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Kun Ming
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Kunming, the capital of Yunnan Province, is known as the City of Eternal Spring and the City of Flowers. It is a key city in western China and China’s regional hub facing South and Southeast Asia.
Located on the Yunnan-Guizhou Plateau at an average elevation of 1,891 meters, Kunming enjoys a mild climate with an annual average temperature of 15.5°C. Surrounded by mountains and facing Dianchi Lake, the city is known for its year-round flowers and pleasant weather.
With over 30,000 years of human activity and more than 3,000 years of civilization around Dianchi Lake, Kunming is one of China’s National Famous Historical and Cultural Cities. Today, it combines ancient Dian culture, the traditions of 26 ethnic groups, and modern urban development.
As an international transportation hub and regional medical center, Kunming provides healthcare services for patients from China, South Asia, and Southeast Asia.
We noticed that countless international patients urgently need a trustworthy local team who truly understands China’s medical system. Therefore, we gathered professional medical talents, rooted in China’s medical industry, and built JoyfulMedical. We are not a cold intermediary; we are the bridge between global patients and China’s high-quality medical resources.
8.687
Permanent resident population(million)
21,012
Administrative area(square kilometers)
0.8275
Total GDP (trillion/RMB)
14
Municipal districts
- Local core medical strengths
A Regional Medical Hub for South & Southeast Asia
Kunming is Yunnan Province’s major medical center and an international healthcare hub serving South and Southeast Asia.
By the end of 2024, the city had 46 tertiary hospitals, including 19 Grade III, Class A hospitals, with 69,893 hospital beds and 107,839 health technicians.
Three national regional medical centers specializing in cardiovascular disease, respiratory disease, and oncology have been established in Kunming.
The city’s medical strengths include international healthcare services, ethnic medicine, high-altitude medicine, and the utilization of Yunnan’s rich medicinal plant resources.
19
Grade II-A hospitals
69,893
Hospital beds
107,839
Health technicians
3
National regional medical centers
International Medical Hub for South & Southeast Asia
Cross-Border Healthcare / International Medical Services
Kunming is developing into an international medical hub serving South and Southeast Asia.
Several major hospitals have established international medical departments to serve patients from Laos, Myanmar, Vietnam, Cambodia, Bangladesh, Nepal, and other countries.
The First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University has treated more than 500 international patients since establishing its International Medical Department.
The Second Affiliated Hospital has held 13 international urology conferences, training more than 400 medical professionals from various countries.
Ethnic Medicine & Yunnan Medicinal Resources
Traditional Chinese Medicine / Ethnic Medicine / Medicinal Plants
Yunnan is China’s most biodiverse province, with 6,559 species of Chinese medicinal resources, accounting for 51.2% of the national total.
Its renowned medicinal materials include pseudo-ginseng, gastrodia elata, Paris polyphylla, and dendrobium.
Dai, Tibetan, and Yi medicine have been practiced for over a millennium, while Bai, Hani, and Wa medicine also offer distinctive approaches.
Yunnan Provincial Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine received an A+ grade in the 2023 national performance assessment of tertiary public TCM hospitals.
High-Altitude Medicine & Clinical Research
High-Altitude Adaptation / Clinical Research / Biopharmaceutical Innovation
Located at an elevation of approximately 1,891 meters, Kunming provides a natural environment for studying high-altitude adaptation, altitude-related diseases, and hypoxic physiology.
Kunming Medical University and its affiliated hospitals have accumulated clinical experience in high-altitude cardiovascular disease, polycythemia, sleep medicine, and sports medicine.
The city also conducts research in new TCM drug development, ethnic medicine modernization, and natural medicinal compounds.
National and provincial laboratories and clinical research centers support innovation in high-altitude medicine and biopharmaceutical development.
National Regional Medical Centers
Cardiovascular Medicine / Respiratory Medicine / Oncology
Kunming has established three national regional medical center projects through partnerships with leading medical institutions.
