Understand
Known in China as the City of Eternal Spring, Kunming is at an almost-tropical latitude but with a 2000 m 6600 ft altitude, which gives it a very temperate climate. In recent years, locals have said Kunming's winters are becoming colder and colder. The air is also quite clean compared to other Chinese cities, even though the traffic-congested streets still emit more than their fair share of pollution. However temperate it may be, in winter it has been known to snow, so if visiting in December-February, pack warm. When it rains - it's cold. In addition to its own charms it serves as a hub from which to explore Yunnan province. The population of the prefecture of Kunming is now close to 10 million and the city is expanding rapidly, with numerous highways and modern buildings.
