Western Hills & Moxibustion Experience Private Tour

Discover the Western Hills and Dianchi Lake on this guided tour from Kunming. Visit the Dragon Gate, Taihua Temple, and Magnolia Garden, and enjoy a traditional moxibustion experience.

This tour is a unique combination of scenic exploration and traditional Chinese wellness therapy. This experience blends the natural beauty if Kunming's Western Hills with the rejuvenating benefits of moxibustion, a time-honored healing practice. This therapeutic treatment uses the heat generated from burning mugwort (moxa) to stimulate acupuncture points, promoting circulation, relieving pain, and restoring balance to the body.

Tour Highlights

Western Hills (Xishan Scenic Area)

Explore the "Sleeping Beauty Hills"

Take a cable car or leisurely walk through the forested trails of the Western Hills, often called "Sleeping Beauty Hills" due to their silhouette resembling a reclining woman.

Dragon Gate Grottoes

Visit the cliff-carved grottoes and enjoy breathtaking views of Dianchi Lake and Kunming City.

Historic Temples and Pavilions

Visit ancient Taoist and Buddhist Temples such as Huating Temple and Taihua Temple, tucked away in the lush greenery of the hills.

Panoramic Views

Take in the serene landscapes and peaceful atmosphere perfect for photography and relaxation.

Moxibustion Therapy Session

Introduction to Moxibustion

Learn about the origins and principles of moxibustion, a technique that has been practiced for thousands of years in Chinese medicine.
Understand its health benefits, including improved energy flow, stress relief, and enhanced immunity.

Personalized Moxibustion Session

A trained practitioner will guide you through a relaxing session tailored to your needs, targeting specific acupuncture points to address issues like fatigue, joint pain, or digestive discomfort.
Feel the gentle warmth of the moxa, designed to invigorate your body and mind.

Traditional Wellness Setting

Enjoy the treatment in a serene and authentic environment, often accompanied by calming herbal aromas and soothing music.

Post-Treatment Insights

Receive expert advice on maintaining balance and well-being, including lifestyle and dietary tips based on traditional Chinese medicine principles.

Benefits

Pain Relief

Helps alleviate muscle tension, joint discomfort, and chronic pain.

Improved Circulation

Boost blood flow and promotes better energy balance.

Stress Reduction

Provides a deeply relaxing and calming experience.

Overall Wellness

Supports immunity, digestion, and mental clarity.

This combines the tranquility of nature with the therapeutic benefits of traditional Chinese medicine, offering a memorable and rejuvenating experience in Kunming.

Please note

Western Hills (Xishan) Scenic Area

Location and Accessibility: Located on the outskirts of Kunming, the Western Hills (Xishan) are about a 40-minute drive from the City. Known for beautiful mountain views and cultural landmarks, they offer both natural scenery and historical attractions.
Dragon Gate: A famous grotto with stone carvings and breathtaking views over Dianchi Lake.
Huating Temple and Taihua Temple: Ancient Buddhist temples with serene gardens and architecture.
Cable Car or Chairlift: Many tours include a cable car or chairlift ride to Dragon Gate, offering panoramic views.
Physical Activity and Terrain: Visiting the Western Hills involves some walking and stair climbing, especially around Dragon Gate. Wear comfortable walking shoes and be prepared for mild hiking.
Best Time to Visit: Spring and Autumn offer the most pleasant weather, with clear skies and comfortable temperatures. Summers are warm and can be rainy, while winters can be chilly.

Moxibustion Experience

Allergies and Sensitivities: If you have allergies, respiratory issues, or are sensitive to smoke, let our guide or therapist know beforehand, as moxibustion involves herbal smoke. Some clinics offer "smokeless" moxa options.
Comfortable Clothing: Wear loose, comfortable clothing. Some clinics provide robes or cover-ups, but comfortable clothes will help you relax during the experience.
Duration: A typical session lasts between 20-45 minutes, depending on the areas treated and your specific needs. The warmth is often deeply relaxing and can leave you feeling calm and rejuvenated.

Additional Tips

Language Support: English may be limited, especially at traditional therapy clinics, so booking a private guide can assist and help you communicate with the locals.
Mindful Photography: In Temples and during the moxibustion session, be respectful and ask permission before taking photos.
Physical Readiness: Be prepared for light hiking at the Western Hills. Let us know if you have mobility limitations, so we can arrange for cable cars or paths with fewer stairs.

The combination of the natural beauty of the Western Hills and the healing moxibustion experience makes this a relaxing and rejuvenating day, ideal for exploring Yunnan's scenic and cultural offerings.

What to bring

When embarking on a private tour of the Western Hills Scenic Area combined with a Moxibustion experience, it's essential to pack for both outdoor exploration and a relaxing wellness session. Here's a checklist to make the most of your day:

Comfortable Clothing for Both Experience: Light breathable layers. Weather can change throughout the day in the Western Hills, so dress in layers that are easy to adjust.
Comfortable Shoes: Wear sturdy walking shoes or hiking boots, as you'll be walking on trails, stairs, and uneven surfaces.
Loose Clothing for Moxibustion: For the moxibustion experience, loose, comfortable clothing will help you relax and allow easy access to targeted areas like the back or legs.
Sun Protection: Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat, as some parts of the Western Hills are exposed to direct sunlight.

Personal Items

Water Bottle: Staying hydrated is important, especially after the Moxibustion session, as it's believed to aid the detox process.
Snacks or Light Refreshments: A few snacks can keep you energized during the hike, as well as after the Moxibustion session.
Hand Sanitizer and Tissue: Convenient for both outdoor and indoor use, as some public restrooms may lack amenities.
Camera or Smartphone and Power Bank: The scenic views over Dian Lake, ancient temples, and grottoes in the Western Hills are worth capturing, so make sure your device is ready with enough battery and storage.
Chinese Yuan: Many vendors and local snack stalls may accept only cash, and small bills are helpful for purchases.

By packing these essentials, you'll be prepared for both a rejuvenating Moxibustion experience and an adventurous day in the Western Hills! Let us know if you need any more tips for your tour.