Here are some video recommendations showcasing Tiger Leaping Gorge:
Video Title: Tiger Leaping Gorge Trek – Stunning Scenery in Yunnan, China
- Description: This video captures the breathtaking beauty of Tiger Leaping Gorge, one of the deepest and most spectacular river canyons in the world. Located in Yunnan Province, China, the gorge is flanked by towering snow-capped mountains and carved by the mighty Jinsha River (Upper Yangtze). Viewers will experience the thrilling trek along high mountain trails offering panoramic views of dramatic cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and lush vegetation. The video also explores local Tibetan villages nestled amidst terraced fields and offers insights into the rich cultural heritage of the region.
- Link: Watch the video on YouTube
Video Title: Tiger Leaping Gorge – Drone Footage of Epic Canyon Views
- Description: This video provides stunning aerial views of Tiger Leaping Gorge, showcasing its vastness and natural splendor from a bird’s-eye perspective. Filmed with high-quality drone footage, viewers can admire the rugged terrain, deep ravines, and the powerful Jinsha River cutting through the steep cliffs. The video captures the dynamic landscapes and geological formations that make Tiger Leaping Gorge a popular destination for adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
- Link: Watch the video on YouTube
These videos offer immersive experiences of Tiger Leaping Gorge, allowing you to appreciate its awe-inspiring landscapes and unique natural features from different perspectives.
Here are some video recommendations showcasing the Kunming Stone Forest:
Video Title: Kunming Stone Forest, Yunnan China
- Description: This video takes you on a virtual tour of the famous Stone Forest (Shilin) near Kunming in Yunnan Province, China. It features the unique limestone formations that resemble petrified trees, pillars, and intricate maze-like structures. Viewers can explore the various scenic spots within the Stone Forest Park, including viewpoints offering panoramic vistas, serene ponds, and cultural exhibitions highlighting local Yi minority culture. The video provides insights into the geological history and legends surrounding this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Link: Watch the video on YouTube
Video Title: Kunming Stone Forest (Shilin) Drone Footage
- Description: Experience the Kunming Stone Forest from a breathtaking aerial perspective in this drone footage video. It captures the surreal landscape of towering limestone formations amidst lush greenery, creating a maze of natural sculptures and paths. The video showcases the scale and beauty of the Stone Forest, allowing viewers to appreciate its geological wonders and the peaceful ambiance of the surroundings.
- Link: Watch the video on YouTube
These videos offer captivating glimpses into the Kunming Stone Forest, allowing you to explore its natural beauty and unique formations virtually.
If you only have one day to explore Shangri-La (香格里拉), choosing nearby attractions in the county is an excellent option. You can enjoy a relaxed trip while immersing yourself in the region’s unique cultural and natural beauty. Songzanlin Monastery (松赞林寺), Yila Grassland (依拉草原), and Dukezong Ancient Town (独克宗古城) are must-visit destinations that will make your journey unforgettable.
Travel Options from Lijiang (丽江) to Shangri-La (香格里拉）
Joining a Tour Group (旅行社跟团)
For first-time visitors to Shangri-La (香格里拉) and Lijiang (丽江), joining a tour group is the best option. It eliminates the need to plan your own itinerary, allowing you to effortlessly explore the highlights of both destinations.
Advantages: Hassle-free travel, guided tours to key attractions, and no need to worry about transportation or logistics.
Recommended For: Travelers who prefer a structured and stress-free experience.
High-Speed Train (高铁)
Taking a high-speed train from Lijiang (丽江) to Shangri-La (香格里拉） is a cost-effective and efficient option.
Frequency: Multiple trains run daily between the two cities.
Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours.
Cost: Tickets range from 50 to 200 RMB, depending on the seat class.
Advantages: Fast, comfortable, and convenient.
Recommended For: Travelers who value time and comfort.
Bus (大巴)
Traveling by bus is another option, though it is less recommended.
Departure Points in Lijiang (丽江): Lijiang Bus Station (丽江汽车站), North Gate of Lijiang Ancient Town (丽江古城北门), and South Gate of Lijiang Ancient Town (丽江古城南门).
Arrival Points in Shangri-La (香格里拉): Dongmen of Dukezong Ancient Town (独克宗古城东门) and Shangri-La Bus Station (香格里拉汽车站).
Duration: Approximately 2.5-4 hours.
Cost: Tickets range from 80 to 90 RMB.
Disadvantages: Longer travel time, fixed schedules, no stops at interesting attractions along the way, and inconvenience for travelers with heavy luggage.
Recommended For: Budget-conscious travelers who are not in a hurry.
Itinerary
Morning: Songzanlin Monastery (松赞林寺)
Transportation: Take Bus No. 3 from the county town to Songzanlin Monastery.
