City in Yunnan, China
Getting around Kunming
How to get around Kunming
Metro and buses are cheap and cover most visitor areas. High-speed trains run to Dali, Lijiang, Mile and Honghe; flights reach Shangri-La and Xishuangbanna.
Ways to get around Kunming
| Option | Fare | Good to know |
|---|---|---|
| Kunming Metro | 2–8 CNY | Lines 1 to 6; scan Alipay or WeChat QR at the gate |
| City bus | 1–2 CNY | Dense network; use Amap to plan |
| DiDi | About 12–22 CNY for short trips | Cheaper and easier than street taxis |
| High-speed train | Check 12306 | Kunming South station for Dali, Lijiang and onward |
Ride-hailing apps in Kunming
A 5 km ride costs about ¥12–22 ($1.8–3.3).
| App | Notes |
|---|---|
| DiDi | Works via Alipay; most reliable option |
- Taxis are metered and mostly honest; DiDi is cheaper. Avoid unlicensed drivers at the airport and stations.
Arriving in Kunming
Kunming Changshui International (KMG)
Metro Line 6 runs to the center in roughly 40–60 min; taxi or DiDi about 90–130 CNY, 40–60 min.
Driving and onward travel
- Scooters: Hardly any tourist rentals; use metro, bus or DiDi.
- Driving: on the right. IDPs aren't recognised. Visitors need a temporary Chinese driving permit (up to 90 days) or a Chinese licence.
- Onward travel in China: High-speed trains link nearly every big city, often faster than flying; book with a passport on 12306 or Trip.com. Cheap domestic flights and sleeper trains cover long distances.
Quick answers
Is there Uber in Kunming?
No. Use DiDi instead.
What's the best way to get around Kunming?
Metro and buses are cheap and cover most visitor areas. High-speed trains run to Dali, Lijiang, Mile and Honghe; flights reach Shangri-La and Xishuangbanna.
How do I get from the airport to Kunming?
Metro Line 6 runs to the center in roughly 40–60 min; taxi or DiDi about 90–130 CNY, 40–60 min.
Is Kunming walkable?
Walkable center.
More about Kunming
Going to Kunming solo?
SoloSquare is where travelers, nomads and locals in Kunming meet up for small plans: coffee, dinners, walks and day trips. Join one, or start your own in a minute.
Sources
Fares are typical 2026 prices; check the operator for today's fares. Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.