Jinhua Ancient Town(Jianchuan Ancient Town)

Jinhua Ancient Town (金华古城)was built in 21 year of Jiajing Period of Ming Dynasty, enjoying the history of more than 650 years. The orignal wall of the town was destoryed in 1952. The alleys and streets of Ming Dynasty were maintained, including the layout and size. Jianchuan Ancient Town enjoys the unique architecture which covers more than 40 ancient buildings of Ming Dynasty and 146 ones of Qing Dynasty, with 21 well-preserved gardens. The layout of Jianchuan Ancient Town represents the influence of Confuciunism in Dali and retains the chessboard layout of Ming Dynasty. Jianchuan enjoys the long and perofound history and splendid ethnic culture. Today, Jianchuan still keeps the traditional arts and religional culture.

Where is Jinhua Ancient Town?

Jinhua Ancient Town is located in the north of Dali Prefecture and west of Yunnan Province. It is the most populous county in terms of Bai people in China. In ancient time, Jianchuan was the hub of cultural exchange of Han and Tibetan.

Hometown of Wood-carving—Jianchuan

Jianchuan is famous for its wood carvers. When driving into town, you may drive by a few workshops and in the streets of the old town, look at the wooden doors exquisitely carved by local craftsmen who decorated the panels with flowers, traditional patterns or legendary animals like the kirin (麒麟) straight from the Chinese mythological bestiary. In Yunnan, Jianchuan craftsmanship enjoys such a good reputation so that some locals travel all around the province. The Ancient Tea and Horse Road (茶马古道), the legendary trade route that has allowed for the dissemination of Jianchuan’s wood craftsmanship in southwest China.

Architecture

The layout of Jianchuan Ancient Town represents the influence of Confuciunism in Dali and retains the chessboard layout of Ming Dynasty. The architectures of Jianchuan Ancient Town are residencial houses of Bai people, which take a lot of ethnic skills in terms of -wood-carving, stone-carving etc. Jianchuan is knowns as the Town of Wood-carving in China.

Old Residences from the Imperial Era

During the Ming Dynasty (1368 – 1644), the development of trade on the old Tea and Horse Road (茶马古道) has allowed for the emergence of a class of merchants, scholars and officials who built imposing courtyard mansions all hidden behind magnificent wood and stone gates.

The details of the stories behind this historical figures, their deeds and accomplishments is embedded in the intricate meanders of local histories. In the streets of Jianchuan Ancient Town, there is a dozen of ancient residential buildings which were built between the early years of the Ming Dynasty and the late Qing Dynasty (1644 – 1911) and that are now protected as historical heritage site at the provincial level.

Useful Travel Tips

If you are going back to Shaxi after visiting the Qianshi Shan (千狮山) before going on with your itinerary, or are in transit in Jianchuan, the old town definitely deserves a couple of hours of your time.

When the weather is fine in Dali, the sunshine is heated, and ultraviolet light is strong. People should avoid direct sunlight, and the sun hat preparation is required during outdoor activities, a pair of sunglasses will make you comfortable in the trip.

Nearby Attraction

Shaxi Old Town, Dali

2017 Baoshan Duanyang Flower Bazaar was launched during 5.28-6.11 around Yiwu International Commercial Center in Baoshan City. 

Highlights

Flower Fair

Flower Fair is the most attractive part of the bazaar this year, it will cover the whole north branch of Zhengyang Rd.(Huitong Rd. to North 7th Ring Road). There will be two lines of exhibition over 2000 meters long forming a real path of flowers. Baoshan Association of Flower and Bonsai as the co-organizer will Introduced the largest and most comprehensive design scheme in recent years, including the flower market, succulents, seasonal flowers, marvelous stones, wooden carvings, and emeralds.

South Asia Exhibition

As another highlights during the bazaar, over 60 exhibitors from Burma, Thailand, Laos, and Malaysia will join the South Asia Exhibition this year. Handicrafts, snacks, tourism products will be presented, the Chiang Mai Night Bazaar and the music festival will be the hottest spot.

Rural Tourism E-commerce Event

The event last year had received high popularity, the host will enlarge the exhibition area this year. Counties from Baoshan will present all-for-one tourism and rural trip products entitled as “Baoshan of grand beauty”.

Yongkang, Zhejiang-Baoshan,Yunnan Hardware Expo

As an global hardware expo among eastern China area, Zhejiang Yongkang China Hardware Expo will take place in Baoshan this year. It’s the very first time this event being held in Southwestern China.

Yongchang Banquet·the 3rd Baoshan Gourmet Festival

Hosted by Baoshan Association of Diet and Gourmet, Yongchang Banquet is the important achievement of Baoshan local gourmet brand construction, and it had caused strong repercussions during the Yunnan food evaluation activity last year. This is the third time the festival takes part in the bazaar, presentation activities such as on-site tasting of Tengchong Hot Sea Pot, on-site production and viewing of Yongchang Banquet, on-site tasting of Baoshan famous snacks.

