7 Days Southeast Yunnan Family Nature & Archaeology Education Tour with Dinosaur Fossil Exploration and Yuanyang Rice Terraces (Kunming-Fuxian Lake-Jianshui-Yuanyang-Mile-Shilin-Kunming)

Embark on an exciting 6-day family adventure through the stunning landscapes of Southeast Yunnan. This tour combines nature, archaeology, and cultural immersion, starting with a fascinating exploration of the Lufeng Dinosaur National Geological Park (禄丰恐龙国家地质公园) and its Dinosaur Museum (恐龙博物馆), followed by a relaxing dip in the hot springs at Dinosaur Valley (恐龙谷).

Arrival at Kunming and Transfer to Lufeng

Flight Arrival:

• Arrive in Kunming Changshui International Airport (昆明长水机场) based on your flight schedule. Once you land, make your way to Kunming Museum (昆明博物馆) for the group meeting.

• If you arrive earlier in the day, enjoy some free time to explore the museum or nearby attractions.

14:00 - Assemble at Kunming Museum:

• Meet the group at Kunming Museum at 14:00. Your guide will brief you about the trip, including tips on local food and sightseeing recommendations.

• Important Note: Please ensure you arrive by 12:30 to allow ample time to reach Kunming Museum for the 14:00 departure to Lufeng Dinosaur Valley (禄丰恐龙谷). If you miss the gathering time, please head directly to the Lufeng Dinosaur Valley Hotel (禄丰恐龙谷酒店) to join the group.

16:00 - Lufeng Dinosaur National Geological Park (禄丰恐龙国家地质公园)

Dinosaur Museum Visit:

• Explore the Dinosaur Museum located within the Lufeng Dinosaur National Geological Park (禄丰恐龙国家地质公园). This museum houses over 60 real dinosaur fossils, including the Xuyi Luofeng Dragon (许氏禄丰龙), Jinshan Dragon (金山龙), and Double-Spined Dragon (双脊龙).

• You will learn about the significant excavation efforts in the area, with expert guides providing a detailed overview of the dinosaurs discovered here.

Special Note: The Dinosaur Museum (恐龙博物馆) is closed on Mondays, so if your visit falls on a Monday, the morning activities will be adjusted to ensure everything runs smoothly.

18:00 - Dinner at Dinosaur Valley Hotel (恐龙谷酒店)

• Buffet Dinner: Enjoy a hearty buffet dinner at the Dinosaur Valley Hotel (恐龙谷酒店). Both adults and children will have a variety of dishes to choose from.

18:30 - Check-in at Lufeng World Dinosaur Valley Hot Spring Hotel (禄丰世界恐龙谷温泉酒店)

• Accommodation: After a day of adventure, check into the Lufeng World Dinosaur Valley Hot Spring Hotel for a relaxing evening. If the hotel is unavailable due to unforeseen circumstances, we will arrange accommodation of equal or higher standard.

Day 2 of the tour takes you on an exciting family-friendly Paleontology Education Program, where you’ll delve into dinosaur archaeology, take part in fossil excavation and restoration, and enjoy leisure activities. The day includes a special experience for both adults and kids: while adults relax with a lakeside afternoon tea at Fuxian Lake (抚仙湖), children will be entertained with an exciting dolphin performance.

08:00 - Breakfast

• Meals: Breakfast included for both adults and children at the hotel.

09:00 - Visit to Lufeng Dinosaur Fossil Science Base (云南禄丰恐龙化石科普基地)

• Activity: The day begins with a visit to the Lufeng Dinosaur Fossil Science Base (云南禄丰恐龙化石科普基地), the birthplace of the Lufeng Dragon (禄丰龙). This activity is specially designed for families and led by top-tier paleontology experts. Together, you’ll explore the geological layers and fossil discovery areas of Lufeng's dinosaur heritage.

• Duration: Approximately 40 minutes.