The cardiovascular center is being developed with Fuwai Hospital of the Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences.
The respiratory center is being developed with China-Japan Friendship Hospital, while the oncology center is being developed with Peking University Cancer Hospital.
These centers aim to improve clinical diagnosis, treatment, medical training, and research capabilities in Yunnan and neighboring regions.
- List of key medical institutions
First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University (Yunda Hospital)
Founded in 1941 as Yunda Hospital, the First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University is a comprehensive hospital integrating clinical care, teaching, research, prevention, and healthcare services.
The hospital provides medical services across a wide range of specialties, including cardiology, neurology, dermatology, and ophthalmology.
Its International Medical Department was established in August 2023 and has treated more than 500 patients from South and Southeast Asia and Europe.
- No. 295 Xichang Road, Kunming, Yunnan
Key Speclalties
Yunnan Provincial First People’s Hospital (Kunhua Hospital)
Founded in 1939, Yunnan Provincial First People’s Hospital is a comprehensive hospital affiliated with Kunming University of Science and Technology.
The hospital integrates clinical care, teaching, research, emergency rescue, and international medical services.
It operates 3,570 beds and records more than 2 million annual medical visits.
The hospital hosts Yunnan’s national emergency medical rescue team and serves as a medical technology training base for South and Southeast Asia.
- No. 157 Jinbi Road, Kunming, Yunnan
Key Speclalties
Second Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University
The Second Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University is one of China’s first accredited Grade III, Class A hospitals and a member of the International SOS network.
The hospital specializes in urology, hepatobiliary surgery, orthopedics, burn care, and cardiology.
Since 2014, its urology department has organized the Golden Bridge international urology conference and training programs, training more than 400 medical professionals.
The hospital maintains medical cooperation with more than 10 countries, including Myanmar, Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia, and Bangladesh.
- No. 374 Dianmian Avenue, Kunming, Yunnan
Key Speclalties
Yunnan Cancer Hospital
Yunnan Cancer Hospital, also known as the Third Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, is a provincial cancer specialty hospital integrating clinical care, teaching, research, and prevention.
The hospital specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of lung, breast, esophageal, liver, colorectal, gynecologic, and head-and-neck cancers.
In partnership with Peking University Cancer Hospital, it is developing a national oncology regional medical center to improve cancer treatment, research, and medical training.
- No. 519 Kunzhou Road, Kunming, Yunnan
Yunnan Provincial Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine
Yunnan Provincial Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine is the First Affiliated Hospital of Yunnan University of Chinese Medicine.
The hospital integrates clinical care, teaching, research, prevention, and rehabilitation, with expertise in ethnic medicine and the clinical application of Yunnan’s medicinal materials.
It received an A+ grade in the 2023 national performance assessment of tertiary public TCM hospitals.
Its clinical services include acupuncture, rheumatology, orthopedics, dermatology, chronic disease management, and rehabilitation.
- No. 120 Guanghua Street, Kunming, Yunnan
Key Speclalties
No. 920 Hospital of the PLA Joint Logistics Support Force
Formerly the Kunming General Hospital of the Chengdu Military Region, the No. 920 Hospital is a comprehensive military hospital with more than 70 years of history.
The hospital provides medical services in orthopedics, cardiology, neurosurgery, traditional Chinese medicine, anesthesiology, and vascular surgery.
It operates the PLA’s Spinal Cord Injury Treatment Center and provides trauma emergency care, spinal cord injury rehabilitation, and cardiovascular intervention.
The hospital serves both military personnel and civilian patients.
- No. 212 Daguan Road, Kunming, Yunnan
Key Speclalties
- Local cultural characteristics
Kunming’s Cultural Heritage & Ethnic Diversity
Kunming is one of China’s National Famous Historical and Cultural Cities, with over 30,000 years of human activity and more than 3,000 years of civilization around Dianchi Lake.
The city was the cradle of the ancient Dian Kingdom’s bronze culture, an important town on the Ancient Tea-Horse Road, and home to the National Southwestern Associated University during the War of Resistance.
