Yuxi Travel Weather and Climate in January

Located just south of Kunming, Yuxi（玉溪） is one of Yunnan’s best-kept secrets — a land of sparkling plateau lakes, tea-covered hills, and laid-back ethnic towns. In January, Yuxi enjoys mild, sunny weather, making it a relaxing destination for travelers seeking nature, culture, and fresh air away from the crowds.

☀️ Weather in January

✅ Good to know: The elevation (~1,600–1,800m) keeps it cool but not cold, ideal for hiking or relaxation.

👕 What to Wear in January

Daytime: Long-sleeve shirt, sweater or light jacket

Evening: Down jacket or fleece for higher altitudes

Footwear: Comfortable walking shoes or boots

Extras: Sunglasses, sun hat, lip balm — UV is strong year-round on the plateau

🧭 What to Do in January

🌊 Fuxian Lake (抚仙湖)

China’s second-deepest freshwater lake, known for its crystal-clear water and serenity

January is quiet, with beautiful reflections and few tourists

Enjoy walking trails, village cycling, or relaxing lakeside stays

Ideal for photographers, couples, or wellness seekers

🧱 Explore Tonghai County & Ancient Towns

Visit Tonghai’s Nagu Town, a well-preserved Muslim Hui settlement with domed mosques and ancient alleyways

Discover Xingmeng Mongolian Village, the only Mongol settlement in Yunnan

Learn about diverse minority traditions in a tranquil rural setting

Visit Yunnan’s Tobacco & Tea Hills

Yuxi is known as the “City of Tobacco and Tea” — take a tea farm tour in the surrounding hills

Learn about Pu’er and Dianhong black tea, or visit a tobacco-curing village (photogenic and educational)

🎉 Festivals & Culture in January

🧧 Minority New Year Preparations (late January)

Hui and Mongolian villages begin preparing for Lunar New Year

Expect to see handmade snacks, family gatherings, and quiet cultural rituals

Local markets sell candied fruits, dried meats, and spring couplets

🎶 Temple Fairs & Local Opera (village-level)

In small towns like Jiangchuan or Huaning, you may encounter local operas or temple fairs preparing for the new year

🍲 What to Eat in January

Grilled fish from Fuxian Lake – fresh, lightly spiced

Huaning roast duck – crispy skin and tender meat

Tofu rice noodles – Yuxi comfort food with local chili oil

Mongolian-style hotpot in Xingmeng

Seasonal fruits like oranges, sugarcane, and pomegranate still found in markets

☕ Don’t miss a warm cup of local black tea or rice wine after a lakeside walk!

✅ Why Visit Yuxi in January?

✨ Yuxi in January: Sunshine Over Still Waters

With morning mist over Fuxian Lake, quiet towns preparing for the New Year, and warm plates of fresh fish and noodles, Yuxi in January offers a soulful, slow-paced experience few travelers know — and even fewer forget.