Itinerary
Day 1: Shenzhen to Dali – Serenity by Erhai Lake
Morning/Afternoon:
Take an early flight CZ5149 (08:05–10:40) from Shenzhen to Dali. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel and begin your journey.
Enjoy a scenic drive along the East Ring Road of Erhai Lake, soaking in the picturesque views of the lake, surrounding mountains, Bai villages, and lush countryside.
In the afternoon, visit the artistic landmark Ideal Land by Erhai Lake, where you can savor a cup of coffee and a delightful afternoon tea while embracing a relaxing pace of life.
Evening:
Free time for personal exploration or relaxation at the hotel.
Meals: Not included
Accommodation: 5-star lakeside hotel in Dali
Day 2: Bai Culture and Iconic Erhai S-Curve
Morning/Afternoon:
After breakfast, visit traditional Bai residences featuring distinctive “three houses and one wall” architecture. Experience “Three Cups of Tea”, a cultural ritual that transitions from bitter to sweet to mellow, complemented by lively Bai music and dance performances (approximately 1.5 hours).
Continue to the S-Curve at Erhai Eco Corridor, a social media hotspot. Hop on a music-themed sightseeing cart and enjoy the harmonious blend of reed-lined shores, tranquil waters, and curated tunes (approximately 1.5 hours).
Evening:
Free time or return to your hotel for relaxation.
Meals: Breakfast included
Accommodation: 5-star lakeside hotel in Dali
Day 3: Dali Ancient Town to Shaxi – Journey through Tea Horse Road
Morning/Afternoon:
After breakfast, stroll through Dali Ancient Town, exploring its stone-paved streets and the vibrant expat-inspired Foreigner Street, which seamlessly blend ancient charm with modern vitality (approximately 2 hours).
Drive to Shaxi Ancient Town (approximately 130 km, 2 hours), a well-preserved hub along the ancient Tea Horse Road. Visit landmarks such as Sideng Street, the Ancient Theater, and Pioneer Bookstore to immerse yourself in its historical and cultural essence.
Evening:
Stay overnight at a boutique hotel in Shaxi and enjoy its serene ambiance.
Meals: Breakfast included
Accommodation: Boutique hotel in Shaxi Ancient Town
Day 4: Shaxi's Morning Mist and Lijiang's Romance
Morning/Afternoon:
Begin your day exploring Shaxi Ancient Town, walking to Yujin Bridge, enveloped in ethereal morning mist, creating a dreamlike landscape.
After breakfast, drive to Lijiang (approximately 100 km, 1 hour).
Upon arrival, visit Lashihai Wetland Park, Black Dragon Pool Park, and delve into the vibrant cultural allure of Lijiang Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, renowned for its Naxi traditions and atmospheric evenings.
Evening:
Stroll around Square Street or unwind at your hotel.
Meals: Breakfast included
Accommodation: 5-star hotel in Lijiang Old Town
Day 5: Majestic Jade Dragon Snow Mountain and Blue Moon Valley
Morning/Afternoon:
After breakfast, head to Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. Take the Yunshanping Cableway for panoramic views and explore the Ganhaizi Meadow (approximately 4 hours).
Continue to Blue Moon Valley, where the striking azure waters reflect a pristine, tranquil environment. Travel via an electric cart for effortless sightseeing.
In the afternoon, witness Zhang Yimou’s “Impressions of Lijiang”, an open-air performance set against the snow-capped mountain backdrop, showcasing Naxi traditions and culture.
Evening:
Return to your hotel or enjoy free time in Lijiang.
Meals: Breakfast included
Accommodation: 5-star hotel in Lijiang Old Town
Day 6: Lijiang to Shangri-La – Awe-Inspiring Tiger Leaping Gorge
Morning/Afternoon:
After breakfast, embark on a scenic drive to Shangri-La (approximately 180 km, 2.5 hours).
Visit Tiger Leaping Gorge, one of the world’s deepest gorges, to witness the roaring rapids of the Jinsha River. Explore the area via a convenient escalator (approximately 1.5 hours).
Continue to Dukezong Ancient Town, home to the world’s largest prayer wheel. Turn the prayer wheel for blessings and immerse yourself in Tibetan culture (approximately 1 hour).
Evening:
Stay overnight and enjoy Shangri-La’s peaceful atmosphere.
Meals: Breakfast included
Accommodation: 5-star hotel in Shangri-La
Day 7: Shangri-La Hidden Gems – A Glimpse of Shangri-La
Morning/Afternoon:
Start your day at Pudacuo National Park, China’s first national park. Cruise across Bitahai Lake and Shudu Lake, surrounded by unspoiled landscapes resembling a fairy tale.
Later, visit Songzanlin Monastery, often called “Little Potala Palace,” to admire its golden roofs and explore Tibetan Buddhist traditions (approximately 1 hour, includes eco-shuttle).
Evening:
Relax at your hotel or enjoy leisure time exploring the local area.
Meals: Breakfast included
Accommodation: 5-star hotel in Shangri-La
Day 8: Shangri-La to Kunming – Karst Wonders of Stone Forest
Morning/Afternoon:
After breakfast, take flight MU5807 (08:40–09:45) to Kunming.
Arrive and visit the Stone Forest Scenic Area, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its dramatic karst formations and surreal landscapes (approximately 3 hours, includes eco-cart).
Evening:
Spend your last night in Kunming at leisure, reflecting on your journey.
Meals: Breakfast included
Accommodation: 5-star hotel in Kunming
Day 9: Dounan Flower Market – Departure from Kunming
Morning/Afternoon:
Visit the Dounan Flower Market, Asia’s largest flower market, brimming with vibrant blossoms and unique floral arrangements. Purchase fresh or dried flowers as souvenirs to bring home.
In the afternoon, take flight MU733 (13:45–16:05) back to Hong Kong, ending your unforgettable Yunnan adventure.
Meals: Breakfast included
Accommodation: None
