From the footprints of Yuanmou Man to the Yi Torch Festival, every moment in Chuxiong’s 24 hours defies imagination

Chuxiong Yi Autonomous Prefecture, located in central Yunnan, is a charming place that combines ancient mysteries, ethnic customs, and natural wonders. Here is a detailed travel guide to help you experience the unique charm of Chuxiong.

Must-Visit Attractions

- Lufeng World Dinosaur Valley: Located beside the Hangrui Expressway in Lufeng County, it is an excellent destination for family trips. Here, you can see dinosaur fossils from hundreds of millions of years ago and enjoy thrilling and fun amusement rides such as the dinosaur-themed roller coaster. Additionally, the Qilong Bay Hot Springs within the park are a highlight, perfect for relaxing after a day of fun.
- Yuanmou Earth Forest Scenic Area: Naturally formed over more than one million years, it is the largest colorful Danxia earth forest in China. The spectacular and unique earth pillars resemble castles, human figures, and more. Under the sunlight, the colors are vibrant, as if stepping into a magical world.
- Yi People Ancient Town: Located at the northeast corner of the intersection of Yong’an Road and Cheping Road in the Chuxiong Economic and Technological Development Zone, this town is centered on Yi culture. During the day, you can stroll along the riverbank to admire the Yi-style residential buildings and soak in the rustic atmosphere; at night, the square fills with music, the snack street buzzes with activity, and you can join bonfire parties to dance with Yi brothers and sisters, experiencing unique ethnic customs.
- Chuxiong Yi Autonomous Prefecture Museum: Located at 471 Lucheng South Road, Chuxiong City, this comprehensive local museum integrates artifact collection, exhibitions, education, academic research, and cultural tourism. It displays over 6,000 artifacts, including the world-famous “Wanjiawa Bronze Drum,” “Lufeng Dinosaur Fossils,” and “Yuanmou Man Fossils.” The museum is free to the public and a great place to learn about Chuxiong’s history and culture.
- Jiyi Grand Canyon: Known as “the most beautiful scar on Earth,” it is located in Jiyi Town, Wuding County. The canyon is 300 meters deep and only 6 meters wide at its narrowest point. Standing at the edge, you can feel the marvels of nature’s craftsmanship. A stream flows at the bottom, flanked by towering cliffs, creating a spectacular scene.

Premium Travel Routes

- Explore Chuxiong · Origin of Life Journey: Suitable for history and culture enthusiasts. The itinerary covers Lufeng (Lufeng World Dinosaur Valley, Lufeng Dinosaur Fossil Science Education Base, Lufeng Museum) → Chuxiong (Chuxiong Prefecture Museum) → Yuanmou (Yuanmou Man Museum, Yuanmou Man Ruins Park), allowing you to experience the origin and evolution of life.
- Leisurely Chuxiong · Ancient Town Culture Tour: For those wanting to experience ancient town charm. The route includes Lufeng (Heijing Ancient Town) → Chuxiong (Yi People Ancient Town) → Yao’an (Guanglu Ancient Town) → Dayao (Shiyang Ancient Town) → Yongren (Zhonghe Ancient Town). Stroll through ancient towns, touch cultural relics, and feel the fusion of different cultures.
- Green and Beautiful Chuxiong · Strange Mountains and Waters Tour: Nature lovers should not miss this. The itinerary includes Wuding (Jiyi Grand Canyon) → Yuanmou (Yuanmou Earth Forest Scenic Area, Langbapu Earth Forest Scenic Area, Yuanmou Jinsha Lake, Yuanmou Longjie Red Army Crossing Jinsha River Ferry Scenic Area) → Yongren (Fangshan Scenic Area) → Dayao (Santang Waterfalls), showcasing the wonders of nature.

Food Recommendations

- Yi Tuo Tuo Meat: Large chunks of pork simply cooked to retain the original meat flavor, reflecting the Yi people's hearty character.
- Yuanmou Roast Suckling Pig: Golden in color, crispy skin, tender meat, and fragrant aroma, a rare delicacy.
- Mouding Fermented Tofu: Delicate texture with a rich flavor and unique fermentation aroma, savory and delicious, perfect as a souvenir.
- Yi Whole Lamb Hot Pot: Fresh lamb slow-cooked with various spices over low heat, milky broth, tender meat, a paradise for lamb lovers.
- Shiyang Small Earth Cake: Small and exquisite, with a crispy crust and sweet filling, rich in flavor and unforgettable.

Accommodation Suggestions

- Luxury: Yunnan Zhuoshe Hotel, located in Yifeng Wetland Town on Yongxing Avenue, features courtyard villas with private soaking pools and an elegant environment; Chuxiong Haiyue Wenhua Wyndham Garden Hotel, with top-notch facilities and comfortable bedding, located at 325 Sunshine Avenue.
- High-end: Chuxiong Mange Hotel (Yi People Ancient Town Scenic Area branch), offers panoramic floor-to-ceiling windows with views of the ancient town; Chuxiong Yihai Park Atour X Hotel, equipped with smart home devices for a convenient intelligent living experience.
- Near Ancient Town: Chuxiong Dianjunwang | JP Xili Hotel, located next to Dejiang City at the west gate of Yi People Ancient Town, offers beautiful morning views of the town and convenient travel.

Transportation Guide

- External Transportation: Chuxiong is conveniently accessible by plane via Chuxiong Qingshanzui Airport or by high-speed train to Chuxiong Station. You can also drive from Kunming via the Kun-Chu-Da Expressway, which runs through Chuxiong, making travel very convenient.
- Internal Transportation: Shuttle buses operate between scenic spots within the prefecture, or you can choose to rent a car or drive yourself for more freedom and convenience.

Travel Tips

- Ultraviolet rays in Chuxiong are strong; remember to take sun protection measures and bring sunscreen, hats, and other items.
- Some attractions, such as Yuanmou Earth Forest, have significant temperature differences between morning and evening, so it is recommended to bring warm clothing.
- The Yi people have their own customs and taboos, such as avoiding eating garlic, touching heads, or crossing fire pits. When interacting with locals and visiting, please respect their customs.

Chuxiong Yi Autonomous Prefecture, with its unique charm, attracts many visitors to explore. Whether it’s the mysterious dinosaur culture, ancient human origins, rich ethnic customs, or magnificent natural landscapes, you will leave with unforgettable memories. Come to Chuxiong and start your wonderful journey!