Kunming brings together the traditions of 26 ethnic groups, including distinctive costumes, festivals, music, dance, cuisine, and medicinal practices.
From the Sani people’s Ashima legend to traditional ethnic architecture and Pu’er tea culture, Kunming reflects Yunnan’s diverse cultural heritage.
Yunnan Ethnic Village
Located on the shores of Dianchi Lake, Yunnan Ethnic Village showcases the traditional architecture, music, dance, festivals, and customs of Yunnan’s 26 ethnic groups.
Distinctive structures include the Dai white pagoda, Yi solar calendar pillar, and Bai traditional courtyard houses.
The village offers visitors an opportunity to experience Yunnan’s diverse ethnic cultures in one destination.
Crossing-Bridge Rice Noodles
Crossing-bridge rice noodles originated in Mengzi and became popular in Kunming, with a history of more than a century.
The dish features piping-hot chicken broth covered with a layer of goose fat, into which fresh meat, fish, vegetables, and rice noodles are added.
Its preparation technique was inscribed on China’s National Intangible Cultural Heritage list in 2014.
Pu’er Tea Culture
Yunnan is the original home of the tea plant, and Pu’er tea was historically traded along the Ancient Tea-Horse Road.
Available as raw or ripe tea, Pu’er is known for its mellow taste and distinctive aging characteristics.
Kunming is an important center for Pu’er tea processing, storage, and trading, with tea appreciation forming part of the city’s leisure culture.
Dongba Culture
Dongba culture is a distinctive cultural tradition of the Naxi people.
Its pictographic writing system is recognized by UNESCO’s Memory of the World Register.
Dongba scriptures, dances, paintings, and traditional ceremonies form an important part of Yunnan’s ethnic cultural heritage.
Kunming Spirit
Spring nurtures all things represents Kunming’s openness and inclusiveness, while silently nourishing all embodies its gentle and modest character.
Together, these values reflect the city’s welcoming spirit and cultural identity.
- Famous tourist attractions
Stone Forest
Stone Forest is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Global Geopark featuring 270-million-year-old karst formations.
Its distinctive limestone pillars create a spectacular natural landscape.
The scenic area is also the legendary homeland of Ashima, a cultural figure of the Sani people.
Dianchi Lake
Dianchi Lake is Yunnan’s largest highland freshwater lake, covering approximately 300 square kilometers.
Known as the Pearl of the Plateau, it is one of Kunming’s most recognizable natural landmarks.
From November to March, tens of thousands of red-billed gulls gather around the lake.
Cuihu Park
Cuihu Park is a scenic urban park located in central Kunming.
During winter, red-billed gulls gather around its lake, attracting visitors who come to enjoy the natural scenery.
Nearby historic landmarks include Yunnan University and the Yunnan Military Academy.
Yunnan Ethnic Village
Located beside Dianchi Lake, Yunnan Ethnic Village is a cultural theme park showcasing the traditions of Yunnan’s 26 ethnic groups.
The park features traditional village architecture, ethnic performances, and cultural festivals.
Visitors can experience the region’s diverse customs and cultural heritage.
Western Hills & Dragon Gate
Western Hills is a forest park located west of Kunming, offering panoramic views of Dianchi Lake.
Its famous Dragon Gate grottoes are carved into steep cliffs overlooking the lake.
The mountain’s distinctive silhouette is known as the Sleeping Beauty.
Guandu Ancient Town
Guandu Ancient Town is a historic cultural district in Kunming, featuring traditional architecture and local street culture.
Notable landmarks include the Vajra Pagoda of Miaozhan Temple and other ancient buildings.
The town is a popular destination for exploring old Kunming and tasting traditional local snacks.
- Distinctive local cuisine
Crossing-Bridge Rice Noodles & Yunnan’s Traditional Cuisine
Crossing-bridge rice noodles are Yunnan’s most iconic dish, originating in Mengzi and becoming popular in Kunming over more than a century.
