Just like any other town in China, it has a section with a retro old feel aptly called Old Town (though we are not sure if it is really old or new or has been periodically rebuilt). We did go see the Yuan Tong Temple which did have an authentic old vibe about it. We also had the obliglatory photos taken at the "flat iron" looking buildings near the Kunming square. Kunming Old Town is very photographable, plenty of instagram worthy shots. Of course no where near Li Jiang or Yading or any other Old Towns or sights along the way to Shangrila/Yading. However, you do get all the conveniences & comforts of a modern city like fast food, souvenir shopping, decent local food & clean toilets etc. Still gets a good rating cause we used this as a step to catch the fast train to Shangrila & Lijiang.