The plants are excellent especially in the West Park with many beautiful mature trees and quiet areas. This is a "plantsmans" park reminded me very much of Singapore Bot Garden. There are very few, if any, refreshment stations so bring drinks etc. You need separate tickets for the East and West parks - they cost next to nothing but entrance is made Very difficult by the unfriendly ladies at the gate. This really cast a shadow on the trip. Main greenhouse is closed for unknown reasons, piles of contruction rubbish could be cleared away - but they are not. Its a non-smoking park - i did not see any of the male staff without a cigarette...Signs are mainly in English and Chinese and quite informative on cultural aspects of the plants.

Located in the far north of the city, thhe e Botanical Gardens are more of a place for local families to while away a sunny afternoon than a must-see for tourists to Kunming. Take a book and a hammock and set yourself in the less-frequented West Garden. It's a nice break from the hustle and busetle of the city.