Things to do in Yao'an
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Top 10 attractions in Yao'an
Yao’an Guanglu Ancient Town
Yao’an Guanglu Ancient Town is located approx. 12 km north of the county seat of Yao’an, Chuxiong Prefecture, Yunnan Province. It has a long history, beautiful mountains and rivers, and numerous historical sites, and is known as the Cultural hub of western Yunnan and the Home of flower lanterns. The town's architecture is laid out in the shape of the Chinese character "Kun," with many ancient buildings. It has been an important town for governing Yunnan since ancient times and served as a key stronghold on the ancient Southern Silk Road leading to Southeast Asia, India, and other regions. To highlight the town's unique features, the local government is focusing on developing four major themes: fortune, longevity, prosperity, and joy. Yao’an Guanglu Ancient Town is characterized by its historical and agricultural culture. The pastoral scenery is picturesque throughout the seasons, with spring, summer, fall, and winter each offering a different natural landscape, creating beautiful pastoral views. Visitors can see the coexistence of the Earth God belief, Taoism, and Buddhism here, which reflects the local area's profound cultural heritage and inclusivity. Yao’an Guanglu Ancient Town is a place where outstanding people are born. It has produced many famous figures, and the Gao family once had the legendary reputation of "nine scholars, seven dukes, eight prime ministers, three kings, one emperor, and five marquises," producing famous scholars such as Gao Jiongying, Zhao Zixiang, Ma Siliang, and Zhao Heqing. This place is not only a must-visit stop on the ancient Southwestern Silk Road but also a historic town that carries a thousand years of fortune culture.Yao'an · 9.8 km from downtown
Yulong Snow Mountain
Yulong Snow Mountain is not far from the ancient city of Lijiang. It is a sacred mountain range of the Naxi people and has 13 interconnected peaks with a breathtaking view. You can take a cablecar up the mountain while observing the vegetation changing from bottom to. The foot of the mountain is a ranch. During the spring season, there will be a large number of flowers blossoming. The Yunshan Ping on the mountain side is regarded by the Naxi people as a romantic place. The of the mountain is covered in snow all year round, and you can absorb the glorious sight of the glaciers when you are up there.China · Yulong
Dianchi Lake
Dianchi Lake is also called Kunming Lake. It is the sixth largest freshwater lake in China. It has the nickname of "Sparkling Pearl Embedded in a Highland". The lake is wide and spectacular. Every winter, a large flock of red-billed gulls migrate here from Siberia, making it a good place for bird watching and bird feeding. There are different ways to explore Dianchi lake. You can stroll around the lake, cycle, or ride a boat. You can also climb up to the Dragon Gate overlooking Dianchi Lake to get a better view of the entire lake.China · Kunming
Stone Forest Scenic Area
The Stone Forest Scenic Area is located in Shilin County, Kunming, and is one of the key attractions in the city. This scenic area showcases typical karst landforms, featuring stone peaks, pinnacles, sinkholes, and underground rivers. The towering rock formations take on various shapes—sword-like, pagoda-like, mushroom-like, and more—creating a breathtaking and fantastical landscape. The Stone Forest Scenic Area is divided into several widely spaced sections, with the Greater and Lesser Stone Forest attractions at its core. The Naigu Stone Forest is located approx. 12 km north of the main attractions, while the Dadie Waterfall scenic area sits approx. 29 km southwest. The Changhu Lake area is positioned 26 km southeast of the main site. When visitors refer to touring the Stone Forest, they typically mean exploring the Greater and Lesser Stone Forest sections. The Greater and Lesser Shilin are located in the same area. After purchasing tickets at the main entrance and walking along the path for 20 minutes, you'll find the smaller and more gently sloped Lesser Shilin Scenic Area on your left. Amidst the dense cluster of peaks stands the famous Ashima Stone, where the majestic karst formations resemble a graceful Yi ethnic maiden named Ashima, seemingly waving to visitors—a favorite photo spot for travelers. Beyond the striking Ashima, the Lesser Shilin area features other captivating views like the Steed and Pillar Supporting the Sky, each with unique shapes. This is where your imagination is put to the test. If you find your imagination lacking, we recommend hiring a guide who can offer fresh perspectives on these remarkable formations. As you drive leisurely along the highway, you'll encounter a series of remarkable rock formations lining the roadside—the Tang Monk Stone, Stone Prison, Phoenix Combing Its Wings, and Lingzhi Mushroom Rock—each vividly lifelike and exquisitely crafted by nature's artistry, presenting their unique postures to showcase Earth's wondrous creations. Strolling along the pathway, you'll unexpectedly arrive at the Great Stone Forest Scenic Area. After marveling at wonders like "Two Birds Sharing Food," "Rhinoceros Gazing at the Moon," "Lotus Peak," "Shilin Grand View," and "Stone Screen," you might feel slightly fatigued. Take a peaceful break at Lion Pavilion while admiring the inverted peaks reflected in Lion Pool across the way. After prolonged exposure to these karst formations, visual fatigue may set in—making it the perfect moment to shift perspectives. Board a cruise on Shilin Lake, where mountain vistas and water scenery converge into one breathtaking panorama, dissolving all stress and worries. If you prefer not to walk, electric carts driven by Yi ethnic women shuttle between attractions and stop upon request. You can still marvel at the wonders of the Stone Forest Scenic Area, and some friendly drivers may even share interesting local anecdotes along the way. Naigu Stone Forest, also known as New Stone Forest or Mozhai Stone Forest, is located 13 km north of the Stone Forest Scenic Area. It features a landscape composed of stone formations, Baiyun Lake, Shifeng Mountain, and Yougu Xianpu Waterfall. Compared to the Stone Forest Scenic Area, this site offers a distinct style. The towering gray-black stone pillars here are densely packed, resembling castles, towers, and mushrooms. The rugged, primitive rock formations surge skyward like waves, creating a majestic atmosphere. Walking through these dark peaks feels like stepping into a primeval world.China · Shilin
Dongfengyun Scenic Area
Mile's “Dongfengyun” town is a characteristic town with cultural tourism, health care and art as its core. The tens of thousands of acres of vineyards and hundreds of acres of lavender fields Souvenir the Attraction add color to the town. All year round, there are flowers in full bloom in spring, evergreen trees in summer, yellow ginkgo trees in autumn, and quiet and peaceful things in winter. Play in the charm of Dongfeng, flower field windmills, lakeside trails, and special-shaped buildings, bringing you a visual feast of art. Sculptor Luo Xu took the red soil from this plateau and used the red bricks from this land to implant unique-style buildings into the original landforms, and built a group of red brick art buildings in various shapes. The kaleidoscope displays the only two sets of "Thousands of Chorus Pottery Figurines" in the world, and the Half Cloud Art Living Room creates a Zen and quiet Refreshment environment. International Art Center, Agricultural Reclamation Museum, Flower Hill, Seal Workshop... Here, architecture tells stories and art conveys emotions. Eat at Dongfengyun, where the Seal Shop and Cultural and Creative Market, which combine local snacks from Mile, bring you a food carnival. Stay at Dongfengyun, MGallery Art Hotel, with 5 different themes to meet your business, administration, parent-child, vacation, and honeymoon needs; Niuduoluo Music Farm, takes you into a different rural life; Art Inn, with modern intelligent technology, allows you to experience the butler-style immersive stay experience cared for by artificial intelligence. Here, life becomes poetry, allowing time to flow slowly in the poetry and paintings of art, and allowing the soul to rest quietly in the long river of years. The wind rises, the clouds fall, wine is consumed among the flowers, and life is filled with the rare charm of the east wind.China · Mile
