At the turn of spring and summer in 2025, we set foot on this magical land known as “South of Colorful Clouds.” The rainy weather we had worried about never materialized. Heaven seemed to favor us travelers from afar, blessing us with clear skies every single day, as if preparing a visual feast exclusively for us.
The Carnival Night of Tusi Feast
As night fell, we gathered around the long table of the Tusi feast, with bonfire flames illuminating every face. This was more than just a dinner—it was a cultural experience that transcended time and space. Amid singing and dancing, we savored the most authentic Yunnan flavors, each bite carrying the historical weight of this ancient land.
Street Food Adventures for the Palate
- Chickpea Bean Jelly: Sour, spicy, and slippery textures bloomed on our tongues, as changeable as Yunnan’s weather
- Lijiang Baba: Crispy outside, soft inside, embodying the life wisdom of the Naxi people
- Cured Pork Ribs: Savory and flavorful, even more precious in the thin air of the plateau
- Naxi Grilled Meat: Rich but not greasy, each piece infused with the aroma of charcoal
Jade Dragon Snow Mountain: The Courage to Challenge 4,680 Meters
Standing atop the 4,680-meter summit, we truly understood the meaning of “viewing all mountains as small from the peak.” The dizziness from oxygen deprivation intertwined with the euphoria of conquering the heights—a sensation only those who have experienced it can truly comprehend. The sanctity of the snow mountain inspired reverence, as if it could wash away all the restlessness of urban life.
Blue Moon Valley: A Sapphire Fallen from Heaven
If Jade Dragon Snow Mountain is Yunnan’s backbone, then Blue Moon Valley is its gentle gaze. That profound blue color resembled something from a dream, making one question whether such beauty could exist in the real world. The crystal-clear lake water reflected the snow mountain and blue sky, creating a natural masterpiece.
Dali Ancient City: Guardian of Time
Strolling along the bluestone paths of Dali Ancient City, we walked upon millennia of historical sediment. The gray-tiled, white-walled architectural clusters told stories of the ancient Nanzhao Kingdom’s glory. Every alley had its own tale, every courtyard harbored secrets of bygone eras. The slow pace of life here allowed us city dwellers to rediscover long-lost tranquility.
Santorini Ideal State: Mediterranean Romance Recreated
This small town filled with Mediterranean charm allowed us to experience Aegean romance right here in Yunnan. Blue and white buildings, combined with Yunnan’s characteristic blue skies and white clouds, created a unique visual impact. Every photo taken here was as beautiful as a postcard.
The Yunnan We Cannot Take With Us
Though our voyage to Yunnan has come to an end, the beauty of the region will live on in our hearts. The mountains and lakes, the culture and people, the flavors—all have become invaluable gems in our memories. Maybe this is what travel means. It’s not just about seeing new places. It’s about finding better versions of ourselves. It’s also about enjoying the beauty of life.
Yunnan, we will return!
