5 Days Kunming Muslim Tour with Xundian and Home Town of Zhenghe

Morning: Arrival in Kunming

Arrival at Kunming Airport:

Upon your arrival at Kunming Changshui International Airport, you will be warmly greeted by your English-speaking tour guide, who will be holding a sign with your name for easy identification.

The airport transfer to Xundian County will take about 1.5 to 2 hours (approximately 90 km from Kunming). During the drive, enjoy scenic views of the Yunnan countryside, passing through rural villages, rolling hills, and expansive rice fields. The landscape en route to Xundian is picturesque and offers a calm introduction to the region.

Travel Information:

Kunming is known as the "City of Eternal Spring" due to its pleasant climate year-round. Xundian is known for its Hui Muslim community, which influences the local culture, food, and traditions.

Arrival at Xundian

Xundian County Overview:

Xundian is an autonomous county in Yunnan Province with a rich heritage of both Hui Muslims and Yi ethnic culture. This region is unique for its blend of Han Chinese and Muslim influences, which can be seen in its architecture, cuisine, and cultural practices.

The area is also famous for its scenic beauty, with lush hills and valleys, making it a peaceful destination for relaxation and cultural exploration.

Accommodation:

Check-in to Muslim-Themed Hotel:

You will check in to a Muslim-themed hotel located in the tranquil Xinghe Hot Spring Town. The town is designed to cater to Muslim travelers, offering halal amenities and a peaceful atmosphere ideal for unwinding.

Hotel Facilities: The hotel offers a blend of modern amenities and traditional cultural elements. Enjoy private rooms designed for comfort, equipped with halal toiletries, and prayer mats.

The town itself features Muslim-style architecture and is known for its hot springs, making it a perfect place to relax after a long day of travel.

Late Afternoon: Explore Local Muslim Heritage

Visit to Local Mosques:

After checking in, your tour guide will take you on a visit to some of Xundian’s most significant mosques, allowing you to learn more about the local Muslim culture:

Beiying Mosque (北营清真寺):

Location: Located in Rende Town, Beiying Mosque is one of Xundian’s oldest mosques, dating back to the late Yuan Dynasty (1271-1368). It was moved and expanded during the Ming Dynasty.

Cultural Significance: This mosque has been a spiritual center for the Hui Muslim community for centuries. It also served as a hub for Islamic education and the Islamic Association of the region. It underwent a major restoration in 2007, preserving its traditional architectural style.

Yilong Mosque (易隆清真寺):

Location: Situated in Rende Town in Yilong Village, this mosque dates back to the mid-Ming Dynasty (16th century). It was repaired during the Kangxi Era (17th century) and rebuilt in the Qing Dynasty (19th century).

Architectural Features: The mosque’s main hall is built in a single-eaved, Xieshan-style roof, decorated with intricate carvings and green tiles. It also houses historical stone tablets and lion statues dating back to the Qing Dynasty.

Cultural Insight: Your guide will explain the Islamic practices followed in the area, as well as how the Hui Muslims of Xundian have maintained their religious and cultural traditions throughout the centuries.

Evening: Relax and Unwind

Relaxing at Xinghe Hot Spring Town:

Soothe your muscles in the millennium-old sulfur hot springs located within Xinghe Hot Spring Town. These hot springs are famous for their therapeutic properties, believed to promote relaxation and relieve stress.

Private Hot Springs: The hotel provides private open-air hot spring pools where you can enjoy the natural thermal waters in a peaceful, serene environment.

Traditional Muslim Dinner:

In the evening, head to a local halal restaurant for a traditional Muslim dinner. Some popular dishes you will likely enjoy include:

Beef Jerky (牛干巴): A dry, spiced beef snack that is a specialty of Xundian.

Lamb Soup (羊汤锅): A flavorful and hearty dish made from tender lamb, herbs, and vegetables. It’s a warming and comforting meal for the cooler evenings in Yunnan.

Naan Bread and Steamed Rice: Often served alongside the dishes, providing a perfect accompaniment.

Cultural Exploration at Aladdin Town:

If you still have energy, you can take a short evening stroll in Aladdin Town, a cultural park designed with the theme of One Thousand and One Nights. The town blends Arabian architectural elements with local Hui Muslim traditions, and you can enjoy walking around the streets, admiring the exotic architecture, and enjoying a cultural performance or small exhibition.

