Kunming Private Tour to Stone Forest&Jiuxiang Cave with Boat Ride

Kunming , China

Kunming Private Tour to Stone Forest&Jiuxiang Cave with Boat Ride

Active

8h - 9h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Escape the bustle of the city and discover two of the Yunnan Province’s most spectacular natural attractions outside of Kunming on this double-duty, full-day excursion. First, visit the UNESCO-listed sites of Stone Forest, stroll around the park with your tour guide who will explain the stories along the way and find the best location for photos. After a delicious Yunnan Style lunch, explore Jiuxiang Scenic Region. Use the elevator, boat and chairlift to discover the karst caves, river valleys, and waterfalls. Today, you will not only enjoy beautiful landscapes but also be amazed by the custom and culture of the Yi and Hui minorities. This private tour including English speaking tour guide, travel by private air-conditioned vehicle, entrance fee, boat and chairlift ride, lunch and door-to-door hotel transfers.

Available options

Kunming Private Tour to Stone Forest&Jiuxiang Cave with Boat Ride

Pickup included

What's included

Professional guide

Hotel pickup and drop-off(For hotels in Kunming city)

Lunch

Elevator and Chairlift at Jiuxiang Scenic Region

Boat Ride at Jiuxiang Cave

Bottled water

Entrance fee

Transport by private vehicle

Detailed itinerary

Meet your private guide in hotel's lobby in Kunming, heading directly to Yunnan Stone Forest Geological Park which takes about 1.5 hours. On the way, your tour guide will explain the related stories, feel free to ask questions if you have.

Yunnan Stone Forest Geological Park Kunming Stone Forest is a spectacular set of limestone groups and the representative of south China’s karst landscape. Since the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644), It is considered as the 'First Wonder of the World'. Approximately 270 million years ago - during the carboniferous period of the Paleozoic era - the region was a vast expanse of sea. Over time, the movements of the lithosphere gradually caused a retreat of the waters and the rise of the limestone landscape. Due to constant erosion by the elements, the area finally developed into the present-day appearance. The whole park is a huge natural treasure gallery, upon arrival, follow your tour guide to use your imagination to discover the park, your tour guide will tell many legendary stories along the way, and show you the best location for photos. You will spend 2-3 hours to visit the Big Stone Forest Area and the Small Stone Forest Area.

Enjoy a typical Yunnan style lunch in the local restaurant. Then heading to Jiuxiang Scenic Region.(50 minutes).

Jiuxiang Scenic Region is known as the Museum of Karst Caves, is a cluster of hundreds of karst caves, forming the largest such complex in China. Here, you will not only enjoy beautiful landscapes but also be amazed by the custom and culture of the Yi and Hui minorities. Jackie Chan's movie "The Myth" took this special landscape as a backdrop.

Upon arrival, follow your tour guide to take the sightseeing elevator with a fall of 53 meters (174 feet) down to Green Shady Valley. Green Shady Valley, also known as Lover Valley, used to be the place where boys and girls sang love songs to each other. Taking a boat through the narrow gorge, you can appreciate differently shaped limestone formations covered with lush plants on both sides of the river. Next, walking pass through The Grand Underground Valley to the Grand Lion Hall, which is the Fairy Palace of Jiuxiang Scenic Region. Here you will find different-shaped stalactites and stalagmites, highlighted with colored lights, they are bright and mysterious. Pass through Diehong Bridge, you will enter Lying Dragon Cave where you can find Two huge waterfalls. Get ready your camera for photos.
Then, you will visit Yi Minority Village where young people perform traditional minority dances for you. Your last stop is Bat Cave where remains a stone ‘forest’ hanging upside down from the top of the cave. The stone forest is characterized by its great and irregular inclination.

At the end of the path, take the chairlift to the exit. Then you will be transferred back to your hotel in Kunming.

What's not included

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

CMN EN

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

About Kunming

Kunming, known as the 'City of Eternal Spring' for its pleasant climate year-round, is the capital of Yunnan Province in Southwest China. It's a gateway to the country's southwestern ethnic minorities and offers a blend of modern city life and rich cultural heritage.

