Xiashankou

Xiaowan Town(小湾镇), formerly known as Majie Township(马街乡), is located in the east of Fengqing County, located along the southern bank of the Lancang River, 50 kilometers from the county seat. In 1993, the Majie township was removed and renamed Xiaowan Town. In 2003, the government seat moved from Majie village to the Xiaowan Village. Xiaowan Town covers an area of 204 square kilometers and has jurisdiction over 184 villager groups in 12 villages, with a total population of 27,156. At the end of 2017, the town realized a total rural economic income of 377 million yuan and a per capita disposable income of 10,047 yuan for rural permanent residents. The per capita disposable income of urban residents was 29,500 yuan. Completed scale above fixed assets investment 588 million yuan and attracted investment 106 million yuan. In 2018, the town has 31 grass-roots party organizations.

Highlights of Xiaowan Town

1. Tea Culture: Xiaowan Town, which is located in the middle reaches of Lancang River, is one of the center areas of the origin of tea trees in the world. There are still many wild, evolutional and cultivated ancient tea trees, which have the value of sightseeing and scientific investigation. There is a ancient tea tree for more than 3200 years at Xiangzhuqing of Jinxiu Village(锦绣村香竹箐), known as “the ancestor of tea tree” and “the king of tea”.

2. Minority Culture: In Xiaowan town, in addition to the Han nationality, there are also eight ethnic minorities of Yi, Bai, Miao, Su, Hui, Dai, Wa and Lahu. The minority population accounts for more than 60% of the total population. Xiaowan is a minority town inhabited by many minority population. 

3. Hydropower: Xiaowan Hydropower Station is located 1.5 kilometers after the confluence of Lancang River and its tributary, Heihui River, the junction of Fengqing County and Nanjian County. It is the highest hyperbolic arch dam in the world, with the distinctive characteristics of large storage capacity, large installed capacity, large construction investment, great difficulty in construction, high slope, high water head, high dam, good long-term benefit, good cascade control, less migration and so on.

Yiwu Town

This summer tour takes you to visit the world of lotus flowers–Puzhehei. If you are a devotee of natural landscape and a photographer, this tour will give you a deep impression of the masterpiece of nature and you will leave with no regrets. 

Highlights:

• Appreaciate the booming lotus on the lake and charming landscape.
• Enjoy local ethnic life.

Brief Itinerary

• Day 1: Kunming-Puzhehei
• Day 2: Puzhehei-Kunming

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1 Kunming-Puzhehei by Speed Train

Sightseeing and Activities: Puzhehei, Qinglong Mountain, Torch Cave, Kwan-yin Cave
Accommodation: Puzhehei
Meals: Lunch, Dinner

Pick you up at your hotel in Kunming. Drive to Kunming South Railway Station. Take a morning bullet train to Puzhehei. After arrival, take a private car to Puzheihei Scenic Area. Take a small boat to visit the Karst landscape and rurality and lakes.  If you come to Puzhehei on June, July and August, you will see large scale of lotus flowers on the lake. Then disembark at the Qinglongshan wharf and climb Qinglong Mountain to see the panorama of Puzhehei. After that, walk to visit the Torch Cave and Kwan-yin Cave. 

Day 2 Puzhehei-Kunming by Speed Train

Sightseeing and Activities: Ethnic Villages, Swan Lake
Accommodation: None
Meals: Lunch

This morning, visit some villages in the scenic area to experience local life. Then visit the “Swan Lake“. Usually, you could see swans and play on the lake. After lunch, drive to Puzhehei railway station. Take a bullet train back to Kunming. Drop you off to your hotel in Kunming. Service ends.

Recommended Hotels

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;
• Round-trip bullet train tickets between Kunming and Puzhehei(Second-class tickets).

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.

Anning City is a county-level city governed by Kunming city, 28 km away from Kunming urban area. It is well-known for its abundant hot springs resource, for this one-day hot spring tour, you can have a really relax day in Jinfang Forest Hot Spring which will provide you with soft water in high temperature and high salinity, that is very beneficial to the health. 

• Relax yourself in the Jinfang Forest Hot Spring.
• Appreciate the charming sceneries near your spa pools.

Detailed Itinerary

Service Included:

• Admission fees for all of the sightseeing spots listed in the itinerary;
• Meals as listed in the itinerary;
• Private vehicle for transfers & sightseeing with skilled driver.

Service Excluded:

• Any arrival and departure international airfares or train tickets;
• Chinese visa fees;
• Excess baggage charged by Airlines;
• Accomodations;
• Meals not listed in the itinerary;
• Tour guide;
• Tips to guides and drivers;
• Personal expenses and gratuities to service staff;
• Personal travel accident insurance;
• All optional programs.

Chinese Name: 永和口岸
English Name: Yonghe Border Port
Keywords: Yonghe Border Port, Cangyuan attractions, where to visit in Cangyuan
Location: Cangyuan Va Autonomous County (14 KM away from Cangyuan County)
Admission Fee: Free
Opening Hours: All the day

About Yonghe Border Port 

Yonghe Border Port is a nationally second-grade opening port. This port was opened in 1996, a commercial port which connects Cangyuan and Myanmar. Yonghe Port is an inconspicuous one among hundreds of opening ports in China, but its geographical location is quite unique. The altitude increases around 1800m along the way from Cangyuan County center to Yonghe Port. Overlooked from Yonghe Border Port, Cangyuan County center is covered by spectacular clouds.

