Yunnan Expedition From Hong Kong

Itinerary

• Day 1: Hong Kong, Arrival

  Upon arrival in Hong Kong, a private car will bring you and your family to a centrally located hotel. Take some time to relax before your adventure begins.

  • Hong Kong

• Day 2: Discovery of Hong Kong Island

  Start with a special trip on the historic Peak Tram up Victoria Peak, taking in panoramic city views. Then, explore the Central Mid-Levels Escalator together, stopping to learn about history at the cozy Tai Kwun Center.

  After hearing tales of the past, reward yourselves with yummy egg tarts and milk tea from street vendors. Nearby Man Mo Temple is colorful and fun for you to discover Chinese traditional culture. Depending on the weather, build sandcastles or sunbathe at the soft Repulse Bay beach. Then, the other highlight awaits - a journey on the iconic Ding Ding Tram! Kids will love the ding-ding bell and seeing neighborhoods roll by this classic tram.

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  • Hong Kong

• Day 3: Exploration of the Kowloon Peninsula

  Your family adventure in the Kowloon Peninsula starts at Wong Tai Sin Temple, where you can learn fortune-telling. Then, stroll through Mong Kok Market's bustling lanes, gasping at the plush goldfish and chirping birds. Following it is a true Cantonese banquet - sample crispy char siu bao (soft buns stuffed with savory-sweet barbecued pork) and juicy har gow (delicate shrimp dumplings wrapped in translucent rice pastry) over joyous dim sum.

  Later, curious minds can engage with interactive exhibits and inspiring collections in the Hong Kong Science Museum and Hong Kong Museum of Art. Stroll along the Avenue of Stars, tracing the footprints of film legends, and pause for family photos with the glittering cityscape. As dusk falls, board an Aqua Luna junk boat for the fresh sea breeze. Gaze upon the Symphony of Lights, awe-inspiring skyscrapers dancing in the harbor's glow.

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  • Hong Kong

• Day 4: Hong Kong - Kunming

  As your Hong Kong family adventure draws to a close, private transportation will deliver you to the airport for your onward journey.

  Upon arrival in Kunming, Yunnan's lively capital, a friendly guide and driver await. They'll escort you to your hotel where comfort awaits after the journey.

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  • Kunming

• Day 5: Stone Forest, Jingxing Flower & Bird Market

  After a scenic two-hour drive, arriving at the Stone Forest, a natural wonder eroded over centuries into marvelous rock formations. Follow well-paved paths through this UNESCO-listed landscape, exploring "Old Man Rock" and "Gallant Horse Rock" and let your imagination run wild in this outdoor playground of stone.

  In the late afternoon, another sensory delight awaits in Kunming: Jingxing Flower & Bird Market. Wander colorful stalls filled with flowers, local snacks, and handicrafts. Sample local treats like sweet mashed rice cakes and enjoy the lively atmosphere of everyday life that delights everyone.

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  • Kunming

• Day 6: Kunming - Dali, Erhai Lake Cruise

  Following a comfortable 2.5-hour train journey from Kunming, arrive in Dali and check into your hotel to settle in.

  After a short break, hop on a small boat to explore the crystal-clear waters of Erhai Lake, where the whole family can enjoy birdwatching, conversation, and the tranquil lakeside scenery together.

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  • Dali

• Day 7: Local Market, Biking Tour, Xi Embroidery

  Rise with the bustling local market, a feast for curious eyes. Load up bikes together for a memorable ride circling serene Erhai Lake, passing peaceful villages and scenic lakeside views, with opportunities to pause for photos along the way. In Xizhou Town, wander through historic alleyways and admire detailed Bai-style architecture within protected courtyards. At the Yan Family Courtyard, sip three-course tea - a treasured gesture of hospitality.

  Then, visit a Xi Embroidery workshop, where skilled artisans demonstrate their intricate techniques. Across generations, stitch by stitch, a vibrant culture thrives. And you'll gain insight into the region's rich cultural heritage.

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  • Dali

• Day 8: Dali - Lijiang, Lijiang Ancient Town, Mu Mansion

  After a filling breakfast, the whole family delights in a 2.5-hour drive to the picturesque town of Lijiang. Along the way, spend relaxed time exploring historic Shaxi Town, retaining its original architecture for you to discover.

  Upon reaching Lijiang Ancient Town, check into a comfortable hotel. Then, visit Mu Mansion, the former palace and government offices, for an educational look inside Naxi culture. Enjoy views from Wangulou over the stunning cityscape. Round out the discovery of local heritage by stopping at the illuminating Museum of Naxi Dongba Culture. Here, learn more about the Naxi people's pictographic characters and traditions of the Naxi ethnic group.

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  • Lijiang

• Day 9: Lashi Lake, Zhiyun Temple, Visit the Naxi People

  Your family begins exploring Lashi Lake with its vast wetland reserve. Covering over 5,000 hectares, the reserve provides the perfect setting to spot various bird species through your binoculars. You may catch glimpses of rare black-necked cranes and Chinese mergansers.

  Next, head to the historic Zhiyun Temple, the oldest in the city and dating back to the Yuan Dynasty. Wandering through the halls, you admire intricate woodcarvings and murals depicting religious stories that showcase how Tibetan Buddhism influenced local culture.

  In the afternoon, set off to Naxi villages, offering insights into the daily lives and vibrant traditions of the ethnic minority community. Interact with friendly villagers or learn about cultural practices like their dragon deity worship.

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  • Lijiang

• Day 10: Lijiang - Shangri-La, Tiger Leaping Gorge

  Continue your family adventure to the lost land of Shangri-la, which takes about 2.5 hours' drive from Lijiang. On the way, the first stop is the First Bend of the Yangtze River, where the mighty river abruptly changes its course. As your scenic drive continues amongst the towering mountains, glimpse the views of the snowcapped peaks of the Jade Dragon Snow Mountains rising high into fluffy clouds in the distance.

  After that, you will arrive at the iconic Tiger Leaping Gorge. Gasps of wonder escape your family as you take in the sandstone cliffs rising thousands of feet on either side of the raging turquoise waters below. Walking along the trail, sheer cliff walls tower impressively on either side, embracing the north-flowing stream.

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  • Shangri-La

• Day 11: Pudacuo National Park, Songzanlin Monastery, Tibetan home Visit

  Today brings a 1-hour scenic drive to spectacular Pudacuo National Park, where the sprawling Shudu Lakes await with striking azure waters reflecting the surrounding snow-capped mountains.

  Following the landscape experiences, the day continues at the revered Songzanlin Monastery, dating to the 17th century. Its grand architectural design reflects Tibetan Buddhist artistic traditions. Admire treasures such as ornate sculptures and murals rich in cultural heritage.

  This afternoon offers a special experience: a visit to a Tibetan home for an authentic glimpse of local life. While children may enjoy connecting through play, adults and seniors can share stories and learn about traditional customs in a welcoming and heartfelt setting.

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  • Shangri-La

• Day 12: Shangri-La, Departure

  Spend your last morning exploring Dukezong Ancient Town. As an important stop on the historic Old Tea-Horse Road, its stone alleys still bear faint hoofprints from merchant caravans' past. Wander through its alleys and admire the architecture. At the hill's prayer flags, hang your flag and make a wish for the future before your trip ends.

  Later, a private vehicle will transfer your family to the airport as you bid farewell to scenic Shangri-La.

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