Cangshan Mountain
Cangshan Mountain, also called Diancangshan Mountain, is located on the west side of the Erhai Lake in Dali. It's scenery is spectacular and it is one of the four scenic spots of Dali. The main peak of the mountain is snowy all year round and the mountain is often shrouded in clouds. You can take the cablecar up the mountain or walk up the mountain. After ascending the Cangshan Mountain, you can overlook the beautiful Erhai Lake and Dali Ancient City.China · Dali City
Shangri-La Tiger Leaping Gorge
Tiger Leaping Gorge is famous for its size. It is located in the eastern part of Hutiaoxia Town, Shangri-La County. It is divided into three sections: upper, middle and lower gorges, with a total length of about 20 kilometers. In the middle of the gorge is the Jinsha River. On both sides are the snow-capped mountains of Yulong and Haba. The narrowest part of the river is only twenty or thirty meters and with the huge drop, the river flows very rapidly! Tiger Leaping Gorge is also a world-renowned hiking resort visited by many outdoor enthusiasts every year.China · Shangri-La
Rehai Scenic Area
You will see hot springs everywhere at Tengchong Thermal Sea Scenic Area. As soon as you come in, the “Hot Sea Giant Boiling Pot” - a round geothermal pool that can hard-boil eggs - will catch your eye. You will see many geyser vents as you make your way around the path that rings the inside of the park. The Yugu Hot Springs within the scenic area offer more than 20 open-air and semi-enclosed bathing pools. The Meinu Hot Springs offer multiple open-air bathing pools, cavern pools, and large swimming pools. Accommodation is available within the Tengchong Hot Sea Geothermal Scenic Area, where you can relax in a private hot spring in your room.China · Tengchong
Potatso National Park
Potatso National Park is located in Shangri-La, Yunnan, in the heart of the "Three Parallel Rivers" world natural heritage site in northwestern Yunnan. "Potatso" in Tibetan means delivering all beings to the shore of happiness. The park is mainly composed of two plateau lake areas, Bitahai and Shudu Lake, which are about ten km apart. Between them are scattered the subalpine meadows of Militang and Tibetan villages like Luorong. Here, lake wetlands, primeval forests, and plateau pastures are concentrated, with most of the mountain forests maintaining their original ecology. Tours involve eco-friendly shuttle buses connecting the areas, followed by walking along boardwalks for a closer look. Take the eco-friendly sightseeing bus at the entrance, and you will arrive at the Shudu Lake attraction in about 20 minutes. The lake water is clear and blue, with a vast plateau pasture along the shore. In spring and summer, wildflowers bloom across the grassland, creating a stunning view. On winter mornings, vapor condenses on the lake surface, forming a layer of mist—only those who take the first bus in the early morning can witness this wonder. A wooden walkway stretches along the lakeside pasture, and it takes about an hour to complete the loop. At the end of the walkway is the eco-friendly bus stop, where you can board the bus to the next destination after your visit. The next stop of the eco-friendly bus is the vast and flat Miritang grassland. Bitahai is the final stop of the eco-friendly bus route and the highlight of this trip. In Tibetan, Bitahai means "a lake surrounded by oak trees like a felt blanket." As the name suggests, the lakeshore is densely covered with oak trees resembling a green felt blanket. Among the oak trees grow numerous azaleas. Every year from May to June when spring arrives, azalea petals fall into the water. Fish that eat the slightly toxic azaleas float to the surface, creating Bitahai's famous spectacle: "azalea-intoxicated fish." A boardwalk is also built along the lakeshore of Bitahai. Walking slowly along the boardwalk leads to the lakeside dock. There are cruises on the lake for sightseeing the surrounding mountains and waters.China · Shangri-La
Lugu Lake Scenic Area
Lugu Lake Scenic Area is located on the border between Yunnan and Sichuan, at an elevation of approximately 2,685m. Known as the "Pearl of the Plateau," it boasts enchanting scenery and pristine local customs. Highlights Overview Lugu Lake Scenic Area is surrounded by green mountains, with a winding and graceful shoreline. Along the lake, there are 17 beaches and 14 bays. Scattered across the lake are 5 islands, 3 peninsulas, and 1 causeway-connected island. Among them,Liwubi Island, Xiwae Island, and Lige Island are collectively known as the "Three Fairy Islands" of Lugu Lake Scenic Area.From June to August each year, the lake is adorned with blooming water snowflakes. These pristine white flowers, scattered like stars across the water's surface, sway delicately with every breeze, creating an enchanting scene reminiscent of a fairyland on earth. There are many villages along the lake, with the more developed ones offering food and accommodation being mainlyDaluoshui VillageHeli Village.Daluoshui VillageLocated on the southwest shore of Lugu Lake Scenic Area, it is one of the earliest developed villages by the lake, where the round-trip shuttle buses from Lijiang stop. Lige Island and Lige Village on the northwest shore have become popular tourist hubs in recent years. On the northern shore lie Nise Village, Xiaoluoshui, and Dazui Village, which are quieter with fewer visitors. Further east enters Sichuan Province, where the Grass Sea and the Princess's Former Residence on the southeastern shore are also worth a visit.China · Ninglang
Experiences you can't miss in Yao'an
Featured Day tours in Yao'an
View all Day tours![Jizu Mountain 1-day tour [includes admission ticket + cable car + sightseeing bus | quality pure play | round-trip pickup & drop-off]](https://ak-d.tripcdn.com/images/0101q120008flnx0p2FDD_C_568_320.jpg?_fr=wc)
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![1-day tour in Dali and Weishan [diverse snacks / explore the famous Taoist mountain Weibao Mountain / private vehicle]](https://ak-d.tripcdn.com/images/1009070000002rsxsACC9_C_568_320.jpg?_fr=wc)
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![1-day tour to Jizu Mountain in Dali with private charter [private small group · flexible stops · easy trip to Jizu Mountain]](https://ak-d.tripcdn.com/images/0353z12000sk8ne8rD542_C_568_320.jpg?_fr=wc)
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Free things to do in Yao'an
Yao’an Guanglu Ancient Town
Yao'an · 9.8 km from downtownYulong Snow Mountain
China · YulongDianchi Lake
China · KunmingStone Forest Scenic Area
China · ShilinDongfengyun Scenic Area
China · MileImmediate access, Book now for today, Cancel anytimeCangshan Mountain
China · Dali CityImmediate access, Book now for today, Cancel anytimeShangri-La Tiger Leaping Gorge
China · Shangri-LaRehai Scenic Area
China · TengchongPotatso National Park
China · Shangri-LaLugu Lake Scenic Area
China · NinglangImmediate access, Book now for today, Cancel anytime
What travellers say about Yao'an
阴阳宝瓶October 7, 2024
4.0
Guanglu Ancient Town in Yao'an is a scenic spot in the county and a must-visit place when visiting Yao'an. It has a sense of age and you can go and experience it. As a county, it is not appropriate to have this culture.
Yao’an Guanglu Ancient Town
Anonymous userOctober 17, 2026
5.0
I've been to this place many times and still enjoy going back. This time, I accompanied a friend who was visiting for the first time, and we had a great time experiencing it again. The scenery, facilities, and service were all excellent. The shuttle bus attendants were also very attentive. I'll definitely come again.
Yulong Snow Mountain
Anonymous userOctober 14, 2026
5.0
Location: Haigeng Park/No. 16 Hubin Road ↔ Xishan Longmen (West Mountain Dragon Gate), not near the old street, you have to go to the Dianchi Lake area.
Experience: Crossing the lake + climbing the mountain, about 20 minutes one way, views of Dianchi Lake, Sleeping Beauty Mountain, and city scenery, great for taking photos.
Ticket Price: One way about 59-60 RMB, round trip about 98-100 RMB.
Advantages: Easy for lazy people to climb West Mountain, no climbing required, unique views; seagulls in winter.
