1-Day Kunming Tour to Stone Forest – UNESCO World Heritage Site

Transportation Options (Kunming to Stone Forest) High-Speed Train: Kunming South to Shilin West in 18 minutes (25 RMB), followed by a scenic shuttle to the park entrance (10 RMB). Budget Option: Tourist coach from Kunming East Bus Station (approximately 2 hours, 38 RMB). Self-Drive: Rent a convertible or stylish vehicle for a road trip along the Shilin Scenic Highway, ideal for photos along the way. 09:00 Start Your Exploration at the Stone Forest Scenic AreaEntrance Ticket: 130 RMB (includes electric cart 35 RMB, highly recommended due to the park’s large area)Best Visiting Time: Arrive before 10:00 AM to avoid crowds and harsh sunlight. Must-See Areas and Photo Spots 1. Major Stone Forest (Classic Landmark Area) Take photos at the iconic "Stone Forest" inscription among towering karst pillars. Photography Tip: Use a low-angle shot for dramatic perspective. Hidden Spot: "Thousand Jun Hair" rock crevice, ideal for vertical close-up photography. 2. Ashima Rock (Symbol of Yi Culture and Local Legend) Represents a love story from Yi folklore, one of the park’s most photographed spots. Best Time: Around 2 PM for softer side lighting. Local Tip: Use on-site QR codes to access multimedia explanations of the legend. 3. Long Lake Hidden Trail (Nature Escape) Trail starts at Liziyuanqing and takes about 40 minutes. Features calm lakeside views, ideal for photography and a quiet walk. Optional: Bring your own picnic or coffee to enjoy a moment beside the water. Local Food Guide (Eat Near the Scenic Area) Shilin Preserved Tofu: 5 RMB per can, available at Ashima Supermarket outside the entrance. Fried Spicy Potato Cubes with Houttuynia: Local street snack, 8 RMB per box. Avoid: Tourist restaurants and overpriced crossing-the-bridge noodles inside the park. Photography and Equipment Tips Props: Ethnic shawls and straw bags are available for rent inside the park (around 20 RMB). Recommended Gear: Wide-angle lens for landscape shots GoPro for rock crevice and close-up views DJI Mini drone (registration required for aerial photography) Advanced Hiking Route (Three-Hour Option)Suggested Path: Liziyuanqing to Bushao Mountain, then to Little Stone Forest, Giant Mushroom Rock, and finally Long Lake This extended hike offers panoramic views, fewer crowds, and a deeper connection with the karst terrain. Optional Afternoon Activities in Kunming Naigu Stone Forest: Features black karst formations and quieter paths. Entrance fee is 25 RMB. Dounan Flower Market: Best visited after 5 PM for wholesale flower deals and vibrant visuals. Zhuanxin Market: Great place to experience Kunming street food, bubble tea, and evening culture. Insider Tips Arrive early for the best lighting and fewer visitors. Use the official "Stone Forest Tourism" WeChat mini-program to pre-book tickets and receive discounts. Avoid unofficial guides near the entrance. Free tour information is available within the park. Bring comfortable shoes with grip and insect repellent, especially if visiting Long Lake.