
Dongsi Pagoda
Discover the ancient Dongsi Pagoda, a 9th-century marvel nestled in Kunming's urban heart, offering a blend of history and local life.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

Dongsi Pagoda
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover the ancient Dongsi Pagoda, a 9th-century marvel nestled in Kunming's urban heart, offering a blend of history and local life.
"Historic building and nearby tourist places NanPing street."

🎯 Finding the Pagodas
They're in a residential area! Look for signs and be ready to explore small streets.
🚶♀️ Stroll Shulin Street
Don't miss the charming shops and unexpected sculptures connecting the pagodas.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Dongsi Pagoda
A historic 9th-century pagoda, a testament to ancient Chinese architecture, offering a glimpse into the past.

Xisi Pagoda
Twin to Dongsi, this pagoda stands nearby, creating a unique historical pairing within the city center.

Shulin Street
A pedestrian street connecting the pagodas, featuring charming shops and surprisingly beautiful sculptures.

Nanping Street
A lively tourist hub adjacent to the pagodas, offering a contrast with its shops and snack vendors.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit
Navigating the Area
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Finding the Pagodas
They're in a residential area! Look for signs and be ready to explore small streets.
🚶♀️ Stroll Shulin Street
Don't miss the charming shops and unexpected sculptures connecting the pagodas.
📸 Capture the History
The pagodas are photogenic, especially with the surrounding urban landscape.
🍜 Explore Nanping Street
Adjacent to the pagodas, find snacks and a more touristy vibe.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Finding the Pagodas
They're in a residential area! Look for signs and be ready to explore small streets.
🚶♀️ Stroll Shulin Street
Don't miss the charming shops and unexpected sculptures connecting the pagodas.
📸 Capture the History
The pagodas are photogenic, especially with the surrounding urban landscape.
🍜 Explore Nanping Street
Adjacent to the pagodas, find snacks and a more touristy vibe.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors appreciate the historical significance of Dongsi Pagoda and its twin, Xisi Pagoda, noting their ancient origins and unique placement within a residential area. The connecting Shulin Street with its sculptures and the nearby bustling Nanping Street for snacks are also highlights. However, finding the pagodas can be a challenge due to their less prominent location.
"Historic building and nearby tourist places NanPing street."
Vint Chua
"Kunming eastern pagoda & western pagoda only separated by few hundreds metres in distance. Created around 9th century and has similarity to one in Xian city.Located in the city centre but not very easy to find due to small stature and surrounded by housing area. In between you will find some shops and places to get snacks."
Paul Basuki
"chean and slice"
VVR Song
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Dongsi Pagoda is located in the city center but can be a bit hidden within residential areas. It's best accessed by taxi or ride-sharing service. Public buses may get you close, but expect a short walk through local streets.
It's not immediately obvious due to its location amidst housing. Keep an eye out for directional signs and don't be afraid to ask locals for directions.
The two pagodas are very close, connected by the pedestrian Shulin Street. A short walk is all it takes to see both.
Parking can be challenging in the dense residential area. If driving, look for paid parking lots on nearby main roads rather than trying to park directly beside the pagodas.
Yes, several bus routes stop near the general area. However, you'll likely need to walk a bit through local streets to reach the pagodas themselves. Check local transit apps for the most convenient routes.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Generally, visiting the exterior of Dongsi Pagoda and Xisi Pagoda is free. Access to the grounds might be restricted at times, but the pagodas themselves are usually visible from the surrounding streets.
As it's located in a residential area, there are no strict official opening hours. You can typically view the pagodas from dawn till dusk.
Shulin Street, which connects the pagodas, is a public pedestrian area and does not have an entrance fee.
Typically, visitors cannot enter the pagodas themselves. They are primarily historical structures to be admired from the outside.
While official guided tours might be limited, local guides can often be found in the vicinity, especially near Nanping Street, who can offer insights into the history.
📸 📸 Photography
Early mornings or late afternoons offer softer light and fewer people, making for better photos. The pagodas are also interesting to photograph against the backdrop of the surrounding city.
Generally, photography from public areas is allowed. Be respectful of the local residents and avoid intrusive photography.
You can capture the architectural details of the pagoda, its historical context within the urban environment, and the lively atmosphere of nearby Shulin and Nanping streets.
Drone usage is often restricted in urban areas and near historical sites in China. It's advisable to check local regulations before attempting to fly a drone.
The sculptures offer a blend of traditional art and modern interpretation, providing interesting visual elements to complement your pagoda photos.
🍽️ 🍜 Food & Dining
The adjacent Nanping Street is a popular spot for local snacks and street food. You'll also find numerous restaurants and eateries in the surrounding residential and commercial areas.
Expect a variety of Yunnanese specialties, from savory bites to sweet treats. Exploring Nanping Street is a great way to sample local flavors.
Yes, the area around Dongsi Pagoda and Nanping Street has many restaurants offering diverse cuisines, including local Yunnan dishes and other Chinese regional foods.
You can find a range of dining options from budget-friendly street food to mid-range restaurants. Nanping Street is known for its affordable snack options.
While not always explicitly labeled, many Chinese dishes can be made vegetarian. Look for vegetable stir-fries, tofu dishes, and noodle soups, and don't hesitate to ask for modifications.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For a more engaging experience, head to Nanping Street, where kids can enjoy trying various local snacks and exploring the shops. It’s a good opportunity to introduce them to a different cultural environment in a relatively safe and accessible urban setting. Keep the visit to the pagodas themselves concise, as the main draw is their historical presence rather than interactive exhibits.
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
Exploring Shulin Street is also free and offers visual interest with its sculptures. For affordable meals, Nanping Street is your go-to, packed with vendors selling delicious and inexpensive local snacks. This area allows for a rich cultural experience without significant expenditure.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History: The Dongsi and Xisi Pagodas
Despite their historical significance, the pagodas are situated within a bustling residential area, making their discovery a bit of an adventure. This unique placement offers a fascinating contrast between ancient heritage and modern urban life. The pagodas are not just static monuments; they are integrated into the daily fabric of the community.
Connecting these two pagodas is Shulin Street, a pedestrian thoroughfare that adds another layer to the visitor experience. This street is noted for its pleasant atmosphere and the presence of beautiful sculptures, offering a delightful surprise for those exploring the area. It serves as a cultural bridge, linking the historical pagodas with contemporary artistic expression.
Exploring the Surrounding Tourist Landscape
This contrast between the quiet historical sites and the lively commercial street is a characteristic feature of many urban attractions in China. Nanping Street is often bustling with activity, offering a different perspective on Kunming's urban culture. It’s a great place to experience the city's energy and find souvenirs or local delicacies.
The proximity of these diverse attractions—ancient pagodas, artistic streets, and bustling commercial areas—makes the Dongsi Pagoda area a multifaceted destination. Visitors can easily spend a few hours exploring the historical remnants and then dive into the lively street life, creating a well-rounded experience of Kunming.

Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit