Nice detailed trip report. Thanks.
The weather in Kunming in July, 2011 was pleasant and skies were clear. Pretty much similar to what you experienced during your trip.
Jianshui and Yangyang are 2 places I am yarning to visit. Your report has convinced me to hire a private car and driver for that trip.
When will you post some photos? Dying to see images from the rice terraces. Want to compare them against Longji Rice Terrace, Guangxi. (some images from the latter can be found here):
http://www.smugmug.com/gallery/12622...06891275_gUiqy