If you travel to Yunnan, you should take into account that Yunnan is located in a low latitude and high altitude area. Therefore, the annual average sunshine duration is long. Affected by both the latitude position and vertical height difference, the climate types are diverse. The "spring all year round" climate generally occurs in areas with an altitude of 1500-2000 meters. In areas below 1300 meters, the climate is relatively hot, and above 2400 meters it belongs to cold high-altitude regions. The tourist climate in Yunnan is very good. The annual temperature difference does not change much, but the daily temperature difference in winter and spring is larger. The southwest wind prevails in spring, and there is more rain in summer. It is suggested that you don't need to bring too many cold-resistant clothes, just one windproof and cold-proof garment is enough in spring. Bring an umbrella in summer which is optimal, especially when going to Lijiang, Diqing, etc., where mountains are high and valleys deep, causing significant vertical temperature changes. Even for a day trip, you should bring some spare clothes for warmth. Additionally, you should bring sunglasses to prevent ultraviolet radiation. If you experience high-altitude hypoxia, rest or oxygen therapy is recommended. Please read the Yunnan travel precautions carefully.
The common characteristics of Yunnan's climate are:
1. Small annual temperature difference, large daily temperature difference. The annual temperature difference is usually only 10-12℃, while the daily temperature difference can reach 12-20℃;
2. Abundant precipitation, distinct dry and wet seasons. From May to October each year is the rainy season, and the rest is the dry season;
3. Significant vertical climate changes. The temperature difference between the north and south of the province over eight latitudes is equivalent to the temperature difference from Hainan Island to Changchun in Northeast China, creating three zones: cold, temperate, and tropical.
1. Since Yunnan is located on the Yungui Plateau with a higher altitude, the average altitude is more than 900 meters. Among them, Kunming has an altitude of 1890 meters, with dry weather and a large temperature difference between morning and evening (sometimes up to 20 degrees in a day), so clothing should not be too thin to prevent catching a cold. However, the annual temperature difference is small, with no severe winter cold and no scorching summer heat, earning the nickname "Spring City". The average temperature in Dali and Lijiang is 1-2 degrees lower than in Kunming.
2. Yunnan is located on the Yungui Plateau, with strong outdoor ultraviolet radiation. Pay attention to sun protection and bring sunscreen products. Kunming, Dali, and Lijiang have a plateau southwest monsoon climate, with low temperatures and large diurnal temperature differences. The best time to travel to Yunnan is in spring and summer. Carry items: short-sleeved T-shirts, jackets, sunscreen products, and umbrellas; Lijiang and Zhongdian have higher altitudes, so pay attention to rest to prevent altitude sickness. At the cable station beside the Yulong Snow Mountain in Lijiang, there are cold-resistant clothes and oxygen packs available for rent according to your needs.
3. When riding horses or yaks for photos in Lijiang and Zhongdian areas, also pay attention to safety, follow the owner's arrangements and guidance, and avoid any actions that might scare the animals, thus preventing harm to yourself.
4. When taking photographs during the tour, please pay attention to safety and do not go to dangerous areas for photography or climbing (such as the water edges, bridges in Lijiang Ancient Town, or the cliffs of Tiger Leaping Gorge).
5. When purchasing souvenirs or local specialties, compare prices at different places. Also, avoid casually touching displayed samples to prevent accidental damage.
6. Due to Yunnan's high altitude, the oxygen content in the air is lower than in plain areas, so gasoline burns incompletely in car engines, resulting in less power compared to cars in plains areas. Moreover, Yunnan roads have many bends, so driving speed is slower, especially when climbing uphill, which will be slow. Therefore, the travel time by vehicle may be longer and more tiring.
7. Along the way between various locations, there are no public restrooms, only toilets provided by local residents accompanied by shopping venues.
8. Yunnan’s diet tends to be greasy and spicy, which some tourists may find difficult to get used to. Some may even experience diarrhea due to the change in water and soil conditions. If you have a weak stomach, please bring necessary medications. Due to the high altitude, water boils at a lower temperature, so meals may sometimes be insufficiently hot or the rice may be undercooked. Please prepare mentally, adapt to local customs, and be inclusive and accommodating towards each other.
9. Respect the local ethnic minorities and their customs. In some places, once a price is agreed upon, a purchase must be made. If you are not interested in their goods, simply ignore them.
10. Yunnan has long daylight hours and strong ultraviolet rays, especially in Dali and Lijiang, which are at high altitudes with thin air and dry climates. Avoid strenuous exercise. Please prepare well with sunscreen, lip balm, sunglasses, and emergency medicines. Drink plenty of water regularly and avoid drinking alcohol or drink less. The weather on Yulong Snow Mountain is cold all year round, so bring warm clothes.
11. Yunnan is a popular tourist destination, and in some scenic spots, you may need to queue up (especially during peak seasons). Please be patient.
12. As the southwestern region is home to ethnic minorities, cultural customs differ from those in inland areas. Travelers should be led by guides and respect local cultures and customs.
13. Yunnan enjoys a spring-like climate all year round, making it suitable for sightseeing tourism throughout the year. If you choose your travel time based on ethnic festivals such as the Water Splashing Festival and March Street Fair, you should also pay attention to the China Kunming International Tourism Festival held annually in Kunming from April 10 to May 10. In recent years, traveling during traditional festivals and public holidays has become very popular, but try to avoid peak periods to enjoy a more comfortable travel experience.
For Yunnan travel, visit Yunnan Tourism Network www.u7cyn.com