Highlights: Known as the “Little Potala Palace,” this monastery is the largest Tibetan Buddhist temple complex in Yunnan Province. Inside, you can light a prayer lamp or purchase Buddhist prayer beads at affordable prices.
Recommended Activities: Explore the grand architecture, learn about Tibetan Buddhist culture, and soak in the serene atmosphere.
Afternoon: Yila Grassland (依拉草原)
Transportation: Hire an electric tricycle or take a direct bus to Yila Grassland, located just 7 kilometers from the county town (about 15 minutes by car).
Highlights: As the largest grassland in the Shangri-La region, Yila Grassland offers breathtaking pastoral scenery and a chance to experience the mysterious customs of the local Tibetan people.
Recommended Activities: Stroll through the grassland, admire the picturesque views of grazing livestock, and interact with the local Tibetan community to learn about their traditions.
Evening: Dukezong Ancient Town (独克宗古城) – Regong Art Pavilion (热贡艺人阁)
Transportation: Return to the county town and head to Dukezong Ancient Town, either on foot or by vehicle.
Dinner Recommendations:
Nanka Mingdian (南卡名典): A authentic Tibetan restaurant offering yak hotpot and butter tea, with a cozy Tibetan-style ambiance.
Potala Wooden House Restaurant (布达拉木楼餐吧): Known for its traditional Tibetan dishes, excellent service, and great value for money.
Ancient Town Highlights: Dukezong Ancient Town is one of the best-preserved Tibetan ancient towns in China. At night, the town is illuminated, creating a magical atmosphere.
Regong Art Pavilion (热贡艺人阁): Explore this cultural hub to admire and purchase traditional Tibetan handicrafts, such as thangka paintings, Tibetan clothing, and silverware.
Attraction Details
Songzanlin Monastery (松赞林寺)
Ticket Price: Standard ticket costs 90 RMB, which includes admission (55 RMB), shuttle bus (20 RMB), and guided tour (15 RMB). If you only need the admission ticket, inform the ticket seller in advance.
Highlights: As the largest Tibetan Buddhist monastery in Yunnan, its majestic architecture attracts many visitors. It’s also a popular spot for Tibetan-style photo shoots and a great place to learn about Tibetan Buddhist culture.
Tibetan Costume Rental: Rent a Tibetan costume at the ticket office for 30 RMB and take stunning photos.
Suggested Duration: Around 2 hours.
Yila Grassland (依拉草原)
Transportation: Conveniently located near the county town, accessible by electric tricycle or bus.
Highlights: The largest grassland in Shangri-La, where pastoral landscapes and Tibetan culture blend harmoniously.
Suggested Duration: 2-3 hours.
Dukezong Ancient Town (独克宗古城)
Ticket Price: Free admission.
Highlights: The ancient town is rich in regional culture, with many shops offering Tibetan costume rentals. Though less crowded, it boasts a unique and tranquil atmosphere.
Suggested Duration: 1-2 hours.
Climate Overview
Shangri-La County (香格里拉县城) is located at an altitude of approximately 3,300 meters. Like all high-altitude regions, it experiences significant temperature differences between day and night. The climate varies by season:
Spring: Temperatures range from 5 to 15°C. Early spring can feel particularly cold due to melting snow.
Summer: This is the rainy season, with temperatures between 10 and 25°C. The grasslands are lush, and flowers bloom in abundance. However, rain is frequent, often alternating with sunshine, creating the phenomenon of “rain on one side and sun on the other.” Even in summer, mornings and evenings can be chilly, so it’s essential to bring a jacket.
Autumn: Considered the most beautiful season, with colorful forests and blooming langdu flowers (狼毒花) attracting photographers. Temperatures range from 5 to 20°C.
Winter: The coldest season, with frequent snowfall and temperatures sometimes dropping to -10°C.
Note: The likelihood of experiencing altitude sickness varies by individual. It’s advisable to prepare oxygen, warm clothing, and other necessities in advance. A bottle of oxygen typically costs around 68 RMB in the market.
Cultural Etiquette and Taboos
Some travelers may have misconceptions about Tibetan people, worrying about safety issues in Shangri-La (香格里拉). In reality, most Tibetans are kind and friendly, and their lives are deeply influenced by Tibetan Buddhism. When traveling in Tibetan areas, it’s crucial to respect local customs and avoid discussing sensitive political or ethnic topics. Key considerations include:
Mani Stones and Stacks (玛尼堆)
Mani stacks are sacred markers in Tibetan culture, often engraved with the Six-Syllable Mantra or images of Buddha.
When passing religious sites like monasteries, mani stacks, or stupas, always walk around them clockwise. Walking counterclockwise is considered disrespectful.
