Qujing Travel Weather and Climate in January

As the first major city east of Kunming, Qujing （曲靖）is often called the “Throat of Yunnan” — a historic and cultural hub connecting Yunnan with the rest of China. In January, Qujing welcomes travelers with cool, clear weather, open countryside, and charming ancient towns that come alive with New Year preparations. It’s a perfect time to explore rural China without the crowds.

☀️ Weather in January

✅ January offers clear skies and peaceful landscapes — ideal for slow travelers and photographers.

👕 What to Wear in January

Daytime: Long-sleeve shirts, sweater or fleece, windbreaker

Evening: Winter coat or down jacket

Footwear: Comfortable shoes for cobbled streets or light hiking

Extras: Scarf, hat, lip balm — dry, cold air at higher altitudes

🧭 What to Do in January

🏯 Explore the Ancient Town of Luoping

Famous for its spring rapeseed flowers, Luoping in January is quiet and misty, perfect for slow walks

Discover village temples, old bridges, and ethnic Yi culture

A great time to observe local life before the tourist season begins

🏞️ Visit Nine-Dragon Waterfalls (九龙瀑布)

The water flow in winter is gentle, offering a serene version of these tiered cascades

Hike around the falls or take in the views from a scenic platform

Less crowded and perfect for nature photography

🛤️ Experience Yi Minority Culture in Rural Qujing

Visit Yi villages around Huize or Xuanwei

Learn about handwoven textiles, New Year crafts, and traditional wood carving

Village markets are full of pre-holiday atmosphere in January

🎉 Festivals & Traditions in January

🧧 Pre–Spring Festival (Chinese New Year) Preparations

Local families begin curing meats, making rice cakes, and decorating homes

Markets are lively with red couplets, handmade lanterns, and dried chili strings

🎶 Yi Ethnic New Year Events (in some villages)

Some Yi groups hold small-scale drum dances, ancestor ceremonies, and village banquets

These are community-driven and deeply authentic

🍲 What to Eat in January

Huize cured pork (腊肉) – smoked and stored for Lunar New Year

Cross-bridge rice noodles (过桥米线) – a Yunnan classic, perfect for cold weather

Spicy pickled vegetables – a local winter staple

Cornmeal cakes and rice dumplings – common in rural celebrations

Yi-style hotpot – includes mushrooms, herbs, and game meats

🍜 Winter food in Qujing is rustic, hearty, and made for sharing.

✅ Why Visit Qujing in January?

✨ Qujing in January: A Quiet Gateway into the Real Yunnan

From misty hills and stone villages to waterfalls whispering in the winter wind, Qujing in January offers a glimpse into a more peaceful, heartfelt side of Yunnan — where stories linger in old alleyways and traditions are stitched into every meal.