Baoshan Cuisine

Huopiao Beef Pot

This cuisine takes cooper Huopiao(pan) pot to boil beef, rather than gas or electricity, the pot fuels by coal. This cuisine provides both broth or spicy tastes. 

Hetu Barbecue(Baoshan Barbecue)

A famours cuisine of barbecued pork. As a traditional dish in Baoshan region, Hetu Barbecue is made of pork and pickle, with a special flavor.

Getting to the Border

You have several options for getting to the border. The most direct route is to take the long distance bus from Kunming, departing from the south bus station, to Vientiane or Luang Prabang directly. The tickets are cheap, roughly 500 RMB (73 USD) at the time of writing, but the trip is long, exhausting, and not particularly pleasant. If you’re not pressed for time, a much more enjoyable option is to travel more leisurely to get to and cross the border, while enjoying some of the sights and scenery along the way. From Kunming take a bus to Mengla, a city about 40km from the border crossing at Mohan/Boten. From Mengla, minibuses depart to Mohan regularly, and there are also buses departing from Mengla to Luang Namtha in the interior of Laos and a good first stop on your Laotian journey. If you’re lucky enough to have your own vehicle, or access to a vehicle, it is permissible for Chinese vehicles to enter Laos and the vehicle does not have to be registered to your name to cross the border.

 

Chinese Border at Boten | © Prince Roy/Flickr

Crossing the Border

The Boten border crossing, if you are travelling without your own vehicle, is straightforward. It does involve filling out forms and waiting in lines, and keep in mind that this area is hot most of the year, so dress lightly. Also keep in mind that you will be walking your luggage across the border, so it’s best to bring a backpack or to pack lightly. Immediately prior to the border crossing you will find many money changers and, in fact, these money changers will give you rates much preferable to what you will find in the interior, so change as much money as you think you might need here before you cross into Laos. Once you’re ready to cross, the first step is exiting China. You will approach the border and the Chinese exit point will be a grey building on your right-hand side. Enter, put your luggage through inspection, fill out an exit card, and get stamped out of China. You’ve now officially exited China, but you have not yet entered Laos. The Laotian border crossing is about 500m ahead, and there are little electric cars that can be hired to ferry travelers between the two points. Upon entering the Laotian entry point, if you have already procured a Laotian visa at the consulate in Kunming, you can simply proceed through, get your visa stamped, and enter Laos.

 

New Lao Customs Checkpoint Near Boten | © Prince Roy/Flickr

Visa on Arrival

If you do not already have a Laotian visa, no worries, the border crossing offers visas upon arrival. Your first step is to hand your passport to a man at a window inside the building, the first window on your right. He will look at your passport and then hand you a visa application form. Fill out the form completely, and if you have a picture with you, attach it to the form. If you don’t have a picture, not to worry, the visa officer will accept your form without one. The cost for most passports is roughly 242 RMB (35 USD), though there is a schedule of fees posted next to the window. Depending upon how many people are waiting in line, your visa may take between 5-20 minutes to process. An officer at the second window will call your name, and that’s it, you’ve got your Laotian visa. The whole process is very straightforward and easy and, probably in the end, less of a hassle than making a trip to the embassy in Kunming and then back again to pick up your visa two days later. Whether you’re traveling overland or by air, visa upon arrival is definitely recommended over visa in advance.

 

Laos Visa | © Jessica Larson

Arrival in Laos

Upon receiving your visa, remember to pick up a white arrival card and fill it out before getting in line for entry to Laos. Upon getting your visa stamped and exiting the building, you will find minibuses available to take passengers onward. It is possible to catch buses to Udom Xai and to Luang Namtha, both of which are good for a stopover. Luang Namtha is the jumping off point for many treks to ethnic minority villages, and has all of the infrastructure to make these treks happen – local guides for hire, as well as motorbikes and cars. Udom Xai is a provincial capital with buses to many different destinations all over Laos. Laotian roads from Luang Namtha and Udom Xai to Luang Prabang are windy and narrow, but paved and not treacherous. Certain parts of the road have recently been repaved, and so they are not nearly as bumpy and pot-holed as they once were, but how long they stay this way depends on how strictly overloaded trucks are monitored. Travelers prone to motion sickness should definitely plan ahead however because, bumpy or not, the winding switchbacks through the Laotian mountains in a hot bus can be uncomfortable.

XishuangBanna Yiwu Ancient Town in Mengla County travel guide introduces the main attractions, entrance tickets booking, The best time to visit, How to Get there, the highlights, facts, history, photos, weather, accommodation, visiting routes, travel tips, tour maps of Yiwu Ancient Town in XishuangBanna(易武古镇).

● Chinese Name: 易武古镇（ Yi Wu Gu Zhen)
● Keywords: Yiwu Ancient Town tickets, Puer Tea, Ancient Tea-Horse Trail, Mengla Tour, Six Old Tea.
● Location: Yiwu Village, Mengla County, Xishuangbanna,Yunnan, China
● Scenic Area: 878.2 square kilometers
● Admission Fee: 0
● Opening Hours: All day (2-3 hours for a visit)

‣ About Yiwu Ancient Town

Yiwu Town is situated in the north of Mengla County, Xishuangbanna Prefecture. It is the hometown of Pu’er Tea as well as the starting point of the Ancient Tea-Horse Trail (Road). In old times, Yiwu was known as a commercial city. It serves as the linkage between China and Laos and an important gateway to the Southeast Asia.

