In Jianshui, Yunnan, I stayed at the pinnacle of Eastern aesthetics!

Jianshui, a lesser-known travel destination in Yunnan, is a place you don’t want to leave once you arrive. It is far from the hustle and bustle, with a city history of over 1,200 years, rich in history and full of everyday life charm—this is what life is all about. The Jianshui Heyuan where I stayed this time truly amazed me at first sight; the wood carving craftsmanship is incredibly beautiful!

Heyuan is located by Guangci Lake, built along the water. This hotel, constructed in 2010, took seven years to complete and is currently the largest Jianchuan wood carving complex in China. Every corner, door, window, and eave showcases the exquisite, lively, and ingenious expression of Jianchuan wood carving~

🚘 Southeast Yunnan Vacation Itinerary
🔹DAY 1: Kunming - Mile
Airport pickup, then head to Mile Dongfengyun Farm, also known as the "Eastern Kaleidoscope." The owner spent eight years building this architectural masterpiece. Discover the master’s architectural art in the magical red brick castle!
🔹DAY 2: Mile - Jianshui
Morning: Visit Jianshui Ant Workshop to experience purple pottery culture. The buildings here are colorful and imaginative, offering a full visual impact!
Afternoon: Explore Jianshui Ancient City, see the ethnically distinctive Chaoyang Tower; also visit Zhu Family Garden, known as the "Grand View Garden of Southern Yunnan"! Search for Jianshui tofu, steam pot chicken, crossing-the-bridge rice noodles, cold noodles, pomegranate juice...
🔹DAY 3: Jianshui - Honghe/Yuanyang
Morning: Take the only Dian-Vietnam sightseeing railway in the country to Tuanshan residences, exploring the ancient villages of the Hani and Yi ethnic groups.
Afternoon: Head to Honghe Valley Kangteng Camp.
🔹DAY 4: Yuanyang - Fuxian Lake
Morning: This itinerary gives a relaxed vacation vibe, truly wonderful! Enjoy the rural beauty of the private camp, explore the Yuanyang rice terraces with a guide providing commentary throughout a light hike.
Afternoon: Arrive at Shitou Village, then finally stroll by the tranquil Fuxian Lake, admiring the sunset glow.
🔹DAY 5: Fuxian Lake - Kunming - Return
Kunming and Fuxian Lake are also perfect vacation spots, offering both a seaside feel and relaxation...

Post by BRIELLE WILLIAMS | Aug 20, 2025