Night: Return to Hotel

After your fulfilling dinner and cultural exploration, head back to your hotel to rest and prepare for the next day of exploration.

Relax in your room or enjoy the peaceful ambiance of the hot spring town before resting for the night.

Morning:

Halal Breakfast at Hotel:

Begin your day with a traditional Halal breakfast served at your hotel in Xundian, which might include local delights such as steamed buns (mantou), lamb skewers, yogurt, and flatbreads (naan). This will give you a taste of the hearty breakfast options enjoyed by the local Hui Muslim community.

Fenglong Bay Scenic Area (凤龙湾):

After breakfast, your guide will take you to the Fenglong Bay Scenic Area, located about 15 kilometers from the town. This is one of Xundian’s most scenic locations, offering a blend of natural beauty and cultural experiences.

Sightseeing Train Ride: The journey begins with a sightseeing train ride through the area, which offers stunning views of lush forests, serene lakes, and rural landscapes. The train ride passes through unique "One Thousand and One Nights"-themed architecture, which adds a magical and dream-like atmosphere to the surroundings.

Exploration of Natural Beauty: After the train ride, your guide will take you on a walking tour of the scenic area. You’ll have the opportunity to explore the wooden bridges, take photos of the picturesque ponds, and enjoy the tranquility of the forested environment.

Lunch:

Halal Lunch at a Scenic Restaurant:

Enjoy a Halal lunch at one of the Muslim-friendly restaurants within the scenic area. This will be a great opportunity to taste local specialties, such as:

Beef Jerky (牛干巴): A dried and spiced beef snack that’s beloved by locals.

Lamb Hot Pot (羊汤锅): A warming soup made with tender lamb, vegetables, and herbs, perfect for refueling after the morning’s exploration.

Rice Pilaf (抓饭): A flavorful dish of rice with lamb, carrots, and spices, often enjoyed by the local Hui Muslim community.

Afternoon:

Fenglong Bay Lake Yacht Tour:

After lunch, embark on a yacht tour on Fenglong Bay Lake. Surrounded by mountains and lush greenery, the lake provides a serene environment for relaxation and reflection. This tranquil setting is perfect for taking in the natural beauty of the area.

Leisure Walk: After the yacht tour, take a stroll along the wooden promenade by the water. It’s an opportunity to enjoy the slower pace of life in Xundian, breathe in the fresh air, and appreciate the peaceful surroundings.

Return to Kunming:

After your time at Fenglong Bay, return to Kunming by car (approximately 1.5-2 hours). Along the way, relax and enjoy the scenic drive back to the city.

Green Lake Park (Cuihu Park):

The first stop of the day is Green Lake Park (Cuihu Park), Kunming’s most popular park. Known for its crystal-clear waters and weeping willows, this park is a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

Seagull Watching: Since 1985, Green Lake has been home to migratory seagulls that fly in from Russia each winter. You’ll have the opportunity to see these majestic birds up close and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the park. Locals often gather here for leisure, so you can also watch traditional Chinese calligraphy artists or people practicing Tai Chi in the park.

Silk Museum:

After visiting Green Lake Park, head to the Kunming Silk Museum. Learn about the ancient tradition of silk production, which has been central to the Silk Road and China’s history for thousands of years. The museum features exhibits on the history of sericulture, the weaving process, and the economic importance of silk in China.

Interactive Exhibits: You may also have the opportunity to see silk weaving demonstrations and purchase some souvenirs at the museum shop.

Evening:

Optional: Yunnan Dynamic Show:

Upon arrival in Kunming, you have the option to enjoy the Yunnan Dynamic Show, a performance that highlights the ethnic diversity and traditional culture of the region. The show features vibrant music, folk dance, and colorful costumes representing various ethnic groups in Yunnan.

Meals: Halal Lunch / Halal Dinner

Morning:

Halal Breakfast at Hotel:

Start your day with a Halal breakfast at your hotel in Kunming, enjoying a variety of traditional dishes:

Steamed buns (包子), a common breakfast staple in China, filled with meat or vegetables.

Yogurt, which is often served fresh and slightly sweetened.

Lamb skewers (羊肉串) or beef skewers (牛肉串), a popular Muslim street food in Kunming, served hot and spiced.

Fresh fruit, providing a refreshing and healthy start to the day.