Do not pick up mani stones or sit on mani stacks.
Religious Artifacts
Do not step over religious instruments or fire basins. Prayer wheels and prayer cylinders should not be turned counterclockwise.
Avoid touching the top of someone’s head, as it is considered disrespectful.
Dietary Taboos
Tibetans generally avoid eating dog, monkey, horse, donkey, and fish meat.
Guest Etiquette
When visiting a Tibetan home, politely decline if you cannot drink tea or alcohol.
When receiving a khata (哈达, ceremonial scarf), accept it with both hands. If it is placed around your neck, do not remove it immediately.
Photography Guidelines
Always ask for permission before taking close-up photos of people, especially monks and women.
While photography is often allowed outside temples, it is usually prohibited inside. If photography is permitted for a fee, follow the rules and avoid taking unauthorized photos.
Accommodation Suggestions
After a day of exploring, you can choose to stay in Shangri-La (香格里拉) or return to Lijiang (丽江) for more accommodation options. Lijiang offers a wide range of choices, from budget guesthouses to luxury hotels, catering to different traveler needs. Additionally, Lijiang’s vibrant nightlife provides a perfect way to unwind after a day of adventure.
Conclusion
This one-day itinerary offers a perfect balance of cultural immersion and natural beauty. From the spiritual grandeur of Songzanlin Monastery (松赞林寺) to the serene landscapes of Yila Grassland (依拉草原) and the cultural charm of Dukezong Ancient Town (独克宗古城), your day in Shangri-La (香格里拉) will be both enriching and unforgettable.
Chinese Name: 红河州元阳县新街镇爱春村委会阿者科村
English Name: Azheke Village of Xinjie Town in Yuanyang County, Honghe
Azheke Village (阿者科村) is situated in Xinjie Town, within the Aichun Village Committee (爱春村委会), approximately 28 kilometers from Xinjie Town (新街镇). The primary sources of income for the villagers are agriculture and animal husbandry, with the fertile land of the region providing ample opportunities for both activities.
The Location and Cultural Significance of Azheke Village
Azheke Village lies deep within the Yuanyang (元阳) terraced landscape, renowned as a UNESCO World Heritage site. The village is part of the Hani (哈尼) ethnic stockade villages and is home to more than 60 households. The Hani terraces, with a history spanning over a thousand years, are a significant cultural and agricultural treasure of the Hani people. These terraces are among the most iconic features of Yuanyang and showcase the harmonious relationship between the local population and their environment.
Traditional Mushroom-Shaped Housing
One of the most striking aspects of Azheke Village is its unique mushroom-shaped thatched houses. These traditional dwellings are built with local materials such as bamboo, wood, and thatch, and their design is adapted to the natural environment. The rounded mushroom shape is both practical and symbolic, reflecting the villagers’ deep respect for nature and the balance between architecture and the surrounding landscape.
These houses are strategically placed on the mountainside, creating a picturesque and harmonious environment where the village, terraces, river, and forests coexist. The villagers rely on mountain spring water for both their daily lives and agricultural activities, further reinforcing the eco-friendly and sustainable nature of the community.
A Unique Ecological Stockade Village
Azheke is an extraordinary example of an eco-village that has remained largely unchanged for centuries. The village’s architectural and agricultural practices are deeply embedded in the natural surroundings, and the community continues to use traditional methods that reflect a profound connection with the land. The village’s location, surrounded by terraced fields, forests, and mountains, is a testament to the villagers’ resourcefulness and respect for their environment.
In 2013, when the Hani Terraces were inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, Azheke was one of the five villages included in the declaration, with a population of around 400 people. This recognition highlights the village’s cultural importance and its role in preserving the heritage of the Hani people.
A Popular Destination for Tourists and Filmmakers
Azheke Village attracts a steady stream of domestic and international tourists, particularly between November and April. The village’s scenic beauty, rich cultural heritage, and traditional lifestyle make it an appealing destination for those looking to experience an authentic rural environment. In addition to its cultural and natural significance, Azheke also served as a filming location for the 2018 movie Forever Young (《无问西东》), further raising the village’s profile.
Visitors to Azheke can enjoy the stunning views of the terraces, cloud-covered mountains, and misty landscapes, all while learning about the history and traditions of the Hani people. The villagers are known for their warmth and hospitality, and it is common for tourists to sit with the elderly residents, hear stories about village life, and gain insights into the region’s long-standing agricultural practices.
Cultural Education in Azheke Village
The educational needs of Azheke’s younger residents are met by local schools. Elementary school students attend the Aichun Elementary School (爱春), while middle school students travel to Shengcun Village (胜村), located 1.5 kilometers from the elementary school. Currently, there are 39 elementary students and 14 middle school students enrolled in the village’s educational system.