As the hometown of Pu’er Tea, Yiwu has conserved in good conditions historical relics of the “Ancient 6 Teas Mountains”. Strolling on the old streets of Yiwu, one will be greeted by time-honored trademarks of tea businesses such as Cheshun, Qianlizhen, Anle and Tongxing etc.

‣  A Brief History

Historically, Yiwu is famous for being the center of distribution for tribute tea to be sent to the emperor. The six famous tea mountains produced mao cha where it would be collected and sent out to Beijing from Yiwu. This trade brought a large number of Han merchants (the principle Chinese ethnic group) to the area to trade tea (source). Some of the more famous examples of aged pu’erh (from the 1930s) also originated here. i.e. Fuyuanchang, Tongqin Hao and Songpin Hao.

From the 1940s until the 1990s, tea production shifted away from these regions to Menghai County where Menghai Tea Factory planted ground. During this period, tea that was produced was usually unceremoniously sold as raw mao cha to the larger factories.

When China began to open up to the west, many Taiwanese traders visited Yiwu hoping to find both tea production and more aged tea. They found neither, but ended up helping the locals to restart tea production. As a result, the greater Yiwu area has strong ties with the Taiwanese market. Many of the Taiwanese pu’erh brands have strong ties to this region. This is covered far more thoroughly in Zhang Jinghong’s Ancient Caravans and Urban Chic.

Note #1: In Zhang’s book she characterizes the Taiwanese and Yiwu style as emphasizing the hand-made and traditional aspects of tea-making, a supposed contrast from the more production oriented Menghai County tea. Yiwu tea operations tend to be smaller, often family-oriented, whereas Menghai County is more densely populated with major operations, i.e. Menghai Tea Factory .

‣ Characteristic Taste

Yiwu is known for a distinctive softer, less punchy base with a long-lasting sweet aftertaste when compared with other pu’erh regions, i.e. Bulang/Banzhang. There are a number of growing regions within the greater Yiwu area, including the six famous tea mountains. These areas all represent Yiwu to some extent, although there will even be significant variation moving from one region to the next.

Note #1: Because Yiwu is a township and a county it is ambiguous as to what exactly constitutes “Yiwu”. This has not stopped tea producers from constantly marketing and using the Yiwu name to sell tea.

‣  Karst Sightseeing

Yiwu also is endowed with Karst sights some of which are Huashegongzhu Cave (Cave of Princess Snake), Nametiancaiyun Cave (Colorful Clouds Cave) and Gaoshanluoshui Cave etc.

● Snake Princess Cave

About 500 meters in the northeast of Yiwu, the Snake Princess Cave is in fact a dolomite. It’s known for the patriotic poems by Xu Ziheng, Li Shouchang and Dao Chengzhang all of whom were officials in the Qing Dynasty.

● Nametiancaiyun Cave 

More spectacular than the Snake Cave, Nametiancaiyun Cave is noted for stalagtites and stalagmites all of which are queerly shaped. It integrates natural and cultural sights, tropical rain forests and Karst caves, thus bringing forth picturesque sceneries.

‣ About Ethnic

Yiwu is a multi-ethnic village, there are many ethnic live here together, such as Han, Yi ethnic, Dai ethnic, Yao ethnic, Hani ethnic. 

Yi ethnic are indigenous peoples of Yiwu village, which can date back to Han Dynasty. Diligent and kind Yi people keep a simple life style, work with sunrise and stop at sunset. 

The Torch Festival is a traditional festival for the Yi ethnic group. It falls on the 24th of the sixth month of the Chinese calendar, and the celebration lasts for 3 days. The origin of the festival is related to ancestors’ worshipping of the fire, which is believed to have the power to repel insects, ward off evils, and protect the growth of crops. In some villages, it is a tradition for the elderly to pass down their farming experience to the younger generation during the festival.

During the festival, big torches are erected in the village, while small torches are placed in front of each household. When the night falls, an altar is set up and the holy flame is lit up. The Bimo (village flamen) will chant prayers, light up torches from the flame, and pass them to the villagers. Villagers, holding the flame, walk around the village, houses and the fields, and place the torches in the field corners to drive away evils. Inside the village, young men and women sing and dance around bir burning torches throughout the night.

‣ Attraction Transportation
Go around: Take bus from Jinghong Bus Station, 30rmb for one bus ticket

‣ Best Time to Visit

Can be visit all year. Belonging to tropical rainforest climate, Xishuangbanna’s dry season is from November to April the next year and rainy season is from May to October. With annual average temperature of 21c, it has long summer and no winter. With cool and pleasant four seasons, the best time for traveling Xishuangbanna is from October to June the next year. 

‣ Tips

●  Respect local ethnic culture.

This 20 Days Yunnan ethnic minority tour focuses on most famous cities and classic attractions in Yunnan Province and you will meet many ethnic groups to experience their culture and life during the tour. 

• Appreciate the fabulous Yunnan natural scenery.
• Meet colorful ethnic villages and tribal groups to appreciate the diverse ethnic cultures.
• Visit anacient towns, historical heritage and ancient villages to discover the mysterious history of Yunnan.

Brief Itinerary

• Day 1 Arrive in Mangshi City
• Day 2 Mangshi-Ruili
• Day 3 Ruili-Longchuan-Yingjiang-Lianghe-Tengchong
• Day 4 Tengchong
• Day 5 Tengchong-Liuku
• Day 6 Liuku-Gongshan
• Day 7 Gongshan-Binglzhongluo
• Day 8 Bingzhongluo
• Day 9 Bingzhongluo-Biluo Snow Mountain-Cizhong
• Day 10 Cizhong-Yanmen-Meili Snow Mountain-Feilaisi
• Day 11 Feilaisi-Shangri-La
• Day 12 Shangri-La
• Day 13 Shangri-La – Baishuitai – Tiger Leaping Gorge
• Day 14Tiger Leaping Gorge-Shigu Town-Lijiang
• Day 15 Lijiang
• Day 16 Lijiang – Shaxi-Dali
• Day 17 Dali
• Day 18 Dali-Yunnanyi-Chuxiong-Kunming
• Day 19 Kunming
• Day 20 Departure from Kunming

Google Map

In the morning, visit Tengchong Cluster of Volcanoes. It is located in Tengchong and Lianghe County in the southwest of Yunnan Province. It is one of the four major volcanoes in China and has 97 volcanoes. The entire volcanic group covers an area of 221.36 square kilometers. The special geological structure has formed the unique volcanic landform, covering volcanic cones, volcanic caves, lava fields, volcanic lakes, dammed waterfalls etc. The volcanoes group is fantastic in terms of the large scale, diversity, integrity and good preservation. It enjoys high scientific research and ornamental value, and is known as the “Volcanic Geology Museum”.

After that, drive to Liuku for overnight. On the way, enjoy the scenery of Nujiang River and visit Nujiang River Bridge.

Day 6 Liuku-Gongshan

Sightseeing and Activities: Nujiang Grand Canyon, Flying Stones, Stone Moon
Accommodation:Gongshan
Meals:B,L

Drive from Liuku to Gongshan. On the way you can enjoy the beautiful landscapes of the Nujiang Grand Canyon with the Flying Stones and the Stone Moon.

The 247-kilometer-long Nujiang River Gorge is flanked by two 4,000-meter-high mountains. The mountain peaks on the two sides have an average altitude of over 3,000 kilometers. The gorge is located in Yunnan Province in southwestern China, an area rich in ethnic minority culture. It is now a first choice for many domestic and foreign travelers.

Day 7 Gongshan-Bingzhongluo

Sightseeing and Activities: First Bend of Nujiang River(Salween River), the stone house of the Nu Nationality, Peach Island, the Tibetan Puhua Temple
Accommodation:Bingluozhong
Meals:B,L

One full day excursion to Bingzhongluo, sightseeing includes the First Bend of Nujiang River(Salween River), the stone house of the Nu Nationality, Peach Island, the Tibetan Puhua Temple. You will then have the chance to visit a minority household and experience the life of the local people.

Day 8 Bingzhongluo

Sightseeing and Activities: Ethnic village, Tea-Horse Caravan Route, Zhongding Catholic  Church
Accommodation:Bingluozhong
Meals:B,L

There are easy and beautiful walks to nearby villages along the Nujiang. A few kilometers outside of town, the river widens and cuts through very deep and dramatic gorges. The road hugs the Nujiang and landslides occur from time to time along the way. It is said that the scenery is especially spectacular after rain, however this also increases potential delays and exacerbates the danger from landslides.

The most beautiful part of Nujiang Gorge starts from Binzhongluo, the northernmost town of the Gorge, where the essential attractions of the Nujiang Gorge are located. Hiking is the best way to enjoy the landscape and an average of 2.5 hours is needed for most tourists to reach the famous “Tea Horse Caravan Route.” Renting a mini bus at Bingzhongluo town is an alternative for the less adventurous sightseers.

On the way to the “Tea-Horse Caravan Route”, you can see the 100-year-old Zhongding Catholic Church built and founded by a French missionary. Shimen Pass is another fantastic section of the gorge along with Wengli (also called Wuli), another stunning landscape lying on a beautiful slope along the river bank. Very near to the Wengli, a carved path is seen on the other bank cliff, so-called “Tea-Horse Caravan Route”, a path used by traders ferrying their goods between Yunnan and Tibet. At the end of the trekking road, an old hanging bridge and a new bridge swing side-by-side.

