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Picture of Yunan, China

Travel Guide for
Yunan

China

Subtropical highland, mild winters, wet summers

Introduction

Yunnan, in southwest China, is known for its mild climate, especially in early October when days are pleasantly warm and evenings are cool—perfect for seniors exploring at a relaxed pace. The province boasts a diverse history, with influences from many ethnic minorities.

Stroll through the ancient streets of Lijiang or admire the terraced fields around Yuanyang, both celebrated for their scenic beauty and gentle walking routes. Enjoy local teas and traditional performances in Dali, where the pace of life is slow and inviting. Yunnan’s rich culture, comfortable weather, and senior-friendly attractions make it an ideal, budget-friendly getaway.

Customized for these preferences:

Travel StyleSenior

Dates01-10 October 2025

BudgetAverage budget

AccommodationHotel, villa, resort

Interests and Activities:

sightseeing and tours

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Picture of Yunan, China

Key Facts

Location

Southwest China

Currency

Renminbi (Yuan) (CNY)

Religion

Buddhism, Christianity, Islam, local religions

Population

48,300,000

Language

Mandarin, Bai, Yi, Hani, Zhuang

Electricity

220V, 50Hz, Types A, C, I

Time zone

UTCChina Standard Time (UTC+8)

Country code

+86

Internet access

Widespread, 4G/5G, moderate cost

Climate

Subtropical highland, mild winters, wet summers

See More China Facts

Language:

Mandarin Chinese

  • hello

    你好 (nee how)

  • goodbye

    再见 (dzai jyen)

  • yes

    (shr)

  • no

    不是 (boo shr)

  • how much

    这个多少钱? (juh guh dwor shaow chyen)

  • please

    (ching)

  • thank you

    谢谢 (shieh shieh)

  • excuse me

    对不起 (dway boo chee)

Map

Logistics

Yunnan is easily reached by air, with Kunming Changshui International Airport offering flights from major Chinese cities and some international destinations. For seniors, flying is the quickest and most comfortable choice. High-speed trains connect Kunming with cities like Chengdu, Guangzhou, and Shanghai, providing scenic views and a smooth ride.

Long-distance buses are available but less comfortable for seniors. Within Yunnan, trains and flights conveniently connect cities such as Lijiang and Dali. Early October sees pleasant weather, but National Day holidays (October 1-7) bring crowds and higher prices, so booking transportation and accommodations in advance is essential for a smooth trip.

Weather

Yunnan enjoys a mild, spring-like climate year-round thanks to its unique geography, though temperatures vary with altitude. Most of the province sees warm days and cool nights, with bigger differences between day and night than between seasons. Winters are generally mild, while summers are warm but not too hot.

From October 1 to October 10, the weather is especially pleasant, with comfortable temperatures—typically between 10°C and 22°C (50°F to 72°F)—and low humidity. This is after the summer monsoon, so rainfall is rare, and skies are often clear with crisp mountain air. Extreme weather is uncommon in early October, making it an ideal time for sightseeing and tours.

Food & Drink

Yunnan cuisine delights with fresh, bold flavors—try signature dishes like Crossing the Bridge Rice Noodles (guoqiao mixian), mushroom hotpot, and Yunnan-style grilled cheese. Pu’er tea is famous and often enjoyed in traditional teahouses. Don’t miss local snacks such as wild mushroom stir-fry and rose-flavored desserts.

For a senior-friendly experience, head to Kunming’s ShiPing Restaurant for local specialties, or Heavenly Manna Café in Dali for relaxed dining with international and vegetarian options. Lijiang’s Sakura Café offers scenic views and excellent tea. Tipping isn’t customary in Yunnan, though rounding up the bill is appreciated.

Menus often feature spicy items, but milder or vegetarian food is widely available. Markets and family-run eateries give authentic tastes, often with English menus for ease of ordering.

A picture of Peking Duck

Peking Duck

Peking Duck is a famous Chinese dish featuring crispy duck skin, tender duck meat, and thin pancakes, all...

A picture of Xiaolongbao

Xiaolongbao

Xiaolongbao is a type of steamed bun (baozi) originating from Jiangsu province. Filled with hot soup and a...