 Functions of Yonghe Border Port 

Yonghe Border Port is 14 km away from Cangyuan County center, facing Shaopa region of Mengmao County in Myanmar across the bridge. The 167th boundary monument shares the territory of China and Myanmar, belonging to the two countries. It becomes an unique tourist area cross the border. Va ethnic group in China and Myanmar inhabit harmoniously for generations who share their lives & culture.

3 KM to the Shaopa region in Myanmar, situated in the end of second-class highway from Gengma to Cangyuan, the traffic of Yonghe Port is very convenient. Yonghe Port is a vital link between Southwest China and Southeast Asia, it plays an important role in banning planting of opium poppy, such as, Myanmar used to import tea from China, but now the situation is totally changed, Myanmar starts to export tea to China. It is a great achievement with the support of China’s government and international society, Myanmar begins to plant tea in the north part rather than opium poppy. 50% of the oolong tea produced in Myanmar selling to Guangdong, Fujian and Taiwan must go through Yonghe port.

Attraction Transportation: we can take shuttle bus from bus station in Cangyuan County.
Attraction Travel Tips:
·1-2 hours travel
·If you want to visit boundary marker around the border, you must take along with your ID card or passport.

The Location Map of Yonghe Border Port in Cangyuan County, Lincang

Chinese Name:临沧市双江县冰岛古茶园
English Name:Bingdao Puer Tea Plantation in Shuangjiang County, Lincang

Bingdao tea area(冰岛茶区)
Bingdao is located in the northernmost part of Mengku Town, 33 kilometers away from Mengku Town, bordering Nanmei Township(南美乡) of Lincang City. Before 1950, Bingdao Old Village was enclosed by Tea Garden(茶园围村). In order to improve its output, Shuangjiang County has carried out the transformation and optimization of Iceland’s old tea garden. After decades of transformation and breeding, the tea garden before 1949 still has more than 100 acres, and there are still two or three mother trees in Ming Dynasty. These ancient tea trees grow near the village. Since 1985, Iceland has planted 6700 mu of new tea plantations. Compared with Gongnong and Dahusai villages, the tea plantations in the old Icelandic village are not too many, but because there are not many people in the old Icelandic village, the tea plantations owned by each family are still considerable.

Sixty years ago, people said that Bingdao tea refers to the tea of Bingdao old village. Today Iceland is an administrative village, namely the Bingdao Village Committee(冰岛村委会). Bingdao Villagers’ Committee has five natural villages, including Iceland, Nanxu, Bawa, Nuowu and Territory. Looking down from the old village of Bingdao, the Nanmeng River is a Nanmei town（南美乡） originating from Lincang. It enters the boundary of Shuangjiang River fromBingdao. The Nanmeng River divides the Mengku River into two parts. The Mengku people call the mountains on both sides of the river the Eastern Peninsula and the Western Peninsula. Bawa and Nuowu old villages belong to the eastern peninsula, while Bingdao old villages, Nanpo and Dijie villages belong to the western peninsula.
If Bingdao Tea is called Bingdao Tea in the five natural villages under the jurisdiction of Bingdao Village Committee(冰岛村委会), Bingdao Tea has both eastern and Western mountains(东半山和西半山), so when buying Bingdao Tea, it must be clear whether to buy Bingdao Tea under the jurisdiction of Bingdao Village Committee.

Geographical Location of Bingdao

Bingdao is the earliest place in Lincang City where tea trees were planted. The Mengku large-leaf tea variety was spread from here. In the Lincang tea region, the Mengku tea area is central, with the Yongde tea area to the west and the Bangdong tea area to the east. The Mengku tea area is further divided by the Mengku River into the East and West Mengku tea mountains. Bingdao Village is located along the Mengku River, producing tea that combines the characteristics of both the East and West Mengku mountains. As a result, Bingdao tea integrates the excellent qualities of the Mengku tea area and has become the highest-quality tea in the Lincang Mengku tea region.

Name of Bingdao

Bingdao Village is also known locally as “Bingdao,” which means “pond with green moss.” The Bingdao Ancient Tea Garden is the original garden for Mengku large-leaf tea. According to historical records, in the 21st year of the Ming Dynasty Chenghua period (1485), the Mengmeng chieftain of Shuangjiang sent over 200 tea seeds from the Yiwuzhong tea area to Bingdao, where more than 150 plants were successfully cultivated. Today, about 20 of these ancient trees still exist, approximately 500 years old. However, historical evidence suggests that tea planting in Bingdao and its vicinity predates the 21st year of the Chenghua period, which calls for a revision of this assertion.

The seeds from the Bingdao Ancient Tea Garden were propagated in Mengku, forming the Mengku large-leaf tea variety. In the 26th year of the Qianlong period of the Qing Dynasty (1761), the daughter of the 11th-generation chieftain of the Dai ethnic group in Shuangjiang married the chieftain of Shunning (Fengqing County), bringing with her several hundred pounds of tea seeds. These seeds, when propagated and mutated in Shunning, formed the Fengqing long-leaf tea variety, a high-quality raw material for making “Dianhong” tea. The Mengku large-leaf variety was introduced to Mianing (around Lincang City) and eventually evolved into the Bangdong black large-leaf tea variety (Xigui tea). Due to its longer leaf shape compared to other Mengku large-leaf varieties, it was named Bingdao long-leaf tea.

Historical Origin

The Bingdao Ancient Tea Garden, located in Bingdao Village, Mengku Town, Shuangjiang County, Yunnan, was first recorded in the 21st year of the Ming Dynasty Chenghua period (1485). A survey in March 2002 found over 1,000 ancient tea trees with root diameters ranging from 0.30 to 0.60 meters. The seeds from the Bingdao Ancient Tea Garden were propagated in Mengku, forming the Mengku large-leaf tea variety. In the 26th year of the Qianlong period of the Qing Dynasty (1761), the daughter of the 11th-generation chieftain of the Dai ethnic group in Shuangjiang married the chieftain of Shunning, bringing hundreds of pounds of tea seeds, which were then propagated and mutated in Shunning to form the Fengqing long-leaf tea variety. Over the past 500 years, especially since the founding of New China, descendants of the Bingdao Ancient Tea Garden have spread to tea regions inside and outside the city, province, and country, with over 600,000 mu (approximately 100,000 acres) now cultivated in Lincang City alone.

The Bingdao Ancient Tea Garden is one of the origins of Yunnan large-leaf tea. It has been introduced and cultivated for over 500 years, forming the Mengku large-leaf tea variety in Mengku, the Fengqing large-leaf variety in Shunning, and the Bangdong black large-leaf tea variety in Lincang. It is reputed as the “authentic Yunnan large-leaf tea.” The Mengku tea mountains are divided into East and West Mengku by Bingdao, with distinct tea styles. Bingdao ancient tea combines the aromatic, rich, full-bodied sweetness of East Mengku tea with the strong, robust characteristics of West Mengku tea, resulting in a tea with powerful and enduring flavor.

Bingdao Tea

Bingdao tea, produced in Bingdao Village, Mengku Town, Shuangjiang County, Lincang City, Yunnan Province, is a type of Pu’er tea and a rising star in the Pu’er tea world, often compared to “Moutai” in Yunnan tea. Bingdao tea is known for its high fragrance, rich taste, smooth texture, and delicate mouthfeel with minimal bitterness. It is considered a top-quality Pu’er tea and is often referred to as the “queen of tea.”

1. Appearance

Bingdao tea has a robust and tightly rolled appearance with a dark brown, oily luster. It has a sharp, enduring aroma, a rich, sweet taste with a golden-yellow, clear liquor. The leaves are thick, soft, and bright yellow-brown. Bingdao tea also features characteristics such as rapid sweetness and a lingering throat sensation.

2. Liquor Color

The liquor color of Bingdao tea is clearer compared to other teas of the same grade, with a smooth transition from deep to light. This is due to Bingdao tea’s excellent quality and unique processing techniques.

After brewing, Bingdao tea has a golden-yellow liquor that is clear and bright, with a persistent and high fragrance, rich taste, and thick, soft leaves.

Bingdao tea stands out among many Pu’er teas because of its rapid sweetness and lingering throat sensation. After brewing, it provides a noticeable sweet and rapid sweetness in the mouth, and its tea liquor turns golden-yellow due to special processing techniques that ensure thorough fermentation, making the tea clearer and more transparent.

3. Taste

When first tasted, Bingdao tea has very low bitterness, making it smooth and pleasant. After drinking, it leaves a sweet sensation in the mouth and a quick return of sweetness. Drinking Bingdao tea results in a cooling sensation in the throat and a sweet taste in the mouth.

The taste of Bingdao tea is relatively strong after brewing, with some bitterness that is valuable. This bitterness stimulates the brain to produce endorphins, which helps relax the mind and combat fatigue. Drinking Bingdao tea provides a very comfortable and refreshing feeling.

Bingdao tea also has high collectible and tasting value.

4. Leaf Bottom

The leaf bottom of Bingdao tea is thick, soft, and bright yellow-brown with an oily texture and rich downy hairs.

The tea liquor is delicate and full-bodied, with rapid and lasting sweetness and a smooth mouthfeel. The aftertaste is enduring and sweet, with very low bitterness. The aroma is sharp and persistent, with sweet notes in the liquor and enduring fragrance in the cup and leaf bottom.

Bingdao tea has strong and lasting tea essence, with a powerful presence from the first to the sixth brew. Drinking it leaves a feeling of physical and mental relaxation.

The tea liquor of Bingdao tea is smooth, fragrant, and refreshing. The mouthfeel is delicate, with noticeable sweetness and salivation. The sweetness is enduring and mellow, providing a warm sensation after drinking that makes the whole body feel very comfortable.

