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Guide
Kunming, China π¨π³
#37
,
Nomad Score:
62%
Essentials
ποΈ City | Kunming is the capital of Yunnan Province in China, known as the 'Spring City' for its pleasant weather year-round. |
π₯ Population | Approximate population is around 7 million. |
π» Internet Speed | Average internet speed is approximately 50 Mbps. |
πΈ Currency & Banking | Currency is Chinese Yuan (CNY). 1 USD β 6.4 CNY. |
π° Tap Water | Tap water is not recommended for drinking; bottled water is widely available. |
π Power | Electricity supply is 220V, 50Hz. Sockets are Type A, C, and I. |
πΆ SIM Card | Major providers include China Mobile, China Unicom, and China Telecom. |
π³ Banking for Expats | International credit cards are accepted at many establishments, but cash is often preferred. |
π Accommodation | Options include hotels, hostels, and serviced apartments, widely available through platforms like Airbnb. |
π³ Cashless Friendly | Yes, mobile payment apps like WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely accepted. |
π Short Term Rentals | Airbnb and local rental agencies are prevalent for short-term stays. |
ποΈ Budget Accommodation | Budget hostels like Kunming Cloudland International Youth Hostel offer dormitory and private rooms. |
ποΈ Best Area to Stay for Tourists | The area around Green Lake (Cui Hu) is popular with tourists for its beauty and accessibility. |
ποΈ Best Area to Stay for Digital Nomads | Areas like Nanping Street offer vibrant cafes and coworking spaces. |
Working and Networking
π’ Best Coworking Space | Cloud Coworking Space is a popular spot for remote workers. |
β Best Cafe for Work | Cafe Gusto offers a relaxed environment and good Wi-Fi for working. |
πΌ Networking Events | Meetups are organized through platforms like Meetup and local expat groups on WeChat. |
π₯ Social Events for Expats | Expat communities often gather at venues like The Box for social events and gatherings. |
Transportation
π Best Taxi/Ride App | Didi is the most popular ride-hailing app in Kunming. |
π² Bike/Scooter Rental | Ofo and Mobike provide bike rental services throughout the city. |
ποΈ Best Beach Nearby | There are no beaches nearby; however, the nearest popular lake is Dian Lake, about 30 minutes by car. |
βοΈ Top Regional Airline | China Eastern Airlines is the primary carrier in the region. |
βοΈ Top International Airline | Air China connects Kunming internationally to various cities. |
π£οΈ Highway Access | The G56 expressway connects Kunming to various regional cities. |
π Main Train/Transit Hub | Kunming Railway Station is the main transit hub, connecting to high-speed rail networks. |
π Public Transport Passes | Public transport cards can be used for buses and metro services. |
βοΈ Regional Travel | Trains and buses connect Kunming to nearby cities like Dali and Lijiang. |
Health and Wellness
π₯ Best Hospital | The First People's Hospital of Kunming is one of the top healthcare facilities in the city. |
π§ Yoga & Wellness Centers | Yin Yoga Studio offers classes in a serene environment. |
ποΈ Gyms & Fitness Centers | Basic-Fit and other local gyms offer various fitness facilities. |
π§Ί Laundry Services | Laundromats like Clean & Go are available for laundry services. |
Food and Drink
π± Best Food Delivery App | Ele.me and Meituan are the top food delivery services in Kunming. |
π½οΈ Best Local Dish to Try | Try 'Crossing the Bridge Noodles' for a local specialty. |
π± Vegan/Vegetarian Options | Vegetarian restaurants like Gan Eden offer diverse menus. |
π« Best Dessert Spots | Lianliancakes is popular for sweet treats. |
π Affordable Shopping Spots | The Dynamic Yunnan province market is great for budget shopping. |
π E-commerce/Online Store | JD.com and Taobao are prominent online marketplaces. |
π Grocery Delivery | Fruit and vegetable delivery services are available through local apps. |
πΈ Bar/Nightlife Area | The Old Quarter offers vibrant nightlife with bars and clubs. |
π» Local Brewery | Yunnan Beer is a popular local brand in Kunming. |