A picture of Mapo Tofu

Mapo Tofu

Mapo Tofu is a spicy Sichuan dish made with soft tofu, minced meat, and fermented black beans, all...

A picture of Hot Pot

Hot Pot

Hot Pot is a communal dining experience involving a simmering pot of flavorful broth into which various raw...

A picture of Kung Pao Chicken

Kung Pao Chicken

Kung Pao Chicken is a classic Sichuan dish featuring tender chunks of chicken stir-fried with peanuts, vegetables, and...

Accommodation

Yunnan offers a range of comfortable accommodations suited for seniors. In Kunming, the Sofitel or Crowne Plaza provide excellent comfort and amenities near green parks. Lijiang boasts cozy boutique hotels and villas in the Old Town, such as the InterContinental Lijiang Ancient Town Resort—perfect for scenic walks and cultural sights.

For a relaxing stay with stunning views, consider Erhai Lake resorts in Dali or the Banyan Tree Lijiang for its villas and peaceful atmosphere. Booking.com and Trip.com are reliable for reservations. October 1-10 is China’s Golden Week holiday, so book early, expect higher rates, and request ground-floor rooms or elevators for convenience.

Itinerary

Begin your Yunnan adventure by arriving in Kunming, settling comfortably, and getting your first impressions of this vibrant city and its welcoming local culture.

Walking Tour of Kunming Old Street

Wander through Kunming Old Street to admire historical buildings, quaint shops, and get your first taste of local life. This pedestrian-friendly area is easy to navigate and offers many small cafés for a rest.

2-Day Mini Group Zhangjiajie Tour: Avatar Mountain & Glass Bridge

2-Day Mini Group Zhangjiajie Tour: Avatar Mountain & Glass Bridge

INSTANT

By taking this mini group no shopping Zhangjiajie tour, immerse yourself in the amazing natural beauty of the National Forest Park - a scene of the movie "Avatar". Have a unique experience of strolling on the thrilling Glass Bridge and overlook the panorama of Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon. It can not be missed to ascend the Zhangjiajie’s highest Tianmen Mountain to admire the world-famous Tianmen Cave. Enjoy this 2-day tour with a sit-back manner, your tour guide will take care of everything.

4.9 (104 reviews)

From $139 USD

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Attractions

4.0 (450 reviews)
Great Wall of China at Mutianyu Full-Day Tour Including Lunch from Beijing

Great Wall of China at Mutianyu Full-Day Tour Including Lunch from Beijing

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

This full-day Beijing sightseeing tour to the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall of China provides an opportunity to experience steeper sections of the wall.The Mutianyu section is older than popular Badaling section and features outer and inner parapets, three watch towers and even an optional cable car ride! To complete your sightseeing you'll have the opportunity to enjoy a jade factory and tea tasting.

From $79 USD

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4.9 (113 reviews)
Private Night Sightseeing Tour of Beijing

Private Night Sightseeing Tour of Beijing

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

See Beijing when it sparkles at night! Beijing’s diversified nightlife is fun for everyone. Take a night tour to watch the attractions come to life through lights and color. Traveling by your a private vehicle, visiting all the famous attractions including The Tian'anmen square, National Centre for the Performing Arts, CCTV headquarter, Beijing National Stadium, Wangfujing Night Food Market and the Houhai lake area. Learn fascinating facts about these legendary landmarks from your professional guide and hear insider tips on exciting places to visit in the capital city at night.

From $90 USD

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4.4 (25 reviews)
Xi'an Full Day Sightseeing Tour - Shaanxi History Museum, Big Wild Goose Pagoda, Ancient City Wall

Xi'an Full Day Sightseeing Tour - Shaanxi History Museum, Big Wild Goose Pagoda, Ancient City Wall

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Spend a full day exploring the unique history, culture, beautiful architecture and religious monuments of the ancient walled city of Xi'an. One of the capitals of ancient China, this city is also one of the four capitals of the world’s ancient civilizations. Visit the Shaanxi History Museum and learn all about the “Silk Road” city, one of the most well-protected cities in China. Tour the Big Wild Goose Pagoda with your expert guide, stop at the Great Mosque and enjoy an authentic Chinese lunch. Note: Shaanxi History Museum has the strict limitation for the entrance tickets every day. Once it is not available, you will visit its sister museum -- Shaanxi Archaeology Museum, instead.