5. Brewing Method

1. Choosing Tea: Select Bingdao tea with robust, tightly rolled, dark green, oily leaves with a sharp, persistent aroma and rich, sweet taste. If not using a purple clay pot, use a gaiwan (lidded bowl) and brew with water at around 95°C.
2. Tea Quantity: Place 7-8 grams of Bingdao tea into the teapot.
3. Brewing: First, rinse the tea with water at 85°C for about 3 seconds to wash it, then brew with water at around 95°C.
4. Tasting: Do not finish the tea from the first brew; 2-3 brews are recommended. Save the leaves for subsequent infusions.

Bingdao Village’s Five Villages

When discussing Pu’er tea, enthusiasts are certainly familiar with Bingdao. Known as “Ban Zhang as the king, Bingdao as the queen,” Bingdao’s “rock candy sweetness” has deeply impressed tea lovers. Let us take a detailed look at the taste characteristics of Bingdao’s five-village ancient tree tea.

Introduction to the Five Villages of Bingdao

Bingdao Village consists of five distinct sub-villages: Baway, Nanpo, Nuowu, Dijie, and Lao Zhai. Among these, Nanpo, Dijie, and Lao Zhai are located adjacent to each other, while Baway and Nuowu are situated across the mountain slopes facing these three villages. Although the five villages are close to each other and share similar tea characteristics, only the tea from Lao Zhai can truly be called Bingdao tea.

1. Lao Zhai

Lao Zhai in Bingdao is renowned for its ancient tea trees, some of which are over a thousand years old. These trees are considered the authentic source of Lao Zhai ancient tea. They grow in limited quantities around and within the village, making them unique and irreplaceable.

The tea from Lao Zhai is known for its clear, sweet, pure, and smooth taste. Its aroma is rich and long-lasting, with a distinct rock candy-like sweetness and a persistent aftertaste. This tea is highly regarded in the tea world for its exceptional balance and is considered one of the most precious Pu’er teas from Yunnan.

2. Baway

Baway, a natural village located to the north of Mengku Town, is adjacent to Bingdao’s tea mountains. The ancient tea gardens in Baway are much fewer compared to Bingdao. Since 1980, no new tea trees have been planted in Baway, making its old tea completely pure Mengku large-leaf variety. Although the quality of Baway tea is comparable to Bingdao, it is priced lower due to Bingdao’s higher reputation.

Baway tea has a robust and strong flavor, with thick and broad leaves. Its unique aroma is potent and powerful, not inferior to the smoothness of tea from the six major tea-producing regions. The taste has a slightly stronger stimulation compared to Lao Zhai tea from Bingdao.

3. Dijie

Among the five villages of Bingdao, Dijie is the closest to Lao Zhai, with only a 20-minute walk between their ancient tea gardens. Dijie’s ancient tea forest is located at an average altitude of 1,700 meters, with an annual temperature of 20°C and 1,800 millimeters of rainfall. The older tea trees in the village are mostly over 300 years old and grow in the original forest filled with dead wood and humus.

The dry tea from Dijie is robust and uniform, with white buds and black strips. It has a lasting floral and fruity aroma. The tea soup is golden and clear, with a rich and smooth texture. The taste is refreshing with notable sweetness and a long-lasting aftertaste. The leaves are thick, fresh, and oval-shaped, making it a top-tier tea with a harmonious blend of fragrance, sweetness, richness, and thickness.

4. Nanpo

Nanpo is located about 5 kilometers from Lao Zhai and is situated on the opposite side of the mountain. The area is isolated with no major roads, requiring over an hour of mountain paths to reach. Nanpo’s old village is at an altitude of 1,700 meters with an annual temperature of 20°C and 1,800 millimeters of rainfall. Nanpo has over a hundred acres of ancient tea gardens, with many old tea trees spread widely. Forests near the old village feature large, contiguous ancient tea gardens.

Nanpo tea has a good aroma with a wild and strong character. It has a very low astringency and a cool sensation in the throat that gradually turns into a sweet, juicy aftertaste on the tongue. Compared to Lao Zhai and Dijie teas, Nanpo tea has a slightly heavier bitter base and stronger tea aroma. If you prefer a more robust tea flavor, Nanpo is an excellent choice.

5. Nuowu

Nuowu is located to the north of Mengku Town, about 25 kilometers from Bingdao Village and Mengku Town. In 2003, the old village had 35 households, but in 2004, the government relocated the entire village to the roadside below and built a new village with government funding. Despite the relocation, the Lahu people still return to the old village during the tea-picking season. The old village has about 50-60 acres of ancient tea gardens, similar in size to those in Baway, likely from the same planting era.

Nuowu tea has a robust and uniform appearance with prominent white hairs. Its soup is golden, bright, and clear, with a unique sweet and pleasant aroma. The taste is delicate, sweet, and smooth, with a lighter bitterness and a long-lasting aftertaste. The leaves are flexible and fresh.

