kityinlim@hotmail.com
What a memorable trip!
It was something I had been looking forward to—not just to spend quality time with my cousin who came back from the UK, but also to celebrate something special twice over: my parents’ wedding anniversary and my mom’s birthday.
One of the highlights was experiencing snow at Jade Dragon Snow Mountain—truly amazing. A trip filled with so much luck, love and happiness.
This trip was actually suggested by my dad. He had always wanted to visit Yunnan, and without much hesitation, the rest of us were all in. Sometimes the best trips are the ones you don’t overthink. We decided to go on a tour, which made everything easy and allowed us to fully enjoy the journey without worrying about the logistics.
Looking back, I’m really glad we said yes. It turned out to be more than just a holiday—it was meaningful, memorable and filled with moments that we’ll always hold close. ❤️
Let our 9 days, 7 nights adventure begin! 
Day 1 – Gathering & takeoff
We all gathered at the airport, ready and excited for what’s ahead.
As usual, before any trip officially begins—there’s always food involved. Dinner together, followed by lots of photos and videos to capture the “before” moments.
That pre-trip energy just hits different… a mix of excitement, laughter and “we’re really doing this.”
We arrived at Kunming Changshui International Airport at around 1:15am+, tired but excited.
Despite the late hour, we were warmly welcomed by our China tour guide, Xiao Yan Zi. Such a lovely touch—she greeted each of us with a fresh flower before giving us a short briefing. A simple gesture but it instantly made us feel so welcomed.
After that, we headed straight to our hotel, did a quick check-in and called it a night. Time to recharge and get some rest before the real adventure begins on Day 2.
Day 2 – A colourful start 🌸
The first night… let’s just say I survived on only 3 hours of sleep.
We started the morning with breakfast at the hotel—so many options to choose from. I decided to go with the mi xian (rice noodles) recommended by our tour guide, and it did not disappoint. Warm, comforting, and exactly what I needed to kickstart the day. (I actually spilled the coffee at the counter top while making my coffee!)
After breakfast, we checked out and headed to our first destination: the Dounan Flower Market.
And wow… this place was on another level. Known as the largest fresh flower market in Asia, it was filled with endless rows of vibrant blooms—roses, lilies, carnations and so many others I couldn’t even name. The colors, the fragrance, the sheer scale of it all—it felt like stepping into a living, breathing garden.
It was also interesting to see how lively and fast-paced the market was, with locals and buyers moving quickly through the aisles, picking out flowers in bulk. Definitely more than just a tourist spot—it’s a huge part of Yunnan’s flower industry.
After the flower market, it was time for lunch and we were treated to a special duck dish.
Crispy on the outside, tender and juicy on the inside… definitely a satisfying meal after the morning walk. There’s just something about enjoying local food in a new place—it makes the whole experience even more memorable.
After lunch, we headed to our next destination: Stone Forest (石林).
And honestly… this place felt like stepping into another world.
Massive limestone formations rising from the ground, shaped over millions of years—it really looked like a forest made of stone. Walking through the pathways, every turn gave a different view, and it was hard not to stop every few steps just to take photos (and of course… more photos).
The scale of it all was incredible, and there was something quite surreal about being surrounded by these natural formations. Definitely one of those places where pictures don’t fully do it justice.
Another unforgettable stop on this trip.
By this point, everyone was starting to feel the fatigue. Despite the cold winds, it was surprisingly hot and sunny, which made it even more tiring than expected.
Some of us quickly fell asleep on the bus as we made our way to the next destination—Chuxiong Yi Autonomous Prefecture—for our mushroom dinner.
As for me, I couldn’t nap. I just sat there, quietly taking it all in… feeling incredibly blessed. Having my dad on this trip meant so much, and watching the way he cares for and loves my mom—it’s something really special.
One of those simple, quiet moments that stays with you. 💛
Dinner – Mushroom feast in Chuxiong
We finally arrived in Chuxiong Yi Autonomous Prefecture just in time for dinner (9pm) —and this one was something quite special.
A full-on mushroom feast.
Yunnan is known for its wide variety of wild mushrooms, and this meal really showcased that. From different textures to unique flavors, every dish had its own character. Some were earthy and rich, others surprisingly light and sweet—it was such an interesting experience for the taste buds.
And of course, it wasn’t just about the food. Sitting around the table, sharing dishes, chatting, and laughing after a long day—it made everything taste even better.