The village’s education system, though small, plays a vital role in preserving the local culture while also preparing the next generation for the future. The voluntary education offered in the village is an important part of ensuring the continued prosperity and cultural integrity of Azheke.
Azheke Village is a hidden gem in the heart of Yuanyang County, offering visitors an unparalleled opportunity to explore the cultural richness of the Hani people, their sustainable agricultural practices, and their deeply rooted connection to nature. Whether it’s the traditional mushroom-shaped houses, the breathtaking terraced fields, or the warm hospitality of the villagers, Azheke provides a unique and memorable experience for all who visit.
How to Get to Azheke Village in Yuanyang County, Honghe
There are several transportation options for reaching Azheke Village, including self-driving, high-speed train, and chartered vehicles.
1. Self-Driving:
- Route: From Kunming, drive along the Kunming-Mohan Expressway (昆磨高速) and the Yongjin Expressway (永金高速), which takes about 5 hours. This route is smooth and hassle-free.
- Alternative Route: You can also take the Chengyuan Expressway (呈元高速) and National Highway 245 (245国道), but the latter part of the journey consists of winding mountain roads, which can be challenging, especially in the rainy season due to fog. This route requires higher driving skills.
2. By High-Speed Train:
- Step 1: Fly into Kunming Changshui International Airport.
- Step 2: From the airport, take a bus to Yuanyang County, which takes approximately 4 to 5 hours.
- Step 3: Once in Yuanyang, you can either take a tourist bus or rent a car to reach Azheke Village, which takes another 2 hours.
3. Charter a Vehicle:
- Pick-up: You can charter a vehicle from either Mengzi Railway Station (蒙自火车站) or Honghe Railway Station (红河站).
- Cost: The chartered vehicle price is approximately 500 RMB for a private car, or around 120 RMB per person for a shared ride. The journey takes about 3 to 4 hours, but it’s best to arrange the vehicle in advance through local accommodations or tour services.
4. Parking at Azheke Village:
- Upon arrival at Azheke Village, there is a small parking lot at the village entrance, which can accommodate about 20 vehicles and offers free parking. However, if you arrive late, you may need to park outside the village and walk in.
Accommodation Recommendations:
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For a Deep Immersion Experience: If you want to stay within a traditional Hani ethnic village, consider the Xiangban Yuanshe Azheke Hotel (乡伴原舍阿者科酒店). Located in the midst of the terraces, it offers an authentic village experience.
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For Convenient Access to Multiple Attractions: If your itinerary includes visiting several attractions, staying at the Yunshang Terrace Hotel (云上梯田酒店) is a great option. It’s 20 kilometers away from Azheke Village (a 40-minute drive), making it a convenient choice for travelers with a busy schedule.
These transportation and accommodation options will help ensure a comfortable and enjoyable visit to Azheke Village.
The news was updated on October 10, 2019.
The 19th China-Myanmar Paukphaw Carnival kicked off in Ruili, a Chinese city located along the China-Myanmar borderline on October 3.
Various activities were held during the carnival, including a grand parade, China-Myanmar Sepak Takraw Game, beer music festival, China-Myanmar Cuisine Festival.
First held in the year of 2000, the China Myanmar Paukphaw Carnival has played an important role in deepening friendship between people from the two countries and in promoting bilateral exchanges and cooperation.
Source from http://english.yunnan.cn/html/2019/sights_1010/17889.html
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The news was updated on Ocotber 10, 2019.
An embroidery scroll, which is 70 meters long, was finally completed in Chuxiong City, central Yunnan’s Chuxiong Yi Autonomous Prefecture on October 1 as people across the country are holding various activities to mark the 70th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China(PRC).
The scroll is named “Shenzhoujinxiu” which literally means “Splendid China”. Its length 70 meters symbolizes the 70th anniversary of the founding of PRC. The completion ceremony was held as part of the series activities of the “Silk Road, Colorful Yunnan” 2019 Ethnic Costumes Competition Cultural Festival opened on the same day.
Starting from this February in Yongren County of Chuxiong Prefecture, more than 1,000 embroiders from Yi ethnic group had participated in the creation of the artwork. During the completion ceremony, eight skilful embroidery women finished the last stitches.
The scroll has more than 40 patterns including ornamental columns, the Tian’anmen, the Yangtze River, the Yellow River, landmarks of Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan. At its four corners, there are four pomegranate flowers, symbolizing all ethnic groups of China embracing each other as if they were the seeds of a pomegranate.
Source from http://english.yunnan.cn/html/2019/ethnics_1010/17887.html
The news was updated on October 9, 2019.
Yunnan, sitting on the southwest border of China, is well-known for its mild and pleasant climate across the whole province. Long duration of sunshine and sufficient heat being ensured here provide an ideal environment for the growing of flowers nearly all year round. Flowers have made Yunnan a more beautiful place. They are a major attraction for tourists, and more importantly, the flower industry has become a strong impetus for the province’s economic growth, particularly in the fields of export and poverty alleviation.
The Ever-changing “flower ocean”
In Yunnan, flowers of innumerable kinds, shapes and colors often play as a single and independent source of attraction which brings hundreds of thousands of visitors from both home and abroad to this land each year. This is certainly something hard to be found elsewhere.
Take Luoping in northeast Yunnan’s Qujing city for instance, one after another groups of tourists would be seen flooding into its countryside between February and April to view the magnificent golden ocean of canola flowers scattering across the karst hills typical in this area. These bright yellow flowers start to glitter in the sunlight every day around 9 a.m. when the morning mist utterly disappears. Tourists can verily spend a whole day here, immersing themselves in this paradise of flowers and appreciating the blossom of rapeseeds. And later – after sunset – an alluring and somehow elusive picture of night would be unveiled, just like what appears in Van Gogh’s masterpieces.
While the florescence of canola flowers is about the end in late March, pear blossoms have already been enjoyed and celebrated on the Wanxichong Pear Blossom Festival that is held in Chenggong, Kunming, annually. This is definitely an ideal weekend destination for all citizens, as every white and crystal-like petal hanging in the tree is allowed to be appreciated from an incredibly close range. “I’m surprised that I can find such a beautiful place not far Kunming. And it is a great change get close to the nature,” said Yang Yang, a citizen of Kunming, while taking photos with his smart phone.
The best thing you can ever think of doing when summer comes is perhaps to go south, because this is the right time to see myriad green lotus leaves floating on the water at the Puzhehei National Wetland Park in southeast Yunnan’s Wenshan city. Standing among these giant leaves, you would be truly overwhelmed by their refreshing scent pervading in the air. And the greenness that surrounds you is indeed the most desired gift on any stuffy and wearing summer day.
And finally in December – when most of the country has been covered by ice and snow – thousands of oriental cherries in Nanjian county, the Dali autonomous prefecture of the Bai ethnic minority, are still in bloom notwithstanding the strong and freezing north wind. These tiny pink flowers look so adorable that no one can keep their eyes away from them. Wang Shaoji, the head of county, said: “Flower tourism has brought us with brand-new opportunities of development, and now we hope to achieve the goals of rural revitalization and poverty alleviation as soon as we can.”
Apart from the economic realm, flowers have also been seen in a number of ceremonies and festivals across the province. In fact, many ethnic minorities in Yunnan, such the Yi, Bai and Miao, have traditions to celebrate their own flower-related festivals or events . Thus tourists who come to Yunnan are able to enjoy a great variety of blooming flowers while having a taste of its unique ethnic cultures.
Yunnan’s blooming “flower economy”
In the past a few decades, Yunnan has dedicated itself to the development of flower industry. Flower and flower-related businesses, undoubtedly, are becoming new propellers of the province’s economic growth. Vital changes have been observed no merely around flower cultivation and selling, but in the fields of agro-tourism and poverty alleviation. It can be said without much exaggeration that flowers are helping Yunnan turn into a land with enormous prosperity.
Setting off from the Linxiang district of Lincang, a tremendous ocean of flowers would appear on the horizon after some half an hour’s drive. Lavenders and prince’s feathers can be seen swaying gently in the wind with rhythms. What stand on the slope behind the flower fields are several folk houses with red roof tiles and white walls. It is called Tenglong village.
Before, the villagers here had no choice but to depend on the growing of several traditional crops. Their sources of revenue, therefore, were very much limited. Yet since flowers were widely cultivated and agro-tourism was introduced, the income of local residents in Tenglong has increased substantially. More recently, a new business model – which integrates private enterprises, local agricultural cooperatives and individual farmers together – has created new chances for the further development of flower industry. Accesses to land and technologies needed are guaranteed to every flower grower in the village, and many residents find new jobs in newly-emerged service sectors, such as agro-tourism and agritainment. Flower industry has indeed ameliorated the villagers’ livelihood in Tenglong.
“Our village has been entirely changed after the development of tourist industry. My family, for example, recently moved into a new house and bought two motorcycles. And our household income can get higher than 70,000 yuan per year now,” said Tie Shibao, smiling and laughing. “We know that all these changes have to do with flowers, it is these beautiful flowers that make us richer and happier!”
Changes also happen in Lijiang, one of Yunnan’s most popular tourist destinations. In 2017, a recreational town themed love and roses was built up near Jinlong village, Lijiang city. It is the first town of this kind in whole Asia. However, Jinlong used to be a place where the locals had to constantly struggle with poverty.
“I worried about this project at first, and thought it might not benefit our life at all,” said Zhao Jiping, a resident of Jinlong. “But soon I changed my mind, because after it was open to the public, I saw thousands of tourists flooding the street of the town, and the hostel I run with relatives could bring over 10,000 yuan to my family every month.”
Now, the town is encouraging growers to gain additional values out of the flowers they grow. A number of flower-based products have already been developed, such cake, facial mask and essential oil.
Dounan: from local to global
When a day closes and every office worker heads back home, there is a place in Kunming lit up overnight. That’s the Dounan Flower Market – the largest floral marketplace in Asia. Staff here concentrate on sorting, trimming and packaging fresh flowers and make sure that these bundles would appear on the shelves of flowers stores in Thailand, Vietnam, Laos and many more countries every single day.
According to statistics, there are about 8 to 10 million flowers kicking off their journey from Dounnan and being shipped to over 50 countries and regions on the globe each day. The prevalence of flower business has attracted a large number of wholesalers to come and work in Kunming. Yuan Fuwang, for example, would send tons of fresh flowers to her wife in Laos per week. “Around 80% of flowers available in Laos are actually from Dounan. Red roses and carnations are the most popular ones there,” said Yuan.
Dounan is a rather tiny dot on the east bank of Dianchi Lake, if you attempt to find it on Google Map. However, it is a legendary place where almost the entire flower business of China is centered. What has been formed in Dounan is a comprehensive modern production chain of flowers which comprises cultivation, storage, logistic services and production development. Its Network of selling has covered all South and Southeast Asian countries and parts of Europe, including Russia and Ukraine.
In 2018, Yunnan’s area for flower cultivation reached 1.7 million mu (equivalent to 113 thousand hectares), with an overall output value of 52.6 billion yuan. Yunnan has been the largest flower producer in China for the past 25 consecutive years, and the Dounan Flower Market could sale as many as 8.5 billion fresh flowers annually. These figures vividly demonstrate the boom of flower industry in Yunnan over decades.
It is fair to say that flower is now the synonym of Yunnan. Thanks to the Belt and Road Initiative, the cooperation between Yunnan and its neighboring countries have been further enhanced these years. Yunnan’s flowers have also gone from local to regional, and then global.
“Let there be flowers everywhere.”This must be an essential part of Yunnan dream – if there is any.
Source from http://english.yunnan.cn/html/2019/travel_1009/17866.html
Yunnan private car and driver tour has its advantages compared with the self-driving tours in Yunnan, you can sit back and enjoy the scenery, stop wherever you’d like to take pictures or enjoy the unexpected landscape along the way. Moreover, you don’t need to worry about parking, and your driver can drop you off right outside any attraction that you are visiting. By booking a car and driver, you will have a convenient, punctual, safe and comfortable Yunnan travel. It saves time, money and effort by taking any guesswork out of your plans.
Yunnan Car Rental
Our Vehicles include different types of cars, vans and buses used in various cities around Yunnan. Cars and vans will have seat belts for you to use. Almost all of our vehicles we offer are neat and air-conditioned. Choose the right car you need according to the number of your group, if you have more luggage, consider a larger vehicle. We also offer 24-hour English phone support and an all-inclusive price without any hidden charges. We certainly will meet your need in different kinds of vehicles.
Our Vehicles for Yunnan Travel
- IVECO – 18 Seats
- TOYOTA – 11 Seats
- JAC – 9 Seats
- JINBEI – 9 Seats
- JINBEI – ORV
- BESTURN – 5 Seats
- HONGDA – 5 Seats
- LIEBAO MOTORS – ORV
- HUANGHAI MOTORS – ORV
- YUTONG BUS – 51/39/37/35 Seats
- HIGE BUS – 38 Seats
- DFM – C32
Hire a Driver in Yunnan
To ensure your safe and comfortable Yunnan private car tour, we have organized a reliable local driver team, including English-speaking driver guide and Chinese-speaking driver. All of our drivers are very experienced with many years’ driving, and they are familiar with local road condition and traffic rules. They are so easy-going and conversable that you will have a good journey. Our clients will be served genuinely and a comfortable car ride experience will bring a sparkle to your trip.
Exploring Yunnan Province with a private car and driver is an excellent way to experience the region’s diverse landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and scenic beauty at your own pace. Here are some options and tips for arranging a private car and driver tour in Yunnan:
Benefits of a Private Car and Driver Tour
- Flexibility: Customize your itinerary based on your interests and preferences.