From $129 USD

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4.3 (17 reviews)
Xi'an Highlights Day Tour: Terracotta Warriors and City Sightseeing

Xi'an Highlights Day Tour: Terracotta Warriors and City Sightseeing

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Discover the rich history and culture of Xi’an on a full-day private tour. You’ll spend the morning at the impressive Terracotta Warriors and Horses Museum, then choose from several options for your afternoon city sightseeing tour. Lunch and entrance fee are left for you to arrange but please feel assured that your guide will always be there to help. You will be deciding the place, the food, which makes the tour much more interesting.

From $145 USD

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4.5 (4 reviews)
1-day Guilin Li River Cruise and Yangshuo Sightseeing Private Tour

1-day Guilin Li River Cruise and Yangshuo Sightseeing Private Tour

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Take a cruise along the Li River and enjoy the stunning and picturesque scenery along the way on this full-day tour from Guilin. Then, bike through paddy field and orchards surrounding the mountains, and get a fascinating insight into life in rural China. During this tour, you can: 1.Enjoy a relaxing and picturesque cruise along the Li River on this full-day tour from Guilin 2.Hop on a bike and take a wonderful cycling tour through the beautiful Yangshuo countryside 3. Has more than 7 options Yangshuo tours for you after the Li-River cruise tour.

From $183 USD

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5.0 (2 reviews)
Great Wall of China at Mutianyu Full-Day Private Tour Including Lunch

Great Wall of China at Mutianyu Full-Day Private Tour Including Lunch

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

This full-day Beijing sightseeing tour to the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall of China provides an opportunity to experience steeper sections of the wall.The Mutianyu section is older than popular Badaling section and features outer and inner parapets, three watch towers and even an optional cable car ride! To complete your sightseeing you'll have the opportunity to enjoy a jade factory and tea tasting.

From $139 USD

View Details
5.0 (1 reviews)
Beijing Private Customized Shopping and City Sightseeing Tour with Lunch

Beijing Private Customized Shopping and City Sightseeing Tour with Lunch

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

This private customized tour takes you to see the amazing attractions and shop at the same time. This tour is designed for those who want to visit the most important city sites in Beijing and don't want to miss the shopping opportunity. This is a private tour just for you and your party. With a flexible itinerary, you can see the sights that you want to see while being chauffeured around town. Your professional guide will make sure to understand your main interests in order to save you time and only focus on the sites and shopping points that you are most interested in. A tasty local lunch is included during the tour. Please discuss with us on where you want to go in advance, because attractions in Beijing all need to book tickets in advance.

From $148 USD

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5.0 (8 reviews)
3-Day Private Beijing Sightseeing Tour with Peking Duck, Hot Pot plus Optional Show

3-Day Private Beijing Sightseeing Tour with Peking Duck, Hot Pot plus Optional Show

INSTANT

In this 3-day all Inclusive private tour, visit top attractions in Beijing including the UNESCO sites: Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven, Summer Palace, Mutianyu Great Wall Section and Ming tombs . Furthermore, explore the famous Tiananmen square, take a panoramic view on Forbidden City from Jing Shan Park, have a photo stop at the 2008 Olympic Games bird's nest and water cubicle, explore the grand Buddha in Lama Temple and see old imperial Beijing areas by walk in the Hutong area with the Bell and Drum Towers outside view. Enjoy a wonderful evening show (optional) and taste the most famous hot pot lunch and delicious Peking Duck dinner.

From $565 USD

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5.0 (2 reviews)
Private Tour: Yuyuan Garden, Chenghuangmiao Temple, Local Market

Private Tour: Yuyuan Garden, Chenghuangmiao Temple, Local Market

INSTANT

Get a taste of traditional Shanghai on this private guided tour. On this full-day sightseeing tour, visit Yuyuan Garden, Jade Buddha Temple, Chenghuangmiao Temple and Taobao City Market. Discover the beauty and richness of China’s history and culture as you explore these landmarks that capture the essence of classical China.

From $147 USD

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