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The Yunnan Army Academy is located in Chenghuapu, on the west bank of the renowned Green Lake in the heart of Kunming. In modern Yunnan history, two renowned institutions, one civil and one military, were prominent: the " civil " institution refers to Southwest Associated University, while the " military " institution refers to the Yunnan Army Academy.
The former has trained a large number of outstanding scientists and educators ; the latter has trained a large number of outstanding military strategists and revolutionaries. It is precisely because of this that Zhu De, who was once a student at the Yunnan Army Military Academy and later became a marshal of the Republic, called the Yunnan Army Military Academy a " revolutionary melting pot . "
The Yunnan Army Military Academy is a two-story, beige brick-and-wood courtyard building. This century-old courtyard, still standing, features four 120- meter-long and 10- meter-wide corner towers, adding a touch of antique charm and showcasing the academy's former grandeur.
Suitable for all seasons
Recommended play time: 1-2 hours
free
9:00-17:00, last admission : 16:00, closed on Mondays
Six free tours are offered daily , starting at 09:30 , 10:30 , 11:30 , 13:30 , 14:30 , and 15:30.
The Army Military Academy in Kunming was established in the early 20th century and has played an important role in the history of the Republic of China. It is a symbol of China’s military education and leadership training, with a strong historical connection to the country’s wartime strategies and the training of military personnel. The academy is revered for its educational contributions to the military establishment of modern China.
The Army Military Academy is located in Kunming, Yunnan. You can easily reach it by taxi or bus from most central locations in Kunming. The nearest metro station is within a short distance, and buses also regularly pass by the area. Walking from the center of Kunming is feasible for those who enjoy a stroll.
The Army Military Academy is open from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily. The best times to visit are during the morning or late afternoon, as these hours tend to be less crowded and offer a more relaxed atmosphere for exploring the site.
The entrance fee is approximately 30 RMB per person. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance of the Academy on the day of your visit. It is not necessary to buy tickets online, but it’s a good idea to check if there are any special events that require advance booking.
Booking tickets in advance is not required for general entry. However, if you are planning to attend any special exhibitions or events, it’s advisable to check the availability and book tickets ahead of time.
It typically takes 1.5 to 2 hours to explore the Army Military Academy thoroughly, especially if you want to see the exhibits and walk through the grounds. If you enjoy reading about military history, you may want to allocate more time.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin. Audio guides in English and Mandarin are also offered, providing deeper insight into the history and significance of the Academy.
The Academy’s main entrance and its historical military structures provide great photography opportunities. The surrounding gardens and courtyards also offer serene spots to capture the tranquility of the area, particularly in the early morning light.
Start your visit at the main hall where you can learn about the academy’s history and significance. From there, explore the museum exhibits, followed by a walk through the historical buildings. End your visit by relaxing in the gardens and reflecting on the site’s importance.
Night visits are not typically available at the Army Military Academy, and there are no light shows or special night tours. However, the site offers a peaceful atmosphere during daytime visits.
The Academy can get crowded during weekends and holidays. The best times to visit are weekdays, particularly in the morning, when there are fewer visitors.
The Army Military Academy has basic facilities such as clean toilets, rest areas, and water fountains. There are no large restaurants on-site, but you can find small food vendors and snack options nearby.
The Academy is accessible for elderly and disabled visitors, with ramps and paved paths. However, some of the historic buildings may not be fully wheelchair accessible due to their age.
While cash is accepted, mobile payments (such as WeChat Pay and Alipay) are more commonly used and are available throughout the site for purchases and ticketing.
There are no large restaurants inside the Academy, but nearby areas offer several local eateries serving Yunnan specialties, including rice noodles, hotpot, and snacks.
Yes, vegetarian and vegan options are available at local restaurants around the Academy. Halal food options can also be found in the nearby Muslim neighborhoods of Kunming.
Yes, there are small souvenir shops near the Academy where you can buy military-related memorabilia, local crafts, and traditional Yunnan items like tea and handicrafts.
Taxis and buses are the best options for continuing your trip. You can also use public transportation to explore other nearby attractions like Green Lake Park or the Yunnan Provincial Museum.