- Convenience: Enjoy hassle-free travel without the need to navigate unfamiliar roads.
- Local Knowledge: Benefit from the driver’s local expertise, including hidden gems and cultural insights.
- Comfort: Travel in a comfortable, private vehicle tailored to your group’s needs.
Popular Tour Itineraries
- Kunming – Dali – Lijiang – Shangri-La
- Explore the Stone Forest in Kunming, the ancient city of Dali, the UNESCO World Heritage site of Lijiang Old Town, and the Tibetan culture in Shangri-La.
- Lijiang – Tiger Leaping Gorge – Shangri-La
- Discover the picturesque Lijiang, hike the spectacular Tiger Leaping Gorge, and experience the high-altitude beauty of Shangri-La.
- Kunming – Yuanyang Rice Terraces – Jianshui
- Visit the stunning Yuanyang Rice Terraces, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and explore the ancient town of Jianshui with its well-preserved architecture.
Tips for Booking a Private Car and Driver Tour
- Plan Ahead: Book your tour in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, to ensure availability.
- Specify Your Requirements: Clearly communicate your preferences, group size, and any specific needs or interests to the tour provider.
- Verify Credentials: Ensure the driver is licensed and the vehicle is properly insured.
- Confirm Costs: Understand the pricing structure, including any additional costs for fuel, tolls, parking, or entrance fees.
- Review Itinerary: Discuss and confirm the itinerary, including pickup and drop-off locations, with the tour provider.
- Language Considerations: If needed, request a driver or guide who speaks your preferred language.
Our Drivers Team in Yunnan
- Lucy Xia-English-speaking Guide and Driver
- Joe Zhou-English-speaking Driver-Guide
- Wenhua Cui-English-speaking Guide and Driver
- Wenxiang Yang-English-speaking Guide and Driver
- Bin Yang-Chinese-speaking Driver
- Zhihong Pei-Chinese-speaking Driver
- Jing Li – Chinese-speaking Driver
- Jiawen Chen – Chinese-speaking Driver
- Yang Li – Chinese-speaking Driver
- Yongqing Liu – Chinese-speaking Driver
- Yanbing Xu – Chinese-speaking Driver
- Yongbo Fu – Chinese-speaking Driver
- Maoxiong Tang – Chinese-speaking Driver
- Kunsheng Guan – Chinese-speaking Driver
- Xianlong Bi – Chinese-speaking Driver
- Hong Xu – Chinese-speaking Driver
Yunnan Tourism College is the only public higher vocational college specializing in tourism in Yunnan Province. It supplies talents with its multi-major system and promotes industrial upgrading through the integration of industry and education. The booming tourism industry in Yunnan provides a practical and employment platform for the college and encourages it to optimize its majors. The two sides complement each other and jointly promote development. The college helps enhance the cultural connotation of tourism, and the industry reciprocates by boosting the college’s influence.
Introduction to Yunnan Tourism College
School Overview
School History
Departments and Majors
Faculty
Scientific Research Resources
School Honors
Campus Culture
The Relationship between Yunnan Tourism College and Yunnan’s Tourism Industry
The Role of Yunnan Tourism College in Yunnan’s Tourism Industry
The Significance of Yunnan’s Tourism Industry to Yunnan Tourism College
Conclusion
The news was updated on October 8, 2019.
The Napa Lake is one of the biggest draws for visitors to Shangri-La, Yunnan province.
Arro Khampa boutique hotel is located in Dukezong town in Yunnan province’s Shangri-La. Its founder, 49-year-old ethnic Tibetan Dakpa Kelden, and his team ceremoniously greet guests with khata－silk scarves traditionally presented to visitors－to the soundtrack of a xianzi (a two-stringed bowed instrument) strummed by one of the employees.
The hosts start singing and dancing long before their guests arrive. It’s natural in Tibetan communities, where a saying goes: “If you can talk, you can sing. If you can walk, you can dance.”
It’s so commonplace that outsiders often join in without reservation, even though they don’t know the lyrics or moves, he says.
Dakpa Kelden is positioned between tradition and modernity in every sense. His hotel is located in an ancient quarter of the town (known as Dhokar Dzong in Tibetan)－an area that has been rebuilt in its original style after a 2014 fire incinerated several city blocks－while he wears a suit jacket over Tibetan attire, contrasting with his long hair and leather riding boots.
But he also stands at another crossroads－one where international cultures intersect.
He was born in India in 1970 and lived there until he relocated to Shangri-La at age 17. He later studied in Austria and the United States. Dakpa Kelden speaks Mandarin, Tibetan, English, Hindi, Urdu and Nepali.
