Martin Yan's Hidden China

Episode 1

Ancient Lijiang: A Journey Through Time

Thu, Jan 29, 2026

Martin begins his exploration of "Hidden China" at Kunming's colorful flower markets. He admires the migrating birds that seasonally congregate in great numbers along the shores of famous Dianchi Lake. He then pays a visit to The Yunnan Nationalities Village, where he experiences the diverse cultures and lifestyles of the Bai, Yi and Dai tribes. He discovers exotic culinary pleasures, like the Yi Rice Noodle and Lamb Stew dishes he helps prepare, and learns how to brew spirits from corn. Martin ventures into the beautiful natural surroundings of this mountain country as he joins the local people on a mushroom hunt. He then enjoys the fruits of their labor, sampling wonderful, wild mushrooms.