Welcome to the start of our most ambitious adventure yet — we're spending the next 30 days traveling across China using only high-speed trains. In this first episode, we arrive in Kunming, the capital of Yunnan Province, and kick things off with a deep dive into local culture, history, and food. We wander through the peaceful Green Lake Park, visit the vibrant Yuantong Temple, taste unique dishes from Dai cuisine, and hike up the dramatic cliffs of the Dragon Gate at Xishan (Western Hills) for an epic view over Kunming. Green Lake Park (翠湖公园) Yuantong Temple (圆通寺) Dai Cuisine Restaurant: FOOD STREET YUANXI (圓西路) Dragon Gate Scenic Area (西山龙门) We head to the ancient town of Dali, nestled between mountains and a massive lake.
Max and Jacqueline's China train adventure kicks off in Kunming with cultural immersion, delicious food, and a breathtaking hike to the Dragon Gate. An unforgettable start!
Travel Guides & Tips in this video
Max and Jacqueline's epic 30-day train adventure across China begins in Kunming! Their journey starts with exploring Green Lake Park, visiting the ancient Yuantong Temple, and savoring unique Dai cuisine. A highlight is their breathtaking hike to the Dragon Gate at Xishan, offering stunning views. They also experience the vibrant Nan Tong Street, immersing themselves in local life and cuisine. Get ready for a visual feast of stunning landscapes and cultural discoveries!
Next travel video:
18 min
2025
China Train Adventure: Kunming's Culture & Dali's Charm
Welcome to the start of our most ambitious adventure yet — we're spending the next 30 days traveling across China using only high-speed trains. In this first episode, we arrive in Kunming, the capital of Yunnan Province, and kick things off with a deep dive into local culture, history, and food.
We...
China Train Adventure: Kunming's Culture, Cuisine & Dragon Gate
Max and Jacqueline embark on a thrilling 30-day high-speed train adventure across China! Their journey begins in Kunming, Yunnan Province, where they explore Green Lake Park's tranquility, Yuantong Temple's vibrancy, and savor unique Dai cuisine. A breathtaking hike to the Dragon Gate at Xishan provides stunning panoramic views. Next stop: the enchanting Dali ancient town!
Attractions in this video: Green Lake Park, Yuantong Temple, Dragon Gate, Stone Forest, Guandu Ancient Town
China’s Most Beautiful Lake Town? Exploring Dali 中国最美湖滨小镇？探索大理
Dali Exploration: Cycling Erhai Lake & Bai Villages
More about the current video:(Published on 2025-04-13)
This captivating travelogue follows Max and Jacqueline as they embark on a month-long high-speed train adventure across China, starting in Kunming, Yunnan Province. Their first day unfolds with a serene morning in Green Lake Park, observing locals practicing Tai Chi and enjoying the peaceful atmosphere. This sets the tone for their cultural immersion.
Their exploration continues at Yuantong Temple, one of Kunming's oldest Buddhist temples. The unique downhill entrance, signifying entry into the sacred realm, is a surprising discovery. The travelers are impressed by the city's cleanliness, abundant greenery, and the prevalence of electric vehicles, creating an unexpectedly quiet atmosphere in a major city.
Lunch introduces them to Dai cuisine, a blend of Laotian, Thai, and Myanmar influences. They indulge in a massive grilled fish dish, a memorable culinary experience despite a slightly unusual spicy sensation. The affordability of the meal is a pleasant surprise.
The afternoon takes them to Xishan (Western Hills), specifically the Dragon Gate. After a scenic cable car ride, a hike leads them to this 200-year-old gate carved into a cliffside, a truly awe-inspiring sight. The unique experience and stunning views make this a highlight of their Kunming exploration.
Their day concludes with a visit to Nan Tong Street, a charming area with food stalls and shops. They sample local noodles and other dishes, further enriching their culinary journey. The final stop is a beautifully lit night market, adding a magical touch to their first day in Kunming. The second day involves a trip to the Stone Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Despite the crowds, they find moments of peace and marvel at the unique rock formations. Their journey ends with a visit to Guandu ancient town, showcasing more of China's rich history and culture. Max and Jacqueline's experiences showcase the diverse landscapes and cultural richness of Yunnan, offering a compelling glimpse into the beauty and unique aspects of China.
FAQs (From the traveler's perspective)
Q: What was the most surprising thing you found in Kunming?
A: Probably the $1 haircut and the fact that I didn't need a ticket to enter the Zhu-long cave!
Q: What were the sweet potato noodles like?
A: They looked like shining leather and tasted yummy!
