Encounters with Fading Traditions
Explore the enduring spirit of Yunnan's 25 diverse minority cultures. Living in harmony with nature, these groups have preserved their rich traditions, shaping Yunnan's unique and unforgettable cultural identity.
Join this 7-day Yunnan minority tour and explore the charming cities of Kunming, Dali, and Lijiang. Experience unique cultural activities, such as learning to play the Yi guitar, creating your own Bai tie-dye handkerchief, and discovering the fascinating Mosuo matriarchy.
Enjoy our complimentary itinerary planning service to design your dream Yunnan trip.
Suggested 7-Day Yunnan Minorities Tour
| Day | Highlights |
|---|---|
| 1-2 Kunming |
Naigu Stone Forest, Nuohei Village, Yi Guitar Learning |
| 3-4 Dali |
Dali Ancient Town, Erhai Lake Cycling, Zhoucheng Village, Bai Tie-dye Making |
| 5 Lijiang |
Dayan Town, Baisha Village, Visit a Shaman's Home, Make Naxi pancakes |
| 6-7 Lugu Lake |
Explore Lugu Lake, Boat Cruises, Mosuo Family Visit, Mosuo Night Show |
Yunnan Minorities Cultural Tour Map
Tour 'Wow' Points
Unveil the Real Mosuo
Delve into Mosuo culture by visiting a local home to understand their matriarchal traditions. Explore the enchanting "grass sea" aboard a wooden boat, revealing the secrets of the floating meadow.
Discover Yunnan's Hidden Villages
Experience the Yi culture in Nuohei Village and discover its unique architecture. Explore the Bai culture in Zhoucheng Village, marveling at their artistry. Visit the ancient Baisha Murals to delve into the Naxi people's rich history and beliefs.
Enjoy Authentic Bai Home Cooking
Settle into the tranquil courtyard of a Bai lady's home. The welcoming hostess will delight your palate and warm your soul with her delectable home cooking.
Admire Naigu Stone Forest
Uncover the hidden gem of Naigu Stone Forest, a peaceful oasis with towering, jagged rock formations.
Cycle around Erhai Lake
Enjoy a bike ride alongside Erhai Lake. Feel the wind, enjoy the flowery meadows and rice fields, and see the clouds floating above the majestic Cangshan mountains.
China Highlights' Special Discovery Experiences
Learn Yi guitar and dance with the locals.
Dye your handkerchief in the traditional Bai way.
Visit a Shaman's home to discover mysterious Naxi culture.
Experience the Bai minority's special tea ceremony.
Learn to make Naxi pancakes in a local restaurant.
Discover real reviews of Highlights Travel Family's best-rated service across trusted platforms.
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12 day trip to Kunming, Dali and Lijiang
Our tour guide cum driver for Kunming, is Jack Lee. He took good care of us, especially when there is any descending or ascending hike during the trip. He gave excellent suggestion for dinner and even show us the authentic way to eat the food. We had a fantastic 6 days in Dali area. Our guide, 王立婷, is from the Bai ethnic group. She is very knowledgeable in the custom and history of Yunnan as well as the different Ethnic group of the area. We learn a lot of interesting things from her. If I were to go to Dali again, I will definitely look for her. The last stretch of our trip, is 3 days in Lijiang with our guide , 和绍春. He is from the Naxi Ethnic group. He shared with us his knowledge of his people and also how to handle high altitiude. Luckily for us, we had him to look out for us as some of us were unwell during and after the ascent of Yulong snow mountain. Last but not least, our driver, 卞师傅，spent 9 days with us and is a safe driver and a friendly person. more
Apr 2025, Boon Keow L
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Lijiang and Kunming
Thanks to Camillia Jiang from China Highlights who created our itinerary we had a wonderful holiday in Lijiang and Kunming. Our guides in Lijiang Alice and Lulu in kunming were wonderful in taking care of our needs from the word go and made our holidays so much better. more
Apr 2025, Chng S
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Amazing 9D8N Yunnan Experience!
Our group of 8 had an amazing time in Yunnan with China Highlights!We’re on 9D8N tour in Shangrila, Lijiang, Dali and Kunming. Special thanks to Liberman (key coordinator) for his patience in meeting our many requests and changes, I’m really impressed with his good English competency, prompt responses and follow-up. We were blessed with great weather, sunshine when we visit Pudacuo and Songzhanlin, Hotel Indigo is an excellent choice for hotel stay in Shangrila. We were able to ascend Jade Dragon Snow Mountain in Lijiang too, it was snowing slightly and the mountain was covered by thick white snow, making our experience a very special one. Thumbs up to Lijiang guide Jack, he’s one of the few guides who would hike up the mountain side by side with guests. Our special thanks goes to our guides - James (Shangrila), Jack (Lijiang), Alice (Dali), Lydia and May (Kunming). They have worked very hard to ensure our Yunnan experience is an amazing one with beautiful scenery, delicious food, great shopping! I will definitely travel with China Highlights again andwill highly recommend them to my friends. more
Apr 2025, savvy Traveler
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Suggested Itinerary
Here is a suggested itinerary. We are happy to customize a tour to suit your interests.
Welcome to Kunming! Our friendly guide will meet you in the airport arrivals hall and escort you to the hotel, assisting with check-in and ensuring a smooth and enjoyable stay.
Visit the Naigu Stone Forest — the 'Ancient Black' Stone Forest. Climb a high platform for a magnificent panoramic view and take a little path, threading the narrow space between the stones to witness the fantastic formations up close.
Immerse yourself in the Yi minority culture by visiting Nuohei Village. The village is constructed from the local limestone, showcasing the Yi people's ingenuity and artistry. Explore the beautiful village, learn to play the Yi guitar, and join in a traditional dance.
Transfer to Kunming Railway Station for a bullet train to Dali, where a private guide and driver will greet you and accompany you to the hotel.
Escape the crowds and experience the authentic of Dali Ancient Town by exploring it early in the morning. Admire the stunning city gate and elegant architecture lining the streets, and immerse yourself in the vibrant local atmosphere as you witness people shopping at the local market.
Pause at the charming square and capture the iconic Three Pagodas, a breathtaking sight against the backdrop of the Cangshan Mountains.
Explore the charming Zhoucheng Village and immerse yourself in the rich Bai culture by learning about their ancient tie-dyeing techniques and witnessing firsthand the artistry involved. Marvel at the intricate patterns on their traditional Bai clothing, inspired by the elements of nature.
Pedal along the tranquil shores of Erhai Lake, surrounded by lush meadows and rice paddies, with the towering Cangshan Mountains as a stunning backdrop.
Relax and enjoy a comfortable transfer to Lijiang with your private guide and driver.
Savor a traditional Naxi lunch at a family-owned restaurant in Baisha. As a special treat, you'll have the chance to learn how to make Naxi pancakes (Naxi baba).
Witness the magnificent Baisha Murals. Over a thousand years old, these murals provide a fascinating journey through their beliefs.
Meet a Naxi shaman(Dongba) to explore their ancient spiritual practices and culture. Learn about the Naxi people's connection to nature, language, and music.
Discover Lijiang Ancient Town(Dayan Town), a UNESCO site inhabited by the Naxi minority. Stroll cobblestone streets lined with traditional houses, and admire local crafts.
A 4-hour drive from Lijiang will take you to the stunning Lugu Lake, where the Jinsha River provides beautiful scenery.
Arrive in Daluoshui Village and enjoy a delightful lunch while soaking up the panoramic views of the lake from a purpose-built observation deck.
Embark on a scenic boat tour in the afternoon to appreciate the natural beauty of the lake and its surroundings.
Enjoy a driving tour around the lake. Pause at Lover's Shore to capture the picturesque scenery and take stunning photos. Wander through the charming Lige Village and admire the postcard-perfect views of the Lige Peninsula. Ascend Luyuanya Cliff to witness the inspiring sight of prayer stones and flags.
Escape the crowds and enjoy a peaceful hike through nature, culminating in stunning views of Nüshenwan and Princess Island.
Drift through the ethereal "Grass Sea" in a traditional wooden boat and enjoy walking on a floating meadow.
Experience the unique Mosuo way of life firsthand by visiting a Mosuo family.
Discover the soulful melodies and vibrant dances of the Mosuo Night Show, a truly unforgettable cultural experience.
After a restful morning, we'll drive you back to Lijiang Airport for your flight home.
Hotel Selection
—the Icing on the Cake
Boutique hotels are recommended to enrich your travel experience.
Price includes:
- Private air-conditioned business car with big windows and ample space
- First-class seat on the bullet train from Kunming to Dali
- English-speaking local guides
- Activities, hotels, and meals listed in the itinerary
- A 24/7 helpline is available throughout your trip
Tour code: km-4