How to Distinguish the Characteristics of Bingdao’s Five Villages

1. Nanpo: The aftertaste of Nanpo tea is similar to Bingdao’s, with a quick sweetness but lacks the fresh taste of Bingdao. The lingering fragrance is not as persistent as Bingdao’s.
2. Dijie: The lingering aroma of Dijie tea is more like Bingdao’s, but the aftertaste is not as quick. The rock candy sweetness is less pronounced.
3. Baway: The tea aroma from Baway is similar to Bingdao, but Baway tea has two distinct flavor profiles. The tea from below the old village has a good aroma with slightly more astringency, while the tea from the left side of the old village tends to be sweeter with a milder tea aroma, often having a water-like sweetness due to excess moisture.
4. Nuowu: Nuowu tea has a more moderate tea aroma compared to Bingdao. Although its flavor is excellent, it differs from Bingdao in aroma.

Bingdao tea embodies the essence of “fragrance, sweetness, richness, juiciness, and tea aroma,” perfectly illustrating the charm of Pu’er tea and earning its reputation as the “Queen of Tea.”

Chinese Name:冰岛村
English Name: Bingdao Village in Shuangjiang County, Lincang

Plan your Lincang Ethnic Villages Tour to Lincang? Visit Bingdao Village in Shuangjiang County, Lincang which is one of the most fascinating ethnic villages in Lincang. Explore the local folk ethnic culture including History, Food and Dining, Clothing, Customs and Traditions, Architecture, Festivals, Crafts, Religion, Language of local ethnic people in Bingdao Village in Shuangjiang County, Lincang.

There is an altitude of 1640 meters village called Bingdao of Mengku Town（勐库镇） in Lahu-Va-Blang-Dai Autonomous County of Shuangjiang（双江拉祜族佤族布朗族傣族自治县）, Lincang（临沧）. With spring and picturesque all the year round, Bingdao Village（冰岛村） is famous for its fragrant ancient tea, which is the earliest place to grow tea in the county. There are five natural villages under the Bingdao Village, they are Bingdao Old Village（冰岛老寨）, Nanpo Village（南迫寨）, Dijie Village（地界寨）, Bawai Village（坝歪寨） and Nuowu Village（糯伍寨）. Bingdao Village is small and located at a high position in the mountains, and the residents’ main income comes from tea. There are two primary tea factories in the village, which used to mainly process black tea. Most of the tea trees in Bingdao Village are 700 or 800 years old, and the younger ones are 200 or 300 years old.  And the popular Bingdao Tea（冰岛茶）on the markets is from the Bingdao Old Village.

Bingdao Village (冰岛村) is also known as “ Bingdao”(丙岛), which means “ a mossy pond”(长青苔的池塘) in local. The Bingdao Village is well-known in Yunnan tea industry, and its popularity is no less than Nannuo Mountain (南糯山). Bingdao Village is 33 kilometers north of Mengku Town (勐库镇), bordering the Nanmei Township (南美乡) of Lincang City(临沧市). Bingdao Village is a famous ancient tea village in Shuangjiang County, which is famous for its large leaf tea planting.  And the Bingdao Ancient Tea Plantation (冰岛古茶园), which is located in the Bingdao Village, was first recorded in the 21st year of Chenghua (1485) of the Ming dynasty, with a long history. The tea species of Bingdao Village are major component of the famous Mengku large leaf species (勐库大叶种), and Bingdao Village is the main birthplace of Mengku tea species. There are five natural villages under the Bingdao Village, they are Bingdao Old Village（冰岛老寨）, Nanpo Village（南迫寨）, Dijie Village（地界寨）, Bawai Village（坝歪寨） and Nuowu Village（糯伍寨). These villages are also famous for their tea.

Bingdao Village is halfway up the hill, with houses facing south. Bingdao Village is free of snow and ice, like spring all the year round, full of green, abundant water and fertile land. It is a good place for people to live and tea culture travel.

Translated by Dianna Zhou/周晓畋

Translated by Dianna Zhou/周晓畋

● Chinese Name:玉湖村
● Keywords: at the foot of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain,Naxi people,Joseph Rock
● Location: Yuhu Village,Baisha Town, Yulong County, Lijiang, Yunnan,China
● Scenic Area: 36.66 square meters
● Admission Fee: free

‣ About Yuhu Naxi Village

Yuhu Village is on the outskirts of Lijiang Basin at the foot of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. The houses were made of a unique stone called monkey head by Naxi people. The stone is comprised of a substance between stone and mud. With the reflection of the stone on the snow mountain, houses made of monkey head look even more natural and beautiful.Located about 15 kilometers North of Lijiang Old Town, the Yuhu village, belonging to the Naxi minority, is the last village of the valley; and is situated at the foot of the Jade Dragon Mountain in Lijiang. The houses, built with unique rocks called “monkey head”, sort of mix of the rocks and dried earth, makes the village looks the same as it was in the beginning of the 20th century when Joseph Rock chose this place as his residence place.
The famous botanist Dr. Rock came here to study the plants of the Jade Dragon Mountain and he fell in love with the region, its people and its culture, and decided to live there. He lived in Yuhu village for 27 years. From 1922, he started a huge research work on the local Naxi minority; he took many photos and wrote many papers for the magazine “National Geography”.