Transfer to Shilin County to Visit the Stone Forest:

After breakfast, board the coach for a transfer to Shilin County (Stone Forest), located about 90 km (approximately 1.5-2 hours) from Kunming. The Stone Forest is one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites and one of the most famous natural attractions in Yunnan.

Stone Forest (石林) is a breathtaking karst landscape formed by limestone erosion over millions of years. As you walk through the maze of towering rock formations, you’ll have a chance to explore this "forest" of stones, shaped like trees, hence the name.

Your guide will provide fascinating insights into the geological history of the area and the local Sani ethnic minority culture, which has strong ties to the Stone Forest.

Lunch:

Halal Lunch at a Local Restaurant in Yiliang County:

After visiting the Stone Forest, stop for a Halal lunch in Yiliang County (which is on the way back to Kunming). Enjoy a meal at a Muslim-friendly restaurant with traditional Yunnan flavors.

A signature dish you might enjoy is Yiliang Roast Duck, famous for its tender meat, crispy skin, and rich flavor. You can also try the following dishes:

Samosas (饺子), savory pastries filled with spiced meat or vegetables, perfect as an appetizer.

Grilled lamb or beef skewers (羊肉串/牛肉串), often served with flatbreads (饼).

Steamed bread (馒头), a fluffy and soft bread served alongside lamb or beef dishes.

Afternoon:

Shun Cheng Mosque (顺成清真寺):

After lunch, head to Shun Cheng Mosque, one of the oldest and most renowned mosques in Kunming, built in 1425 during the Ming Dynasty.

Significance: This mosque is the headquarters of the Islamic Association of Yunnan Province and plays an important role in the religious life of Kunming’s Muslim community. During your visit, your guide will provide a detailed explanation of the mosque’s architectural style, which includes traditional Islamic elements such as arched doorways, Islamic calligraphy, and intricate tile work. You’ll also learn about its historical importance in the development of Islam in Yunnan.

Shopping at Nanping Pedestrian Street:

After visiting Shun Cheng Mosque, enjoy some free time for shopping at Nanping Pedestrian Street. This bustling area is lined with shops and boutiques offering everything from local handicrafts and ethnic arts to international brands.

You can stroll along the street, experiencing the lively atmosphere and picking up souvenirs, gifts, and local treats.

Don’t forget to visit Jinbi Square (金碧广场), located nearby, where you will find the Golden Horse & Jade Rooster Archway, a historic landmark of Kunming.

Evening:

Guandu Ancient Town:

After shopping, visit Guandu Ancient Town, located about 8 km southwest of Kunming’s city center. This historic area is famous for its well-preserved traditional architecture and vibrant cultural heritage.

Exploring Guandu: Take a leisurely stroll through the narrow alleys, explore ancient temples, and enjoy the traditional houses built in the local style. This town is an excellent place to get a feel for Kunming’s rich history and ethnic diversity, as it is home to both Han Chinese and minority groups.

Guandu has been an important cultural hub for centuries, and it’s still a lively area where locals gather for daily activities.

Shopping at Luosiwan International Wholesale Market:

End the evening with a visit to Luosiwan International Wholesale Market, which is a great spot for shopping. The market is known for a wide variety of products, including:

Local handicrafts like handwoven textiles and ethnic jewelry.

Souvenirs such as wooden carvings, tea, and ethnic clothing.

International goods at more affordable prices, ranging from clothing to electronics.

Meals:

Hotel Breakfast: Enjoy a traditional breakfast with a variety of Halal options.

Halal Lunch: Savor a delicious meal featuring local Yiliang Roast Duck and other Halal specialties.

Halal Dinner: You will have the opportunity to enjoy a Halal dinner at the end of your day, either at a local restaurant or within your hotel.

Morning: Drive to Jinning – The Hometown of Zheng He

• Departure: After a delicious Halal breakfast at your hotel in Kunming, your journey begins with a scenic drive to Jinning, located about 30 kilometers from Kunming city. This area is famous for being the birthplace of Zheng He (郑和), the renowned Ming dynasty explorer.

Visit Jincheng Old Town

• Jincheng Old Town (晋城古镇) is a historic town with traditional architecture that offers a glimpse into the past of this region. Walk through its charming streets, which reflect the cultural heritage and influence of Zheng He’s time.

Zheng He Park

• Zheng He Park (郑和公园) is a park dedicated to the great explorer. Here, you can enjoy a leisurely stroll surrounded by beautiful gardens and statues commemorating Zheng He's contributions to global exploration.

Zheng He Statue

• Zheng He Statue (郑和雕像) is located in Jinning and stands tall as a symbol of Zheng He’s achievements. It’s a perfect spot to take photos and reflect on his journey that connected China with Africa, Southeast Asia, and the Middle East.

The Zheng He Memorial Hall

• The Zheng He Memorial Hall (郑和纪念馆) offers an in-depth look at the life and legacy of the famous explorer. Exhibits include historical documents, artifacts, and insights into his maritime voyages.

Lunch: Halal Meal in Jinning

• Enjoy a Halal lunch at one of the local restaurants in Jinning, offering traditional Yunnan cuisine with Muslim-friendly options.

Afternoon: Drive Around Dianchi Lake

After lunch, head back towards Kunming to explore the stunning landscapes around Dianchi Lake.

The Western Hills and Dragon Gate

• The Western Hills (西山) are located on the western shores of Dianchi Lake and are one of Kunming’s most famous scenic spots. You can take a cable car up to the Dragon Gate (龙门), where you’ll be treated to panoramic views of the lake and surrounding mountains.

Dianchi Lake

• End your afternoon by exploring Dianchi Lake (滇池), known as the "Pearl of Kunming". You can enjoy a peaceful walk along its shores or opt for a boat ride to take in the surrounding beauty.

Evening: Return to Kunming

• After a day full of exploration, return to Kunming city. You can either enjoy a leisurely evening at a local halal restaurant or head back to your hotel for a relaxing evening.

Morning:

Traditional Tea Ceremony:

Start your final day in Kunming with a Traditional Tea Ceremony. Yunnan is famous for its high-quality teas, especially Pu’er Tea (普洱茶), which is known for its rich flavor and health benefits. During the ceremony, you’ll be introduced to the art of tea brewing and the cultural significance of tea in Chinese life.

Tea Ceremony Experience:

The ceremony will be conducted by a local tea master, who will guide you through the process of selecting the best leaves, the proper tea-picking techniques, and the delicate brewing process.

You’ll learn about the different types of Yunnan tea, such as green tea, black tea, and Pu’er tea, and experience how the leaves unfurl in the hot water.

Enjoy sipping on freshly brewed tea in a calm, peaceful environment. The ceremony provides a serene and culturally enriching start to your last day in Kunming.

Free Time:

After the tea ceremony, you’ll have some free time to relax or explore Kunming on your own before your departure.

If you have extra time and energy, you can visit nearby areas such as Nanping Pedestrian Street or Jinbi Square for last-minute shopping or a casual stroll around Kunming’s city center. You can also explore more of Kunming's parks, such as West Hills or Green Lake, if you prefer a more peaceful activity.

Alternatively, enjoy a moment of reflection in the peaceful hotel gardens or hotel lobby, or check out the local souvenir shops for some last-minute gifts.

Packing and Check-out:

You will have time to pack your belongings and check out of your hotel. Your guide will ensure that all your arrangements are in order and will assist you with the check-out process if needed.

Don’t forget to double-check your belongings, and remember to leave a tip for the hotel staff if you were satisfied with their service.

Late Morning / Early Afternoon:

Transfer to Kunming Airport:

After packing up, your guide will escort you to Kunming Changshui International Airport for your flight departure.

The transfer to the airport takes about 45 minutes to 1 hour, depending on traffic. The drive to the airport will give you one last glimpse of Kunming’s landscape, passing by its lush greenery, bustling streets, and scenic views.

Your guide will assist you with airport procedures, including baggage handling, check-in, and security.

Airport Arrival and Departure:

Check-in and Security:

Upon arrival at the airport, you will go through check-in and security procedures. Be sure to have your passport, boarding pass, and any necessary documents handy for a smooth process.

Leisure Time at the Airport:

Once through security, you will have some leisure time at the airport. You can explore the airport’s duty-free shops, enjoy some light refreshments, or relax in the comfortable waiting areas.

There are a variety of restaurants, cafes, and shops where you can buy last-minute gifts or grab a snack.

Flight Departure:

Your guide will ensure you are in the right place and on time for your flight. Whether you are flying back to your home country or onward to your next destination, you will have everything ready for a smooth and stress-free departure.

Meals:

Hotel Breakfast: Begin the day with a traditional breakfast at your hotel.

If you have time before your flight, you may enjoy a light meal or refreshment at the airport.