Day 9 Bingzhongluo-Biluo Snow Mountain-Cizhong

Sightseeing and Activities: Biluo Snow Mountain, Cizhong Church
Accommodation:Cizhong
Meals:B,L

Drive from Bingzhongluo to Cizhong. You will drive along Degong Road and pass through Biluo Snow Mountain and enjoy the mountain scenery.

After arrived at Cizhong, visit the Tibetan Catholic Church built by French missionaries in 1867, the church is used by Tibetan, Naxi and Lisu people. They still have the grapes planted by missionaries and old the traditional way of making wine.

Day 10 Cizhong-Meili Snow Mountain-Feilaisi

Sightseeing and Activities:   Feilaisi, Meili Snow Mountain, Mingyong Glacier
Accommodation: Feilaisi
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch 

Drive along Lancang River to Mingyong Village. Visit Mingyong Glacier (2600m) which is the low altitude glacier of the lowest latitude in the world. 

Arrive at Feilaisi in the late afternoon, you will have a nice sunset view of Meili Snow Mountain from the Sightseeing Platform, where you can see the 13 white pagodas meaning of the 13 peaks of Meili Snow Mountain over 6,000 meters (19,685 feet) above sea level, known as the “Prince’s 13 peaks”.

–Meili Snow Mountain (Meili Xueshan), also called Kawakarpo, is a UNESCO nature site located in Deqin County dividing Yunnan from Tibet, a wonderful place to hike and explore both nature and Tibetan culture.Rising between the Salween River and the Mekong River in the extreme edge of Northwest Yunnan, the Meili Snow Mt. region is part of Three Parallel Rivers of Yunnan Protected Areas. Legend says that the Meili Snow Mountain is a god guarding Tibetan Buddhism. With 13 peaks over 6000m in the range, the main peak Kawakarpo (“Kawagebo” in Chinese) is a sharp snow mountain with an altitude of 6740m,which has never been conquered yet.

–Lancang River is the longest river flowing from north to south in China. It takes its source from the Zhaqu of the Guangguori Peak of Tanggula Mountain Range in Qinghai Province, China. It is called the Lancang River after it reaches Changdu. The river runs south until it leaves China at the Nanla Bay out of Yunnan Province and therefrom changes its name from the Lancang River to the Mekong River. The Grand Canyon of the Lancang River is famous for not only its deep and long vale, but also the rushing water. The river water is limpid and rushing in winter, but turbid and onrushing in summer. As the river becoming narrow in the Grand Canyon, high waves are striking against the banks and making a sound like thunder. What a fantastic spectacle! Such steep mountains, deep valley and miraculous geographic structure are seldom seen all over the world.

Day 11 Feilaisi-Shangrila

Sightseeing and Activities: Benzilan, Baimang Snow Mountain Nature Reserve, the First Bend of Jinsha River or Moon Bend
Accommodation: Shangrila
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch 

In the morning, drive back to Shangri-la. You will stop at Benzilan for lunch. Visit Baimang Snow Mountain Nature Reserve, you will be able to view Baimang Snow Mountain if the weather is clear, pass the top part of today at 4292m altitude at 156km. After that, visit the First Bend of Jinsha River or Moon Bend, which is the boundary between Sichuan and Yunnan. This is different from the First Bend of Yangtze River in Lijiang City. The bend in Shigu Town changes the flow direction of the Yangtze River but in Benzilan, the Moon Bend is just a grand bend between the mountains with an impressive scenery. 

Day 12 Shangrila

Sightseeing and Activities: Songzanlin Monastery, Pudacuo National Park, Shudu Lake, Tibet Family
Accommodation: Shangrila
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch 

In the morning, visit the Ganden Sumtseling Monastery, the largest Tibetan monastery in Yunnan. Songzanlin Monastery has another alias ‘the little Potala Palace ‘, so named because the whole monastery is in the traditional style with mysterious atmosphere. Walk around Songzanlin Monastery.

At noon, you will visit a Tibetan’s family to experience the local life and you will try Tibetan home-made yak and cheese.

And afterwards you’ll visit the tranquil Shudu Lake in Pudacuo National Park. Pudacuo National Park is located in one of the most biologically-diverse regions of the world. While the region comprises only 0.7 percent of China’s land area, it contains more than 20 percent of the country’s plant species, about one-third of its mammal and bird species and almost 100 endangered species.

Day 13 Shangrila-Baishuitai-Tiger Leaping Gorge

Sightseeing and Activities: Baishuitai, Tiger Leaping Gorge
Accommodation: Tiger Leaping Gorge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch 

In the morning, drive to visit Baishuitai. Baishuitai or Baishui Tableland, also named the White Water Terraces, is known as one of the most attractive destinations in mysterious Shangri-La and is an ancient Chinese landform with a history of 200,000 to 300,000 years. The main attraction in the area is a large, white mineral deposit in the form of terraced pools, formed by calcium-rich water emanating from springs at the top of the formation. It is described as the largest feature of its type in China.

Then drive to visit the Tiger Leaping Gorge, the deepest gorge in the world. With 34 rapids of the Yangtze River, it is called the Jinsha in this area because you can find gold in the river.

Day 14 Tiger Leaping Gorge-Shigu-Lijiang

Sightseeing and Activities: Shigu, Lijiang Ancient Town, Mufu Palace, Sifang Street Square
Accommodation: Lijiang
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

In the morning, drive to the First Bend on the Yangtze River with imposing gorge scenery, visit the Iron Chain Bridge, the Red Army’s Long March Memorial Monument in the Shigu town. The town of Stone Drum got its name from a large, cylindrical, marble tablet shaped like a drum. The scenery is magnificent as the road running through the Lijiang valley which is filled with wheat fields and drying haystacks.   

In the afternoon, drive to Lijiang. You’ll start a memorable tour from Lijiang Ancient Town (Dayan Ancient Town). Pay a visit to Ming-dynasty style Mufu Palace, the “Forbidden City” of Lijiang to know Tusi’s ruling history and appreciate Naxi people’s brilliant culture and fine arts. Then, wander through the old alleys, old bridges, featured shops and bars to Sifang Street Square, a mingling ground to enjoy lively atmosphere and unwind yourself. 

Day 15 Lijiang

Sightseeing and Activities: Jade Dragon Snow Mountain,  Lijiang Ancient Town, Ganhaizi Meadow, Baishuihe River, Impression Lijang Ethnic Show, Baisha Village, Baisha Mural
Accommodation: Lijiang
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch 

Enjoy the sunrise of the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain and Lijiang Ancient Town in the morning, drive about 30KM to Ganhaizi Meadow(3100M), you will take the sightseeig bus for a short visiting through the Baishuihe River, take the chairlift up to visit Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. The cableway will be arranged according to the condition of the mountain. You will hike around1 hours in the original forest in Spruce Meadow (3200M).

After lunch, you will enjoy the Impression Lijang Ethnic Show directed in Ganhaizi Meadow(3100M). A cultural show demonstrating the traditions and lifestyles of the Naxi, Yi and Bai peoples of the area. The show takes place inside Jade Dragon Snow Mountain Park at 3500m in an outdoor theater specifically designed to showcase the mountain which is used as a backdrop. The production itself was designed by Zhang Yimou, Fan Yue and Wang Chaoge, a cast of over 500 people, and a number of horses. In the afternoon, you’ll stroll through Baisha Village, which is an enchanting traditional Yunnan village. Visit the Baisha Mural about 600 years old, which is one part of the World Cultural Heritage by the UNESCO 1997.

Day 16 Lijiang-Shaxi-Dali

Sightseeing and Activities: Shibaoshan Mountain, Shizhong (Stone Bell) Hills, Shaxi Old Town, Dali Old Town,  Foreigner Street, Erhai Lake
Accommodation: Dali
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch 

Morning , pick up from your hotel in Lijiang , drive to visit Shibaoshan Mountain. Located 25 km southwest of Jianchuan County, the Shibao (Stone Treasure) Hills are also called the Shizhong (Stone Bell) Hills. Built during the Tang and Song Dynasties, it is considered an official historical site.

Later go ahead to visit Shaxi Old Town The remains of an ancient market town and once an active trade stop on the Southern Silk Road that connected Tibet and China with Southeast Asia and on to Europe. This Road is actually older than the more famous Silk Road (in the North), predating it by at least 300 years. Shaxi has been listed by the World Monuments Fund as one of the world’s 100 most endangered sites. 

After the tour , drive to Dali. Visit Dali Old Town. Walk around the Foreigner Street and enjoy the relax time with local people. After climbing up to the City Wall of Dali, you will have panoramic view of the Erhai Lake.

Day 17 Dali

Sightseeing and Activities: Three Pagodas in Chongshen Monastery,cruise in Erhai Lake,  Xizhou Town, Xizhou Town, 
Accommodation: Dali
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch 

Visit the Three Pagodas in Chongshen Monastery which has a history of over 1,800 years located at the foot of Cangshan Mountain facing to the Erhai Lake. Three Pagodas are made of three ancient independent pagodas forming a symmetrical triangle.

After lunch, you’ll cruise in Erhai Lake by the small boat to the Jinsuo Islet in the east Erhai Lake. There are 200 Bai ethnic families around 1000 people in Jinsuo Island.In Erhai Lake cruise, you will enjoy the green Cangshan Mountain and the Three Pagodas from a far as well as lots of birds and seagulls flying over the lake.

After landing, you will head for Xizhou Town to fully appreciate Bai-style traditional architectural courtyards, taste their fragrant Three-Course Tea and explore their distinctive culture. 

Day 18 Dali-Yunnanyi-Chuxiong-Kunming

Sightseeing and Activities: Yunnanyi Old Town, Yiren Old Town
Accommodation: Kunming
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch 

Drive from Dali to Yunnanyi. Yunnanyi is located in Xiangyun County of Dali Prefecture, about four hours’ drive from Kunming. As the earliest place named Yunnan(the place to the south of the colorful cloud), Yunnanyi is the former site of Yunnan County of West Han Dynasty and Yunnan Prefecture of Wei and Jin Dynasties; in the Yuan, Ming and Qing Dynasties, Yizhan (remount or post stations) were set here, so it is named Yunnan Yi. Due to its significant geographic location, Yunnan Yi used to be a must-take position since it can connect Dali, Chengdu, Kunming, South and West Yunnan; a time-honored ancient passage stretches through the small village with well conserved folk residences of Bai.

