Things to do in Yuanmou
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Top 10 attractions in Yuanmou
Yuanmou Earth and Forest Scenic Resort
Yuanmou Earth and Forest Scenic Resort is located in Yuanmou County, Chuxiangzhou and features a number of tall stone pillars. Be amazed by the beautiful quartz, agate and other substances shimmering in the sunshine. The resort is a solid choice for shutterbugs. Get accommodation and shoot the marvelous sunrise and sunset. At night, looking up at the array of stars glittering in the boundless sky is a wonderful experience.Yuanmou · 19.7 km from downtown
Wumao Earth Forest
Hutiaoxia (Tiger Leaping Beach) is located on the west side of Luomaole Village, Wumao Township, about 32 kilometers to the northwest of Yuanmou County, Chuxiong Prefecture. It is also known as the Wumao Rock Forest. The rock columns here are scattered around the landscape and form a majestic view, featuring various shapes that resemble castles, screens, curtains, and pillars, as well as sundry colors such as red, yellow, white, and brown. Attractions here are mostly located by the main ravine and its branches. The main ravine is a dry riverbed in an east-west direction, the surface of which is made of fine yellow sand and colorful gravel. The ravine's branches are found on its northern and southern sides. On the north side there are three branches, including the “Marshal's House,” the “Ancient Castle,” and the “Camel Peak.” On the south side there are two branches, including the “Nameless Ravine” and the “Eurasian Wonder.”Yuanmou · 19.7 km from downtown
Langbapu Earth Forest (Xinhua Earth Forest)
The Langbapu Soil Forest, also known as Xinhua Soil Forest, is located in Longbapu Village, Xinhua Township, Yuanmou County, Chuxiong Yi Autonomous Prefecture. The soil columns there are tall and dense with various types. The conical soil forest is well developed, which has become an important scenic spot of the Yuanmou soil forest. The Langbapu Soil forest is in different colors and shapes, looking from a distance like a magnificent palace.Yuanmou · 18 km from downtown
Jinsha River
Jinsha River is the upper reach of the Yangtze River in China. It is named for the golden color of the sand in the river. Also known as Shengshui, Yanshui, and Lushui. It is the boundary river between Sichuan and Tibet. The source of the Jinsha River was determined in the 1970s to be the main peak of the Tanggula Mountains in Qinghai Province, with the Tuotuo River as its main source. A 2008 survey suggested that the Qiequ River, the upper reach of the Dangqu River, is the main source, originating northeast of an unnamed mountain at 5,054m in the northern branch of the eastern section of the Tanggula Mountains. Administratively, it belongs to Jieduo Township, Zaduo County, Yushu Prefecture. Jinsha River flows between the provinces/regions of Sichuan, Tibet, and Yunnan. It is joined by a major tributary, the Yalong River, along the way, and is named the Yangtze River after merging with the Min River in Yibin, Sichuan. The main stream length from the source in Qinghai Province to Yibin City is 3,481 km, with a drainage area of 502,000 square kilometers (another source states 473,200 square kilometers), accounting for approx. 26% of the Yangtze River basin area. The annual average flow is over 4,000 cubic meters/second. It is primarily fed by precipitation, with groundwater and glacial meltwater as secondary sources.Yuanmou · 29.3 km from downtown
Hutiaotan Canyon
Tiger Leaping Beach Canyon is located in Wumao Township, Yuanmou County, Chuxiong Prefecture, only 100 meters away from Tiger Leaping Beach Earth Forest. Tiger Leaping Beach Canyon is 300 meters deep, with vertical and horizontal gullies and cliffs at the bottom of the valley. There are all kinds of strange stones in the canyon, and the streams are endless. The natural stone pot and stone stove and the waterfall in Longtan District constitute the unique beauty of the canyon. Coming out of the desolate and blurry soil forest scenic spot with desert scenery, walking leisurely along the Tiger Leaping Beach Canyon, the gurgling streams, dense waterfalls, and strange rocks on the shore can not help but make people feel relaxed and happy.Yuanmou · 19.8 km from downtown
Oriental Ape-man Valley Spring Around the World
Yuanmou Oriental Ape Valley Hot Spring Water World is located in the Oriental Ape Valley Attraction of Fenghuang Mountain, Yuanma Town, Yuanmou County, covering an area of 80 acres, divided into two sections: Ancient Hot Spring and Ancient Exploration Water World. The entire design fully explores the ancient ape culture. The hot spring area fully maintains the original ecological landscape to create a mid-mountain hot spring with a different view at every step, including 1 hot spring hotel, 42 hot spring pools, 6 hot spring nest pools, and 2 hot spring VIP soup courtyards. The water park area includes 1 swimming pool, 1 wave pool and entrance square, 400-meter rafting river, family water fort, big speaker, children's water play, elf tree house, rapid competition, etc. The wave pool and special rainbow slide make tourists feel like they are traveling through the ancient human era and modern time and space.Yuanmou · 4.5 km from downtown
Yulong Snow Mountain
Yulong Snow Mountain is not far from the ancient city of Lijiang. It is a sacred mountain range of the Naxi people and has 13 interconnected peaks with a breathtaking view. You can take a cablecar up the mountain while observing the vegetation changing from bottom to. The foot of the mountain is a ranch. During the spring season, there will be a large number of flowers blossoming. The Yunshan Ping on the mountain side is regarded by the Naxi people as a romantic place. The of the mountain is covered in snow all year round, and you can absorb the glorious sight of the glaciers when you are up there.China · Yulong
Dianchi Lake
Dianchi Lake is also called Kunming Lake. It is the sixth largest freshwater lake in China. It has the nickname of "Sparkling Pearl Embedded in a Highland". The lake is wide and spectacular. Every winter, a large flock of red-billed gulls migrate here from Siberia, making it a good place for bird watching and bird feeding. There are different ways to explore Dianchi lake. You can stroll around the lake, cycle, or ride a boat. You can also climb up to the Dragon Gate overlooking Dianchi Lake to get a better view of the entire lake.China · Kunming
Stone Forest Scenic Area
The Stone Forest Scenic Area is located in Shilin County, Kunming, and is one of the key attractions in the city. This scenic area showcases typical karst landforms, featuring stone peaks, pinnacles, sinkholes, and underground rivers. The towering rock formations take on various shapes—sword-like, pagoda-like, mushroom-like, and more—creating a breathtaking and fantastical landscape. The Stone Forest Scenic Area is divided into several widely spaced sections, with the Greater and Lesser Stone Forest attractions at its core. The Naigu Stone Forest is located approx. 12 km north of the main attractions, while the Dadie Waterfall scenic area sits approx. 29 km southwest. The Changhu Lake area is positioned 26 km southeast of the main site. When visitors refer to touring the Stone Forest, they typically mean exploring the Greater and Lesser Stone Forest sections. The Greater and Lesser Shilin are located in the same area. After purchasing tickets at the main entrance and walking along the path for 20 minutes, you'll find the smaller and more gently sloped Lesser Shilin Scenic Area on your left. Amidst the dense cluster of peaks stands the famous Ashima Stone, where the majestic karst formations resemble a graceful Yi ethnic maiden named Ashima, seemingly waving to visitors—a favorite photo spot for travelers. Beyond the striking Ashima, the Lesser Shilin area features other captivating views like the Steed and Pillar Supporting the Sky, each with unique shapes. This is where your imagination is put to the test. If you find your imagination lacking, we recommend hiring a guide who can offer fresh perspectives on these remarkable formations. As you drive leisurely along the highway, you'll encounter a series of remarkable rock formations lining the roadside—the Tang Monk Stone, Stone Prison, Phoenix Combing Its Wings, and Lingzhi Mushroom Rock—each vividly lifelike and exquisitely crafted by nature's artistry, presenting their unique postures to showcase Earth's wondrous creations. Strolling along the pathway, you'll unexpectedly arrive at the Great Stone Forest Scenic Area. After marveling at wonders like "Two Birds Sharing Food," "Rhinoceros Gazing at the Moon," "Lotus Peak," "Shilin Grand View," and "Stone Screen," you might feel slightly fatigued. Take a peaceful break at Lion Pavilion while admiring the inverted peaks reflected in Lion Pool across the way. After prolonged exposure to these karst formations, visual fatigue may set in—making it the perfect moment to shift perspectives. Board a cruise on Shilin Lake, where mountain vistas and water scenery converge into one breathtaking panorama, dissolving all stress and worries. If you prefer not to walk, electric carts driven by Yi ethnic women shuttle between attractions and stop upon request. You can still marvel at the wonders of the Stone Forest Scenic Area, and some friendly drivers may even share interesting local anecdotes along the way. Naigu Stone Forest, also known as New Stone Forest or Mozhai Stone Forest, is located 13 km north of the Stone Forest Scenic Area. It features a landscape composed of stone formations, Baiyun Lake, Shifeng Mountain, and Yougu Xianpu Waterfall. Compared to the Stone Forest Scenic Area, this site offers a distinct style. The towering gray-black stone pillars here are densely packed, resembling castles, towers, and mushrooms. The rugged, primitive rock formations surge skyward like waves, creating a majestic atmosphere. Walking through these dark peaks feels like stepping into a primeval world.China · Shilin
Dongfengyun Scenic Area
Mile's “Dongfengyun” town is a characteristic town with cultural tourism, health care and art as its core. The tens of thousands of acres of vineyards and hundreds of acres of lavender fields Souvenir the Attraction add color to the town. All year round, there are flowers in full bloom in spring, evergreen trees in summer, yellow ginkgo trees in autumn, and quiet and peaceful things in winter. Play in the charm of Dongfeng, flower field windmills, lakeside trails, and special-shaped buildings, bringing you a visual feast of art. Sculptor Luo Xu took the red soil from this plateau and used the red bricks from this land to implant unique-style buildings into the original landforms, and built a group of red brick art buildings in various shapes. The kaleidoscope displays the only two sets of "Thousands of Chorus Pottery Figurines" in the world, and the Half Cloud Art Living Room creates a Zen and quiet Refreshment environment. International Art Center, Agricultural Reclamation Museum, Flower Hill, Seal Workshop... Here, architecture tells stories and art conveys emotions. Eat at Dongfengyun, where the Seal Shop and Cultural and Creative Market, which combine local snacks from Mile, bring you a food carnival. Stay at Dongfengyun, MGallery Art Hotel, with 5 different themes to meet your business, administration, parent-child, vacation, and honeymoon needs; Niuduoluo Music Farm, takes you into a different rural life; Art Inn, with modern intelligent technology, allows you to experience the butler-style immersive stay experience cared for by artificial intelligence. Here, life becomes poetry, allowing time to flow slowly in the poetry and paintings of art, and allowing the soul to rest quietly in the long river of years. The wind rises, the clouds fall, wine is consumed among the flowers, and life is filled with the rare charm of the east wind.China · Mile
Free things to do in Yuanmou
Yuanmou Earth and Forest Scenic Resort
Yuanmou · 19.7 km from downtownBook now for tomorrow, Cancel anytimeWumao Earth Forest
Yuanmou · 19.7 km from downtownBook now for tomorrow, Cancel anytimeLangbapu Earth Forest (Xinhua Earth Forest)
Yuanmou · 18 km from downtownBook now for tomorrow, Cancel anytimeJinsha River
Yuanmou · 29.3 km from downtownHutiaotan Canyon
Yuanmou · 19.8 km from downtownOriental Ape-man Valley Spring Around the World
Yuanmou · 4.5 km from downtownYulong Snow Mountain
China · YulongDianchi Lake
China · KunmingStone Forest Scenic Area
China · ShilinDongfengyun Scenic Area
China · MileBook now for tomorrow, Cancel anytime
What travelers say about Yuanmou
Anonymous user12 March 2026
5.0
The scenery is pristine and magnificent, with vibrant colors and few tourists, offering a truly immersive experience. Scenic Area No. 4 is the most breathtaking. However, the only drawbacks are the inadequate service facilities and unclear signage for the tour routes.
Yuanmou Earth and Forest Scenic Resort
M30***903 October 2026
5.0
Yuanmou Earth Forest – a gift from nature! A three-dimensional earth forest formed by millions of years of erosion of red quartz sandstone! Looking down from the mountain viewing platform, it resembles a miniature landscape; the trails on either side resemble castles, forests, and rockets soaring into the sky… Worth a visit, highly recommended! Comment: After exiting the rest area (cafe, art gallery), there were no staff members, and I didn't know how to get there! Turning left and walking along the road for a long time (in the sweltering heat) led to another rest area (unnamed), but I still didn't know how to get there, and again, no staff members offered directions!
Wumao Earth Forest
Anonymous user18 September 2026
4.0
This attraction was developed by a private owner. Due to early issues, the local government sold it to a private contractor, resulting in only moderate maintenance and upkeep. Furthermore, local transportation to the site is somewhat inconvenient. If you plan to go, it's recommended to drive yourself or hire a car. Buses are available, but their schedules are less flexible. From a photography perspective, it's worth visiting; the scenery is very photogenic and perfect for taking pictures.
Langbapu Earth Forest (Xinhua Earth Forest)
真诚757726 April 2021
4.0
The Jinsha River is quite long. After Panzhihua built the Jinsha River as the axis, the scenery on both sides is actually quite beautiful. There are many flowers on both sides of the river, and the scenery is set off by the layers of the city. Several bridges are also well built.
Jinsha River
美梦成真123！！1 November 2020
5.0
What a beautiful scenery, in the canyon, the river is rushing, and the rocks are jagged, like the roar of a dragon and the roar of a tiger.
Hutiaotan Canyon
M42***676 July 2023
5.0
It is worth experiencing here. The hot spring and water park are available with a combined ticket. After soaking in the hot spring, you can go to the water park to experience the wave-making, colorful water slides, and especially the big horn, which is so exciting. When you are tired of playing here, you can go to the hot spring for a soak, which is very comfortable.
Oriental Ape-man Valley Spring Around the World
Wu1814 October 2026
5.0
If you're traveling to Lijiang, Jade Dragon Snow Mountain is definitely worth a visit! Although I didn't see the snow-capped peaks I'd imagined this time, and instead witnessed more spectacular rock formations, the awe-inspiring sight of the mountains in person was still quite unique. Personally, I think it's unnecessary to buy the most comprehensive package ticket; choosing the basic ticket based on your itinerary might be enough. Buying extra items felt a bit redundant 😂 But overall, it was a very worthwhile experience, and definitely worth including in your itinerary when visiting Lijiang!
Yulong Snow Mountain
Anonymous user14 October 2026
5.0
Location: Haigeng Park/No. 16 Hubin Road ↔ Xishan Longmen (West Mountain Dragon Gate), not near the old street, you have to go to the Dianchi Lake area.
Experience: Crossing the lake + climbing the mountain, about 20 minutes one way, views of Dianchi Lake, Sleeping Beauty Mountain, and city scenery, great for taking photos.
Ticket Price: One way about 59-60 RMB, round trip about 98-100 RMB.
Advantages: Easy for lazy people to climb West Mountain, no climbing required, unique views; seagulls in winter.
Disadvantages: Stops during strong winds/thunderstorms; long queues during peak season; separate ticket/walking required for Longmen after climbing the mountain; don't confuse with the "Xishan Longmen Cableway".
Conclusion: First time in Kunming, taking the Dianchi-Xishan route → worth it; if just exploring the old street → not worth a special trip.
Dianchi Lake
_TI***7212 October 2026
5.0
Excellent package. No Q and vip treatment. The assigned tour guide is friendly and good!
Stone Forest Scenic Area
lydialulu9 October 2026
5.0
The architecture is distinctive, and it's quite photogenic. However, it's essentially a modern, man-made tourist attraction; it's not particularly interesting, with nothing particularly fun or story-driven. People who enjoy taking photos and checking off landmarks can come here; it's definitely suitable for posing and taking pictures.
Dongfengyun Scenic Area
