Best Things to do in Kunming | Must-see attractions 2025

Kunming Botanical Garden

8:00 AM–6:00 PM

Park

Ciba Road

View map

Kunming Botanical Garden in Kunming, China, features diverse plant species, scenic landscapes, and educational exhibits, making it ideal for nature lovers and researchers.

Duration: 2 to 3 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

Zhuantang Park

6:00 AM–8:00 PM

Park

No.1 Daguan Road

View map

Zhuantang Park in Kunming, China, features scenic landscapes, traditional pavilions, and a tranquil atmosphere, ideal for leisure and cultural exploration.

Duration: 2 to 3 hours.

Free. Special events may require a ticket for entry.

Kunming Zoo Aquarium

9:00 AM–5:30 PM

Zoo

119 Qingnian Rd

View map

Kunming Zoo Aquarium features diverse aquatic life and animal exhibits. Built in 1999, it offers a unique blend of education and entertainment in China.

Duration: Approximately 2-3 hours.

Adult: ¥30, Child: ¥15. Discounts for students and seniors available.

Yunnan Railway Museum

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

No.913 Beijing Road

View map

Yunnan Railway Museum in Kunming, China, features historic trains and vintage locomotives, showcasing a rich collection of railway artifacts and photographs.

Duration: About 2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

Haidong Wetlands Park

7:00 AM–6:30 PM

Park

East Huanhu Road

View map

Haidong Wetlands Park in Kunming, China, spreads across over 120 hectares, featuring diverse wetland ecosystems, trails, and a visitor center. Ideal for nature enthusiasts and bird watchers.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

Free. Some guided tours may have fees.

Guanshang Park

6:00 AM–9:00 PM

Park

Guanjing Road

View map

Guanshang Park in Kunming, China, features diverse plant species, tranquil lakes, and historical pavilions, making it a popular recreational area for locals and tourists.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

Free. Special events may have entry fees.

Yunnan Ethnic Village

9:00 AM–5:30 PM

Theme Park

1310 Dianchi Rd

View map

Yunnan Ethnic Village in Kunming features traditional architecture and cultural displays from various Chinese ethnic groups, offering a glimpse into diverse heritage.

Duration: Approximately 3 to 4 hours.

Adult: ¥80, Child (under 1.4m): ¥40, Discounts for seniors and students.

Kunming Science and Technology University

8:00 AM–5:00 PM

University

Kunming

View map

Kunming Science and Technology University, founded in 1954, is a prominent institution in Kunming, China, offering diverse programs in engineering and science.

Duration: 2 hours.

Free. Some special programs may require registration fees.

Yuantong Temple

Mo-Su 08:00-17:20

Church

Yuantong Jie

View map

Yuantong Temple, the largest Buddhist complex in Kunming, China, is over 1200 years old and features intricate architecture and a significant Sakyamuni statue from Thailand.

Duration: More than 1 hour.

Free. Special exhibitions may involve a fee.

New World Sinobright

10:00 AM–10:00 PM

Business Center

China

View map

New World Sinobright in Kunming, China, features diverse indoor and outdoor attractions, including cultural exhibits, entertainment, and dining options.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Paid. Entry fees vary based on specific events and exhibits.

Yunnan Art Theatre

10:00 AM–8:00 PM

Theater

东风西路81号

View map

Yunnan Art Theatre, located in Kunming, showcases traditional and contemporary performances, reflecting the rich culture of Yunnan Province.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

Variable. Check for specific event pricing; some performances may be free.

Yunnan Nationalities University

8:00 AM–6:00 PM

University

一二一大街134号 (莲花池正街)

View map

Yunnan Nationalities University in Kunming offers diverse cultural education focusing on ethnic minorities, scenic campus, and rich historical background.

Duration: About 2 hours.

Free.

