Jiaozi Snow Mountain
Jiaozi Mountain Scenic Area is located about 150 kilometers (2.5 hours drive) from Kunming. Jiaozi Snow Mountain (轿子雪山) at an altitude over 4200 meters is the closest low-latitude, high-altitude seasonal snow mountain winter holiday destination from Southeast Asia where the mountain is covered with pure white snow from late November to March. The scenic area is rich in tourism resources with unique geological and landforms. It is famous for its sea of rhododendrons, virgin forests, alpine lakes, sea of clouds, Buddha light, and stunning landscapes of rime, ice and snow.
Spectacular Landscape
Jiaozi Snow Mountain soars over 4,200 meters above sea level, making it one of the tallest peaks in Yunnan. This majestic beauty offers a tapestry of natural wonders that will leave you in awe. From the majestic glaciers and snow-capped peaks to the crystal-clear alpine lakes and cascading waterfalls, this mountain range is a photographer’s dream come true.
Ethnic Minority Tribes
Jiaozi Mountain is a multi-ethnic gathering place. The area gathers 7 ethnic minorities: Yi, Miao, Hui, Lisu, Dai, Zhuang and Hani in the form of "large mixed settlements and small settlements". Most of them live together in clans with different surnames. All ethnic groups are united, help each other, respect and love each other, and are spiritually dependent on each other.
The local residents of Zhuanlong, dressed in colorful ethnic costumes, spontaneously went in groups, sang cheerful Yi songs, dancing gracefully around the blazing bonfire, with foreign guests from afar.
Winter Fairy Tale
Every year in November, Jiaozi Mountain begins to change its color. There is no need to travel thousands of miles to see the rime wonders. Starting from December, the waterfalls in Jiaozi Mountain begin to change form, from liquid to solid, thus forming a magnificent group of ice waterfalls. Snow up to 2 meters deep covers the mountain, turning it into a winter fairy tale. The water turns to a clear ice river and all the trees and flowers are covered by pure white snow.
Mesmerizing Icefalls & Waterfalls
The icefalls and waterfalls at Jiaozi Snow Mountain are a sight to behold. During winter, the magic of Jiaozi Snow Mountain intensifies when the waterfalls transform into breathtaking icefalls. These spectacular frozen formations create a fairytale landscape that is a photographer's dream. Seen from afar, the icefalls are like white marble sculptures which will take away your breath.
During spring, these icefalls melt becoming waterfalls and the sound of water cascading down rocky cliffs fills the air, creating an atmosphere of serenity.
The falls can be found at an altitude of between 2,500 and 4,000 meters including the Double Waterfalls at the Heroes' Slope, Sisters Waterfall, Flower Stream Waterfall, Lotus Waterfall, and Flown-over Waterfall.
Serene Mountain Lakes
The stunning mountain lakes of Jiaozi Snow Mountain not only enhance the picturesque landscape but also provide spaces for reflection and tranquility. The water of the mountain lakes are very clear, with the mountain reflected in it, forming quiet and beautiful scenery.
Heavenly Pond
Heavenly Pond (Tian Chi) is a jewel amid the mountains at an elevation of 4,150m. Picture a crystal-clear lake ringed by rocks and surrounded by towering cliffs. Viewed by the Yi people as a holy place, the pond bottom drops off to an astonishing 200 meters in some spots.
Mubang Lake
Next on our lakes tour is Mubang Lake, famous for its deep azure waters. Many locals regard this lake as spiritually significant, often drawing visitors for meditation and quiet reflection. Picnic spots scattered around the shoreline allow you to take in the breathtaking views while enjoying local delicacies.
Spirit Pond
As we continue our exploration, Spirit Pond awaits with its captivating charm. Often regarded as sacred, this pond is enveloped by rare plants native to the region. The reflective surface perfectly mirrors the surrounding landscapes, offering an excellent canvas for budding photographers. As the sun reaches the horizon, the stunning colors of the sky blend beautifully with the water, creating a mesmerizing spectacle.
Heroes' Pond
History meets nature at Heroes' Pond (Yingxiong Chi). According to local lore, this area served as a resting place for ancient warriors. Visitors can explore and learn about the legends surrounding the pond while enjoying its tranquil beauty. The lush surroundings create a calming atmosphere conducive to leisurely strolls or quiet contemplation.
Palanquin Curtain Lake
Finally, do not miss Palanquin Curtain Lake (Yunzhang Chi). This picturesque body of water is often celebrated for its dreamlike beauty, with snow-capped peaks serving as a stunning backdrop. The shape of the lake resembles a flowing curtain, captivating visitors at every glance. It is a superb spot for picnics, where you can unwind and breathe in the fresh mountain air. According to local legend, this lake is home to a dragon, adding an air of mystique to its already captivating beauty.
Sunrise Summit Hiking
Embark on an overnight adventure with an early morning hike to watch the sunrise from the summit of Jiaozi Snow Mountain. Start the overnight tour from Kunming city in the evening and arriving at Hejia Village to check into the hotel
After an early breakfast, start hiking to the summit around 3:30 AM to catch the sunrise. The 8 kilometer hike with an elevation increase of 650 meters will take about 3 hours.
After enjoying the sunrise at the summit at over 4,200 meters above sea level, take the cable car to descend down and continue a scenic tour of the mountain. Enjoy a local lunch before heading back to Kunming.
Ski/Snowboard & Snow Play
The Jiaozi Mountain International Ski Resort which was recently opened in 2023 is the only ski slope in Yunnan. Please note that this is a small slope with magic carpet for beginners.
Accommodation
There are several hotels on the mountain including the Jiaozi Mountain Villa (currently closed for renovations) and in Hejia Village. At the foot of the mountain, you can stay in Zhuanlong Town, about 40 kilometers south of Jiaozi Mountain Scenic Area.
Hejia Village
Hejia Village is located inside Jiaozi Snow Mountain Scenic Area, around 5 kilometers from the entrance. It is a short 5 minute walk to the Xinshan Pass Cableway and about 1.5 kilometers to Jiaozi Snow Mountain Ski Resort.
Zhuanlong Town
Travel Advice
The temperature on the mountain fluctuates extremely between day and night and due to the rise of elevation on the mountain. It may be sunny during the daytime and at the foot of the mountain, but windy and cold at night or on mountain top. You are advised to prepare enough clothes. In addition, you should apply moisturizer and sunscreen cream for your exposed skin, and wear a pair of sunglasses in winter because the snow is quite dazzling.
Climbing the Jiaozi Snow Mountain is energy-consuming, so you need to take enough food and water.
To climb the undeveloped mountain areas, you’d better hire a local guide who is familiar with the environment.
Anyone planning to climb a mountain over 4,000 meters in Yunnan should be aware of altitude sickness and know the warning signs. Travelers climbing Jiaozi Snow Mountain who have not previously acclimated should spend at least an extra day at or below 3,000 meters getting used to Yunnan's elevation.
Getting to Kunming
There are many direct flights to Kunming from Southeast Asia. It takes only 2 hours from Bangkok, Thailand and 4 hours from Singapore and Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Check out the International direct flight to Kunming.
Book Tours
We provide single day and multi-day private tour packages from Kunming with multi-lingual tour guides to Jiaozi Snow Mountain.