Warm food, full hearts, and a very satisfying end to Day 2.
Day 3 – Moments to remember 🌤️
Waking up (only 4 hours of sleep), breakfast and off we go again—this time heading to the “Santorini of Dali,” Ideal State Scenic Area.
And wow… this place was a dream. White buildings, blue skies, and that Santorini vibe right in Yunnan. We took so many beautiful photos—every corner was photo-worthy.
We even had fresh juice and fruits while taking turns with a professional photographer who helped us capture some really stunning shots. Definitely one of those “just enjoy and pose” kind of moments.
Right after that, things got even more fun—open mic session.
Xiao Yan Zi invited me to sing, and I decided to go with 陪我看日出 (“Pei Wo Kan Ri Chu”), dedicating it to my dad. I didn’t expect it to feel so emotional, but it really was… one of those moments that just hits you in the heart.
Then came the highlight—my brother and I had an impromptu performance for our parents. Totally unplanned, slightly chaotic, but honestly… so hilarious and fun.
A perfect mix of laughter, love, and unforgettable memories.
Next, we headed for lunch—something a little different and quite fun: Thai Peacock hand grab rice (泰式孔雀手抓饭).
A colorful spread of rice, vegetables, and various dishes beautifully arranged on a large platter… and yes, eaten by hand. It made the whole experience feel more interactive and communal, as everyone gathered around, sharing and picking their favorite bites.
Simple, messy, and surprisingly enjoyable 😄 Definitely one of those meals that’s not just about the food, but the experience of it.
After lunch, we were back on the road again—this time heading to Black Dragon Pool.
Along the way, we made a quick stop at Lijiang No.1 Viewpoint (Lijiang Di Yi Jing) for a toilet break—and of course, more photo opportunities 😄
We couldn’t resist snapping some shots with the big white yak statue and the surrounding views. One of those quick stops that turned into a mini photo session.
Then, back on the road again… next stop, more beautiful sights ahead. ✨
We arrived at Black Dragon Pool—and it was absolutely stunning.
Clear, still waters reflecting the mountains and traditional architecture… it honestly looked like a painting. Everywhere we turned, it felt like another perfect photo spot.
The scenery was calm and peaceful, a nice contrast after a full day of traveling. We took our time walking around, soaking in the views, and of course, capturing more beautiful moments along the way.
After that, we continued on to explore Lijiang Old Town.
The charming streets, traditional buildings, and lively atmosphere made it such a fun place to wander. With little shops, local snacks, and lights coming alive as the evening set in—it had a completely different vibe, and we loved every bit of it.
We had our dinner at Nan Guo Dian (南国店) in Ta Yen (大研古城). After dinner, we checked in to our hotel, Howard Johnson Jinlin Plaza Lijiang, where we would be staying for the next two nights.
The hotel itself was beautiful—set in a peaceful area near the mountains, with views of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain in the distance. It has a garden-style design, blending modern comfort with traditional Naxi architecture, which made it feel very scenic and unique.
There were even little bridges, flowing streams, and picturesque corners all around the hotel—almost like walking through a mini park. Definitely a place where you could slow down and just enjoy the surroundings.
After a long and fulfilling day, it felt so good to finally settle in, rest, and recharge for the adventures ahead.
Day 4 – The one I’ve been waiting for ❄️
Getting ready for the day started with… 5 hours of sleep. Slowly improving (3 hours on the first night, 4 on the second). I think the altitude was affecting me a little, but thankfully it was getting better each night.
We had breakfast at the hotel, taking it easy and fueling up for the day ahead.
Honestly, I was feeling a mix of excitement and a little nervous—because today, we were finally heading to Jade Dragon Snow Mountain… the place I had been looking forward to the most!!!
The journey to Jade Dragon Snow Mountain itself was already an experience. As we got closer, the view of the snow-capped peaks slowly revealed themselves… and you could feel the excitement building up in the bus.
Before heading up, we brought our oxygen canisters—just in case the altitude got a little too much. That alone made it feel real… like okay, this is happening.
Then came the cable car ride up.
As we ascended higher and higher, the views just kept getting better. Mountains, clouds, and snow coming into sight—it honestly felt surreal. Stepping out, the cold air hit instantly, but so did the excitement.
And then… snow.
Real snow, right in front of me. Cold, bright, and everything I imagined it to be. It was one of those moments where you just pause and take it all in.