π· Wine Bars | Winespace offers a fine selection of wines in a cozy atmosphere. |
π² Street Food Stalls | Popular street food options can be found in the night markets. |
π Popular International Cuisine | Restaurants like The Italian Job serve various international dishes. |
Culture and Attractions
ποΈ Must-See Landmarks | The Stone Forest (Shilin) is a UNESCO World Heritage site near Kunming. |
ποΈ Museums & Art Venues | Yunnan Provincial Museum showcases the rich culture of the region. |
π° Historical Sites | Take a visit to the famous Green Lake Park and its historic pavilions. |
π Religious Sites | The Yuantong Temple is a significant landmark in Kunming. |
π Annual Events | The Kunming International Flower Expo is a notable annual event. |
π¨ Cultural Districts | The Old City area offers rich cultural experiences. |
π Theater Venues | Kunming Theatre hosts various performances throughout the year. |
ποΈ Local Markets | Kunming Night Market is famous for local crafts and food. |
πΌ Music Scene | The lively bar scene around Dongfeng Square has live music frequently. |
π¨ Street Art | Check out the mural art in the Jinbi Square area. |
π§βπ³ Cooking Classes | Have a culinary experience at the Yunnan Cooking School. |
π©βπ¨ Art Galleries | The Orange Gallery features local artists' works. |
π°οΈ Historic Buildings | Visit the historic buildings around the Green Lake area. |
π΄ Local Heritage | The local Bai and Yi cultures are significant to Yunnan heritage. |
Nature and Outdoor Activities
π Nearby Nature Escapes | Dianchi Lake offers various outdoor activities and scenic spots. |
ποΈ National Parks Nearby | The Lake Erhai Scenic Area is about 3 hours away and features stunning views. |
π² Cycling/Walking Paths | Kunming has various dedicated cycling paths along the Green Lake. |
π Scenic Viewpoints | Kunming Flower Park has beautiful gardens and viewpoints. |
π¦ Birdwatching Locations | The Dian Lake area is popular for birdwatching, especially migratory birds. |
π₯ Bonfire-Friendly Spots | Dianchi Lake has designated areas for bonfires. |
Other Services and Amenities
π¦ Parcel Delivery Service | SF Express and ZTO provide reliable delivery services. |
π οΈ Tech Repair Services | Kunming Tech Repair can fix various electronics. |
π Table Tennis Spots | Public parks often have tables available for ping pong. |
π§βπ« Language Classes | Language schools like Kunming Language Academy offer courses. |
π Libraries & Study Spots | The Kunming Library is a quiet place for study. |
ποΈ Community Centers | The Kunming Expat Community Center hosts events and resources for foreigners. |
πΉοΈ Gaming Lounges | Various gaming lounges are available in shopping centers. |
π° Casino & Gaming Halls | There are no formal casinos in Kunming; however, private gaming lounges exist. |
Business
π’ Studio Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. Β₯30,000 per mΒ² (e.g., 40 mΒ² = Β₯1,200,000). |
π’ Studio Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. Β₯20,000 per mΒ² (e.g., 40 mΒ² = Β₯800,000). |
π 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. Β₯28,000 per mΒ² (e.g., 60 mΒ² = Β₯1,680,000). |
π 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. Β₯18,000 per mΒ² (e.g., 60 mΒ² = Β₯1,080,000). |
π‘ 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. Β₯25,000 per mΒ² (e.g., 80 mΒ² = Β₯2,000,000). |
π‘ 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. Β₯15,000 per mΒ² (e.g., 80 mΒ² = Β₯1,200,000). |
πΌ Corporate Tax | 25% corporate tax rate applies. |
π΅ Dividend Withholding Tax | 10% withholding tax on dividends applies. |
π¦ Tax System | China has a progressive tax system based on residency status. |
π Highest Income Tax Bracket | 45% for individuals in the highest bracket. |
π§Ύ VAT | Standard VAT rate is 13%. |
π Controlled Foreign Company (CFC) Rules | Yes, China has regulations regarding foreign subsidiary income. |
π Property Tax | A property tax is levied based on the value of the property. |
π Property Transaction Tax | Around 3% on property purchases. |
π» Attractive Tax System for Digital Nomads | No special tax regime exists for digital nomads in Kunming. |