China group tours: A Gastronomic 10-Day Tour in Yunnan with Fuschia Dunlop

Highlights of the Trip

Step into a world of diverse flavours and delectable dishes with award-winning author Fuchsia Dunlop, as you discover the charms of Yunnan. This China travel tour package offers you a once-in-a-lifetime chance to experience some of the very best cuisine Yunnan has to offer. Savour sweet pineapple rice with tangy mushrooms delicately steamed in delicious banana leaves. Experience Yunnan’s famous fried goat cheese expertly seasoned with salt and chilli to bring you a unique infusion of flavour. Embrace the wholesome taste of Tibetan homemade barley bread perfectly combined with a delicious cup of yak butter tea. Using this tantalising cuisine as a lens, let the unique and exotic tastes of Yunnan guide you through this ethnically diverse province.

During your trip, delicious Chinese cuisine will be the focus. The renowned expert on Chinese cuisine, Fuchsia Dunlop will expertly guide you through this serene region of idyllic villages and long-cultivated landscapes. Experience a tour where ethnically diverse individuals craft cuisine masterpieces with vibrant flowers, delicious tea, and rare herbs, while tuning into your inner soul with tranquil meditation, charming hikes, and vast cultural experiences.

Destinations and the Landmarks / Sights to Visit

Kunming

• Yi Minority Village: A traditional settlement showcasing the culture and lifestyle of the Yi people.
• Double Dragon Bridge: An ancient 17-arch bridge known for its elegant architecture and historical significance.
• Tuanshan: A preserved ancient village renowned for its Qing Dynasty architecture and cultural heritage.
• Jiangchuan Village: A scenic village famous for its picturesque views and rich ethnic culture.
• Fuxian Lake: A crystal-clear lake renowned for its deep waters and surrounding natural beauty.
• Bird and Flower Market: A bustling market offering a vibrant array of flowers, birds, and local crafts.
• Yuantong Temple: An ancient Buddhist temple noted for its unique design and serene atmosphere.

Mengzi

• South Lake: A tranquil lake surrounded by lush gardens and historic sites, perfect for leisurely strolls.

Jianshui

• Xinjie Market: A lively marketplace where visitors can experience local customs and traditional foods.
• Zhu Gardens: A well-preserved traditional Chinese garden featuring intricate pavilions and beautiful landscapes.

Dali

• Dali Old Town: A charming ancient town known for its well-preserved architecture and vibrant local culture.
• Zhoucheng Village: A Bai ethnic minority village famous for its traditional tie-dye fabrics and handicrafts.
• Xizhou: A historic town renowned for its Bai-style architecture and cultural heritage.

Weibaoshan

• Magnificant Treasure Mountain: A sacred Taoist mountain offering stunning natural scenery and numerous ancient temples.

Cultural Experiences & Activities of this Holiday

Visit a Traditional Yi Minority Village: Experience the vibrant culture and traditions of the Yi people, exploring their unique wooden architecture, traditional clothing, and rich folklore in a picturesque village setting.

Enjoy ‘Across the Bridge Noodles’ at South Lake: Savour a bowl of the famous ‘Across the Bridge Noodles,’ a Yunnan specialty known for its flavourful broth and fresh ingredients, while enjoying the serene views of South Lake.

Enjoy a Unique Barbecue Dinner on the Old Street in Jianshu: Indulge in a delightful barbecue dinner featuring a variety of grilled meats and vegetables, all prepared with local spices and flavours, on the charming Old Street of Jianshui.

Admire the Striking Temples of Kunming: Explore the stunning temples of Kunming, each with its own distinctive architecture and history, offering a glimpse into the region’s rich spiritual heritage.

Hike to a Waterfall in Dali: Embark on a scenic hike through the lush landscapes of Dali, culminating in the breathtaking sight of a cascading waterfall, a perfect spot for relaxation and photography.

Enjoy a Traditional Cooking Class with Locals in Dali: Learn to prepare traditional Dali dishes using fresh, local ingredients, guided by friendly locals who share their culinary secrets and cultural stories.

Take Part in Meditation or Tai Chi at Magnificent Treasure Mountain: Find inner peace and rejuvenation by participating in meditation or Tai Chi sessions amidst the tranquil beauty of Magnificent Treasure Mountain, surrounded by ancient temples and serene nature.

Enjoy ‘One-Noodle-Soup’ Made by Locals: Delight in the simplicity and flavor of ‘One-Noodle-Soup,’ a local delicacy crafted with care by locals, showcasing the region’s culinary traditions.

