If you’re visiting Kunming, don’t miss the chance to walk through Yunnan University, a prestigious institution with over 100 years of history. The campus, a stunning blend of Western elegance and traditional Chinese charm, was also featured in the film The Sun Also Rises (太阳照常升起), making it a cinematic spot full of visual appeal. Every step offers a new view, surrounded by historical buildings and natural beauty. As you wander the grounds, you can almost feel the passage of time and the weight of history. From the iconic Bell Tower to the ancient Gong Hall, every corner has a story to tell.
Admission & Transportation
Entry Requirements: Visitors need to book in advance through the university’s official WeChat account “Ping’an Yunda” (平安云大). If you don’t have a reservation, you can enter using your ID card.
Transportation:
- Bus: Take bus route 1 and get off at the Yunnan University Cuihu North Road stop (云南大学翠湖北路站).
- Subway: Take Line 5 to Huashan West Road Station (华山西路站), and from there, it’s about a 1.2-kilometer walk to the university.
Visiting Hours:
- Morning: 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM
- Afternoon: 2:30 PM to 5:00 PM
Key Campus Attractions
Longmen Path: Once you enter from the South Gate, you’ll be greeted by Longmen Path (Dragon Gate Path). This path has 95 steps, symbolizing the idea of “a fish leaping over the dragon’s gate” (鱼跃龙门), signifying success and progression. Statues of mythical creatures called “xiezhi” (獬豸) on either side of the stairs represent justice and fairness.
The Bell Tower : A signature landmark of Yunnan University, the Bell Tower stands 30 meters high with seven floors. It was originally a water tower but has since been converted into the campus clock tower, a picturesque spot for visitors.
Ginkgo Avenue & Begonia Garden: During March, the Begonia Garden (海棠圃) blooms with vibrant flowers, creating a breathtaking sight. In autumn, Ginkgo Avenue (银杏道) becomes one of the most beautiful spots on campus, with golden leaves lining the walkway.
Huize Pavilion: The Huize Pavilion (会泽院) is one of Yunnan University’s most iconic buildings. During the War of Resistance Against Japan, the building was hit twice but still stands strong today. Its design is a mix of Western and Chinese elements, modeled after the main building of the University of Paris but featuring traditional Chinese architectural details.
Bronze Cannon: Located to the west of Huize Pavilion, this bronze cannon dates back to the Sino-French War. It’s a fascinating relic that speaks to Yunnan’s historical role in past conflicts.
Former Residences of Xiong Qinglai and Li Guangtian: These yellow Western-style villas are well-preserved artifacts from the wartime period. They once housed Xiong Qinglai (熊庆来), a mathematician and educator, and Li Guangtian (李广田), a renowned writer and professor.
Zhigong Hall: Once part of the ancient Yunnan Imperial Examination Academy, Zhigong Hall (至公堂) is now a historic site where the renowned scholar Wen Yiduo (闻一多) gave his final lecture before his tragic death. It’s an emotionally powerful place to visit for those interested in China’s academic and political history.
Yunnan’s First Astronomy Point: This stone marker is a scientifically and historically significant artifact. It marks the earliest and most accurate geodetic point in Kunming, established during China’s first modern cartography efforts. This rare scientific relic adds to the rich history of the university.
Souvenir Stamps: Collectible Campus Marks
If you’re a fan of collecting stamps, Yunnan University (云南大学) offers several locations where you can get your campus stamp.
📍 Yunnan University Cultural Store (North Gate) (云南大学文化店北门)
- Hours: 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM
- Available stamps: 13 designs
📍 Donglu Bookstore (Library) (东陆书吧图书馆)
- Over 70 different stamps available, including 8 color-stamp sets.
📍 Yunnan University Cultural Store (Huize Pavilion Gate) (云南大学文化店会泽院门口)
- Around 20 different stamps available for collectors.