Qingdao & Kunming

Hi! I am flying from the USA to Thailand. I have a layover in Qingdao. On my return flight, I have a layover in Kunming.

Just confirming that both of these cities fall into the 72-hour rule. All I need to leave the airport and explore is to notify my airline in advance so I can obtain a transit permit; my passport; and my ticket for my next flight. Is that correct?

Lastly, is a 13-hour layover (Qingdao) and 8-hour layover (Kunming) enough time to leave the airport and explore the city for several hours?

Thank you!