Enjoy a Home-Cooked Farewell Dinner with Fuchsia Dunlop in Dali Old Town: Share a memorable farewell dinner in Dali Old Town, hosted by renowned food writer Fuchsia Dunlop, featuring home-cooked dishes that highlight the flavours and stories of Yunnan cuisine.

Local Cuisine and Traditional Dishes to try while in China

During this tour, numerous opportunities will arise for you to savour the authentic local cuisine, whether from the menus of included meals or from your own culinary exploration during your free time in the itinerary. While in China, exploring the diverse and flavourful local cuisine is a culinary adventure not to be missed. This tour focuses on culinary experiences and as part of the tour you will enjoy many local and traditional dishes and classes. There are lots of other dishes to try while in China too, such as the iconic Peking Duck, the bold and spicy flavours of Kung Pao Chicken and Mapo Tofu, Xiaolongbao (soup dumplings) and the sweet Hong Shao Rou (braised pork belly). Don’t miss the hand-pulled noodles of Lanzhou Beef Noodles and the aromatic Dumplings in various regional styles. Enjoy Dim Sum, a variety of small dishes like Har Gow (shrimp dumplings) and Char Siu Bao (barbecue pork buns). For a unique experience, try the street food staple Jianbing (Chinese crepes) and the comforting Hot Pot, which are known for their intense flavours and communal dining style. Each region of China offers a distinctive taste and a rich culinary heritage that is sure to delight food enthusiasts.

Water-based Activities and Cruises

Visit South Lake: Discover the tranquility of South Lake, a beautiful and serene destination in Mengzi, perfect for leisurely walks along its scenic shores, boating, and enjoying the lush gardens that surround this picturesque body of water.

You might like to consider our 10-day flight only package below which aligns perfectly with this tour.

Yunnan, China, 10-Day Flight-only Package (asiara-holidays.com)

To discover more of our China Group Tours or China Guided Tours, explore our website or contact us on +01473356000 or enquiry@asiara-holidays.com.

Itinerary

Day 1: Kunming arrival

• On arrival in Kunming, relax and enjoy an afternoon at your leisure. During the evening, savour a group dinner in one of Kunming’s finest restaurants with Fuchsia Dunlop.

Overnight in a hotel

Day 2: Discover Mengzi and a Yi minority village

• Today’s highlights include discovering a traditional Yi minority village and embracing tantalising cuisine and culture.
• After an enticing breakfast, stop by a Yi minority village before continuing along the scenic roads to Mengzi.
• At the Yi minority village, you will encounter a vibrant ethnic culture, observing the local’s creating music, dancing, and going about their daily lives among the mountains and river valleys.
• Start your day with a delicious Yunnan breakfast of lu-ersi. This dish consists of lightly fried rice noodles lathered in sweet and salty brown sauce. For lunch you can savour Yi cuisine in the Yi minority village. This village is known for its hot pepper, and enticing flavours. For dinner, you can embrace a spread of Mengzi classics, such as tubawan, an assortment of eight meat and vegetable dishes.
• All transport is included.

Overnight in a hotel

Day 3: From cultural Mengzi to the ancient town of Jianshui

• Today tantalising cuisine meets unique tradition and culture. You will be introduced to some of China’s most delectable and meaningful dishes.
• Today, embark on a visit to South Lake where you can test your culinary skills and create your own delicious lunch! After, depart for Jianshu and enjoy a traditional mouth-watering dinner.
• China has a never-ending cultural and culinary history, with interesting tales behind many local dishes. During your visit to South Lake, you will be introduced to ‘Across the Bridge Noodles’. An interesting tale of affection, endearment, and admiration are behind this culinary masterpiece.
• Start the day with a refreshing breakfast. Craft your own delicious lunch during your discovery of South Lake. On arrival in Jianshui, you will be welcomed with a herb-infused delicately steamed dish of ‘steam pot chicken’ for a memorable dinner.
• A visit to South Lake offers you a chance to embrace rural Chinese life, while welcoming a glimpse of their traditional culture. This lake offers classic beauty with a serene atmosphere.
• All transport is included.

