13-Day Colorful Yunnan and Chengdu Tour From Hong Kong

Today, you're off to Macau for a day trip from Hong Kong by ferry. First, you'll visit the iconic Macau Tower for amazing city views. Then, explore the peaceful A-Ma Temple and see the fascinating Ruins of St. Paul's. Take a relaxed walk around Leal Senado Square, and later, head to Taipa Island to learn about Macau's history at the Portuguese House Museum. After the tour, you'll have free time to enjoy Macau's lively casino scene.

Get ready for the next part of your journey as you fly into Yunnan province, famous for its varied landscapes and cultures. When you land in Kunming, the capital city, your local guide will be there to pick you up and take you to your hotel. Take the rest of the day to relax and explore the area on your own.

Just a short 1.5-hour drive away lies the Stone Forest, recognized by UNESCO for its extraordinary karst formations shaped by nature over thousands of years. Prepare to be amazed by the surreal stone pillars resembling swords, mushrooms, towers, and even castles. Back in the city, explore the bustling Jingxing Bird and Flower Market, where you can experience local life amidst vibrant blooms and chirping birds.

After your visit, head to the railway station for a bullet train ride to Dali, a city predominantly inhabited by the Bai Ethnic Minority. In just 2.5 hours, you'll arrive and smoothly transfer to your hotel for the night.

Begin your day with a pleasant morning walk through the ancient city, waking up to its charming atmosphere. Then, hop on a bike and head to the picturesque Erhai Lake for a leisurely ride along the Erhai Ecological Corridor. You'll pass bustling markets, scenic farmlands, and quaint lakeside villages, perfect for snapping some memorable photos.

Afterward, explore Xizhou, a historic town home to the Bai ethnic group for centuries. Here, visit the Yan Family Compound, a beautiful example of traditional Bai architecture. Experience Bai hospitality firsthand with the "Sandaocha" ceremony, where you'll be treated to three cups of tea, a lovely local tradition.

Start your day with breakfast, then catch a high-speed train from the railway station for a quick 1.5-hour ride to Lijiang.

Upon arrival, you'll be warmly welcomed and taken to your hotel in a private vehicle. Take some time to relax before you head out to explore the UNESCO-protected Old Town. Wander through its charming cobblestone streets and admire the traditional wooden buildings.

Finally, climb Lion Hill to enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the area before wrapping up your tour.

Begin your day by visiting Baisha Village, the former capital of the Naxi kingdom, located just 8 km north of Lijiang. Here, you'll find ancient Mural Paintings that are over 300 years old. These paintings tell stories about local life, traditions, and beliefs, blending Tibetan, Han, and Naxi cultures.

Next, experience the hospitality of the Naxi people with a visit to a local family in Yuhu Village, known as the "No.1 Village at the Foot of the Snow Mountain." Your hosts, dressed in traditional clothing, will show you their way of life and share insights into their culture, including traditional crafts like paper-making. You can even join in making soy milk and tofu if you're interested.

In the morning, leave Lijiang and travel towards Shangri-La. Along the way, stop at the First Bend of the Yangtze River, where the river dramatically changes direction around Hailuo Mountain. Then, visit the stunning Tiger Leaping Gorge, nestled between the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain and Haba Snow Mountain. You can either take an easy walk along the upper trail to enjoy the gorge's beauty or choose a more challenging 3 to 4-hour hike through the Middle Tiger Leaping Gorge. Finally, return to your hotel in Lijiang for a well-deserved rest.

Start your exploration of Shangri-La by visiting the beautiful Pudacuo National Park. Here, you'll discover serene lakes and lush forests surrounded by untouched natural beauty. Later in the day, experience the spiritual atmosphere of Gedan Songzanlin Monastery, the largest Tibetan Buddhist monastery in Yunnan province. Chat with a knowledgeable lama to learn about their daily rituals and lifestyle.

Take the morning to relax and enjoy some free time before your guide accompanies you to the airport for your flight to Chengdu, the charming city in Sichuan province. Once you land, you'll be warmly greeted and driven to your hotel for the night.

Get ready for an exciting day where you'll meet adorable giant pandas up close at the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding. Your knowledgeable guide will be there to show you around, explaining their habitats and how they grow. You'll also get to see other endangered animals like red pandas and golden monkeys.

Afterwards, dive into Chengdu's past at the Chengdu Museum, where you can see ancient artifacts and learn about local traditions. Finally, relax at the peaceful Wenshu Temple, where you can join locals for a relaxing tea tasting experience.

Your trip concludes this morning. Make your way to the airport for your flight home using either a taxi or the subway.