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Stone Forest in Kunming, Yunnan, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring 270-million-year-old karst formations. Known as the "First Wonder of the World," its towering limestone pillars, ethnic Yi culture, and iconic "Ashima" legend attract millions. A must-see for geology enthusiasts and photographers.
Discover Kunming's rich cultural heritage and natural wonders through official travel resources. Explore historic sites like the Optics History Museum, Jiuxiang Caves, and Jiaozi Mountain, alongside local cuisine and modern attractions like Kunming Joy City.
Yunnan Provincial Museum (云南省博物馆), Kunming's flagship cultural institution, showcases 230,000+ artifacts spanning 530 million years of history. Highlights include Dian Kingdom bronzes, Dali Buddhist relics, and ethnic minority treasures. Free entry, architecturally inspired by Stone Forest formations.
Jiuxiang Caves (九乡溶洞), part of the UNESCO-listed South China Karst World Heritage Site in Yunnan, features a famous karst cave system with over 100 caverns formed over hundreds of millions of years. Highlights include the 30-meter-tall Twin Waterfalls, blind fish species, and the thrilling Soul-Startling Gorge. It is a must-visit destination often paired with the nearby Stone Forest.
The Stone Forest in Kunming, Yunnan, spans 400 km² with 350 km² protected. Formed 270 million years ago, these karst formations resulted from tectonic shifts dissolving ancient seabed limestone into jagged pillars (20–50m tall). Unique "multi-phase evolution" created sword-like, mushroom-shaped, and pagoda-style rock clusters—unmatched globally for diversity.
Major & Minor Stone Forests
Naigu Stone Forest: Black basalt-covered formations contrast with white limestone.
Underground Marvels: Zhiyun Cave and Qifeng Cave showcase stalactites and subterranean rivers.
The Yi ethnic group (Sani branch) has inhabited the area for 2,000 years. Their traditions—Torch Festival, folk song "Faraway Guests Please Stay"—are woven into tours. UNESCO notes this as rare harmony between geology and living culture.
Pro Tip: Combine with Dianchi Lake (1-hour drive) for a full-day itinerary.