Overnight in a hotel

Day 4: Explore the beautiful town of Jianshui

• Exploring this archaic city is a highlight in itself. Today, you can admire this enticing city during the day and night. Admire the bustling and vibrant atmosphere that this city offers while the sun shines down. In the evening, step into the Jianshui nightlife where a whole other enticing atmosphere awaits you.
• Admire the produce of the bustling Xinjie Market, before exploring a beautiful Chinese temple. After lunch, discover the Zhu Gardens, and embrace Jianshui nightlife with a barbecue dinner.
• During your exploration of Jianshui you will encounter the multi-ethnic culture that this historical and ancient city has to offer. Wandering around the striking temples offers a glimpse into the Confucian culture that influences China to this day.
• Embrace the fresh morning produce of the vibrant Xinjie Market, before enjoying a delicious lunch at a local restaurant. The recommended restaurant today is the Old Tile House. This family-run restaurant, located in an ancient two-story building, serves some home-made Jianshui local food. The must-try is an unique kind of plant in this area, called Grass Buds, with a fresh and clean taste. In the evening, enjoy a unique and memorable barbecue dinner on the old street in Jianshui. You will also be treated to tantalising local snacks.
• Wander through the tranquil Zhu Gardens. These serene gardens are a masterpiece of Chinese horticulture and landscaping, dating back to the Ming and Qing Dynasties.
• All transport is included.

Overnight in a hotel

Day 5: From Jianshui to Kunming

• Today you can experience the magnificent Double Dragon Bridge. This bridge is an ancient structural masterpiece. With 17 striking arches created by 3 stone towers – this outstanding bridge is an impressive architectural work of art.
• Journey back to Kunming. Visit Tuanshan, Jiangchuan village, and Fuxian Lake, before enjoying the rest of the day at your leisure.
• Wander through the charming ancient town of Tuanshan. Here you can marvel at the exquisite Ming and Quin architecture. This town is packed full of culture and tradition and is a rare example of a conventional walled Yunman village.
• Enjoy breakfast, before an enticing copper-pot fish lunch in the charming village of Jiangchuan. Enjoy dinner in the evening.
• Jiangchuan village offers charming landscape and historical sights. An idyllic destination for sightseeing and observing local life, while tasting alluring local cuisine.
• All transport is included.

Overnight in a hotel

Day 6: Explore the laid-back city of Kunming.

• Kunming is known as the ‘Spring City’ mainly due to its all-year-round mild climate. However, as you discover the entrancing Bird and Flower Market, stroll through the vibrant city centre, and admire the striking temples, you will be able to further observe why this city is so promising and inviting.
• Explore the Bird and Flower Market, before strolling through the city centre. Later, discover the beautiful Yuantong Temple.
• Embrace the culture of Kunming at the Bird and Flower Market. While wandering around this gem, you can admire unique shops, mesmerising floral displays, and be serenaded by the magical bird song. Admire the many stalls on offer here, showcasing antiques, serene jewellery, and traditional ethnic costumes.
• Let the citrusy and spicy flavours of the Dai cuisine tantalise your taste buds and discover a Kunming favourite with the alluring mushroom hotpot. This hotpot consists of a make-your-own mushroom stew adventure with a selection of fungi.
• Admire the intricate Buddhist décor of the striking Yuantong Temple. This is the largest and most active temple in all of Kunming.
• All transport is included.

Overnight in a hotel

Day 7: From Kunming to Dali

• Stretch your legs and embrace a casual hike to a striking waterfall. Today offers you a chance to embrace the nature and beauty of Dali, while stepping back in time when discovering the alluring Old Town.
• Today, transfer to the airport for a short flight to Dali. Here you will hike to a striking waterfall, explore Dali’s Old Town, and embrace Dali classics at dinnertime.
• Discovering Dali’s charming Old Town offers the perfect mix of tradition and culture with outstanding pagodas, vibrant red lanterns, and dramatic mountains.
• Tonight, you can treat your taste buds to some traditional Dali classis with a tantalising dinner situated in the scenic Old Town of Dali.
• All transport is included.

Overnight in hotel

Day 8: Embrace a traditional cooking class in Dali

• Today’s highlights include an exceptional and unforgettable cooking lesson in a local family’s home in Zhoucheng Village. Here you can test your cooking skills and learn about the enticing local cuisine.
• Spend the morning exploring the ancient town of Xizhou, before biking through lakeside Bai minority towns. Later, enjoy an unique cooking lesson.
• Today you will embrace Chinese culture in its purest form. Spend the morning immersing yourself in the traditional Bai architecture of Xizhou. Visit the lively market, where you can admire the bustling local lives and this atmospheric culture. Later, bike through the inviting Bai minority towns, where you can appreciate the well preserved ancient cultural lifestyles.
• Today, at the vibrant market you can learn the secrets of creating rushan – a traditional local cheese and embrace a unique cooking class with the inviting locals.
• The charming town of Xizhou offers many enticing landmarks and wonders for sightseeing. The ornate gateways and honeycomb patterns characterising this town are a perfect reflection of the Bai architecture.
• All transport is included.

