With the May Day holiday approaching, have you already given in to that restless desire to travel? If you're still undecided about where to go, Kunming is an excellent choice! Follow this guide to start your exciting journey in Kunming right now! 

Guide 1: Cultural Highlights

Kunming — a city etched with the secrets of time. From Zheng He's voyages setting sail here, to the legendary National Southwestern Associated University shaping education, the city's millennia-old history is vibrant and profound. The Jinma-Biji Memorial Archway witnesses the city's ever-changing prosperity, while the morning bells and evening drums by Dianchi Lake tell timeless stories of Kunming's enduring charm.

First Stop: Cuihu Park

Known as the "Jewel of the City," Cuihu Park is a significant symbol of Kunming's history and culture. Surrounded by beautiful lakes and mountains, it offers captivating scenery and boasts many historical sites nearby. Here, you can enjoy leisurely strolls, dance, and sing by the lake, immersing yourself in Kunming's slow-paced lifestyle. 

Photo from Kunming Spring City Star Hotel WeChat Official Account 

Second Stop: Yunnan Military Academy

This historic institution, which trained countless distinguished military leaders, boasts unique architecture filled with a sense of history. A visit to the academy feels like hearing echoes of past drills and patriotic slogans reverberating through its halls. It's a great place to learn about Yunnan's modern military history. 

Photo from Kunming Spring City Star Hotel WeChat Official Account

Guide 2: Tourist Attractions

This charming spring city, with its picturesque scenery and flavorful cuisine, is sure to make your May Day holiday both fulfilling and unforgettable. Explore the city on foot, savor the relaxed pace of life, and create wonderful memories. 

Photo from Kunming Spring City Star Hotel WeChat Official Account

First Stop: Yunnan Nationalities Village

This village showcases the customs and traditions of 25 ethnic minorities in Yunnan. Here, you can see distinctive architecture, enjoy vibrant ethnic performances, sample authentic regional cuisine, and immerse yourself in the rich and diverse culture of Yunnan.

Photo from Kunming Spring City Star Hotel WeChat Official Account

Second Stop: Dounan Flower Market

As Asia's largest fresh-cut flower market, Dounan is a sea of blooms. It gathers flowers from across the country, offering a wide variety at affordable prices. As you stroll through, you'll be greeted by a colorful display of roses, lilies, carnations, baby's-breath, and more. Pick your favorite bouquet and experience the romance of spring in Kunming!

Photo from Kunming Spring City Star Hotel WeChat Official Account

Guide 3: Culinary Delights

Kunming's cuisine is a vibrant reflection of its unique charm— offering flavors that delight the palate and leave visitors craving more.

Photo from Kunming Spring City Star Hotel WeChat Official Account

First Stop: Cross-Bridge Rice Noodles & Douhua Rice Noodles

Steaming and aromatic, Cross-Bridge Rice Noodles are known for their rich broth, with slices of meat, vegetables, and noodles creating a colorful, delicious picture on the palate. Douhua (a tofu pudding) Rice Noodles have a tender, smooth tofu combined with springy rice noodles, topped with sauces like minced meat, preserved vegetables, and chives—making every bite a taste of Kunming's rich culinary tradition.

Photo from Kunming Spring City Star Hotel WeChat Official Account

Second Stop: Grilled Er Kuai & Guandu Baba

Slices of Er Kuai are grilled to a golden crisp on charcoal, then brushed with sweet or spicy sauces and served with fried dough sticks—a favorite breakfast or snack in Kunming. Guandu Baba, a traditional specialty from Guandu Ancient Town, comes in flavors like rose filling, red bean paste, and sesame. The outer layer is crunchy, while the inside is soft and aromatic, delivering pure happiness in every bite.

Photo from Kunming Spring City Star Hotel WeChat Official Account

Guide Feature: Events

Event 1: Xishan Maomaoqing

Photo from Kunming Municipal Bureau of Agriculture and Rural Affairs

Highlights: Rural market, a feast in the mountains at your doorstep 

Dates: May 1st to 5th 

Details: The Maomaoqing rural market kicks off with an array of fresh agricultural products and delicious local delicacies. Here, you can enjoy authentic Xishan flavors and pick up local produce to bring home.

Event 2: Guandu Wangguan Village

Photo from Kunming Guandu Releases

Highlights: Food Festival—A taste of Guandu

Dates: May 1st to 10th

Details: The 100-meter Nuoxiang Wangguan Food Festival is grandly opening! Starting from Wangguan Wetland Park, this event features local specialties and ethnic products. Visitors can stroll through the wetlands, enjoy the scenery, and savor delicious foods.

Event 3: Xianglian Village in Anning Bajie Street

Photo from Glamorous Anning WeChat account

Highlights: Rose Festival and Cherry Picking

Dates: April 25th to May 5th

Details: Visitors can wander through over 6,000 mu of rose fields, enjoying flower viewing, picking, and taking photos. The nearby cherry trees also offer hands-on fruit picking, bringing the countryside experience closer to you. Indulge in local delicacies like mutton hotpot and rose banquet, and capture memorable moments at scenic spots like the Yuelao Temple and love-themed sculptures.

Event 4: Jinning Fu'an Village

Photo from Jinning Cultural Tourism WeChat Official Account

Highlights: Intangible Cultural Heritage Experiences & Village Gala

Dates: May 1st to 3rd

Details: Immerse yourself in the captivating world of intangible cultural heritage—experience the warmth of traditional crafts firsthand and feel the enduring charm of a thousand-year-old culture. Alternatively, you can calm your mind, engage in a conversation with words at a reading gathering, and enjoy a peaceful spiritual journey. In the evening, lively village evening performances are held on time, where villagers convey joy through song and dance, allowing you to immerse yourself in the vibrant rural atmosphere. 

Looking for fun this May Day holiday? Come to Kunming, enjoy the stunning scenery, and taste delicious food— your perfect holiday awaits! What are you waiting for? Pack your bags and set out now to explore this unforgettable adventure in Kunming!