It is possible to visit Dr. Rock’s house (40RMB per person). If you make it in Yuhu, we advice you to visit our friends of a Naxi local family, and why not staying there for a night, as they also provide accommodation. It is basic but a very warm and welcoming place. For more information, see here: Yuhu Guest House
From Yuhu, it exists several horse back hikes climbing the Jade Dragon Mountains (Price is around 21-40 USD according to the length and path). You can also walk around by feet until the small lake of Yuhu; from there you’ll see very pretty view of Jade Dragon Mountains. Another path climbs through the Mountains till the remote village of Wenhai, where you can stay overnight. The hike lasts 4-5 hours, a local guide is necessary to carry out this hike.

‣ Attraction Transportation

You can take a bus No.6 from Lijiang downtown directly get to Yuhu Village(RMB 1 only) or rent a local taxi/minibus to reach there

‣ Best Time to Visit

All year round

‣Tips

● You may overnight at local Naxi Family Stay,which includes 3 meals and accommodation.

● Please note there is no entrance fee when you walk to the village,but you have to pay if you wanna visit to Joseph Rock Former Residence.

Why is Tonghai Confucius Temple So Special?

Tonghai Confucius Temple(通海文庙) is situated on the south of Tonghai County, at the foot of Xiushan Mountain. The temple consists of a group of ancient architectures which are divided by a central axis. It is composed of red walls(65 meters in length, 1.9 meters in depth and 8 meters in height), pools, Wenming Archway(文明坊), Martyr Temple(忠烈祠), Chaste and Filial Temple(节孝祠), Dacheng Gate(大成门), Xiangxian Tmple(the temple of local respectable and dead persons), Famous Officials Temple(名宦祠), East Room(东庑), West Room(西庑), Dacheng Hall(大城殿), Bell and Drum Tower, Saint Temple(崇圣祠), and Book-collection Hall(尊经阁), with a total area of 12,000 square meters. It was selected as the fifth batch of provincial cultural relics protection unit in 1998.

The whole temple presents a solemn atmosphere. In Qing Dynasty, several famous personalities studied here, such as Zhu Zun(朱嶟), the director of Board of Rites; Dong Qi(董玘) and Dong Jian(董健), scholars of the Imperial Academy; And Kan Zhenzhao(阚祯兆), the famous calligraphy artist.

Nearby Attractions

Hexi Confucius Temple in Tonghai County, Yuxi
Xiushan Mountain Park in Tonghai County
Sansheng Palace in Tonghai County, Yuxi

How to Get There

Tourists have two ways to get to Tonghai Confucius Temple in Tonghai County, long-distance bus and train.

1. By Long-distance Bus

There are non-stop long-distance buses from Kunming east bus station to Tonghai bus terminal. It takes about 2.5 hours, 42 yuan. After arriving in Tonghai County, you can take a taxi or walk to Tonghai Confucius Temple. It is about 2 kilometers from Tonghai bus terminal to Tonghai Confucius Temple.

2. By Train

It takes about 2 hours from Kunming railway station to Tonghai railway station, costs 22 yuan.

Accommodation Around Tonghai Confucius Temple

Since Tonghai Confucius Temple is in Wenxing Road of Tonghai County, you can stay in Tonghai County for accommodation. There are some hotels in Tonghai County. Accommodation is convenient.

Useful Travel Tips

1. The traffic route: Kunming-Tonghai County-Liyue West Road(礼乐西路)-West Street-Gucheng West Road(古城西路)-Shuncheng Street(顺城街)-Wenxing Street(文星街)-Tonghai Confucius Temple.

2. Learn something about Confucius in advance.

3. You can participate in some cultural activities during festivals.

4. Tonghai Confucius Temple visit is mainly indoor activities, therefore, travel is possible all the year round. 

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.

Where is Wangtianshu Scenic Spot?

Wangtianshu Scenic Attraction is located in Mengla County of Xishuangbanna Prefecture. It is 130 kilometers away from Jinghong and 370 kilometers from Luang Prabang-a world cultural heritage site of Laos.

How to Get to Wangtianshu Scenic Spot?

Take bus from Jinghong Banna Bus Station to Mengla County, run every 30 minutes, the ticket price is CNY 50. Then change a car to Wangtianshu Scenic Spot, CNY 9 for this bus.

Main Attractions

◊Wangtianshu (Sky Trees)

Wangtianshu, one of peculiar tree species in Xishuangbanna State, is distributed in Buwa and Jingpiao in Mengla County, meaning “tree that gazes upon the sky”. These trees reach 70 or 80 meters high in the air. This park north of Mengla has a rickety walkway through the canopy, running from Wangtianshu to Wangtianshu. You must first go to the Air Corridor to experience the thrilling feeling. Then you can appreciate the wonders of the nature in the tropical rainforest. Strolling in the forest, there are so many liana, epiphyte and fern, especially the cruel garrotte phenomena.

◊Air Corridor

The “Air Corridor” in Wangtianshu Scenic Spot is 2.5 kilometers long and 36 meters high. Connected by the bulky iron chains between Wangtianshu, the wooden road surface is laid on the corridor, with ropes protection around. It is breathtaking walking on the corridor. From the corridor, you can enjoy a bird view of the whole rainforest.

◊Cai Xitao Path

Cai Xitao came to Bubeng Village of Mengla County for study on the rainforest and find the Parashorea Cathayensis, improving the existence of rainforest in China. This path is named for the great scientist Cai Xitao.