09:00 - Dinosaur Mountain (大洼恐龙山)

• Activity: Continue your adventure by climbing Dinosaur Mountain (大洼恐龙山), following the footsteps of archaeologists to witness the first excavation site. This is where you will learn about identifying, excavating, cleaning, and restoring dinosaur fossils.

• Experience: This is like entering a Chinese version of Jurassic Park and is an interactive, hands-on learning opportunity for the whole family.

• Duration: Approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.

12:30 - Lunch

• Meals: Group lunch provided, included for both adults and children.

15:30 - Fuxian Lake (抚仙湖)

• Activity: After lunch, head to Fuxian Lake (抚仙湖), a stunning destination known for its crystal-clear waters and breathtaking views.

  • For Adults: Relax at a luxury lakeside resort, enjoying a peaceful afternoon tea by the lake. The hotel offers a panoramic view of the tranquil waters framed by an open-air design, perfect for relaxation and photography.

  • For Children: While the adults unwind, the kids will enjoy an engaging dolphin performance with a chance to learn about marine life and take photos with the playful dolphins.

  • Note: Parents and children will participate in separate activities. Parents can enjoy afternoon tea, while the kids will be accompanied by staff to the dolphin show. If anyone opts out of either activity, no extra charges will be applied.

18:00 - Dinner

• Meals: Dinner is not included for adults and children at this time. Guests are free to explore local dining options.

18:30 - Accommodation at Fuxian Lake

• Hotel Options: Choose from Fuxian Lake Baoliyuan Resort & Spa (抚仙湖宝麗湾酒店及度假村) or Fuxian Lake Dolphin Bay Hotel (抚仙湖海豚湾酒店) (Cambrian Town branch).

• Note: If the listed hotels are unavailable due to government requisition or other factors, we guarantee that accommodation of equal or higher standard will be arranged.

Day 3 takes you on an educational journey from the Cambrian Period to the Jurassic Era, exploring Cambrian fossils and the ancient city of Jianshui (建水), including a ride on the historic Mitrack Train (米轨火车) to the year 1915. The day is filled with engaging family-friendly activities and a unique cultural experience, with highlights including a visit to the Chengjiang Fossil Site (澄江化石地) and the iconic Jianshui Old Town (建水古城).

07:30 - Breakfast

• Meals: Breakfast included for both adults and children at the hotel.

09:00 - Visit to Chengjiang Fossil Site Natural History Museum (澄江化石地自然博物馆)

• Activity: After breakfast, head to the Chengjiang Fossil Site Natural History Museum (澄江化石地自然博物馆), which is one of China’s first fossil heritage sites and the only one in Asia, with only three such sites globally. Here, you will witness the world-famous Cambrian Explosion and discover ancient marine life that existed over 530 million years ago. This museum offers a chance to learn about the evolutionary history of life on Earth, starting from "Kunming fish" (昆明鱼) to humans. It’s an exciting opportunity for children to gain a systematic understanding of paleontology and build a comprehensive knowledge framework on the subject.

• Duration: Approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.

12:00 - Lunch at Jianshui

• Meals: Traditional Jianshui Steam Pot Chicken (建水汽锅鸡) & Grilled Tofu for both adults and children.

14:00 - Ride the Mitrack Train to Lin'an Ancient City (临安古城米轨小火车主题公园)

• Activity: Next, take a ride on the Mitrack Train (米轨小火车) that takes you through Jianshui's picturesque fields, ancient houses, and fusion architecture at the Lin'an Ancient City (临安古城) station. This nostalgic experience takes you back to the slower days of the past, as you travel through time in an old-fashioned railway train.

• Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

16:00 - Visit Tuanshan Village (团山民居)

• Activity: The train ride takes you to Tuanshan Village (团山村), an ancient village that dates back to the 19th century. The village is a well-preserved example of traditional architecture from the Qing Dynasty (清朝), with ancient gates, temples, and cobblestone streets that offer a glimpse into the life of past generations. The village is rich in historical relics and local stories, providing a unique insight into the rural life of Yunnan’s past.

• Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

18:30 - Free Time for Jianshui Old Town (建水古城) City Walk

• Activity: After exploring Tuanshan Village, you’ll have free time to explore the Jianshui Old Town (建水古城) at your leisure. This is a wonderful opportunity for families to wander through the town’s historic streets, discovering ancient wells and tasting the famous Jianshui snacks. The ancient town exudes charm, and its narrow alleys and traditional architecture tell the story of its rich history.

• Duration: Approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.

19:00 - Dinner

• Meals: Dinner is not included for adults and children at this time. Guests can explore local dining options.

20:00 - Accommodation in Jianshui

• Hotel Options: Stay at either Hanlinyuan Hotel (建水翰林苑酒店) or Yunqi Lake Hotel (建水雲栖湖酒店) in Jianshui.

• Note: If the listed hotels are unavailable due to government requisition or other factors, we guarantee that accommodation of equal or higher standard will be arranged.

Day 4 immerses your family in ancient traditions and rural life, with an experience of the Imperial Examination (科举赶考) in Jianshui (建水), followed by a peaceful retreat to the Yuanyang Rice Terraces (元阳梯田) for scenic views, light hiking, and fish catching activities led by the Hani people (哈尼族). The day concludes with a lively bonfire party and a Hani feast under the stars.

07:30 - Breakfast

• Meals: Breakfast included for both adults and children at the hotel.

09:00 - Imperial Examination Experience in Jianshui Ancient City (建水古城)

• Activity: Step back in time and experience the Imperial Examination (科举赶考) at Jianshui Old Town (建水古城). Dress in traditional scholar attire and take part in an ancient Chinese examination, just like scholars did 700 years ago. This immersive experience offers a unique opportunity for families to learn about the historical Imperial Examination system that played a key role in transforming ordinary citizens into scholars, and ultimately, influential figures in Chinese society. Afterward, enjoy a scenic drive to Yuanyang.

• Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

12:00 - Lunch in Jianshui

• Meals: Enjoy a traditional team lunch featuring local specialties.

14:30 - Visit to Yuanyang Hani Rice Terraces (元阳哈尼梯田)

• Activity: Upon arrival in Yuanyang, discover the Hani Rice Terraces (哈尼梯田), a UNESCO World Heritage cultural landscape that is both a stunning visual treat and a cultural treasure. You’ll check into the Mushroom House Hotel (蘑菇房酒店), located in the heart of the terraces with the best panoramic views, giving you the perfect base for exploration.

• Duration: Approximately 30 minutes.

15:00 - Family Activities in Yuanyang

• Adult Activities: While the children are enjoying their outdoor adventures, parents can unwind and enjoy the peaceful landscape of the rice terraces from the viewing platform. Relax, sip on Hani red tea, and watch the changing skies over the terraces.

• Children's Activities: The children will be led by Hani local guides, or Hani Agos/Asos (哈尼族阿哥/阿嫂), to try their hand at fish catching in the terraces, a fun and interactive experience where kids get to jump into the water to catch fish with small baskets. The fish they catch will be prepared for dinner! Afterward, they will embark on a light trek through the terraces, searching for water sources, learning about local plants and Hani wild vegetables. The children will also engage in a Hani Cultural Class (哈尼小课堂), where they will learn the Hani language, participate in traditional Hani dances, and discover how Zhongshan University’s “Azhake Program” is preserving the traditional Mushroom House (蘑菇房) architecture of the Hani people.

• Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

18:00 - Hani Feast & Bonfire Party

• Activity: Enjoy a Hani family feast (哈尼家宴) at the Azhake Hotel (阿者科酒店) in Yuanyang. The evening will be filled with joy as the Hani people sing and dance around the bonfire. Traditional Hani songs and the lively Lezuo dance (乐作舞) will make the night even more unforgettable. In clear weather, you can head to the hotel’s rooftop to marvel at the dazzling stars in the mountainous sky, a perfect way to end the day.

