When we signed up for the Wulong “Tai Chi in Paradise” tour, we imagined serenity, sweeping landscapes, and the benefits of daily taichi practice. We got all that—and a whole lot more! Fourteen days through Yunnan Province, from Kunming to Xishuangbanna, was a journey rich in beauty, culture, and the art of rolling with the unexpected.
Day 1: Touchdown in Kunming
We arrived in Kunming blinking through jet lag and clutching our travel documents like talismans. The airport pickup was smooth, the hotel welcoming, and the group already bonding over shared confusion. A promising start!
Tai Chi with Professor Lily Sun
Next morning and every day, we gathered for Tai Chi and Qigong under open skies. Professor Lily Sun led with her usual expertise, gently correcting our stances and reminding us to breathe. It was grounding, relaxing, and occasionally hilarious—especially if the scenary was too distracting!
A UNIQUE BANQUET EVERYDAY
We discovered Professor Lily—not only our Tai Chi master—but also our is an excellent culinary guide. At each restaurant, she presided over the menu selection, ensuring we didn’t just eat well, but experienced Yunnan through flavour. Meals were cultural deep dives. We learned the stories behind the dishes, the traditions that shaped them, and the accompanying etiquette.
Days 2–3: Stone Forest, Lijiang & Snow-Capped Wonder
The Stone Forest was otherworldly—like nature’s attempt at abstract sculpture. Lijiang’s cobbled streets charmed, and Jade Dragon Snow Mountain left us breathless. Blue Moon Valley was so tranquil, we whispered without meaning to.
Days 4–7: Shangri-La, Tiger Leaping Gorge & Lugu Lake
Shangri-La felt like stepping into a Tibetan dream. Tiger Leaping Gorge was dramatic enough to silence even our most chatty group members. At Lugu Lake, we learned about the Mosuo people’s matrilineal society and briefly considered staying forever. The sunrise there was worth every early alarm.
Days 8–9: Dali’s Lakeside Charm
Dali offered a mix of ancient town charm and lakeside serenity. The jeep tour around Erhai Lake was a highlight—especially when ……. navigating winding mountain roads. Santorini Bay was a surprise, and Dali Old Town gave us our best souvenir haul.
Days 10–12: Xishuangbanna’s Tropical Heart
Xishuangbanna was lush, vibrant, and full of surprises. We saw elephants, released peacocks, and got thoroughly soaked during the Dai Water Splashing Festival. It was joyful chaos, and we loved every minute.
Days 13–14: The Long Ride Home
The high-speed train back to Kunming gave us time to reflect. We were tired, yes—but also full. Full of stories, laughter, and a few sore muscles. We come for Tai Chi and tranquillity, and left with a deeper connection to China’s landscapes, cultures, taichi and each other.
Final Thoughts
This wasn’t just a tour—it was a expedition! One that asked us to be present, flexible, and open to the unfamiliar. We’re grateful to Professor Lily Sun for leading our jouney into this glorious part of China, and to each other for making it unforgettable. An we look forward to our next journey together!