◊Tropical rainforest

The rainforest exhibits a high bio-diversity beyond one’s imagination. Only the arboreal layer can be further classified into three to four detailed sub-layers. The forest is full of adnascent plants and entwining rattans which can totally extend miles if flattened. Aged stems incredibly bear clusters of blossoms and fruits. In order to get more sun light, lots of herbal plants have grown huge leaves that can shelter several people from the rain.

◊Five Spectacular Sights

There are 5 spectacular sights in the forest park: (1)-Buttressed base roots(板根); (2)-Plants strangling(绞杀); (3)-Old stem bearing blossoms and fruits(老茎怀春); (4)-Parasitic and adnascent plants(寄生附生); (5)-Drip-dip leaves(滴水叶尖).Nanla River

There is a Nanla River in the spot, legendary a place for Shakyamuni Buddha to chant sutras and pour tea. You can take a boat strolling the river, to explore the wonder of rainforest. It is unique from other scenic spots. Usually need 40RMB for one-way boating.

Recommended Tours

3 Days XishuangBanna Hiking Tour to Yao Ethnic Village and The Air Corridor

7 Days Yunnan Family Tour and Student Education with Xishuangbanna Tropical Forest Adventure and Minorities Discovery

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 April the next year. 

• The Water-Splashing Festival, the most important festival for the Dai People to celebrate New Year, is usually celebrated in the middle of April.
• Try to avoid Chinese public holidays, such as Labor Day (May 1st to 3rd) and National Day (October 1st to 7th). It is recommended that you start your day early so as to avoid crowds.

Nearby Attraction 

Menglun Tropical Botanical Garden

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 Dai and other minorities.

●The Alianya Water-Splashing Show

The Water-Splashing Festival, New Years Day by Dai calendar, will be celebrated in the Jinghong City Proper between April 12 and 18. The grandest festival of the Dai is usually held along with activities such as dragon-boat racing, sending off skyrockets, and throwing love pouches. It is believed that everyone being splashed at will have good luck. There is a Water-Splashing show in the spot every day. Tourist will have a happy experience to join them.

●Wifi covering

The most convenient of the spot is 80% of the spot covered with WIFI, and the internet speed is very good. You can use the internet without considering PB per month.  This is very rare in the domestic scenic spots.

The 2-day Dongchuan Red Land Tour is one of the famous Yunnan photography tours. It can not be missed for photographers. Dongchuan, a rural place in the Wumeng Mountainous area, about 180 km north of Kunming, becomes very famous among Chinese photographers for its red soil(also called red land). Within several dozens of miles radius from Huashitou Village, the most beautiful attractions of Dongchuan Red Land are Damakan, Qicaigou, Jinxiu Yuan, Luoxiagou, Yuepuao, Ancient Tree, Luosiwan, etc. Most of them are comparatively concentrated. Have a leisure walk on the red land, watch the sunset and sunrise view of the red land, and take photos of the colorful fields. You will not leave here with regret.

Brief Itinerary

• Day 1: Kunming-Dongchuan
• Day 2: Dongchuan-Kunming

Detailed Itinerary

Recommended Hotels

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;

Service Excluded:

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

Travel Tips for Sunrise and Sunset Viewing of Dongchuan Red Land

Dongchuan Red Land is renowned for its vibrant red soil and stunning landscapes, making it a photographer’s paradise, especially during sunrise and sunset. Here are some travel tips to make the most of your sunrise and sunset viewing experience:

Day 1: Sunset Viewing

1. Arrive Early: Start your journey from Kunming early in the morning to reach Dongchuan Red Land by mid-afternoon. This will give you enough time to check into your accommodation and head out to sunset viewing spots.
2. Best Sunset Spots:
   • Luoxiagou (Luoxia Valley): This is one of the best places to capture the sunset. The golden light during sunset reflects beautifully on the red soil and terraced fields, creating a magical view. Arrive at least 30 minutes before sunset to find a good spot.
   • Damakan Village: Another popular spot for sunset, with its terraced fields and rolling hills bathed in the evening light.
3. Photography Gear: Bring a tripod for steady shots and a camera with a wide-angle lens to capture the vast landscape. A polarizing filter can enhance the colors and contrast.
4. Warm Clothing: Evenings can get quite chilly, especially after sunset. Bring a jacket or sweater to stay comfortable.
5. Stay Until Blue Hour: The period right after sunset, known as the blue hour, offers soft, beautiful lighting. Consider staying a bit longer to capture this serene ambiance.

Day 2: Sunrise Viewing

1. Early Start: Wake up early, ideally around 5:00 AM, to reach the best sunrise viewing spots before dawn. Sunrise usually occurs between 6:30 AM and 7:00 AM, depending on the season.
2. Best Sunrise Spots:
   • Damakan Village: It’s also an excellent spot for sunrise, offering panoramic views of the terraced fields as the first light hits them.
   • Jinxiuyuan (Splendid Garden): Another prime spot for sunrise, known for its sweeping views of the colorful fields under the morning light.
3. Check Weather Conditions: Sunrise and sunset views can be obstructed by fog or clouds. Check the local weather forecast the night before to increase your chances of a clear view.
4. Bring Snacks and Water: Sunrise viewing might mean early breakfast, so bringing some snacks and water is a good idea to keep you energized.
5. Patience is Key: Arriving early ensures a good spot, and waiting patiently as the light changes will reward you with the best photographic opportunities.

General Tips for Both Sunrise and Sunset Viewing

• Accommodation: Book a local guesthouse near the main viewing spots for convenience. This will save travel time and allow you to rest between sunrise and sunset sessions.
• Respect Local Customs: Dongchuan Red Land is home to local farmers. Respect their property and way of life while exploring and taking photos.
• Safety First: Some viewing spots can be steep or uneven. Wear comfortable hiking shoes and be cautious, especially in low-light conditions.

By following these tips, you’ll be well-prepared to enjoy and capture the stunning beauty of Dongchuan Red Land at both sunrise and sunset.

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

Create My Trip

You Might Like

• 5 Days Kunming and Luoping Rapeseed Flowers Photography Tour
• 1 Day Kunming Stone Forest Tour with Yunnan Ethnic Villages
• 2 Days Jianshui Ancient Architecture Tour from Kunming
• 17 Days Yunnan Ethnic Minorities Festivals Tour around Chinese New Year
• 13 Days Northwest Yunnan Three Parallel Rivers RV Self-Driving Tour
• 2 Days Dali Cangshan Mountain Summit Hiking and Camping Tour
• 5 Days Kunming City Tour With Jiaozi Snow Mountain and Dongchuan Red Land
• 11 Days West Yunnan Overland Tour from Mangshi

2018 年

Xiashankou

Xiashankou...

Towns    Veiw

Xiaowan Town

Xiaowan Town(小湾镇), formerly known as Majie Township(马街乡), is located in the east of Fengqing County, located along the southern bank of the Lancang River, 50 kilometers from the county...

Towns    Veiw

Yiwu Town

Yiwu Town...

Towns    Veiw

2

2 Days Puzhehei Scenic Area Lotus Flowers and Ethnic Culture Tour By Speedtrain from Kunming

Kunming-Qiubei-Puzhehei-Kunming

City Tours    Veiw

• 2 Days Yunnan Travel Itinerary
• Kunming
• Kunming-Puzhehei Tours
• Kunming-Wenshan Tours
• Puzhehei
• Qiubei County

1

1 Day Anning City Hot Spring Tour

Anning City is a county-level city governed by Kunming city, 28 km away from Kunming urban area. It is well-known for its abundant hot springs resource, for this one-day...

Hot Spring Tours    Veiw

• 1 Day Yunnan Travel Itinerary
• Anning

Yonghe Border Port in Cangyuan County, Lincang

Chinese Name: 永和口岸 English Name: Yonghe Border Port Keywords: Yonghe Border Port, Cangyuan attractions, where to visit in Cangyuan Location: Cangyuan Va Autonomous County (14 KM away from Cangyuan County)...

Borders to Yunnan Motorcycle Tours    Veiw

• Cangyuan County
• Lincang

Bingdao Puer Tea Plantation in Shuangjiang County, Lincang

Chinese Name:临沧市双江县冰岛古茶园 English Name:Bingdao Puer Tea Plantation in Shuangjiang County, Lincang  Bingdao tea area(冰岛茶区) Bingdao is located in the northernmost part of Mengku Town, 33 kilometers away from...

Attractions    Veiw

• Lincang
• Lincang Tea Plantations
• Shuangjiang County

Bingdao Village in Shuangjiang County, Lincang

Chinese Name:冰岛村 English Name: Bingdao Village in Shuangjiang County, Lincang Plan your Lincang Ethnic Villages Tour to Lincang? Visit Bingdao Village in Shuangjiang County, Lincang which is one of the...

Attractions    Veiw

• Lincang
• Shuangjiang County

Yuhu Village, Lijiang

● Chinese Name:玉湖村 ● Keywords: at the foot of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain,Naxi people,Joseph Rock ● Location: Yuhu Village,Baisha Town, Yulong County, Lijiang, Yunnan,China ● Scenic Area: 36.66 square meters ● Admission Fee: free ‣...

Attractions    Veiw

• Jade Dragon Snow Mountain
• Lijiang
• Naxi Ethnic Minority
• Traditional Ethnic Villages in Lijiang
• Yuhu Village
• Yulong County

Tonghai Confucius Temple in Tonghai County, Yuxi

Why is Tonghai Confucius Temple So Special? Tonghai Confucius Temple(通海文庙) is situated on the south of Tonghai County, at the foot of Xiushan Mountain. The temple consists of a...

Attractions    Veiw

• Confucius Temples
• Monasteries and Temples
• Temples in Yuxi
• Tonghai County
• Yuxi

WangTianShu Scenic Spot in Mengla County,XishuangBanna

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...

Attractions    Veiw

• Mengla County
• Must-Visit Attractions
• Nature Reserves
• XishuangBanna

2

2 Days Dongchuan Red Land Tour from Kunming

Kunming-Dongchuan Red Land - Kunming

Yunnan Photograph Tours    Veiw

• 2 Days Yunnan Travel Itinerary
• Dongchuan Red Land
• Kunming