• Duration: Approximately 1.5 hours.

19:00 - Accommodation in Yuanyang

• Hotel Options: Stay at the Azhake Hotel (阿者科古村落店) or the Wanshan Resort (万缮度假酒店) or the Yuanyang Yunshang Terraces Hotel (元阳云上梯田酒店).

• Note: If the listed hotels are unavailable due to government requisition or other factors, we guarantee that accommodation of equal or higher standard will be arranged.

Day 5 brings you deeper into the Hani culture (哈尼族) as you visit the Azhake Village (阿者科) to explore the famous Mushroom Houses (蘑菇屋) and learn about the eco-settlement (四素同构) model that has sustained this region for centuries. Afterward, enjoy some relaxed leisure time in Mile (弥勒) with a family photoshoot and a swim in the luxurious hotel pool.

08:00 - Breakfast

• Meals: Breakfast included for both adults and children at the hotel.

09:00 - Explore Azhake Village and Discover the Mushroom Houses (阿者科景区)

• Activity: Visit the Azhake Village (阿者科), a secluded village nestled within the mountains and rice terraces. This Hani ethnic minority village is home to over 60 families and is famous for its Mushroom Houses. These unique homes are built in harmony with the natural surroundings, embodying the sustainable, cyclical ecosystem of the Hani people. You’ll learn about the fascinating eco-settlement system, which integrates forests, water systems, terraces, and villages, forming the key ecological structure that supports the Hani rice terraces (a UNESCO World Heritage Site).

• Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

10:00 - Visit an Intangible Cultural Heritage Family in Azhake

• Activity: Step into the home of an elderly Hani family member who will share their oral traditions and culture. Gather around the fire pit to enjoy hot tea while listening to a performance of the Hani Ancient Song (哈尼古歌). The elder will also talk about the challenges and current state of cultural inheritance within the community, offering a rare and personal glimpse into this traditional way of life.

• Duration: Approximately 30 minutes.

12:30 - Lunch

• Meals: Enjoy a traditional team lunch featuring local specialties.

16:00 - Travel to Mile and Check-in to the Majestic Hotel

• Activity: After lunch, travel to Mile (弥勒), where you’ll check into the MGM Grand Hotel (美憬阁酒店), a luxurious Utopia-style retreat. This hotel is known for its picturesque setting and family-friendly amenities, including a 1300㎡ outdoor infinity pool. Capture stunning family photos by the pool, which has been featured in popular media for its dramatic reflections, including the famous “Red Brick Castle” (红砖城堡) pool.

• Duration: Approximately 30 minutes.

16:30 - Free Time in Mile

• Activity: After checking in, enjoy some free time to explore the city of Mile at your own pace.

  • Recommended Free Time Activities:

    1. Foshan Market (佛城商都): This bustling local market is a great place to explore, with vibrant seasonal fruits piled high in the “dopamine fruit section” — a colorful and Instagram-worthy spot.

    2. Ke Yi Town (可邑小镇): Visit this town to enjoy traditional Yi ethnic performances, including the Axi Moon Dance (阿细跳月) and Axi Fire Ceremony (阿细祭火). The town is steeped in Yi culture and offers a chance to experience an authentic cultural performance.

    3. Honghe Water Town (红河水乡): A picturesque area with traditional architecture, boats, and charming cafes and bars. The “Mile” sign is a popular photo spot here.

    4. Food Recommendations: Try local dishes such as Lu Ji rice noodles (卤鸡米线), lamb hotpot (羊肉火锅), pea jelly (豌豆凉粉), and Mile-style rice shrimp (米凉虾).

18:00 - Dinner

• Meals: Dinner is not included. You can explore local dining options in Mile or dine at the hotel.