Walking around at that altitude wasn’t the easiest—every step felt heavier, and you could really feel the thin air—but it was 100% worth it.
Truly, one of the highlights of the entire trip.
After that, we moved on to our next destination: Blue Moon Valley.
And honestly… it felt like stepping into a completely different world again.
The water was this unreal shade of turquoise blue—so clear, so calm and almost too pretty to be real. Surrounded by mountains, it created such a peaceful and dreamy atmosphere.
We took our time walking around, snapping photos (of course), and just soaking in the beauty of the place. Every angle looked like a postcard.
After the cold and intensity of the snow mountain, this felt like the perfect contrast—gentle, scenic, and incredibly relaxing.
Another wow moment added to the day.
After soaking in the views at Blue Moon Valley, it was time to warm up with something hearty—Jade Dragon Snow Mountain Tibetan pork hot pot.
And honestly… this came at the perfect time.
A big pot of rich, flavorful broth simmering away, filled with tender pork and ingredients that just hit differently in the cold weather. After a long day in the mountains, this was exactly what we needed—warm, comforting, and so satisfying.
Sitting around the table, enjoying the heat from the hot pot while chatting and laughing—it made the whole experience even better.
Cold weather + hot pot = perfect combination.
After a yummy lunch, we headed to watch the Impressions of Lijiang performance.
Set against the breathtaking backdrop of the mountains, the show was truly stunning. The open-air stage, high altitude, and natural scenery all came together to create such a powerful atmosphere.
The performance itself was energetic and deeply rooted in local culture, showcasing the traditions and spirit of the people in a very expressive and moving way.
Watching it with the mountains in view made the whole experience even more unforgettable—like nature and performance blending into one.
After the performance, we set off for Jade Water Village.
Along the way, we made a stop by the roadside to capture some breathtaking views. The scenery was simply too beautiful to pass by—wide open landscapes, mountains in the distance, and that golden light that made everything look even more magical.
Of course, we couldn’t resist taking photos and recording videos to freeze those moments in time.
A long journey ahead, but filled with so much beauty even on the road.
We then arrived at Jade Water Village, a place that felt calm, scenic, and full of charm. We took our time walking around, soaking in the peaceful surroundings and capturing more beautiful moments together.
And just when we thought the day couldn’t get any better… we were so lucky to see a rainbow appear after our visit 🌈 What a lucky day! It honestly felt like the good vibes just kept following us.
The luck didn’t stop there—on our way, we also stopped by for some sakura viewing. Seeing the delicate pink blossoms in such a beautiful setting made the moment even more special.
A day full of surprises, beauty, and little blessings everywhere.
For dinner, we had Lijiang Naxi cuisine—simple, hearty, and full of local flavors. It was a nice way to experience the culture through food, and after such a long day, every dish felt extra satisfying.
After dinner, we checked in to our hotel, ready to rest and recharge after a day filled with so many beautiful moments and lucky surprises.
From the long-awaited moment at Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, to the dreamy views at Blue Moon Valley, and the unexpected little surprises along the way… today felt truly special.
The rainbow, the sakura, the laughter, and the time spent together—everything just came together so perfectly.
A day filled with excitement, beauty and so much gratitude. Definitely one I’ll always remember.
Day 5 – Can’t believe it’s already Day 5!
Sleep is finally getting better! I managed to get 6 hours (thank you, oxygen). Definitely feeling more refreshed and ready for the day ahead.
We got up and made our way for breakfast, and just outside the hotel… we were greeted with a beautiful mountain view. Such a peaceful way to start the morning.
After breakfast, we set off towards Tiger Leaping Gorge.
And honestly, I still couldn’t believe it—we were on the way to Shangri-La. It’s one of those places I’ve only ever seen in movies, and now I’m actually going there.
Surreal is the only word that comes to mind.
Arriving at Tiger Leaping Gorge… it was absolutely gorgeous.
The scale of it, the rushing river, the towering cliffs on both sides—it was powerful, raw, and honestly so stunning. One of those places that makes you stop and just feel how small you are in the best way possible.
We took our time walking around, taking in the views and capturing moments, but no photo could truly do it justice. You really have to be there to experience it.
And I could tell… my dad really enjoyed this one. Seeing him take it all in, appreciating the view, that made this moment even more special for me.
After that, we made our way to Diqing Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture for lunch.
A well-deserved break after the morning at Tiger Leaping Gorge—good food, a chance to sit down, and just relax for a bit.