Top Attractions

Dianchi Lake

A large, scenic lake near Kunming, known for its beautiful views and recreational activities.

Nature Half day to full day Free to explore, activities may have fees

Stone Forest (Shilin)

A UNESCO-listed geological wonder featuring towering limestone formations that resemble a forest made of stone.

Nature Full day ¥120-150

Yunnan Ethnology Museum

A museum showcasing the diverse ethnic groups of Yunnan, with exhibits on their history, culture, and traditions.

Cultural 2-3 hours ¥50

Green Lake Park (Cuihu Park)

A scenic park in the heart of Kunming, featuring a large lake, gardens, and walking paths.

Nature 1-2 hours Free, boat rides may have a fee

Kunming Golden Temple (Jindian)

A historic Buddhist temple complex with a rich history and beautiful architecture.

Religious 1-2 hours Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Crossing-the-Bridge Noodles (Guoqiao Mixian)

A famous Yunnan noodle dish served in a savory broth with a variety of toppings, including vegetables, meat, and eggs.

Noodle dish Can be customized to be vegetarian or vegan

Yunnan Rice Noodles (Mixian)

A popular Yunnan street food made with rice noodles, often served with a spicy broth and a variety of toppings.

Noodle dish Can be customized to be vegetarian or vegan

Steamed Chicken with Rice (Jiding Xiangguo)

A traditional Yunnan dish featuring steamed chicken served with rice, often flavored with local herbs and spices.

Main dish Contains poultry

Er Kuai (Yunnan Flatbread)

A crispy, savory flatbread often served with a variety of dipping sauces and toppings.

Street food Vegetarian (check for egg or dairy in specific varieties)

Popular Activities

Hiking Caving Mountain biking Whitewater rafting Tea tasting Boat rides Spas and wellness Parks and gardens

Best Time to Visit

Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November)

The weather is most pleasant during these seasons, with clear skies and comfortable temperatures. It's ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

15-25°C 59-77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Chinese (Mandarin)
Widely spoken: Yunnanese (a dialect of Chinese), Various ethnic minority languages
English: Limited, especially outside of tourist areas and hotels

Currency

Renminbi (RMB) (CNY)

Time Zone

China Standard Time (CST, UTC+8)

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe, with some precautions recommended for tourists

Kunming is generally a safe city for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any destination, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Use reputable taxi services or ride-hailing apps
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious of strangers approaching you with offers or requests

Getting there

By air

Kunming Changshui International Airport • 25 km from city center

By train

Kunming South Railway Station, Kunming Railway Station

By bus

Kunming West Bus Station, Kunming South Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The metro system is efficient, clean, and easy to navigate. It's the most convenient way to get around the city.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Didi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Wuhua District Panlong District Dongchuan District

Day trips

Jiuxiang Scenic Area

130 km from Kunming • Full day

A scenic area featuring limestone caves, rivers, and waterfalls, as well as traditional villages and local culture.

Dongchuan Red Land

200 km from Kunming • Full day to overnight

A scenic area known for its vibrant red soil, terraced fields, and picturesque villages. It's a popular spot for photography and outdoor activities.

Jianshui

160 km from Kunming • Full day to overnight

A historic town known for its well-preserved ancient architecture, traditional culture, and local crafts. It's a great place to experience the rich history and traditions of Yunnan.

Festivals

Kunming International Flower Expo • Annual, typically in March or April Torch Festival (Huosheng Jie) • Annual, typically in July or August (dates vary by ethnic group) Yunnan Ethnic Minority Cultural Tourism Festival • Annual, typically in September

Pro tips

Visit during the spring or autumn for the most pleasant weather and fewer crowds
Try the local street food and snacks, such as Crossing-the-Bridge Noodles and Yunnan Rice Noodles
Explore the city's many parks and gardens, such as Green Lake Park and Dianchi Lake
Take a day trip to nearby attractions, such as the Stone Forest or Jiuxiang Scenic Area
Learn some basic Chinese phrases to enhance your experience and show respect for the local culture