This helps him to realize his mission of guiding people from various places and backgrounds around the scenic settlement named after the paradise British author James Hilton describes in his book, The Lost Horizon.
Dakpa Kelden’s hotel is located in the ancient quarter of Dukezong town in Shangri-La, Yunnan province.
An early mover
Dakpa Kelden started guiding foreigners around Shangri-La’s Tibetan villages and natural landscapes in the 1990s, long before it became a tourism hot spot.
His foreign clients later helped him get to Salzburg, Austria, to study hotel and tourism management, and then to the US to take classes on small-business management.
These experiences not only helped him learn more about other cultures but also his own.
“When I was learning about foreign cultures abroad, I realized how precious my own culture is and became even more interested in knowing more about it,” he says.
He left the US before finishing his studies, but he retained connections with stateside travel agencies.
After he returned to Yunnan in 2001, he began to arrange trips for foreigners to Shangri-La and the nearby Meili Snow Mountains, Lijiang and the Hutiao Gorge in the Yangtze River’s upper reaches.
He once guided a group of seven for a weeklong trip and earned 100,000 yuan ($14,100)－a small fortune back then.
Dakpa Kelden has honed his formula over the past two decades. He brings travelers to villagers’ homes, enables them to sample local food, and takes them hiking and camping.
His guests, in turn, have taught him lessons, such as the importance of environmental protection. Some Japanese visitors, he says, carry all their garbage with them as they travel.
In addition to his boutique hotels in Shangri-La and Lijiang, Dakpa Kelden has also turned his old residence, a three-story Tibetan-style house surrounded by grassland, into a hostel in partnership with travel writer Zhang Jinpeng.
“I saw the yaks and snowy mountains in the distance from the balcony of the third floor and decided to start the hostel with him,” Zhang recalls. “It reminds me of A Lai’s novel, Settling Dust.”
Guests enjoy a meal in the yard of Dakpa Kelden’s home in the countryside of Shangri-La.
Social contributions
Dakpa Kelden, who’s the descendant of a former ladho (muleteer) on the Tea Horse Road, views his hotels as contemporary versions of netsang (lodgings) that dotted the ancient route.
His father told him that relationships between ladho and people running netsang were based on mutual trust. Netsang operators would warn ladho to leave if there were risks, such as robbers or avalanches, even though the lodge owners would lose money when their guests departed.
Dakpa Kelden’s father, who used to spend months traveling between Shangri-La, Lhasa in the Tibet autonomous region and Kalimpong in India in the 1940s, dreamed of becoming a jindha. Jindha were successful caravan operators in charge of regional guilds, whose wealth and status enabled them to make such social contributions as improving business environments, caring for the elderly, and building healthcare facilities and temples.
Dakpa Kelden has made his father’s dream his own.
In 2006, he set up a thangka (Tibetan Buddhist scroll painting) academy. Students of all ages and incomes receive free instruction, meals and accommodation. They can master the skills within four years sufficiently enough to earn a living practicing the art form.
Dakpa Kelden values thangka as carriers of Tibetan culture, religion and architecture, and says they also promote such concepts as environmental protection.
In 2017, he took over a struggling social enterprise dedicated to training local women living in poverty and people with disabilities to earn extra cash by sewing handicrafts.
His team provides raw materials and designs, invites teachers and develops sales channels. The local government sponsors the instruction.
The 30 or so regular participants keep half of the revenues of most products, says Tsering Drolma, who was devoted to traditional Tibetan culture’s preservation for 13 years before joining Dakpa Kelden in 2017 to run the social enterprise.
Dakpa Kelden plans to continue the business as long as it can make ends meet.
In April, he joined a friend in running a brand called Norlha that sells high-end yak-wool products made by herders in the Gannan Tibetan autonomous prefecture in Gansu province. The goal is to improve their incomes and counter such challenges as grassland degradation, poor harvests and unexpected yak deaths.
Caravan spirit
Dakpa Kelden says he’s grateful for his major life decisions, including moving to Yunnan with his father in 1987, quitting a civil service position, becoming a tour guide for foreigners in the 1990s, studying abroad and starting his own businesses.
He’s building more boutique hotels along the Tea Horse Road and is planning to revive the traditional woodcarving craft he believes reflects Tibetan people’s depth of thought, creativity and sense of art.
A growing number of carpenters are abandoning the declining trade to work as drivers for tourists.
Dakpa Kelden recalls one foreign guest was so fascinated by the carving that he spent a whole week with practitioners in the 1990s.
Ultimately, he says, he hopes to follow his childhood dream to share the caravan spirit of the ancient trade route－an outlook characterized by trust, cooperation and harmony.
Source from http://english.yunnan.cn/html/2019/travel_1008/17857.html
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