After lunch, drive to Yi Ren Old Town in Chuxiong City. The Yi Ren old town located at the west of Chuxiong economic development zone, Yunnan. And it is fuses both China and Yi minority national traditional culture as the main key of the antique construction. With fully Yi national minority’s characteristic the entire old town selects material from Yi national minority’s modeling, totem and the color. 

In the afternoon, drive to Kunming for overnight. 

Day 19 Kunming

Sightseeing and Activities: Stone Forest, Birds and Flowers Market, Green Lake
Accommodation:Kunming
Meals: B, L

Drive about 85km to the Stone Forest. An old local saying says that ‘If you have visited Kunming without seeing the Stone Forest, you have wasted your time.’ Truly, the Stone Forest is one of the most important attractions of Yunnan.

In the afternoon, drive back to Kunming to visit Birds and Flowers Market. After that, stroll around the Green Lake, and enjoy local dancing and music.

Day 20 Departure from Kunming

Sightseeing and Activities: Depart from Kunming
Accommodation:none
Meals: Breakfast

Depart from Kunming. Service ends.

Service Included:

• Admission fees for all of the sightseeing spots listed in the itinerary;
• Meals as listed in the itinerary;
• Hotels as listed in the itinerary;
• Private English-speaking tour guide;
• Private vehicle for transfers & sightseeing with skilled driver;
• Service charge & government taxes;
• Luggage transfers between airports and hotels;.

Service Excluded:

• Any arrival and departure international airfares or train tickets;
• Chinese visa fees;
• Excess baggage charged by Airlines;
• Single room supplement;
• Tips to guides and drivers;
• Personal expenses and gratuities to service staff;
• Personal travel accident insurance;
• All optional programs.

This 13 Days Yunnan overland tour focuses on most famous cities and classic attractions in Yunnan Province and you will meet many ethnic groups to experience their culture and life during the tour. 

• Appreciate the fabulous Yunnan natural scenery.
• Meet colorful ethnic villages and tribal groups to appreciate the diverse ethnic cultures.
• Visit anacient towns, historical heritage and ancient villages to discover the mysterious history of Yunnan.

Brief Itinerary

• Day 1 Arrive in Mangshi City
• Day 2 Mangshi-Ruili
• Day 3 Ruili-Longchuan-Yingjiang-Lianghe-Tengchong
• Day 4 Tengchong
• Day 5 Tengchong-Baoshan-Yunlong-Nuodeng
• Day 6 Nuodeng-Lanping-Tacheng
• Day 7 Tacheng-Tuoding-ShangriLa
• Day 8 ShangriLa – Tiger Leaping Gorge-Lijiang
• Day 9 Lijiang
• Day 10 Lijiang-Dali
• Day 11 Dali-Kunming
• Day 12 Kunming
• Day 13 Departure from Kunming

Day 6 Nuodeng-Lanping-Tacheng

Sightseeing and Activities: Ethnic villages
Accommodation:Tacheng
Meals:B,L

In the morning, drive from Nuodeng to Tacheng in Weixi County. On the way, visit some local ethnic villages. Stay overnight in Tacheng.

Day 7 Tacheng-Tuoding-ShangriLa

Sightseeing and Activities: Tacheng Snub-nosed Monkey Park, Tuoding Lisu Village, Nixi Black Pottery
Accommodation:Shangri-la
Meals:B,L

Day 3 Ruili – Lianghe – Tengchong

private transfer of Ruili/Lianghe/Tengchong

breakfast, lunch

Golden Duck Pagoda, Hansa Temple, Lianghe Tusi Office, villages of Jingpo and Dai minorities

Today, setting out to the Golden Duck Pagoda, an attractive stupa set in a temple courtyard, which is a symbol of good luck and happiness.

Then head to the Hansa Temple, a great place to experience mysterious Buddhism culture, which features in its grand buildings and splendid decorations.

Afterwards, take an overland drive about 6 hours via Lianghe to Tengchong. En route, you will take stop to visit in the Lianghe Tusi Office (Former Office of Local Governor) dating back to Ming and Qing Dynasty.

On the way, you will also visit villages of Jingpo and Dai ethnic minorities with deep ethnic accumulation and unique folk custom.

Day 4 Tengchong

breakfast, lunch

Volcano Park, Heshun Overseas Chinese Village, Hot Springs, British Consulate General Office

In the morning, visit the Volcano Park at Mazhan town. Located in one of the main earthquake territories in China, the park characterizes itself by 20 big and small volcanoes.

Afterwards, head to the Heshun Overseas Chinese Village. Wandering through alleys there, you can admire the folk buildings and experience local custom.

