According to the latest report from Tongcheng Travel, Yunnan has shot up as a "dark horse" during the 2026 Spring Festival travel season, becoming one of China’s most popular winter escape destinations. Kunming ranked 7th among the top 10 domestic flight destinations for the holiday, up three places from last year, while hotel bookings in Xishuangbanna, Dali, and Lijiang doubled year-on-year.

Amid this provincial tourism boom, Kunming, Yunnan's vibrant capital, has prepared a New Year travel extravaganza that seamlessly combines intangible cultural heritage, authentic local flavors, and a lively urban atmosphere, ready for your discovery.

Dive into Intangible Heritage: Uncover Yunnan's Ancient Wisdom

From January 30 to February 1, "Celebrating the New Year with Intangible Cultural Heritage" will take place at Nanping Street Central Square. Leveraging the Xu Xiake cultural brand, this event offers an immersive intangible cultural heritage experience that is visually stunning, aurally engaging, interactive, and highly enjoyable:

Heritage Performance Garden: Two daily shows featuring alternating performances of opera, music, song and dance, and traditional sports.

Wellness Heritage Experience: Engage in hands-on crafting of medicinal soaps and sachets, participate in traditional Dai and Yi medicinal consultations, and discover the ancient wisdom of "shared origins of medicine and health."

Heritage New Year Market: Shop for unique Yunnan crafts and rekindle the traditional festive flavors of the New Year.

Engaging Activities: Take part in the "Xu Xiake's Yunnan Journey" check-in challenge and attend short, 15-minute heritage lessons.

Shop, Savor, and Explore: Unlock Kunming’s Festive Fun Guide

Shopping and eating are highlights of a Spring Festival visit to Kunming.

Dianchao Grand Market | Jan 26–Feb 14 | Mayuan Station, Meter-Gauge Park

A fusion of century-old rail heritage and a festive New Year market:

Savor authentic Yunnan delicacies such as Maolin Braised Duck, Old Kunming's "Po Su" Buns, and Rice Cake Lotus Root Pudding – all available in one convenient location.

Try mini soccer penalty challenges and participate in writing the traditional Chinese character "Fu" for good fortune.

Enjoy live music from local bands every Saturday night for an unforgettable festive experience.

Citywide Consumption Promotion | 53 Events Across Spring City

Kunming Bureau of Commerce presents multi-dimensional activities:

Guandu District New Year Shopping Expo: Six zones showcasing thousands of products from around the world and across China, offering opportunities to "Shop the World, Savor China."

Discounts at Major Malls: JingDong MALL, Shuncheng, and other shopping districts are offering consumption vouchers and exclusive discounts.

Cultural-tourism Integration: Join the Ethnic New Year Market at Yunnan Ethnic Village or embark on the seagull-themed tour at Daguan Park, offering the perfect blend of entertainment and shopping.

Vibrant Nights: Celebrate the New Year's Eve Vigil under Kunming's Sparkling Urban Lights

Kunming truly comes alive after dark. During the Spring Festival, popular nightlife hubs like Nanqiang Street Alley and Taibei Street Night Market will extend their operating hours, offering dining discounts and themed performances. Savoring local snacks or taking a leisurely stroll in these luminous night markets allows you to feel the energy and warmth of Spring City after sunset.

This Spring Festival, as Yunnan's tourism surges in popularity, Kunming takes center stage in this warm winter journey. Here, you can delve into the depth of culture through heritage, savor authentic New Year flavors at bustling markets, and experience the city's vibrant pulse after dark.

For 2026, Spring City awaits with all its wonders and warmth, inviting you to a New Year celebration filled with both vibrant energy and heartfelt experiences.