An authentic serving features piping-hot chicken broth covered with a layer of goose fat to retain heat.
Diners add thin slices of meat, fish, quail eggs, fresh vegetables, and rice noodles to the broth.
The dish reflects Yunnan’s abundant natural ingredients and distinctive culinary traditions.
In 2014, the preparation technique of crossing-bridge rice noodles was inscribed on China’s National Intangible Cultural Heritage list.
Steam Pot Chicken
Steam pot chicken is a classic Yunnan dish prepared in a traditional Jianshui purple clay steam pot.
Steam rises through a central vent and condenses into a naturally rich chicken broth without adding water.
The dish is known for its tender meat and delicate flavor.
Wild Mushrooms
Yunnan is known for its exceptional diversity of wild mushrooms.
During the rainy season from June to September, varieties such as boletes, termite mushrooms, ganba mushrooms, and matsutake are widely available.
They are commonly stir-fried or stewed for their rich umami flavor.
Flower Cakes
Flower cakes are traditional Yunnan pastries filled with locally grown edible rose petals.
Their flaky crust and delicate floral aroma make them a popular local snack.
They are also among Kunming’s most popular souvenirs.
Xuanwei Ham
Xuanwei ham is one of China's three most famous traditional hams, alongside Jinhua and Anfu ham. Known for its thin skin, rich meat, and intense aroma, it can be steamed, stir-fried, or used in soups.
Crossing-Bridge Rice Noodles
A century-old Yunnan classic featuring fresh ingredients cooked at the table in steaming chicken broth. The dish combines meat, vegetables, and rice noodles, reflecting the abundance of Yunnan's natural ingredients.
- Urban transportation options
Kunming’s Integrated Transportation Network
Kunming has developed a comprehensive transportation network comprising metro, public buses, aviation, and high-speed rail.
As an international gateway to South and Southeast Asia, the city provides convenient transportation connections within Yunnan, across China, and to neighboring countries.
Metro
By the end of 2025, Kunming operated 6 metro lines spanning 165.85 kilometers, with 103 stations, including 10 interchange stations.
The network connects the city’s main urban districts and provides transfers to Kunming Changshui International Airport and major railway stations.
In 2025, annual metro ridership reached approximately 299 million passengers, averaging 818,000 passengers per day.
6 Lines / 165.85 km of Operating Metro Network
Aviation Hub
Kunming Changshui International Airport is China’s international gateway to South and Southeast Asia.
In 2025, the airport handled approximately 49.69 million passengers, reaching a record annual passenger volume.
Its international network includes 26 passenger destinations in South and Southeast Asia.
The airport’s Terminal 2 is under planning, with a long-term annual passenger capacity of 120 million.
Kunming Changshui International Airport / International & Domestic Flights
Public Bus
Kunming operates a comprehensive public bus network with 814 routes and 7,037 buses.
The system carries approximately 970,000 passengers daily, with a 95.14% connection rate between metro stations and bus services.
Special services include free seagull-watching routes, campus shuttles, and responsive bus routes.
814 Bus Routes / Extensive Citywide Coverage
High-Speed Rail
Kunming’s major railway hubs include Kunming Station and Kunming South Station.
The city’s railway network connects the Shanghai-Kunming High-Speed Railway, Nanning-Kunming Railway, and China-Laos Railway.
Kunming South Station is one of Southwest China’s largest high-speed railway hubs.
High-speed rail services connect Kunming with Shanghai in approximately 11 hours, while the China-Laos Railway provides same-day travel between Kunming and Vientiane.
Kunming South Railway Station / Direct High-Speed Rail Connections
Subway Travel Tips
Kunming’s metro network connects major urban districts, Kunming Changshui International Airport, and railway stations.
The network operates 6 lines with 103 stations, including 10 interchange stations, providing convenient transportation across the city.
6
operating lines
103
stations
165.85
kilometers of operating mileage
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