In Kunming, even winter is filled with generous sunshine. On a leisurely weekend, why not set aside an afternoon to wander into the old alleys of Xishan District and experience Kunming’s unique, slow pace of life?

Here’s a laid‑back walking route hidden in the city center: The Dongsi or Xisi Temple Towers → Tiepi Alley → Jingde Alley → Xunjin New Village — perfect for a stroll with a carefree mood.  

Tiepi Alley: A Blend of Coffee Aroma and Literary Charm  

Named after the foreign blacksmiths who once lived here, Tiepi Alley has evolved into one of Kunming’s most café‑rich alley. Instead of feeling overly commercial and check-in vibe, its coffee shops exude a cozy, everyday warmth. On a winter afternoon, golden sunlight slants across the alley as the scent of coffee drifts through every corner of the old lane.  

Jingde Alley: An Art Passageway Beneath the Chinese Parasol Trees

Next to Tiepi Alley lies the quieter Jingde Alley. In early winter, the Chinese parasol trees turn from green to gold, their fallen leaves carpeting the old stone path. Sunlight filters through the branches, bathing the alley in a soft golden glow. Hidden among the tree shadows are charming little shops—settle into one, sip a hot coffee, watch the leaves dance outside the window, and savor a rare sense of calm.  

Xunjin New Village: A Leafy Haven

Lined with Chinese parasol trees casting dappled light and shadow, Xunjin New Village offers a romantic blend of yellow walls, green foliage, vintage architecture, and modern life. Unlike the busy Wenlin Street, this enclave feels like a hidden oasis—quiet yet full of character. Specialty stores such as Li Shuixian and Zhen Gaoxing Café are nestled within, inviting you to bask in the sun, daydream, and lose yourself in Kunming’s tranquil “slow life.”  

Dongsi or Xisi Temple Towers: Everyday Life Beneath Ancient Towers  

For longtime Kunming residents, the true “Twin Towers” are the Dongsi and Xisi Temple Towers, which have stood for more than 1,300 years and were once famed for the scene known as “Twin Towers in the Misty Rain.” Today, they remain part of everyday city life: Dongsi Temple Tower is surrounded by Camellia Park, while a public square in front of Xisi Temple Tower comes alive at night with lights, music, dancing, and chatter. The two towers are linked by Sima Alley, with the Jinrilou Gate standing in between, provides a perfect backdrop for photos and strolls.  

Travel Tips:  

Both temple towers are nationally protected cultural relics and tilt slightly southwest—locals jokingly call them the “Yunnan Branch of the Leaning Tower of Pisa.”

The best time to visit is before sunset, when the soft light slants across and the pagodas’ lamps begin to glow.  

Camellia Garden beside Dongsi Temple Tower, Plum Blossom Square in front of Xisi Temple Tower, and the surrounding stone-paved streets make ideal spots for photos in Hanfu or modern Chinese attire.  

Nearby pedestrian streets hide traditional snack stalls such as sweet rice cakes and lotus root starch desserts.  

If it’s your first visit to Kunming, and you still have some energy after exploring these alleys, complete your perfect half‑day trip with a bike ride to the nearby Jinma Biji Memorial Archway.

An old street, a cup of coffee, a stretch of slow time—these alleys in Xishan District offer a different way to experience Kunming: less hurried, more in tune with the city’s soul.

Click here to view the Chinese report

(Editors: Rachel, Evan)