi Village's S-curve, and Longkan Wharf. Xizhou Ancient Town boasts Bai-style architecture and expansive rice fields perfect for photography; Panxi Village's S-curve offers a fresh, Japanese-style photo opportunity; Longkan Wharf is ideal for capturing breathtaking sunrises. Day 4: Dali - Lijiang - Lijiang Ancient Town Morning: Travel to Lijiang by train or bus. Upon arrival, check into a guesthouse in Lijiang Ancient Town. Afternoon: Explore Lijiang Ancient Town, visit landmarks like the Big Waterwheel and Sifang Street, and enjoy panoramic views of the town from Lion Hill Observation Deck. At night, the town lights up beautifully, creating a magical atmosphere. Day 5: Lijiang - Jade Dragon Snow Mountain - Blue Moon Valley Book a one-day tour in advance, which includes tickets, cable car rides, warm clothing, and oxygen bottles. In the morning, head to Jade Dragon Snow Mountain to enjoy the snowy scenery via cable car. In the afternoon, visit Blue Moon Valley, where the crystal-clear blue lake resembles a paradise on earth, perfect for stunning photos. 🍜 Food Recommendations Kunming: Cross-bridge rice noodles, tofu rice noodles, wild mushroom hotpot—delicious and fresh! Dali: Ersi noodles, Erkuai, cold chicken rice noodles, Three-Course Tea, Bai-style Eight Bowls—each bite is a taste of Dali. Lijiang: Preserved pork hotpot, Naxi grilled fish, chickpea jelly, and Baba flatbread—irresistibly flavorful! 📸 Photo Spots Dianchi Lake Dam: A vast lake backdrop perfect for scenic portraits. Dali Ancient Town: Charming historic architecture that looks great in any shot. Xizhou Ancient Town: Expansive rice fields and Bai-style buildings for a pastoral vibe. Panxi Village's S-curve: Ride along Erhai Lake for youthful, energetic photos. Lijiang Ancient Town: Red lanterns and cobblestone streets for atmospheric shots. Blue Moon Valley: Gem-like blue waters with snow-capped mountains in the background—every photo is stunning. ❗ Tips 1. Weather in Yunnan during the Dragon Boat Festival can be unpredictable. Bring rain gear and a light jacket to stay warm in the cool mornings and evenings. 2. Yunnan has strong UV rays, so prepare sunscreen, a sun hat, and sunglasses. 3. Jade Dragon Snow Mountain has high altitudes; take precautions against altitude sickness and avoid strenuous activities. 4. Book tickets, accommodations, and attraction passes in advance to ensure a smooth trip.