Travel in China
Kunming Old Street is compact enough for two or three unhurried hours. Come by metro while the small museums are open, browse the lanes through the afternoon, then stay for dinner as the lanterns light up and the evening crowd drifts next door to Nanping Street.
Suggested Itinerary
- Arrive by Metro
Take Metro Line 5 to Wuyi Road Station and use Exit C; the Wenming Street archway is about a five-minute walk. - Explore the Lanes
Wander Wenming, Guanghua and Yongdao Streets, and visit the Ma Family Courtyard and Nie Er's Former Home (closes 16:30). - Stay for Evening
Order crossing-the-bridge rice noodles at an old-brand kitchen, then stroll the lantern-lit lanes into Nanping Street.
What to See
Wenming Street Archway
The stone gateway that gives the historic block its name and its signature photo.
Ma Family Courtyard
The best-preserved old mansion in the quarter, all carved timber screens and shady courtyards.
Nie Er's Former Home
A small memorial house on Yongdao Street for the composer of 'March of the Volunteers'.
Guanghua Street
The former antique-and-apothecary street, still lined with old shopfronts and curios.
Yongdao Street
A narrow lane of craft stalls and period facades leading to Nie Er's home.
Night-Time Lanterns
The lanes after dark, when red lanterns reflect off the flagstones and the crowd spills toward Nanping Street.
Photo Gallery
Tips from Real Travelers
Food & Drink
Local restaurants
Nearby dining options.
Street food
Local snack stalls.
Cafes
Coffee and light meals.
Regional specialities
Try the local cuisine.
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