Yunnan Bai characteristic building(White square brick structure）
Visit Mosuo village （Mosuo dance and bonfire dinner）
expierence Dai cultural (cultural from southwest of Yunnan）
Dianchi, the laggest Plateau lakes in Yunnan Province
Dali Bai People and Architectural style
The main gate of Yunnan Mingzu Village
Tea culturea
Yunnan Etnic Village Commercial Street
establiished in 1987 by the Taoist Wulaiqing
Dianchi LAKE and Clound
Cablecar to overlook the Dianchi Lake
Marriage Tree
View more

Yunnan Ethnic Village & Western Hills Scenic Area Private Tour

8 hours

Moderate

Immerse yourself in the culture of 26 ethnic minority villages in Yunnan and take a scenic tour of the Western Hills Scenic Area, Dianchi Lake and Dragon Gate.

A private tour combining Yunnan Ethnic Village and the Western Hills Scenic Area offers an immersive experience into Yunnan's diverse cultures, natural beauty, and historical sites. This day tour gives you a chance to explore the cultural heritage of Yunnan's ethnic groups, followed by a visit to Kunming's breathtaking "Sleeping Beauty Hills" for serene nature and ancient spiritual landmarks.


YUNNAN ETHNIC VILLAGE

  • CULTURAL IMMERSION 
    • Begin with a guided tour of the Yunnan Ethnic Village, a cultural park that recreates the traditional architecture, customs, and lifestyles of Yunnan's 26 officially recognized ethnic minorities, such as the Bai, Dai, Yi, and Naxi.
  • AUTHENTIC PERFORMANCES
    • Witness vibrant folk dances, traditional music, and cultural performances that celebrate the diversity of Yunnan's ethnic groups.
  • CRAFT DEMONSTRATIONS
    • Explore various exhibitions showcasing handicrafts, including intricate embroidery, bamboo weaving, and silverwork, and perhaps even try your hand at making something yourself
  • TASTING LOCAL FLAVORS
    • Sample local snacks and cuisine unique to each ethnic group, offering a culinary journey across the province's diverse regions.

WESTERN HILLS SCENIC AREA

  • DRAGON GATE (LONGMEN) GROTTOES
    • Venture up the Western Hills to the Dragon Gate Grottoes, an awe-inspiring series of stone-carved paths and Taoist grottoes etched into the cliffs. The narrow paths offer thrilling views of Dian Lake and a closer look to ancient carving and sculptures.
  • HUATING TEMPLE
    • Visit the Huating Temple, one of Yunnan's oldest and largest Buddhist temples. The temple grounds feature peaceful gardens, centuries-old pagodas, and intricate statues that reflect the province's Buddhist heritage.
  • TAIHUA TEMPLE
    •  Hidden among the tress, Taihua temple offers a serene escape with stunning views of Dian Lake below and a peaceful atmosphere ideal for contemplation.
  • SCENIC HIKING or CABLE CAR
    • Ascend through lush trails or opt for a scenic cable car ride, giving you aerial views of Dian Lake, Kunming's skyline, and the surrounding landscapes. Your private guide can adjust the paths based on your preferences and fitness level.

WHY CHOOSE A PRIVATE TOUR?

  • PERSONALIZED EXPERIENCE - Customized your itinerary based on your interest and pace, spending more time at the sites that captivate you most.
  • LOCAL EXPERTISE - A knowledgeable local guide provides deeper insights into each site's history, cultural significance, and natural beauty, adding context and answering any questions.
  • LANGUAGE SUPPORT - Your English or other foreign-language speaking guide will make communications and navigation effortless.
What's included?
    • English-speaking Private guide
    • Pickup/Dropoff (option)
    • French/German/Italian/Spanish/Russian guide (extra fee)
    • Malay/Indonesian/Thai/Vietnamese/Khmer guide (extra fee)
    Exclusions
      • Admission Tickets for Ethnic Village (CNY85)
      • Admission Tickets for Western Hills/Cable Car/Rope Access (CNY125)
      • Tip and gratuities
      • Meals and beverages
      • Public Transportation expenses
      • Personal expenses
      Please note

        Both the Yunnan Ethnic Village and the Western Hills Scenic Area offer some level of accessibility for the people with mobility issues, but there are significant differences in the extent of their accessibility:


        YUNNAN ETHNIC VILLAGE


        WHAT TO EXPECT ON A PRIVATE TOUR

        • A personalized  cultural experience with guided insights into Yunnan’s 26 ethnic minority groups.
        • Activities include watching performances, exploring ethnic villages, and tasting local food.


        TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

        • Live traditional performances and cultural ceremonies.
        • Detailed explanations of the unique architecture and history of each ethnic group.
        • A chance to shop for ethnic handicrafts with guidance on authentic items.


        TIPS FOR A SMOOTH VISIT

        • Inform your guide if you’re inter in specific ethnic groups to focus on.
        • Check for special festivals or events during your visit for a richer experience.
        • Allow at least 3 hours for this part of the tour.
        • Arrive early to enjoy cultural shows, as they have specific timings.


          ACCESSIBILITY LEVEL

        • Generally accessible for people with mobility issues.

        Features

        •  Flat and Paved Pathways - the village has wide, flat, and paved pathways, making it easier for wheelchair users and those using mobility aids to navigate.
        •   Accessible Facilities - the park includes ramps, accessible restrooms, and designated seating areas to accommodate visitors with disabilities. 
        • Limitations - some traditional-style buildings or cultural exhibits may have steps of uneven surfaces that limit access. However, these areas typically represents a small portion of the park.


        WESTERN HILLS SCENIC AREA


        WHAT TO EXPECT ON A PRIVATE TOUR

        • Skip the hassle of planning transportation and navigating the scenic area on you own.
        • Enjoy a guided hike or cable car ride with explanations about the Dragon Gate, temples, and other landmarks.


        TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

        • Cable car ride over Dianchi Lake for panoramic views.
        • Visit to the Dragon Gate Grottoes with historical and cultural insights.
        • Exploration of serene temples such as Huating Temple or Taihua Temple.


        TIPS FOR THE WESTERN HILLS VISIT

        • Wear sturdy walking shoes, as some areas involve hiking or steep paths.
        • Opt for a morning tour for fewer crowds and clearer views.
        • Inform your guide if you prefer a leisurely or active pace.


        ACCESSIBILITY LEVEL

        • Partially accessible, but challenging in many areas.

        Features:

        • Cable Cars & Shuttle Buses - these options help reduced the need for walking uphill and offer access to higher viewpoints, such as the Dragon Gate.
        • Some Paved Walkways - certain paths are paved, making them easier to navigate than rugged trails.


        LIMITATIONS

        • Steep Stairs & Uneven Terrains - many sections, especially near attractions like temples and cliffside views, have stairs and rough pathways that can be difficult for those with mobility impairments. 
        • Dragon Gate - even with the cable car, the area around the Dragon Gate involves stairs and narrow passages.


        GENERAL TIPS FOR BOTH LOCATION

        • Clothing - dress in layers to accommodate Kunming‘s mild but changeable weather.
        • Best Time to Visit - spring(Mar-May) and Autumn(Sept-Nov) for pleasant weather and clearer views
        • Cultural Sensitivity - follow guidelines in temples and during performances. Avoid loud behavior.
        • Booking - book your private tour in advance, especially during peak seasons (Spring and Autumn).


        Yunnan Ethnic Village is more accessible and suitable for people with mobility challenges, while the Western Hills Scenic Area presents significant barriers due to its natural terrain and historic architecture.


        What to bring


          ESSENTIALS FOR BOTH LOCATIONS

          • Comfortable Footwear - wear comfortable, sturdy walking shoes, especially for the Western Hills, where there may be uneven terrain. 
          • Weather-Appropriate Clothing
            • Dress in layers, as temperatures can vary throughout the day.
            • A light jacket or sweater is helpful in cooler weather, while a hat and sunglasses are useful for the sun protection.
          • Rain Gear - if visiting during the rainy season June-August, a compact raincoat or umbrella is handy.
          • Sun Protection - bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect against strong sun, especially during summer.
          • Water Bottle & Snacks
            • Light Snacks can be helpful, as food options may not be readily available everywhere in the parks.
            • Stay hydrated, especially while walking or hiking.
          • Cash
            •   While larger attractions may accept cards, some small vendors only take cash.
            • Bring some cash for entrance fees, snacks, and souvenirs, as card payment options might be limited.
          • Tissue, Wet Wipes, Hand Sanitizer - public restrooms may not always provide supplies like toilet paper.
          • Power Bank - keep your devices charged throughout the day. 


          Being well-prepared can enhance your experience and ensure a comfortable visit to both sites.

          Share by: