Chinese Name:会泽湖广会馆
English Name: Huguang Guild Hall in Huize county, Qujing

Huguang guild hall is located in the good street of the treasure the Northeast of county town, build the beginning at the end of Ming Dynasty, arch over a gate stage, before hall, nave, back hall and things side hall in a palace or temple, both sides, arrange in one central axis with book floor garden rule soil preparation, cover an area of 8474.4 square meters, with a construction area of 3127.6 square meters. The whole building is powerful, tolerance is outstanding, the year of “table of Yu Royal Palace”. “the temple is solemn, long it is a clear form, “Yu Royal Palace” of the previous hall.

Hall hang “apply soil work high” flat volume, great Yu king moulded in the hall. Hall hang “apply soil work high” flat volume, great Yu king moulded in the hall, 6.4 meters high, moukd and assist supernatural Hou Chi of vallery that the uncle benefit andbeliever that big Yu harnesses the river sow and get in crops on both sides, that reflected is that the wide area of lake worships” Dredge nine rivers”. “arrange the Huaihe River Si”, the clear culture characteristic of Human of great king Yu “passing the door and not entering three times”. The god enshrined and worship is a big emperor in the Eastern Mountain in “palace of the Eastern Mountain” of the nave. The big emperor in the Eastern Mountain is a supreme chief executive who wields the hell underworld, administer human world high and low with life and death, its grandfather’s temple is the Mount Tai temple of Mount Tai, one of the Five Mountains, the wide book fellow villager of lake, while building the association in Huize, have invited this god to the county town of Huize too.

“hall of the temple of the longevity” of back hall. What was enshrined and worship is a big person of Goddess of Mercy, there is sunlight Bodhisattva and Bodhisattva of moonlight respectively both sides. Can find out, the longevity temple (Boddhist) is that one melts different religions and builds the association built according to the pattern of the temple.

The wide style of temple (Buddhist) lake of the longevity is very obvious, hard mountaintop its is it fight with roof beam mix structure, book floor rolls of canopy, three halling long to close a square while being wide to wear, have the architectural styles of Hubei and Human Provinces, Guangdong and Guangxi Provinces. In history, there are the check of the longevity temple (Buddhist)s very much.

The name, while repairing in 2002, have also kept this characteristic, it is smooth to say to be in working consummately, line, meticulous but not miscellaneous, magnificent but not frivolous, collate and call the fine works of wood carving of fretwork.

Hall hang “apply soil work high” flat volume, great Yu king moulded in the hall. Hall hang “apply soil work high” flat volume, great Yu king moulded in the hall, 6.4 meters high, moukd and assist supernatural Hou Chi of vallery that the uncle benefit andbeliever that big Yu harnesses the river sow and get in crops on both sides, that reflected is that the wide area of lake worships” Dredge nine rivers”. “arrange the Huaihe River Si”, the clear culture characteristic of Human of great king Yu “passing the door and not entering three times”. The god enshrined and worship is a big emperor in the Eastern Mountain in “palace of the Eastern Mountain” of the nave. The big emperor in the Eastern Mountain is a supreme chief executive who wields the hell underworld, administer human world high and low with life and death, its grandfather’s temple is the Mount Tai temple of Mount Tai, one of the Five Mountains, the wide book fellow villager of lake, while building the association in Huize, have invited this god to the county town of Huize too.

“hall of the temple of the longevity” of back hall. What was enshrined and worship is a big person of Goddess of Mercy, there is sunlight Bodhisattva and Bodhisattva of moonlight respectively both sides. Can find out, the longevity temple (Boddhist) is that one melts different religions and builds the association built according to the pattern of the temple.

The wide style of temple (Buddhist) lake of the longevity is very obvious, hard mountaintop its is it fight with roof beam mix structure, book floor rolls of canopy, three halling long to close a square while being wide to wear, have the architectural styles of Hubei and Human Provinces, Guangdong and Guangxi Provinces. In history, there are the check of the longevity temple (Buddhist)s very much.

The name, while repairing in 2002, have also kept this characteristic, it is smooth to say to be in working consummately, line, meticulous but not miscellaneous, magnificent but not frivolous, collate and call the fine works of wood carving of fretwork.

Xiding Thursday Market

Every Thursday, it is busy and crowded on the street of Xiding Town. It is the marketing day of ethnic groups in a week. In the early morning, many peddlers come here and began to prepare for their commodities. Many ethnic people will come here from different villages of Xiding.

After breakfast, pay a visit to Xiding street where you can join a local market (the local market is on every Thursday) and many ethnic minorities come together for their trades, such as Dai, Wa, Bulang and Hani people. It is very popular among Chinese and foreigners, sometimes Burmese also come to the market.

The local products and crafts are the main commodities. Most of the products are taken from the high mountains, like bamboo shoot, honey, tea and wine etc. You can also buy the traditional bamboo-waving works and costume, which are made by ethnic groups.

How to Get to Xiding Thursday Market

Travelers can take mini-bus from Jinghong to Xiding, and it takes about 90 minutes. It is also advisable to rent a car with others.

Recommended Visiting Routes

Travelers can get up at 7 and get to Xiding Street at 8:30. After visiting the busy street, you can visit the ethnic villages nearby, such as the Aini, Bulang villages.

Recommended Tours

5 Days XishuangBanna and Puer Ethnic Market Discovery Tour

6 Days XishuangBanna Tea Culture and Ethnic Villages Hiking Tour from Bada to Xiding

6 Days XishuangBanna Tea Mountain Hiking Tour to Bada, Zhanglang, Xiding and Nannuo Tea Mountain

Nearby Attractions

Zhanglang Bulang Ethnic Minority Village

Zhanglang Bulang Ethnic Minority Village(章朗布朗古寨) is the only one Bulang ecologic museum in China. The Bulang people have been inhabitants of the area for thousands of years. Zhang is elephant, and Lang means frozen in Dai language. Zhanglang is the place of elephants getting frozen. It enjoys long history, over a thousand years. It also keep the traditional culture and historic relics completely. Zhanglang village can take you back to know more about history. It is waiting for you to discover. 

Jingzhen Octagonal Pavilion

Jingzhen Octagonal Pavilion (Chinese name: 景真八角亭), an famous ancient Buddhism architecture in China, is one of the most important cultural relics in Xishuangbanna. Located in the Jingzhen Village, this pavilion is called Octagonal Pavilion which means a place to hold the holy religious ceremony.

Useful Travel Tips

●The market only can be seen on every Thursday.
●It is better to prepare some mosquito products and sun block in case of insects and sunlight.
●Respect the local customs of Ainiand other minorities. 
●It is better to take T-shirt, short and slippers becauce it is too hot in Xishuangbanna.