Overnight in a hotel

Day 9: Visit the ‘Magnificent Treasure Mountain’ in Weibaoshan

• Today you will hike a famous Taoist Mountain, where you will experience superb Taoist temples. You will also get the chance to interact with the friendly locals and gather some cooking hints and tips as they create a tantalising dish just for you.
• Depart for an exciting day trip to Weibaoshan, where you will hike up the temple strewn Weibaoshan and embrace a round of tai chi or meditation. Later, return to Xizhou and rest up for your farewell dinner.
• Find your inner zen with a round of meditation or tranquil tai chi surrounded by the Magnificent Treasure Mountain. During your session you can embrace nature, culture, and tradition while welcoming rejuvenation and calmness.
• Admire the locals as they create a delightful bowl of ‘one-noodle soup’ for you to enjoy. Embrace a delicious home-cooked farewell dinner with Fuchsia in the charming Old Town of Dali.
• Discover the strikingly beautiful Taoist temples with their unique Bai construction style during your adventurous hike.
• All transport is included.

Overnight in a hotel

Day 10: Depart from Dali

• Your unique and fascinating gastronomic journey across beautiful Yunnan has come to an end. Be sure to treasure the memories and culinary skills you have gathered along the way.

To discover more of our China Group Tours or China Guided Tours, explore our website or contact us on +01473356000 or enquiry@asiara-holidays.com.

Price

Guide price per person (max group size of 12)

£6,402.00

Please note, this is the starting price per person, so may differ when booking.

Tour Map

Tour Summary

Day 1: Arrival in Kunming, enjoy leisure time and a group dinner with Fuchsia Dunlop.

Day 2: Explore Mengzi and a Yi minority village, indulging in Yi cuisine and culture.

Day 3: Journey to Jianshui, experiencing South Lake and traditional culinary tales.

Day 4: Discover the ancient town of Jianshui, visiting markets, temples, and gardens.

Day 5: Visit the Double Dragon Bridge before returning to Kunming via Tuanshan and Jiangchuan.

Day 6: Explore Kunming’s Bird and Flower Market, stroll through the city, and visit Yuantong Temple.

Day 7: Transfer to Dali, hike to a waterfall, explore the Old Town, and enjoy traditional Dali cuisine.

Day 8: Take a cooking class in Zhoucheng Village, explore Xizhou, and bike through Bai minority towns.

Day 9: Hike Weibaoshan, participate in tai chi or meditation, and enjoy a farewell dinner in Dali.

Day 10: Departure from Dali, concluding your gastronomic journey across Yunnan.

FAQs

• What is the highlight of Day 2 in Mengzi and the Yi minority village?

• Day 2 includes a visit to a traditional Yi minority village, offering a firsthand experience of vibrant ethnic culture, including music, dance, and daily life activities, alongside indulging in tantalizing Yi cuisine.

• What culinary experiences can we expect on Day 3 in Jianshui?

• Day 3 features visits to South Lake and Jianshui, where you can create your own lunch and enjoy traditional mouth-watering dinners, including the renowned ‘steam pot chicken.’

• What cultural attractions are included in the exploration of Jianshui on Day 4?

• Day 4 explores the archaic city of Jianshui, encompassing visits to bustling markets, beautiful temples, and serene gardens, offering a glimpse into multi-ethnic culture and Confucian traditions.

• What makes the Double Dragon Bridge on Day 5 unique?

• Day 5 includes a visit to the ancient Double Dragon Bridge, renowned for its 17 striking arches and exceptional architectural craftsmanship, providing a captivating experience for travellers.

• What culinary delights await us in Kunming on Day 6?

• Day 6 features exploration of Kunming’s Bird and Flower Market, a stroll through the city centre, and a visit to Yuantong Temple, complemented by delightful Dai cuisine and a mushroom hotpot experience.

• What outdoor activities are available on Day 7 in Dali?

• Day 7 offers a casual hike to a picturesque waterfall and exploration of Dali’s Old Town, providing opportunities to embrace nature, culture, and traditional Dali classics at dinnertime.

• What unique experiences can we anticipate during the cooking class on Day 8 in Dali?

• Day 8 presents an exceptional cooking lesson in a local family’s home in Zhoucheng Village, allowing travellers to test their culinary skills, learn about local cuisine, and immerse themselves in Bai architecture and culture.