Then, relax yourself in Hot Springs on the outskirts of Tengchong. Rich in sulphur and other mineral elements, they are believed by the locals to be curable of certain diseases.

Later, stroll in the former British Consulate General Office back in 1920s and feel the strong sense of local history and culture.

Basic Information

Opening Year: 2016
Number of Rooms: 7

Rooms and Facilities

Room Types:

• Various options including King Bed Room and Twin Bed Room, some with viewing balconies

Room Amenities:

• Private bathroom with shower
• Hair dryer
• Wall-mounted electric heater
• Wall-mounted TV

Public Facilities:

• Free WiFi
• Luggage storage
• Restaurant
• 24-hour hot water

Address

Location: Pugao Laozhai, Duoyishu Scenic Area (多依树景区普高老寨), Shengcun Village, Xinjie Town, Yuanyang County, Honghe Prefecture, Yunnan Province (云南省红河州元阳县新街镇胜村乡)

Nearby Attractions & Suggested Visiting Times

Duoyishu Viewing Platform 

• 800m from inn (20-minute walk)
• Best for terrace sunrise viewing
• Suggested time: Arrive 1 hour before sunrise

Bada Scenic Viewing Platform

• 8km from inn
• Ideal for sunset over terraces
• Suggested time: 4:00 PM until sunset

Laohuzui Viewing Platform 

• 16km from inn
• Alternative sunset viewing spot
• Suggested time: 4:00 PM until sunset

Azhike Village 

• 4km from inn
• Experience traditional Hani ethnic culture
• Suggested time: Half day

Transportation

• Public Transport: Take bus to Duoyishu (多依树) from Yuanyang Xinjie Bus Terminal (元阳新街客运站) – check schedules in advance
• Self-drive: Approximately 23km from Yuanyang County via Provincial Highway 214 (214省道)
• Airport Transfer: Available upon prior arrangement

Operating Hours

• Front Desk: 15:00 – 23:00
• Breakfast: 08:00 – 09:30

Booking & Contact

• Booking Platforms: Ctrip (携程), Booking.com, etc.
• Phone: +86-15812062722

Summary

Duoyiwan Inn (多依湾客栈) is ideally located in the core area of Yuanyang Terraces (元阳梯田), offering convenient transportation, complete facilities and attentive service. Whether for terrace sunrise viewing, Hani cultural experiences, or peaceful rural living, it makes an excellent choice for visitors.

Basic Information

Opening Date: January 2017
Renovation Date: April 2017
Number of Rooms: 14

Rooms and Facilities

Room Types:

• Various options including King Bed Room and Twin Bed Room

Facilities:

Address

Location: Below Duoyishu Viewing Platform (多依树观景台下行), Duoyishu Pugao New Village Terrace Scenic Area (多依树普高新寨梯田景区), Yuanyang County, Honghe Hani and Yi Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan Province (云南省红河哈尼族彝族自治州元阳县)

Nearby Attractions & Suggested Visiting Times

Duoyishu Viewing Platform 

• 1.2km from hotel (15-minute walk)
• Best for terrace sunrise viewing
• Suggested time: Arrive 1 hour before sunrise

Jingkou Hani Folk Village 

• 3km from hotel (taxi/short drive)
• Experience traditional Hani culture
• Suggested time: 2-3 hours

Bada Scenic Area 

• 15km from hotel (taxi/charter required)
• Famous for sunset and sea of clouds
• Suggested time: 4:00 PM until sunset

Laohuzui Scenic Area 

• 20km from hotel (taxi/charter required)
• Alternative sunset viewing spot
• Suggested time: 4:00 PM until sunset

Transportation

• Public Transport: Take bus to Duoyishu (多依树) from Yuanyang Xinjie Bus Terminal (元阳新街客运站) – check schedules in advance
• Self-drive: Approximately 37km from Yuanyang County via “Jinsi” Highway (晋思公路)
• Airport Transfer: Available upon prior arrangement

Operating Hours

• Front Desk: 24-hour service
• Breakfast: 08:00 – 09:30

Booking & Contact

• Booking Platforms: Ctrip (携程), eLong (艺龙), Booking.com, etc.
• Phone: 0086-15812062722

Angmazong Hotel (昂玛宗酒店) enjoys a prime location in Duoyishu Pugao New Village Terrace Scenic Area (多依树普高新寨梯田景区), offering convenient transportation, comprehensive facilities and attentive service. Whether for terrace viewing, Hani cultural experiences, or peaceful countryside living, it serves as an ideal choice for travelers.

Yunnan Travel Guide

Things To Do

• Yunnan Overview
• Yunnan Attractions
• Yunnan Tours
• Yunnan Shopping
• Yunnan Culture
• Festivals and Activities

Travel Information

• Yunnan Travel Tips
• Yunnan Climate
• Yunnan Transportation
• Yunnan Maps
• Yunnan Photos
• Yunnan Dining
• Yunnan Accommodation
• Yunnan Education
• Yunnan Travel News
• Administrative Divisions

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