Getting To & Around Kunming
The spring-city airport, the metro to the lake, and high-speed rail as the gateway to Dali and Lijiang.
Arriving
Kunming Changshui Airport (KMG) is 25 km east — Metro Line 6 reaches the center in 40 minutes; a DiDi is ¥100 and 35 minutes. Kunming is the high-speed-rail gateway to Dali (2 hours) and Lijiang (3.5 hours).
Getting around
The metro (6 lines) covers the center, the lake and the airport. Buses and DiDi fill the gaps. The old town and Green Lake are walkable.
To Dali and Lijiang
Book high-speed rail 2–3 days ahead with your passport — trains sell out in peak season. Lijiang sits at 2,400 m; pace yourself on arrival.
Taxis & ride-hailing
DiDi works everywhere; taxis are metered. Few drivers speak English.
Locals' Tip
Book the Dali and Lijiang trains 2–3 days ahead — they sell out in spring and summer, and walk-up tickets are rare.