Yunnan Nationalities Museum

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

Np.1503 Dianchi Road

View map

Yunnan Nationalities Museum in Kunming is China's largest minorities museum, showcasing rich local cultures, customs, and costumes with English translations.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

Free. Special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

Kunming Int'l Convention & Exhibition Center

9:00 AM–6:00 PM

Event hall

289 Chuncheng Lu

View map

Kunming Int'l Convention & Exhibition Center hosts diverse events with advanced facilities. It features an impressive architectural design and vibrant exhibition halls.

Duration: At least 2 hours.

Free entry for general access. Special events may require tickets.

Kunming Theater

10:00 AM–10:00 PM

Event hall

青年路409号

View map

Kunming Theater, located in Kunming, China, is a contemporary performance venue, known for its modern architecture and cultural significance in Yunnan's artistic landscape.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Varies based on the event. Average tickets are around ¥100-¥500.

Sunshine Golf Club

6:30 AM–6:00 PM

Golf Course

China

View map

Sunshine Golf Club in Kunming, China offers an 18-hole championship course set in picturesque landscaping, open to both locals and visitors for a premium golfing experience.

Duration: About 4 hours.

Green fees vary, typically ranging from 400 to 800 CNY depending on the season and day of the week.

Me Town Mall

10:00 AM–11:00 PM

Mall

China

View map

Me Town Mall in Kunming, China, offers diverse shopping, dining, and entertainment options, attracting both locals and tourists alike.

Duration: At least 2 hours.

Free entry; costs may apply for specific events or activities.

Nan Ping Jie Square

Open 24 hours

Mall

云南省昆明市五华区南屏街 (五华区南屏街)

View map

Nan Ping Jie Square in Kunming, China is a vibrant public space known for its cultural events, shopping, and historic architecture. It attracts locals and tourists alike.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Some events may require a paid entry.

Luosiwan International Trade City

9:00 AM–9:00 PM

Mall

环城南路

View map

Luosiwan International Trade City in Kunming is a vast commerce hub featuring over 1,000 shops, focused on trade, textiles, and local crafts. A key destination for trade and cultural exchange in Yunnan.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Free entry. Some special events may require a ticket purchase.

Kunming Tuodong Stadium

9:00 AM–6:00 PM

Stadium

Kunming

View map

Kunming Tuodong Stadium, opened in 1997, is a multi-purpose sports venue in Kunming, China, known for hosting major events and training facilities.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours.

General admission: 30 CNY. Discounts for students and seniors may apply.

Kunming World Horticulture Expo Garden

8:00 AM–6:00 PM

Garden

云南省昆明市盘龙区花园大道

View map

Kunming World Horticulture Expo Garden features over 100 varied gardens and pavilions, showcasing plant species and horticultural innovation from around the globe.

Duration: 2-4 hours.

Adult: ¥80, Child (6-18 years): ¥40. Discounts available for seniors and groups.

Dianchi Gilf Club

6:00 AM–8:00 PM

Golf Course

Kunming

View map

Dianchi Golf Club in Kunming offers 18 holes of championship golf amidst natural beauty, complemented by modern amenities and a tranquil lake view.

Duration: Approximately 4-5 hours.

Green Fee: Approximately 500 CNY for adults; discounts for children and seniors available.

抗战胜利堂 Sino-Japanese War Memorial Hall

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

Kunming

View map

The 抗战胜利堂 Sino-Japanese War Memorial Hall in Kunming commemorates the fight against Japanese aggression. It features significant historical artifacts and statues.

Duration: About 2 hours.

Free. Special events may have ticketed entries.

Kunming Golden Eagle Square

10:00 AM–10:00 PM

Mall

青年路418号

View map

Kunming Golden Eagle Square features shopping, dining, and entertainment options in a vibrant urban setting. It's a popular gathering place in Kunming, China.

Duration: 2 to 3 hours.

Free. Dining and shopping costs vary.

Kunming Natural History Museum Of Zoology 昆明动物博物馆

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

32 Jiaochang Donglu

View map

Kunming Natural History Museum Of Zoology highlights thousands of animal specimens and exhibits on biodiversity and ecology in a modern architectural setting in Kunming, China.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

Free. Special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

Yongning Mosque

8:00 AM–5:00 PM

Mosque

Kunming

View map

Yongning Mosque, established in 1281 in Kunming, China, is a historic site known for its exquisite architecture and rich cultural heritage.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations are welcome but not required.

