Yuxi

A prosperous mid-sized city on Yunnan's central plateau, Yuxi has built modern wealth on tobacco — home to the Hongtashan cigarette brand known nationwide — while preserving surrounding landscapes of extraordinary beauty. Fuxian Lake, just south of the city, is China's second deepest freshwater lake with crystal-clear waters and an ancient submerged city discovered by divers. The nearby Yuxi Nie Er Music Cultural City celebrates the composer of China's national anthem, a native son. Yi and Hani minority villages in the surrounding hills offer authentic cultural encounters.