Disadvantages: Stops during strong winds/thunderstorms; long queues during peak season; separate ticket/walking required for Longmen after climbing the mountain; don't confuse with the "Xishan Longmen Cableway".
Conclusion: First time in Kunming, taking the Dianchi-Xishan route → worth it; if just exploring the old street → not worth a special trip.
Dianchi Lake
_TI***72October 12, 2026
5.0
Excellent package. No Q and vip treatment. The assigned tour guide is friendly and good!
Stone Forest Scenic Area
lydialuluOctober 9, 2026
5.0
The architecture is distinctive, and it's quite photogenic. However, it's essentially a modern, man-made tourist attraction; it's not particularly interesting, with nothing particularly fun or story-driven. People who enjoy taking photos and checking off landmarks can come here; it's definitely suitable for posing and taking pictures.
Dongfengyun Scenic Area
Anonymous userSeptember 29, 2026
5.0
The weather down the mountain was actually quite nice, a bit overcast but the temperature was alright. As the cable car ascended higher and higher, the entire Dali city and Erhai Lake slowly came into view below. That stretch of scenery was truly worthwhile; looking down through the cable car glass, I finally had a truly concrete feeling about "Cangshan Mountain and Erhai Lake" for the first time.
Cangshan Mountain
Anonymous userOctober 8, 2026
5.0
Tiger Leaping Gorge is truly breathtaking! Seeing it in person truly makes you appreciate the immense power of nature. The Jinsha River roars and surges through the gorge, its waves crashing against the banks, creating a deafening roar. The spray from the water on the viewing platform is incredibly impactful. The cliffs on both sides are majestic and precipitous, with snow-capped mountains visible in the distance – the scenery is magnificent and photogenic. The scenic walkways are well-maintained, making it relatively easy to explore, even for seniors. The signs are clear, the environment is clean, and there are no hidden fees. Although the mountain paths are quite challenging, seeing this world-class canyon scenery makes it all worthwhile. I highly recommend visiting Tiger Leaping Gorge when you come to Yunnan; it's an unforgettable stop on your trip!
Shangri-La Tiger Leaping Gorge
超级无敌大氧气October 17, 2026
4.0
The scenic area isn't very large overall, so I highly recommend buying round-trip sightseeing bus tickets. The price is reasonable, it saves a lot of effort, and it's especially suitable for traveling with elders! 👍 Take the electric cart to the core area, then explore at your own pace. The entire tour takes about 2 hours, a comfortable and relaxed experience.
Along the way, you'll see various geothermal landscapes, with the Big Boiling Pot Hot Spring being the most impressive. The billowing steam is truly breathtaking; seeing it with your own eyes is a testament to the wonders of nature. The trails are well-maintained with clear signage, allowing you to see the hot spring pools and fumaroles while enjoying the rich sulfurous aroma.
The mountains are lush with greenery, the air is fresh, and a stroll is very pleasant. For elderly travelers, the electric cart is essential, saving you the effort of long uphill walks. You don't need to allocate a whole day for Tengchong Hot Spring; half a day is enough to see all the key attractions.
Rehai Scenic Area
M17***94October 13, 2026
5.0
The weather wasn't great, but it was still incredibly beautiful, almost unrealistically so, haha. It cleansed my soul, and I didn't want to leave. I even encountered some squirrels. Along the way by bus, we saw even more beautiful undeveloped canyons, streams, and trees. I look forward to more areas being developed in the future.
Potatso National Park
Anonymous userOctober 11, 2026
5.0
A truly worthwhile destination; the experience exceeded my expectations. Although there were no seagulls and the water hyacinths weren't in full bloom at Lugu Lake in late September, it was still incredibly beautiful. Whether you start from Lijiang or Dali, it's very friendly to independent travelers, with convenient public transportation. A tour around the lake is also easy, and the stone pot fish and cured pork rib hot pot are delicious.
Lugu Lake Scenic Area