Kunming Flying Tigers Museum

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

Kunming

View map

Kunming Flying Tigers Museum honors the Flying Tigers, American volunteer pilots from World War II, showcasing artifacts and historical insights in Kunming, China.

Duration: About 2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

Yunnan Minzu University University City

8:00 AM–6:00 PM

University

No.3 Yuhua Pianqu

View map

Yunnan Minzu University, established in 1951, is a leading institution in Kunming, China, dedicated to ethnic studies and cultural preservation with diverse architecture.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

Free. Special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

Zhengyi Fashion Shopping Mall

10:00 AM–10:00 PM

Mall

正义路100号

View map

Zhengyi Fashion Shopping Mall in Kunming offers diverse retail options, modern architecture, and local culinary experiences for shoppers and tourists alike.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Free entry. Individual store purchases apply.

Yunnan Province Museum

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

Kunming

View map

Yunnan Province Museum in Kunming features over 200,000 artifacts, reflecting the region's diverse ethnic cultures and history from ancient to modern times.

Duration: Approximately 2-3 hours.

Free. Special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

Wanda plaza IMAX

10:00 AM–12:00 AM

Mall

China

View map

Wanda Plaza IMAX in Kunming features a state-of-the-art cinema experience, offering the latest films in the IMAX format and a range of dining and shopping options.

Duration: Around 2-3 hours.

Approximately ¥60 for adults, ¥30 for children. Discounts for students and seniors may apply.

Kunming Zoo

8:00 AM–5:30 PM

Zoo

Qingnian Road

View map

Kunming Zoo features diverse animal exhibits and beautifully landscaped gardens, ideal for family outings and nature enthusiasts in Kunming, China.

Duration: Approximately 2-3 hours.

Adult: ¥30; Child: ¥15. Discounts available for groups and students.

Yunnan Nationalities Village

9:00 AM–5:30 PM

Theme Park

Kunming

View map

Yunnan Nationalities Village in Kunming, China, showcases the diverse cultures of 25 ethnic groups through architecture, performances, and traditional crafts.

Duration: Approximately 3-4 hours.

Adult: CNY 60, Child: CNY 30. Group discounts available.

Yunnan Stone Forest Geological Park

8:00 AM-6:00 PM

Sights

Shilin Town

View map

Yunnan Stone Forest Geological Park is a stunning area filled with tall stone peaks and pillars. It showcases unique rock formations that have been shaped by erosion over millions of years.

duration: approx. 2-3 hours

$8

Green Lake

6:00 AM-9:00 PM

Park

No.67 Cuihu South Road

View map

Green Lake Park, or Cui Hu Park, is an urban park in Kunming, China. It features traditional bridges, vibrant lotus flowers, and scenic walking paths.

Duration: approx. 1-2 hours

Free

Yunnan Nationalities VillageBenzilam

9:00 AM-6:00 PM

Sights

8km 4 3/4 miles south of Lake Dian

View map

Yunnan Nationalities VillageBenzilam showcases the rich cultures of diverse ethnic groups in Yunnan. Visitors can see traditional houses, enjoy local performances, and learn about unique customs and traditions.

Duration: approx. 2-3 hours

$5

Kunming Dragon Gate

8:00 AM-6:00 PM

Sights

At the top of Xishan

View map

Kunming Dragon Gate is a historical site located on the shores of Dianchi Lake. Visitors can see impressive stone carvings and enjoy beautiful views from the cliffs.

Duration: approx. 1-2 hours

Free

Dian Lake

Open 24 hours

Bodies of Water

Southwest of Xishan District

View map

Dian Lake is the sixth largest freshwater lake in China. Its shores are filled with many beautiful spots to explore and enjoy nature.

Duration: approx. 1-2 hours

Free