Mountains, Lakes, and Stillness — Yu Mingbo’s Yunnan Travel Experience

During the 2026 Spring Festival holiday, a few friends and I finally set off for Yunnan — a destination we had long dreamed of exploring. Winter there greeted us with bright yet gentle sunshine, free from the biting cold of the north and the damp chill of the south. The entire journey felt refreshing and uplifting, allowing us to unwind completely while discovering new landscapes, cultures, and perspectives that left us with lasting impressions and meaningful reflections.

1.  Lijiang: The Lively Ancient Town and the Serenity of Snowy Mountains
   

After sharing a warm New Year’s dinner with colleagues, my friends and I packed our bags and set off for Yunnan. Our first stop was Lijiang—a place where tradition and natural beauty meet.

Stepping into Lijiang Ancient Town, the sunlit stone-paved streets shimmered with a timeless charm. Rows of red lanterns swayed gently overhead, while vibrant flowers lined the pathways, filling the air with color and fragrance. Travelers from across the country gathered here—some capturing moments through their lenses, others pausing to enjoy live street performances. The lively atmosphere of the ancient town blended seamlessly with the festive spirit of the Spring Festival, creating an energy that felt both celebratory and unforgettable.

Local Specialty Dishes

At night, Lijiang Ancient Town transforms into a glowing dreamscape. Lanterns and lights illuminate the small bridges and flowing canals, their reflections shimmering on the water and creating a romantic, almost cinematic atmosphere. While the town carries a lively commercial energy, quiet corners still exist—hidden cafés and boutique shops tucked deep within winding alleys. Sitting down with a cup of hot tea, listening to a local shop owner share stories about the traditions of the Naxi people, becomes a simple yet unforgettable moment that reveals the deeper soul behind the scenery.

A Colorful Display of Real and Artificial Flowers

The next day, we gazed into the distance at the majestic Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. Under a crystal-clear blue sky, the snow-capped peaks looked both breathtakingly close and mysteriously distant. The brilliant white summit contrasted beautifully with the sunlit warmth of the ancient town below, creating a scene that felt almost surreal. Standing at a high vantage point overlooking the mountains, a deep sense of calm washed over me—as if the cool winds drifting down from the snowy peaks had quietly carried away every trace of work-related stress.

 

A Distant View of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain

2. Dali: Romance of Wind, Flowers, Snow and Moon — and Everyday Life

From Lijiang, we drove to Dali, enjoying postcard-worthy scenery along the way. My first impression of Dali was a sense of openness and freedom. Dali Ancient Town is noticeably larger than its counterpart in Lijiang, and even after hours of walking, we still hadn’t explored it all. The imposing city gates and wide streets create a spacious feel, and compared to Lijiang, Dali feels less crowded—more relaxed and unhurried.

Cycling along Erhai Lake became the most unforgettable highlight of the trip. The lake’s crystal-clear waters stretch toward the horizon, while the majestic Cangshan Mountains rise quietly in the distance. Sunlight dances on the surface of the water, and the gentle breeze naturally slows your pace, inviting you to simply enjoy the moment.

During the Spring Festival, visitors gathered along the lakeside—some capturing photos, others relaxing in cafés with panoramic views, while many fed seagulls gliding gracefully near the shore. Even with the festive crowds, the atmosphere remained calm and comfortable, perfectly capturing Dali’s signature blend of romance and everyday life.

Scenery of Erhai Lake

In Dali, many beautifully preserved homes of the Bai people can still be found. Their signature white walls, gray tiled roofs, and intricately carved wooden windows reflect a timeless aesthetic—simple yet quietly elegant. Walking through these neighborhoods feels like stepping into a living postcard.

Life here moves at an unhurried pace. Restaurants and teahouses are filled with locals chatting casually, sipping tea, and enjoying long conversations. This laid-back rhythm creates a striking contrast to the lively tourism scene, giving Dali a unique charm where everyday life and travel experiences blend effortlessly.

 

Local Specialty Wild Mushroom Hot Pot

This Spring Festival journey gave me a deeper appreciation for the unique landscapes and rich cultural diversity of Yunnan. Lijiang feels like a vibrant painting—full of color and energy—while Dali reads more like a gentle poem, calm, spacious, and quietly inspiring.

Stepping away from the fast pace of work, leaving behind the concrete skyline, and immersing myself in views of snow-capped peaks and tranquil lakes was a rare kind of reset. Listening to stories from different places and experiencing new rhythms of life made the trip more than just sightseeing—it became a chance to clear my mind and rediscover perspective.

During the Spring Festival, both Lijiang and Dali offered a perfect blend of festive energy and peaceful natural beauty. This journey will stay with me as a warm, bright memory—one that continues to inspire long after the trip has ended.