Recharged and ready, we continued our journey deeper into Shangri-La.
Next, we visited another highlight: Ganden Sumtseling Monastery.
Often known as the “Little Potala Palace,” this place was truly breathtaking. Sitting high up against the mountains, the monastery had such a strong and peaceful presence the moment we arrived.
Walking up the steps, you could feel the stillness and spirituality of the place. The architecture, the details, and the atmosphere—it all felt so rich in history and culture.
It was one of those moments where everything naturally slows down… just taking it all in, quietly.
Then, we had dinner at Jin Sheng Li Shui · Duan Yun Fu (金生丽水·端云府).
A comforting meal to end the day after all the exploring—good food, warm atmosphere, and everyone just enjoying the moment together. During dinner, we were also served a special drink (I honestly forgot what it was 😄). But it was so strong that we all turned really red after a while… as if we were drunk, even though we weren’t! It became such a funny moment for all of us.
After a full day of breathtaking sights and meaningful experiences, it was the perfect way to wind down. After dinner, we checked in to our next hotel and settled in for the night, ready to rest and recharge for the journey ahead.
Day 6 – Fresh start & back on the road
I really enjoyed the hotel stay—it felt quite high-tech with Xiao Du Xiao Du (like a “Hey Alexa” system) in the room. Such a fun and modern touch.
I had a very good sleep, finally feeling properly rested and recharged.
We got ready and headed down for breakfast before hitting the road again, this time towards Erhai Lake.
On the way, we made a quick stop for a toilet break and later enjoyed a yummy lunch in Dali. What made this meal extra special was the restaurant design—there was a room with a transparent glass floor, and we could actually see fish swimming underneath us while we were eating! It felt so unique and almost surreal, like dining above an aquarium.
A simple day on the road, but still filled with little surprises.
Next stop: Erhai Ecological Corridor
We arrived at the Erhai Ecological Corridor and it was such a fun and vibrant experience. One of the highlights was the music caravan—complete with karaoke, which instantly brought everyone’s energy up.
We also enjoyed a juice per person and snacks, which made the whole experience even more relaxing while taking in the beautiful lakeside views.
Another special part of the visit was experiencing the Bai ethnic dance performance. It was colourful, lively, and such a beautiful way to learn more about the local culture.
Of course, we also had travel photography sessions along the corridor the first thing when we arrived—the scenery was just too pretty not to capture every moment.
That day was also my parents’ wedding anniversary. Watching my dad sing songs and seeing my parents openly express their love for each other truly touched my heart. It was such a meaningful and emotional moment for me—definitely one of the highlights of the entire trip.
A perfect mix of fun, culture, beauty, and love all in one stop.
Next stop: Dali Ancient City
We then made our way to Dali Ancient City, and the atmosphere was completely different again—lively, charming and full of character.
The streets were lined with traditional buildings, glowing lanterns, little shops and street snacks everywhere. It was such a nice place to shop or to just wander without rushing, slowly taking in the sights and sounds around us.
We walked through the bustling lanes, did a bit of exploring, and of course took plenty of photos along the way.
I also bought myself a silver ring here. Apparently, silver holds quite an important meaning in Chinese culture. It is believed to have protective and purifying properties and is often associated with good health and warding off negative energy. That’s why silver jewellery is commonly worn and even gifted as a form of blessing and care.
Then, we gathered again for dinner at Dali Ancient City.
It was quite a unique experience—not just a meal, but also a cultural performance by the locals. One of the highlights was a traditional act where performers lifted chairs using only their mouths, which was both impressive and a little unbelievable to watch.
We also had the chance to request song for them to sing, which made the atmosphere feel interactive and lively. Everyone was laughing, clapping, and fully immersed in the moment.
After dinner, we continued shopping at the street and slowly made our way back to the hotel.
It was a relaxed walk back, enjoying the night atmosphere and soaking in the last bits of the day before settling in for the night.
Day 7 – Xizhou Ancient Town
After breakfast, we headed to our first activity of the day—Xizhou Ancient Town.
We experienced the viral horse-drawn carriage ride, and it was such a nice and relaxing experience. The weather was perfect and everything just felt very peaceful and slow-paced. I even had the chance to touch the horse and take a selfie with it—such a simple but fun moment.
A beautiful and calm start to the day in Xizhou.
Then we continued to the next viral tourist spot, where we took a lot of photos and videos.