Chinese Name:大理南涧县灵宝山朝山会
English Name: Lingbaoshan Mountain Pilgrimage in Nanjian County, Dali

Every year on the 20th day of the third lunar month, is the annual Mountain Pilgrimage in Lingbaoshan Mountain, Nanjian County. Lingbaoshan Mountain Pilgrimage is formed naturally by local folks. It can be traced back to Ming and Qing dynasty. It was popular here, and not a few the older has persevered in pilgrimage for 60 years.

Lingbaoshan Mountain is 56 kilometer away from Nanjian County, and the highest altitude is 2,528 meters. Nanjian is a mountainous area where many ethnic groups live in compact communities. Xiangtang people, who is a branch of Yi people, live in Wuliangshan Mountain and Ailaoshan Mountain, and they call themself “Misaba”. Mountain Pilgrimage was initiated by Xiangtang people, and it was prevailing until today.

Pilgrimage is the primary activity in Lingbaoshan Mountain Pilgrimage, but the most passionate activity is Dage (Dance to the rhythmical music). No matter the youth or the old, all make a circle with hands and dance and sing happily.

Translated by Brett Mo/莫宏亮

‣ About Baka

Baka is 100 percent Jinuo minority community located in Jinghong of Xishuangbanna Prefecture, south of Yunnan. With convenient traffic, it is 42 kilometers from Menglun Town in Mengla County to the east and 20 kilometers from Mengyang to the west. As one of six mountain hills of Pu’er Tea, over 18,000 diligent and brave Jinuo people reside here. Stepping into Baka Village, you can vividly feel the features of the “childhood of human beings” dating back to millions of years ago. The village is hidden amidst the dense tropical rainforests but with terrific sceneries.The mountain villages are built on the top of the mountain or at half mountainside. Surrounded by the forest, it has unique tropical rainforest sights. Around is the national nature reserve, you can fall across various animals and hear the singing of birds when traveling in the mountain villages.

● Chinese Name: 西双版纳州景洪市基诺乡巴卡村
● Keywords: Jinuo Minority, Puer Tea
● Location: Jinuo Village，Jinghong City, Xishuangbanna
● Scenic Area: 18.53 square kilometers
● Admission Fee: 0
● Opening Hours:All day

‣ About Jinuo People

Jinuo people there have maintained their traditions of architectures (stilted houses) and other aspects. Jinuo people have a long history of thousands of years; unlike many other groups, it ushered in Socialist Society directly from primitive world in 1950s, and thus became the last identified minority group in China. They live in bamboo buildings hidden among green leaves. In their own language, Jinuo means “the ethnic group that respects the uncle”. Jinuo clan lives in the unique bamboo building that looks like a Kongming hat. Many villous amomum fruits and tea plants are planted on Jinuo Mountain. Jinuo nationality has their unique customs, from the sixth day to the eighth day of February is the grand Temaoke Festival.

‣ About Museum

A countryside museum is established with it to exhibit relics and inherit traditions as well, thus is regarded the first one of its kind in China; it mainly presents different aspects of Jinuo’s culture including the folk residences, life by hunting and collecting, slashing and burning, weaving and embroidering, songs and dances, and religion stuffs, etc, though which one can better understand the mysteries of Jinuo people.

‣ Traditional Festivals

As many other minority groups do in Yunnan, Jinuos also spend assorted traditional festivals.

Blacksmith Day: As the grandest festival of jinuo, it’s spent in Lunar December and lasts couple of days. In the morning of the first day, a butchering ox ceremony goes first, and in the afternoon the elderly from the village would kick off the ox-hide drum dance which turns out to be primitive and boorish; this is the Sun-drum Dance for celebrating bumper harvests.

As the most sacred sacrificing utensil and musical instrument, the Sun-drums are usually gendered; they (drums) are regarded as avatars of Gods and symbol of villages. By offering sacrifices to Sun-drums, Jinuo people believe they will for surly be rewarded with flourishing population and bumper harvest in the future.

Temaoke Festival: it’s spent from lunar Feb 6th to 8th; Sports games are played among villagers; Sun-drum dance would be performed as well.

In addition, other festivals are also taken, such as Torch Festival on lunar Jun 24th, New Rice Festival, etc. Anyway, these festivals will add to your fun if you are bound for Baka Village.

‣ Attraction Transportation
Go around: Take passenger train between Simao, Mengyang, Menglun and Mengla.

‣ Best Time to Visit

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
All the information is for reference only, if there was any change, please follows the information of scenic area. 

Yiwu,The Hometown of Pu’er Tea. 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. The Yiwu name has picked up considerable steam and now carries significant sway in the pu’erh market. As a result, what is marketed as Yiwu tends to come from a very large area.

Why is Yiwu Mountain so special?

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. Tea trees can be found in every mountain, and every village plants tea. This is exact appearance of Yiwu Tea Mountain.

Where is Yiwu Mountain?

Yiwu Tea Mountain is located in the north of Mangla County, Xishuangbanna Prefecture, Yunnan. Yiwu Mountain ioffers heavy fog, fertile land, warm and rainy, rich in heat and abundant rainfall, which are good for plantation of tea.

Main Tea Mountains and Villages in Yiwu Tea Mountain

When it comes to Yiwu, we often see descriptions such as “the birthplace of Pu’er tea,” “the queen of tea,” “a historical record of tea,” “the foremost among the Six Ancient Tea Mountains,” “the origin of tribute tea on the Tea Horse Road,” and “the destination for tea enthusiasts.”

Such high praise for Yiwu is not without reason. If you delve deeper into understanding and tasting Yiwu tea, you will come to know of its glorious past and experience its gentle yet assertive character, which is incredibly captivating!

The Foremost of the Six Ancient Tea Mountains—Yiwu Tea Region

The Yiwu Ancient Tea Mountain, located in Yiwu Township, Mengla County, Xishuangbanna, Yunnan Province, borders Laos to the east and is surrounded by the Yao region, Menglun, Xiangming, and Manla on the south, west, and north sides. It lies in the eastern part of the Six Ancient Tea Mountains. The term “Yiwu” in the Dai language means “the place where beautiful snakes reside.”

The Yiwu Ancient Tea Mountain covers an area of approximately 750 square kilometers, making it the largest among the Six Ancient Tea Mountains. It includes Yiwu Zhengshan, Mansa Tea Mountain, and Manla Tea Mountain. Due to its large area, it is referred to as the Yiwu Tea Region. Yiwu Tea Mountain is the largest in the Six Ancient Tea Mountains, with a saying that “Yiwu occupies one and a half of the Six Tea Mountains.”

One Yiwu Mountain, Half a History of Pu’er

Yiwu has a long history of tea cultivation. Legend has it that tea existed in Yiwu Tea Mountain during the Han Dynasty, and Kongming (Zhuge Liang) taught the methods of picking and drinking tea when he arrived, leading Yiwu people to call Kongming the “Tea Ancestor.” By the Tang Dynasty, various ethnic groups such as the Hani, Blang, Wa, and Yi were already living in Yiwu and cultivating tea. During the late Ming and early Qing Dynasties, Yiwu gained prominence, with its Pu’er tea being exported to Tibet, Southeast Asia, and other regions. To facilitate the transportation of tribute tea and large quantities of tea, goods, and people, the Tea Horse Road centered in Yiwu was established during the Daoguang era, radiating in all directions. During the peak tea production seasons, the number of people coming to buy and transport tea reached tens of thousands, making it a bustling hub of commerce and mule traffic.

As Pu’er tea has become more widely recognized and accepted, it has evolved into a healthy, fashionable, and elegant green beverage. Yiwu tea, with its unique flavor, has once again risen to the pinnacle of Pu’er tea.

The historical influence of Yiwu tea is profound, and it is regarded as the destination for tea enthusiasts. Many tea connoisseurs enjoy tasting and collecting Yiwu tea, finding a sense of belonging in its unique flavor during their search.

The “Queen” of Pu’er—Yiwu Tea

We often hear “Ban Zhang is the king, Yiwu is the queen.” But did you know that “queen” comes first and “king” comes later? When Ban Zhang tea was still relatively unknown, Yiwu tea was already mentioned in Lu Yu’s “The Classic of Tea,” and the Six Ancient Tea Mountains were thus well-known. This highlights the significant reputation of Yiwu tea!

While Ban Zhang tea is known for its bold flavor like a domineering king, Yiwu tea is known for its delicate taste, like a gentle queen. In contrast, Yiwu tea is softer and less domineering, with very low bitterness and high sweetness. The tea soup is very delicate, with a smooth and gentle texture, and features a refreshing and floral honey aroma. Especially after aging, the tea has a flavor that lingers pleasantly.

The taste and aroma of Yiwu tea are closely related to its ecological environment.

Yiwu Ancient Tea Mountain ranges from 656 to 2023 meters in altitude, with significant elevation differences. It belongs to the northern tropical humid monsoon climate, characterized by warm and moist conditions. The high mountains are often shrouded in mist, and the land is fertile with abundant rainfall.

The soil in the tea region mainly consists of red soil and yellow soil. This unique acidic soil quickly accumulates nutrients and facilitates rapid decomposition and utilization, with high organic matter content. The ancient tea tree distribution area has well-preserved vegetation and high forest cover, creating an excellent ecological environment unmatched by other tea regions.

Yiwu’s “Seven Villages and Eight Hamlets”

Seven Villages:七村：麻黑村、高山村、落水洞村、曼秀村、三合社村、易比村、张家湾村；

• Mahei Village
• Gaoshan Village
• Luoshui Cave Village
• Manxiu Village
• Sanheshe Village
• Yibi Village
• Zhangjiawan Village

Eight Hamlets:八寨：刮风寨、丁家寨（瑶族）、丁家寨（汉族）、旧庙寨、倮德寨、大寨、曼洒寨、新寨。

• Guafeng Hamlet
• Dingjia Hamlet (Yao ethnic group)
• Dingjia Hamlet (Han ethnic group)
• Jiuhmiao Hamlet
• Luode Hamlet
• Dazhai Hamlet
• Mansa Hamlet
• Xinzai Hamlet

While everyone knows about the tender and gentle taste of Yiwu tea, it is less known that each of Yiwu’s “Seven Villages and Eight Hamlets” has its own unique charm. To describe Yiwu tea solely with its tender and gentle characteristics would indeed be an understatement of its title as the queen of Pu’er tea!

Yiwu’s Seven Villages and Their Unique Qualities

Yiwu’s Seven Villages: Mahei Mahei is one of the oldest villages in Yiwu and is considered a benchmark for Yiwu tea due to its influence in the region. It has been famous since the Qing Dynasty for its tribute tea, and today it remains one of the largest and highest-yielding ancient tea garden areas in Yiwu.

Characteristics: Mahei tea features broad, dark green leaves with tight, well-formed, and glossy buds. It has a distinctive aroma and rich tea flavor. The tea soup is clear and bright, representing the Yiwu characteristic of “fragrant and soft.”

Yiwu’s Eight Hamlets: Guafeng Hamlet Guafeng Hamlet is a purely Yao ethnic village bordering Laos, located 31 kilometers from the township government, and is quite remote. It has the highest altitude among the Yiwu Seven Hamlets, averaging around 1700 meters, and is known for having the most well-preserved ancient tea trees.

Characteristics: The ancient tea trees in Guafeng Hamlet are distributed across about 50 square kilometers of pristine forest. The tea produced here is known for its sweet and rich honey aroma, strong and subtle tea flavor, deep throat aftertaste, and a full-bodied tea soup. Guafeng Hamlet’s ancient tree tea is considered a high-end Pu’er tea with top standards.

Yiwu Tea Region’s Newcomer: Bohetang Bohetang, located in the deep mountains of the Yiwu Mansa Tea Region, has an altitude of about 1800 meters. The tea trees here are scarce and extremely old, with unique and valuable qualities, making it a benchmark tea in Yiwu.

Origin of the Name: The name “Bohetang” is said to originate from the Yao ancestors who, while planting spices in the deep mountains, accidentally discovered a tea garden with naturally growing “mint,” thus naming it “Bohetang.”

Characteristics: Bohetang tea has long stems, thick and solid buds, with a rich and high-aroma fragrance. The tea soup is a vibrant golden color, smooth and mellow, with a delicate texture. It has a refreshing and sweet taste with a wild, thick, and slightly cool sensation, truly making it a gem among teas.

Characteristics of Yiwu Tea Mountain Pu-erh Tea

Yiwu Pu-erh tea, produced in the Yiwu Mountain area of Yunnan Province, China, is renowned as one of the finest Pu-erh teas and is celebrated with the title “King of Tea.” The high regard for Yiwu Pu-erh tea is closely tied to its unique taste characteristics. This article will explore the taste profile of Yiwu Pu-erh tea in detail, allowing you to experience the charm of this tea treasure.

Yiwu Pu-erh tea is typically shaped into cakes, with a dark, lustrous appearance and tightly rolled leaves. The tea liquor is deep red and bright. The taste characteristics of Yiwu Pu-erh tea are primarily reflected in the following aspects:

1. Rich FlavorYiwu Pu-erh tea is known for its rich flavor. The tea liquor is full-bodied and has a strong aftertaste. This rich taste comes from various components in the tea leaves, such as polyphenols and amino acids. During tasting, you can experience the tea’s complex layers in your mouth, as if savoring the sediment of time and the vicissitudes of history.
2. Unique AromaThe aroma of Yiwu Pu-erh tea is distinctive, with strong aged and woody notes. This aroma evokes the feeling of being in a dense forest, experiencing the freshness and tranquility of nature. As you drink, the aroma gradually emerges with the flow of the tea, creating an immersive experience.
3. Sweet Aftertaste and SalivationYiwu Pu-erh tea is known for its prominent sweet aftertaste and salivation. After the tea enters the mouth, it quickly spreads, bringing a sweet sensation. Additionally, the salivation effect is noticeable, providing a sense of moisture and comfort in the mouth. This sweet aftertaste and salivation contribute to Yiwu Pu-erh tea’s excellent reputation among tea enthusiasts.
4. High BrewabilityYiwu Pu-erh tea has a high brewability, typically allowing for more than ten infusions, or even more. During multiple infusions, the tea’s taste and aroma remain consistent. This high brewability makes Yiwu Pu-erh tea a great value, enabling you to fully enjoy its unique charm.
5. Significant Health BenefitsYiwu Pu-erh tea not only offers a unique taste but also provides notable health benefits. It is rich in polyphenols, caffeine, and other substances that help lower blood lipids, aid weight loss, and offer antioxidant properties. Regular consumption of Yiwu Pu-erh tea not only satisfies the palate but also positively impacts overall health.
6. Rich Historical and Cultural HeritageYiwu Pu-erh tea has a long history and deep cultural significance. It carries the historical weight of the ancient Tea Horse Road and witnesses the transmission and development of Pu-erh tea culture. Drinking Yiwu Pu-erh tea allows you to appreciate its unique taste characteristics and also savor the profound essence of Pu-erh tea culture.

In summary, Yiwu Pu-erh tea stands out in the Pu-erh tea world with its rich flavor, unique aroma, sweet aftertaste, high brewability, significant health benefits, and profound historical and cultural heritage. Tasting Yiwu Pu-erh tea is not only a sensory pleasure but also a spiritual experience, allowing you to enjoy the distinctive charm of Pu-erh tea culture.

How to Get to Yiwu Mountain?

Travelers can get to Mengla County at first, then change bus or take local motorbike to Yiwu Tea Mountain. It is also a good idea to cycle or hike to Yiwu Mountain.

Long-Distance Bus is an important way getting to Mengla County, which could be accessible from Kunming, Jinghong, Puer, Luang Prabang, etc.  Here we list some of the bus information for your reference.

Route	Departure Station	Departure Time
Kunming-Mengla	Kunming South Passenger Station(南部客运站)	10:30, 19:00, 19:30, 18:00
Kunming-Mengla	Kunming High-speed Rail South Passenger Center(昆明高铁南客运中心)	11:00, 18:00, 20:00, 20:30, 21:30, 22:00, 22:40
Kunming-Mengla	Kunming North Passenger Station(北部客运站)	21:00
Puer-Mengla	Puer High Speed Passenger Station(普洱高快客运站)	07:00, 08:10, 09:10, 10:10, 12:50
Jinghong-Mengla	Jinghong Passenger Station	07:10, 08:00, 09:00, 10:00, 11:40

History of Yiwu Mountain

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.

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 .

Main Attractions and Things to Do in Yiwu

1.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.

2.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.

3.Ethnic Minority

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 people are indigenous group 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.

Recommended Tours

3 Days XishuangBanna Tea Culture Tour to Yiwu and Nannuo Tea Mountains

6 Days XishuangBanna Yiwu Mountain Tea Culture Hiking Tour

11 Days XishuangBanna and Puer Ancient Tea Culture Tour with Yiwu Mountain Tea Plantation

Nearby Attractions

Menglun Tropical Botanical Garden

Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden (Chinese name: 西双版纳热带植物园) was built in 1959, is the biggest and richest botanical garden in China nowadays. Since 1996, this garden combined with former Kunming Ecological Research Institute, formed an independent research institution attached to Chinese Academy of Science. With the time goes by, it becomes a comprehensive garden that combined research, preservation and education of tropical plants together.

Wangtianshu Scenic Spot

Wangtianshu Scenic Attraction is the only oasis at 21 degrees north latitude, and has been recognized internationally as China’s unique tropical rainforest. What is the most impressive in the park are the towering Shorea chinensis (Sky Trees) that are the rainforest iconic images in South and Southeast Asia. An Air Corridor (Kong Zhong Zou Lang), 2500 meters long and 36 meters high, has been built on the high canopies. It remains a challenge to both visitors and scientists. The well-protected tropical rainforest that was discovered by the Chinese reputed botanist Mr. Cai Xitao (1911-1981) and witnessed by Prince Philip of the UK, surprised many people when it was unveiled to the outside world.  With hotels and air corridor, you can travel and lodge here.

Best Time to Visit

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 21 c, 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.

Useful Travel Tips

Local Cuisine

During your visit to Yiwu, you definitely shouldn’t miss the local cuisine. Yiwu boasts a unique culinary culture with a variety of dishes and distinctive flavors. You can enjoy authentic Yunnan cuisine and ethnic specialties in local restaurants, such as: cured pork ribs, wild mushrooms, and Dai-style sour and spicy fish. Additionally, Yiwu’s tea is also a highlight; you can sample local Pu-erh tea, green tea, and other delicious varieties.

Shopping Recommendations

While in Yiwu, you can also purchase local handicrafts and specialty products as souvenirs or gifts. Yiwu is known for its exquisite embroidery and weaving crafts, such as handmade embroidered shoes and embroidered scarves. Local tea and tea utensils are also great choices. When shopping, it is advisable to choose reputable merchants to avoid low-quality or counterfeit products.

Important Tips

1. Safety Concerns: During your travels, be mindful of personal and property safety. Avoid going to undeveloped or unsafe areas to prevent potential dangers. Exercise caution when walking in mountainous or steep areas.
2. Environmental Awareness: Protecting the environment is the responsibility of every traveler. Follow local environmental protection regulations, avoid littering, and do not damage natural landscapes or cultural relics. Also, respect local customs and cultural traditions.
3. Respect Local Residents: Be considerate of the local residents’ lifestyles and habits. Try not to disturb their daily lives and respect their work and cultural traditions. When taking photos, always ask for permission from local residents first.
4. Travel Planning: Given Yiwu’s limited transportation options, it’s recommended to plan your itinerary in advance and allow enough time to explore various attractions. Also, pay attention to the pace of your itinerary and avoid overexertion.

Zhanglang Bulang Ethnic Minority Village

Zhanglang Bulang Ethnic Minority Village(章朗布朗古寨) is the only one Bulang ecologic museum in China. The Bulang people have been inhabitants of the area for thousands of years. Zhang is elephant, and Lang means frozen in Dai language. Zhanglang is the place of elephants getting frozen. It enjoys long history, over a thousand years. It also keep the traditional culture and historic relics completely. Zhanglang village can take you back to know more about history. It is waiting for you to discover. 

Chinese Name: 西双版纳傣族自治州勐海县西定乡章朗村
English Name: Zhanglang Village of Xiding Town in Menghai County, Xishuangbanna

Why is Zhanglang Bulang Ethnic Minority Village so special?

Zhanglang Bulang Village is like a living fossil, enjoying the ancient temple , ancient well and ancient trees. It carries not only the traditional culture of Bulang minority, but also the tea culture.

Where is Zhanglang Bulang Village?

It is located in Xiding Town of Menghai County, 70 km from Menghai County and 100 km from Jinghong City. It is surrounded by the primeval forest and wild tea trees.

How to Get to Zhanglang Bulang Village

There is no bus to Zhanglang Village. Travelers can drive or cycle to this ancient village.

Legend

Zhanglang means the place of elephants getting frozen in Dai language. 1400 years ago, Mahahong, the disciple of Sakyamuni, traveled around the world by riding elephant. When they came here, it rained cats and dogs, with hails. The rain did not stop until the night. They had to live in local Buddhist Temple. The elephant was frozen the next day. Mahahong named the village as Zhanglang to memory the contribution of elephant.

More Information about Zhanglang Village

Drive from Menghai County, and across Mengzhe Town, hillup the mountain, via Bada mountains, you can see the Zhanglang Village, with 70 kilometers from Menghai County. From afar, the Zhanglang Village with thousand years is hidden in the virgin forest. The top of mountain standing a pagoda with unique style.

Bulang Ethnic Minority

The Bulang ethnic (also known as Blang) are one of the ethnic minority groups of southwestern Yunnan province. There are approximately 90,000 Bulang people remaining in China. There’s the highest density of Bulang natives as well as the Lahu people in the Menglai area of southwest Yunnan. Many of these villages are easily accessible on a trip to Xishuangbanna. Nonyang is a town located in the Xishuangbanna prefecture and a few kilometers from Menghun, it’s one of the main spots for the Bulang people. Pass the mountains in Menghun and the territory extends to the Myanmar border. Most of the Bulang villages are over 1,500 meters above sea level. In many villages the traditional-style Bulang houses remain standing. 

They believe in original religion in ancient time, and now believe in Buddhism. It is very secure there as there is no single crime in Zhanglang Village since the founding of People’s Republic of China.

Tea Culture of Zhanglang Village

Zhanglang tea is famous for its high-quality and long history. Tea is a kind of life style. For a thousand year, the village keeps the traditional tea culture. Zhanglang village is embraced by tea trees planted by their ancestors. Bada Ancient Tea Plantation is main plantation. It is a ideal place for you to get back and experience life.

Main Attractions

● Zhanglang White Elephant Temple(章郎白象寺)

According to the record of Pattra-Leaf Scripture which treasured up in Zhanglang Temple, the White Elephant Temple has a 1365 years history, with an area of 4 acres. There is a Temple, a mook room, a pagoda, and a Scripture library with more than 100 Pattra-Leaf Scripture. The whole Temple building group reflect the unique art style of Bulang Ethnic building style.

● Ancient well(千年古井)

There is a ancient well outside the Zhanglang Village with thousands of year. According to legend, a disciple of Sakyamuni passed away the village, and the weather is too hot, the elephant was intolerable thirst, so it dig a well with its long nose. The interesting is that the well never  dried-up all around the year.

● Bada Mountains(巴达山）

Speaking of Bada, the Bulang people consider it as “where the immortals left footprints” in their language. It’s a famous place among tea fans in China and abroad. In 1962, Yunnan Institution of Tea found an ancient wild tea tree over 1700 year old in virgin forest beside Hesong Village in Bada, experts and tea fans hand been visiting this place almost every year since then. Bada obtains most of wild tea trees in Xishuangbanna, the original tea trees grow in an area over 6000 acres. There are also large artificial cultivation tea [FS:Page]plantation in Bada, which distribute in villages like Zhanglang, Manmai, Manpi and Manpana.

●Bulang Eco Museum(布朗生态博物馆)

Bulang Eco Museum is the first Eco Museum of Bulang Nationality in China and the world. It is located in Zhanglang Village, the border of China and Burma. It is a typical Bulang Village with 1400 years of history. There are ancient Buddhist Temple, ancient tea garden and ancient Dragon Mountain Forest. The ancient culture, living and working styles, moral values, folk customs such as production, marriage, funeral, house construction, sacrifice, diet still remains in Zhanglang Village. The museum collects the daily necessities, repair some ancient buildings and educate the villagers to protect their traditional customs. The villagers in the eco museum are more important element of the museum than natural scenery and exhibitions.

Recommended Tours

2 Days Xishuangbanna Ethnic Villages Hiking Tour from Bada to Zhanglang

6 Days XishuangBanna Tea Mountain Hiking Tour to Bada, Zhanglang, Xiding and Nannuo Tea Mountain

6 Days XishuangBanna Tea Culture and Ethnic Villages Hiking Tour from Bada to Xiding

Nearby Attractions

Jingzhen Octagonal Pavilion

Jingzhen Octagonal Pavilion (Chinese name: 景真八角亭), an famous ancient Buddhism architecture in China, is one of the most important cultural relics in Xishuangbanna. Located in the Jingzhen Village, this pavilion is called Octagonal Pavilion which means a place to hold the holy religious ceremony.

Best Time to Visit

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. It has long summer and no winter. With cool and pleasant four seasons, the best time for traveling Xishuangbanna is from October to April the next year.

Useful Travel Tips

●It is better to prepare some mosquito products and sun block in case of insects and sunlight.
●Respect the local customs of Bulang. 
●Respect their belief to Buddhism.
●It is better to take T-shirt, short and slippers becauce it is too hot in Xishuangbanna.

Chinese Name: 元阳牛角寨梯田
English Name: Niujiaozhai Rice Terraces in Yuanyang County, Honghe
Keywords: Terraces, Hani festivals and culture, cloud sea
Location: 21 kilometer to the west of Yuanyang County
Admission Fee:￥100
Opening Hours: All day long

The Niujiaozhai Rice Terraces (牛角寨梯田), located in Yuanyang County, Yunnan Province, are a lesser-known yet captivating part of the renowned Yuanyang Hani Rice Terraces. Situated near Laohuzui (Tiger Mouth) in Xinjie Town, these terraces are celebrated for their vibrant red hues, primarily due to the presence of red duckweed in the water-filled fields during certain seasons .​

🌾 Distinctive Features

• Colorful Terraces: Niujiaozhai is renowned for its vivid red terraces, which are especially prominent around the Chinese New Year when red duckweed blooms, creating a striking contrast against the water’s surface .​

• Compact and Intricate: Compared to other terrace areas, Niujiaozhai’s fields are more compact and intricately designed, offering a unique perspective for visitors and photographers .​

• Scenic Waterfalls: The area boasts waterfalls on both its eastern and western slopes, which are particularly impressive during the rainy season from May to July .​

📷 Photography Tips

• Best Time to Visit: The optimal period for capturing the red terraces is from December to March, coinciding with the presence of red duckweed .​

• Sunset Views: Evenings offer the best lighting conditions, with the setting sun enhancing the terraces’ colors and creating picturesque reflections .​

🚗 Getting There

• Location: Niujiaozhai is approximately 40 minutes by car from Yuanyang’s Xinjie Town .​

• Transportation: While public transportation options are limited, hiring a local driver or joining a guided tour can provide convenient access to the terraces.​

🛏️ Accommodation

While Niujiaozhai itself is a tranquil village with limited facilities, nearby Xinjie Town offers a range of accommodations, from guesthouses to hotels, catering to various preferences and budgets.​

Niujiaozhai Rice Terraces offer a serene and colorful alternative to the more frequented spots in Yuanyang, making it a worthwhile destination for travelers seeking unique landscapes and cultural experiences

‣ About Niujiaozhai Rice Terraces in Yuanyang County

Niujiaozhai Rice Terraces in Yuanyang County is formed by water fields with red duckweed, it presents the wisdom of Ailaoshan people vividly. It’s a part of Yuanyang Terraced Fields and not renowned like other scenic spots. It looks extremely beautiful especially in a sunny day. The beauty of red fields lies on its exquisite lines( field rand) and the diversity in color with red, blue water fields. You may see locals with ethnic costumes working the land, taking photos to seize the moment, it could be a special photography work. Trek up to the hill and have a visit to local families, experience a simple farming life of Hani people. Visitors can get a wider view in Niujiaozhai Village.

Chinese Name:元阳猛弄土司府
English Name: Mengnong Sishu Chieftain Palace in Yuanyang County, Honghe
Keywords: Mengnong Chief Palace, Yuanyang Terrace Fields
Location: 4 kilometers away from Laohuzui Rice Terraces
Admission Fee: ¥10
Opening Hours: All Day Long

The Menglong Tusi Residence (猛弄土司府), also known as the Menglong Tusi Office, is a well-preserved historical site located approximately 20 kilometers south of Xinjie Town in Yuanyang County, Yunnan Province, China. It stands as one of the best-preserved Tusi residences in the region.​

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🏛 Architectural Features

The residence is built into the mountainside, facing south, and covers an area of approximately 4,006.5 square meters. Constructed during the Qing Dynasty’s Yongzheng period (1735), it served as the administrative center for the Menglong Tusi, a hereditary local ruler. The complex includes stone steps, a main gate, four side rooms, a main hall, and a flower hall, all showcasing distinctive ethnic architectural styles.​

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📜 Historical Significance

The Tusi system was a feudal governance model implemented by the Chinese imperial court in border regions, where local ethnic leaders were appointed as hereditary rulers. The Menglong Tusi encouraged agricultural development, including the cultivation of terraced fields, and implemented policies that promoted local prosperity. They also played active roles in national defense during the Republican era.​

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🎭 Cultural Value

In 2004, the residence underwent restoration and was established as the Hani Culture Research Center and the Tusi Culture Research Center, focusing on the study and promotion of Hani culture and the Tusi system. It has become a central hub for Tusi culture in Southwest China.​

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🧭 Visitor Information

• Address: Menglong Village, Panzhihua Township, Yuanyang County, Honghe Hani and Yi Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan Province​

• Opening Hours: Please consult local tourism authorities or tour guides for current visiting hours.​腾讯新闻

• Accessibility: Approximately a 40-minute drive from Xinjie Town.​

• Activities: Visitors can explore the architectural complex, learn about the Hani ethnic history, and participate in traditional cultural events such as bonfire feasts.​

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The Menglong Tusi Residence offers a unique opportunity to delve into the rich history and culture of the Hani people and the Tusi system, making it a valuable destination for cultural tourism in Yunnan Province.

About Mengnong Chieftain Palace in Yuanyang County

Mengnong Chieftain Palace in Yuanyang County of Honghe is built in 1735A.D, located in the north of Tengtiao River, belongs to Panzhihua Village. It’s 4 kilometers away from Laohuzui Rice Terraces, standing on the top of a mountain.

Chieftain is a appellation since Yuan dynasty, it’s a official position for the leader of minorities in border areas like the southwest region. It can be inherited with the permission of the authority. It’s a kind of political system for governing the border area with a minority leader During the feudal period.

The one with most concern is the 18 chieftains, among them, some are the brave pioneers, some are the heroes of guarding the border. Mengnong chieftain is the most notable one. They create the unique, mysterious chieftain culture.

National Protection War was broken out in 1915, Mengnong chieftain supported Tangjirao warlord and Cai’e warlord against Yuanshikan. Mengnong chieftains lead the people of all nationalities to resist the Japanese. The move is recognized and appreciated by the warlords and the public in Yunnan.

The house is constructed in a turret architectural style. There are birds and flowers patterns on the gate and pillars. The two side of Mengnong chieftain palace is the lodging place of soldiers. The courtyard is a  two-floor building. The whole house is quadrangle courtyard with 60 rooms.

Chinese Name:芒市菩提寺
English Name: Bodhi Temple in Mangshi City, Dehong

Dongchuan Red Land is located in Hongtu Town (红土地镇), over 40 kilometers southwest of the Dongchuan District (东川区) in Kunming (昆明市). Within this region lies Huashitou (花石头), near the 109-kilometer milestone. This area encompasses nearly a hundred square miles and showcases the most concentrated, typical, and distinctive red earth found on the Yunnan (云南) Red Plateau.

Seasonal Beauty of the Red Land

From September to December each year, the landscape transforms as part of the red land is turned over and prepared for planting. Another section is already sown with lush barley or wheat and other crops. From a distance, this vibrant patchwork of color appears to be painted by the heavens, displaying an array of dazzling hues against the backdrop of blue skies, white clouds, and ever-changing beams of light. This combination creates a spectacular view that defines the essence of the red land.

The Significance of Huashitou Village

Huashitou Village serves as the heart of the Red Land. The name Huashitou translates to “colorful stones,” which are found abundantly throughout the village, earning it the affectionate moniker of “colorful stone” among the locals.

The Allure of Colorful Stones

These colorful stones maintain their elegant appearance throughout the year:

• Winter: Though winter has not yet passed, spring is approaching, and the air remains slightly cold. The colorful stones lie on the grassland like sleeping babies.
• Summer: In summer, these stones take on the persona of innocent and lively girls, attracting thousands of photographers from around the globe.
• Autumn: During autumn, the colorful stones resemble mature men, exuding a solemn presence that connects the red land to the crops, the sky, and the mountains. The landscape is adorned with abundant fruits.
• Winter: In winter, the colorful stones often don white coats with vibrant designs, further enhancing their beauty.