18:30 - Accommodation in Mile

• Hotel Options:

  • MGM Grand Hotel (美憬阁酒店)

  • Mile Dongfengyun Hotel (弥勒东风韵美憬阁精选酒店) or Mile Dongfengyun Mu Xin Valley Resort (弥勒东风韵沐心谷碧朗湾温泉康养度假村).

• Note: If the listed hotels are unavailable due to government requisition or other factors, we guarantee that accommodation of equal or higher standard will be arranged.

The final day of your journey takes you to the Dongfengyun Town (东风韵小镇), an architectural marvel built entirely from red bricks, followed by a visit to Ke Yi Town (可邑小镇) and Nuohai Village (糯黑村), where you’ll experience traditional Yi culture (彝族), including their unique instruments and dances. Afterward, you'll return to Kunming for a restful evening before your departure.

08:00 - Breakfast

• Meals: Breakfast included for both adults and children at the hotel.

09:30 - Explore Dongfengyun Town (东风韵小镇)

• Activity: After breakfast, head to Dongfengyun Town (东风韵小镇) in Mile (弥勒), an extraordinary architectural site built by artist Luo Xu. Known as the "Eastern Magic City," this surreal town is constructed with 300 million red bricks and designed using no steel reinforcements or nails. The town feels like stepping into another world, with its magical realist castle and otherworldly atmosphere. This unique masterpiece was built over 8 years and stands as a testament to Luo Xu's genius.

• Duration: Approximately 1.5 hours.

11:00 - Visit Ke Yi Town (可邑小镇) & Nuohai Village (糯黑村)

• Activity: After exploring Dongfengyun, proceed to Ke Yi Town (可邑小镇), where you can experience the Yi ethnic minority culture. The town is known for its vibrant Yi-style guesthouses and traditional architecture.

  Next, head to Nuohai Village (糯黑村) in Shilin County (石林县), an authentic Yi village. Here, you’ll get a hands-on experience of Yi music by learning to play the Da Sanxian (大三弦), a traditional Yi instrument, and participate in a Yi dance. This is a great opportunity to immerse yourself in local culture and gain a deeper understanding of the Yi people's way of life.

• Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

13:00 - Return to Kunming

• Activity: After a fulfilling morning, you’ll begin your journey back to Kunming (昆明).

• Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

18:00 - Hotel Check-in in Kunming

• Accommodation: Upon arrival in Kunming, check in to your hotel and enjoy a relaxing evening.

• Morning: Enjoy some free time in the morning to explore Kunming at your leisure or simply relax before your flight.

• 12:00 - Departure to Kunming Changshui International Airport (昆明长水机场)

• Flight Recommendation: It is recommended to book a flight departing after 12:00 to ensure a smooth transfer to the airport without any rush.

• Flight: Your flight details (specific time and flight number) will be confirmed upon ticket issuance.

Recommended Free Time Activities in Kunming (Optional for Early Arrivals):

If you arrive in Kunming earlier in the day, you may explore some of the city's highlights:

Kunming Museum (昆明博物馆):

• A fascinating collection showcasing the history of Yunnan from ancient civilizations to modern times.

Guandu Ancient Town (官渡古镇):

• Visit this historic town known for its preserved architecture from the Tang, Song, Yuan, Ming, and Qing dynasties. The town is filled with traditional homes and delicious local snacks.

City Walk in Kunming:

• Wenlin Street (文林街) is filled with cafes and bookstores, creating a literary atmosphere. It’s a great place for a casual stroll.

• Cuihu Park (翠湖公园) offers a scenic spot for relaxation and photos.

• Explore the vibrant Old Kunming Street (昆明老街) to experience the city's cultural heritage and local delicacies.

Food Recommendations:

• Yunnan Rice Noodles (豆花米线), Steamed Pot Chicken (汽锅鸡), and Flower Cakes (鲜花饼) are some must-try local dishes that will surely surprise your taste buds.