We also stopped for some local snacks (with options of sweet or savoury), which were located directly opposite the photo and video spot. After snacking, everyone was busy capturing different angles, striking poses and just enjoying the moment together. It was one of those stops where time just flew by because we were so immersed in the experience.
Then we continued our walk towards the beautiful paddy fields. The scenery was so refreshing and peaceful—open fields, fresh air and a calmness that made the whole walk really enjoyable.
After exploring, we also bought some fresh fruits along the way to help cool down from the heat of the sun. It was simple, but so refreshing and perfect for the weather.
After that, we slowly made our way back to Xizhou Ancient Town for lunch, taking in the surroundings at an easy pace and enjoying every little moment along the way.
After lunch, we got back on the road. It was a long journey, so the bus ride turned into a fun and lively karaoke session. Everyone was singing, laughing and enjoying the energy on the bus—it made the long ride feel much shorter. We later stopped for a toilet break before continuing on to our dinner place at a mall for BBQ and buffet.
After dinner, we checked in to our hotel and settled in for the night.
I decided not to join them for the night street walk as I was feeling too tired so I chose to stay back and rest instead. A quiet end to a fun and eventful day.
Day 8 – Mixed emotions
Entering Day 8, I can’t believe we’re heading back later tonight.
It’s such a mix of emotions—feeling a little sad that this beautiful journey is coming to an end, but at the same time, excited to be home again (and I definitely miss my sweetheart!).
One of those bittersweet moments you always get at the end of a trip.
We had our breakfast and then headed to our first destination of the day—Daguan Pavilion Park.
It was such a calm and scenic place, surrounded by greenery and overlooking the beautiful Dianchi Lake. The atmosphere felt peaceful and relaxing, a nice change of pace as we slowly walked around and took in the views.
The highlight, of course, was the Daguan Pavilion itself—standing tall with its classic Chinese architecture and offering a picturesque view of the lake and gardens. Everything felt very poetic, almost like stepping into a painting.
Interestingly, we were told that this place is connected to Harlem Yu’s grandfather, which made the visit even more special and meaningful in its own way.
A quiet, beautiful start to Day 8 before continuing the rest of our journey.
Next stop: Cuihu Park
We then made our way to Cuihu Park, a lovely green space right in the heart of the city.
The park had such a relaxing and lively atmosphere at the same time—locals strolling around, people feeding the birds and others just enjoying a slow afternoon. The lake, surrounded by trees and traditional pavilions, made everything feel calm and peaceful.
It was one of those places where you can just take a step back from the busy itinerary, walk at your own pace and simply enjoy the moment.
A gentle and refreshing stop before continuing the rest of our journey.
Then we went back to the street near our hotel to have Yunnan Guo Qiao Mi Xian (云南过桥米线).
It was such a wonderful experience—not just the food, but also the story behind it. The name “Crossing the Bridge Rice Noodles” comes from a traditional tale about a scholar whose wife would bring him hot noodles across a bridge every day. To keep the soup warm, she separated the ingredients and poured them into the hot broth just before serving—and that’s how this unique way of eating the dish began.
We got to enjoy it the traditional way too—adding the ingredients into the hot broth one by one, which made the whole experience feel even more special and interactive.
The Pu’er tea was also so good—rich, smooth and very comforting. What made it even more interesting was how it was stored in these unique, custom-made bottles by the owner, adding a really personal touch to the whole dining experience.
A simple meal, but one filled with culture, story, and so much enjoyment.
We grabbed a coffee and then continued exploring Kunming.
We visited the iconic Golden Horse and Jade Rooster Archway, a well-known landmark right in the city, and continued on to Kunming Qianwang Old Street.
The streets were lively and full of character, with a mix of old architecture and modern shops. It was such a nice place to walk around, explore and just soak in the local vibes.
My family and I also had a foot reflexology session there—definitely much needed after all the walking throughout the trip. A simple but satisfying way to relax and recharge before heading home.
Then we gathered for dinner—and it turned into a lovely surprise celebration for my mom!
It was such a special moment, celebrating her together as a family during this trip. The laughter, the smiles and just being present with one another made it even more meaningful.
Right after that, we headed to watch Dynamic Yunnan.
The performance was absolutely captivating—full of culture, energy and stunning visuals. From the costumes to the choreography, everything was so beautifully presented. It was the perfect way to end the night on a high note.
After that, we made our way to the airport, marking the end of our Yunnan journey. ✈️