The Legend of the Colorful Stones

While Huashitou Village is not large, it is nestled within the Red Land Scenic Area (红土地景区) and is renowned for its unique geological features. The village is abundant in agate (玛瑙), which hides within hard pebbles. When illuminated by sunlight, these stones radiate a dazzling array of colors, leading locals to refer to agate as “colorful stones.” This is how the village derived its name.

Numerous legends surround the existence of these beautiful stones in such a highland area. The most plausible explanation suggests that they were once submerged at the bottom of a river. After geological changes elevated the plateau, the agates surfaced naturally. This phenomenon can be considered a precious gift from nature to humanity.

A Photographer’s Paradise

The beauty of Huashitou Village is accentuated by its concentration of the reddest and most stunning soils in all of Dongchuan. Photographers and artistic souls are enamored with this site, establishing numerous photography bases in the area.

The red land reaches its peak splendor after rainfall, when the soaked soil appears even more vibrant under the sun. The harmony between the red earth and the village creates a secluded paradise, enticing visitors to approach and explore further.

Chinese name: 玉龙雪山冰川公园索道
Key words: snow mountain scenery 
Location: western of Lijiang

Overview of Glacier Park Cable-way 

Going west for about 5 kilometers from the Snowflake Villa in the Sweet Sea Meadow, you will reach the bottom station of the snow mountain, which is the start of the Great Cable Way of the snow mountain. You will densely forest at an altitude of 3,356 meters. The cable way starts from here, ends at the top station which is at the bottom of Sanzidou(Fan) Peak, 4,506 meters above sea level. The whole cable way is 2,914 meters long, and the vertical difference in height is 1,150 meters. It is the highest passenger cable in China.

The cable way has been installed with full-sealed hanging aluminum box, which has 6 seats in it. It’s very comfortable. It only takes you half an hour to go from the immense forest at the bottom station to the expanse of white snow of the top station, but you will experience the climate of four seasons. You will be excited about the strong changes of the seasons, the big differences between hotness and coldness, and the great changes of the sceneries.  

What to see in Glacier Park

There are complete vertical natural sceneries of subtropical, temperate and frigid zones, and you experience all of them in a short time. If you take open cable way, you will fully enjoy the vertical distribution of the plants in the snow mountain. Starting from the 3,000 altitude meadow, the cable would take you go through the forests of pines and firs. With the rising of the cable, the forests became gradually far away and large shrubbery appeared, and also bushes of azaleas. Reaching to the height of over 4,000 meters above sea level, you could only see some bryophytes adhered to the rocks. Then at last, large expanses of white snow would come into your eyes.

Nannuo Tea Mountain

Nannuo Mountain is famous in China and abroad as the home of the “King of Tea Tree,” a human cultivated 800+ year old tree. Fine tea tree varieties and superior natural conditions produce outstanding Nannuo Mountain tea products. Nannuo Mountain Peacock tea is a 400 gram fresh Pu-er cake. It possesses a green, glossy luster and has leaves and buds that are plump, strong, and tender. The strips of tea unfold with prominent fine hair. When brewed, the tea liquor is a bright golden yellow with a strong, but mellow and refreshing flavor. It has a sharp kougan (feeling in the mouth) and stimulates salivation. The tea has strong and distinctive aroma.

Here, travelers can feel the emotion of King of Tea Tree, enjoy the favorable flavor of tea plantation, step into the Hani Villages and experience the local custom and taste the natural inviting potherbs and wild fruits.

Why is Nannuo Tea Mountain so special?

Nannuo Mountain is famous in China and abroad as the home of the “King of Tea Tree,” a human cultivated 800+ year old tree. Fine tea tree varieties and superior natural conditions produce outstanding Nannuo Mountain tea products. Puer Tea is mainly made of tea of Nannuo Mountain. Nannuo Tea Mountain become famous with the selling of Puer Tea at home and abroad.

Menghai tea factory has released this Peacock series of single-estate tea mountains since 2001.  They represent some of Menghai Tea Factory’s most sought after teas and are produced in very limited quantities.

Ethnic Villages in Nannuo Mountain
Villages in Nannuo Mountain consist of Banpo Laozhai Village(半坡老寨), Duoyizhai Village(南糯山多依寨村), Guniang Village(姑娘寨), Yakou Xinzhai Village(丫口新寨), Laozhai Village(老寨), Shitouzhai Village(石头寨),Zhulincun Village(竹林村寨) ,Xiangyang Village(向阳寨) and Shuihe Village(水河寨).

Where is Nannuo Tea Mountain?

It is located in the eastern portion of Menghai County of Yunnan Province’s Xishuangbanna Prefecture. It has an average elevation of 1400 meters above sea level. The entire mountain is covered in shaded forests of green bamboo and other trees. Ecological conditions are excellent. Nannuo Mountain tea trees are large-leaf arbor-type.

Nannuo Mountain Travel Guide

Nannuo Mountain Village is located in the Gelanghe and Hani Autonomous Township of Menghai County. It is the eastern gateway to Menghai and the starting point of the “Seven Sons Cake” tea culture tourism route. Known for its titles such as “Global First Ancient Tea Village,” “First Ancient Tea Mountain,” and “Place of Climate Transition,” Nannuo Mountain enjoys a pleasant climate with an average annual temperature of 17.9°C. The area is renowned for its beautiful ecological environment, rich ancient tea tree resources, including 800-year-old cultivated tea trees and 12,000 acres of contiguous ancient tea gardens. It also features the historic Menghai Tea Factory No. 1, which was the first mechanized tea processing plant in Yunnan, established in 1938. The village maintains a rich ethnic culture, with well-preserved Hani ethnic costumes, traditional dwellings, indigenous songs and dances, and distinctive festivals. The long history of tea cultivation and processing has resulted in a deep and rich Hani tea culture.

First Stop: Hani Cultural Park

Hani Cultural Park is located 24 kilometers from Jinghong on the Menghai highway. It is a convenient place to explore and learn about Hani culture. The park includes the Hani Ethnic Museum, traditional Hani dwellings, ethnic tourism, handcraft displays, and specialty Hani restaurants. Visitors can learn about Hani clothing, tea culture, weaving techniques, farming culture, and daily life.

Second Stop: Nannuo Mountain Viewing Platform

The Nannuo Mountain Viewing Platform is located along the route between Gu Niang Village and Duo Yi Village. Climbing the platform in the morning dew offers a view of the city of Jinghong with its distant lights and the nearby peaceful Hani villages. After rain or in the early morning, you can observe the white mist rising from the valleys, sometimes light and ethereal, sometimes surging and turbulent, like waves rolling through the mountains. Amidst the sea of clouds, the Hani villages appear faintly, resembling islands in the clouds, creating a beautiful, otherworldly scene.

Third Stop: 800-Year-Old Tea King Tree

The Tea King Tree is located in the Banpo Laozhai village group. Follow the stone-paved walkway to the Banpo Laozhai Ancient Tea Garden. Along the way, you will see rows of ancient tea trees with sunlight casting dappled beams. The wind, bird calls, and insect chirps create a harmonious background. Proceed to find the 800-year-old cultivated tea tree standing majestically on the hillside. This ancient tree, having endured centuries, remains lush and vibrant, showcasing unique vitality and beauty. A small pavilion nearby offers a place to sit with locals, enjoy tea, and listen to the soothing sounds of flowing water.

Fourth Stop: Heiniu Ancient Tea Garden

From the Banpo Laozhai Tea King Tree walkway, you can reach various village clusters such as Yako Laozhai, Yako Xinzai, and Duo Yi Village. At nearby Hani restaurants, you can try traditional Hani dishes with “sour, spicy, and fresh” flavors, such as delicate chicken porridge, aromatic smoked dried meat, mountain-style salt and pepper fish, and tea-stirred eggs. Climbing to the highest peak of Duo Yi Village, Heiniu Ancient Tea Garden, you can join the Hani people in picking tea, feel the natural power of growth with your fingers, and personally experience tea processing techniques like roasting and drying. Enjoy the fresh tea aroma and the refreshing feeling it brings.

Fifth Stop: Menghai Tea Factory No. 1 Old Site

The Menghai Tea Factory No. 1, founded in 1938, is the first mechanized tea processing plant in Yunnan. The old site, located in Shitou Xinzai, features a design that blends Chinese and Western styles, with a solid stone foundation and thick walls that record historical changes. It documents the tea cultivation and processing techniques of the Hani people and their deep connection with tea.

Sixth Stop: Semi-Mountain Hotels and Guesthouses

Nannuo Mountain Village emphasizes the integration of tea culture and tourism, transforming villages into scenic spots, tea gardens into attractions, and farmhouses into guest accommodations. The area has developed several semi-mountain hotels and guesthouses, such as the Jianglu and Nanshan Hidden, where you can enjoy serene nights away from the city’s hustle and bustle. Staying in these mountain lodges surrounded by tea forests, you can wake up to mountain views, sleep under the stars, watch the sea of clouds, and enjoy the picturesque sunrise. Experience the leisurely pleasure of sitting by the fire and chatting with the Hani people.

How to Get to Nannuo Tea Mountain?

Nannuo Tea is located in Gelanghe Township of Menghai County, so travelers need to get to Menghai at first and change bus or drive to Nannuo Tea Mountain.

Long-Distance Bus is an important way getting to Menghai County, which could be accessible from Kunming, Jinghong, etc.  Here we list some of the bus information for your reference.

Route	Departure Station	Arrival Station	Departure Time
Kunming-Menghai	Kunming South Passenger Station(南部客运站)	Menghai Passenger Station(勐海客运站)	11:00, 17:30; 20:00
Kunming-Menghai	Kunming High-speed Rail South Passenger Center(昆明高铁南客运中心)	Menghai Passenger Station(勐海客运站)	11:30, 16:00, 20:30, 21:30, 22:00, 22:40
Kunming-Menghai	Kunming North Passenger Station(北部客运站)	Menghai Passenger Station(勐海客运站)	21:00
Jinghong-Menghai	Jinghong Passenger Station(景洪客运站)	Menghai Passenger Station(勐海客运站)	07:00, 07:20, 08:10, 08:50, 09:10, 09:30, 10:00, 13:40

History of Nannuo Tea Mountain

Nannuo means “bamboo paste” in the Dai language. During ancient times, Nannuo Mountain was primarily inhabited by ethnic Hani people.When they had too many bamboo shoots to eat, they made the leftovers into a paste. This paste was presented to the village chieftains every year. The mountain was subsequently named Nannuo Mountain.

Long times ago, it was not convenient to transfer in Nannuo Mountain because of the dense forest. The horse was the only tool to send the tea out the mountain. Due to the high-quality of tea of Nannuo Mountain, a lot of horse caravans came into villages and took the tea to Simao, Menghai, Mengla, even the countries of south Asian. Nannuo Tea Mountain is the best production place for Puer Tea. Nannuo Tea Mountain becomes more and more popular.

 

Other Information about Nannuo Mountain

Xishuangbanna Nannuo Tea Planting Area

Nannuo Tea Mountain is located in Gelanghe Township of Menghai County and is mainly inhabited by ethnic Hani people. It lies 22km from Jinghong and 20km from Menghai. During the 1920’s, the Republic of China government established Yunnan’s earliest tea industry testing ground at Nannuo Mountain. The Nannuo Mountain area contains vast tea growing areas and possesses a long history of growing tea. Its history of tea cultivation can be traced back to the Tang dynasty (618-920AD). It is also the oldest test-bed of industrialization in Xishuangbanna. Today there are still more than 10,000mu of remaining Nannuo Mountain old tea gardens. Combined with the past several decades of development in tea cultivation, this has made Nannuo an important source of raw tea material for the Menghai area.

Climate of Nannuo Tea Mountain

Nannuo Mountain has a mild climate with a yearly average temperature of 18.7°C. Lying at elevations between 800 to 1500m, it serves to divide the climates of Menghai and Jinghong. Temperatures range from 3°C to 33.5°C. It is said to possess: “winters without brutal cold, and summers without extreme heat. There are many foggy days, but ample amounts of warm sun. Rainfall is plentiful.” Average relative humidity is 78%.There are an average 100 to 150 foggy days per year, which makes Nannuo a fine example of the saying “High, foggy mountains produce famous tea.”

Aini People

Gelanghe is a Hani Ethnic Township, which has a meaning of happiness and good fortune. Aini people, a tribe of Hani minority, have lived here for long time. They have no written system, so they carry on the ethnic history, legend and folk songs from mouth to mouth.

Recommended Tours

1 Day XishuangBanna Nannuo Tea Mountain and Aini Ethnic Village Hiking Tour

3 Days XishuangBanna Tea Culture Tour to Yiwu and Nannuo Tea Mountains

6 Days XishuangBanna Tea Mountain Hiking Tour to Bada, Zhanglang, Xiding and Nannuo Tea Mountain

Nearby Attraction

Jingzhen Octagonal Pavilion

Jingzhen Octagonal Pavilion (Chinese name: 景真八角亭), an famous ancient Buddhism architecture in China, is one of the most important cultural relics in Xishuangbanna. Located in the Jingzhen Village, this pavilion is called Octagonal Pavilion which means a place to hold the holy religious ceremony.

Best Time to Visit Nannuo Mountain

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 April the next year.

Useful Travel Tips

●It is better to prepare some mosquito products and sun block in case of insects and sunlight.
●It is better to take T-shirt, short and slippers becauce it is too hot in Xishuangbanna.
●Respect the local customs of Aini people and other minorities.
●Take care of yourself when climbing the Nannuo Mountain.