Name in Chinese: 昆明 Kūn Míng [kunmin]
Location: East Central Yunnan, China, GMT+8
Population: 6.95 million as a prefecture, 3.9 million living in the city proper
Telephone Code: +86871
Keywords: the City of Springtime, the Stone Forest and Cuihu Lake
Kunming is the most liveable city in China. It is well-known as the City of Springtime due to its warm climate. The city is situated in Central Yunnan-Guizhou Plateau with an elevation of 1,891 meters(6,204 feet) above sea level. It serves as an aviation hub in Southwestern China, as well as a window to showcase Yunnan’s charms. Kunming has a long history of over 2,200 years. It was founded during the Warring States Period(403B.C. - 221B.C.). In the year of 278 B.C., Zhuang Qiao’s army occupied Kunming, and established the Ancient Dian Kingdom(278B.C. - 109B.C.). Zhuang Qiao served as a general in the Chu’s Army, before he conquered the land in Central Yunnan. His kingdom was named after Dian-Chi Lake. Therefore, the Chinese character, “Dian” is another name for Yunnan Province. As the capital city of Yunnan, Kunming has become one of the most popular holiday destinations in Mainland China.
Attractions
Lunan Stone Forest
Lunan Stone Forest is a national five-star scenic area, is located 78 kilometers(48 miles) to the east of downtown Kunming. It takes about one and a half hours to drive from Kunming to the stone forest. The scenic area covers an area of 350 square kilometers(135 sq.mi). It feature the Karst landform. As a component of South China Karst, Lunan Stone Forest was added to the list of world natural heritage sites and designated as a World Geo-park by UNESCO in 2007. It is a typical example of pinnacle Karst landscapes.
Dianchi Lake
Dianchi Lake(or Dian Lake) is located in the southwest of downtown Kunming. It is also called Kunming Lake by locals, is the largest freshwater lake in Yunnan Province, stretching over 330 square kilometers(127 sq.mi). The lake is noted as the home to many migratory birds, such as black-headed gulls, spot-billed ducks and egrets. The main sightseeing spots by the lake are the West Hill, Daguan Pavilion and Laoyuhe Wetland Park.
The Emerald Lake
The Emerald Lake lies at the foot of Wuhua mountain, 500 meters(1640 feet) from Yuantong Monastery. It is the most beautiful park in downtown Kunming. The lake measures 15 hectares(37 acres) and is surrounded by willows. It is the winter home of migratory birds.
Jinma-Biji Street
Jinma-Biji Street was built in the early fifteenth century. There are two archways standing on both ends of the street. The archways are called Jinma and Biji by locals. Jinma means golden horse in English. Biji can be translated into English as green rooster. As a good place to go shopping, the street takes some beating.
Yuantong Monastery
Yuantong Monastery is situated on the southern slope of Yuantong Hill, is one of the oldest monasteries in Yunnan Province. It was founded in 765. The monastery combines the traditions of the three major Buddhist sects, namely, Mahayana, Theravada and Lamaism.
How to Get to Kunming
Kunming Changshui International Airport is located about 30 kilometers(19 miles) to the northeast of downtown Kunming. It operates flights to 47 overseas metropolises and 122 cities within Mainland China. The overseas terminals include Paris, Moscow, Vancouver, San Francisco, Sydney, Dubai, Seoul, Osaka, Kuala Lumper, Singapore, Bangkok, etc. Tourists may also travel to Kunming by bullet train from Chengdu, Chongqing and Guiyang.
Food
Guoqiao Rice-flour Noodle
Guoqiao Rice-flour Noodle is a speciality of Kunming. The noodle is made from rice. The main ingredients are noddles, bean sprouts, chicken, fish, pork, squid, quail eggs and some variety meats. The seasonings include cilantro and chopped shallots.
Climate
As the most liveable city in China, Kunming is notable for its warm climate. It keeps a semi-tropical climate all year round. The temperature in Kunming ranges from 6℃(42.8°F) to 20℃(68°F) in spring, 15℃(59°F) to 26℃(78.8°F) in summer, 17℃(62.6°F) to 25℃(77°F) in autumn, and 8℃(46.4°F) to 19℃(66.2°F) in winter. Both spring and autumn are the best time to travel to Kunming. The spring comes in February and goes in April, while the autumn lasts from September to November.
Author: Tina Luo
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