Chinese Name:西双版纳翠屏峰热带雨林公园
English Name: Cuipingfeng Tropical Forest Park in Jinghong City, XishuangBanna

Overview:

Cuipingfeng Tropical Forest Park, located 8 kilometers from Menglun Botanical Garden, is renowned for its distinctive natural beauty in Xishuangbanna. The park is celebrated for its lush forests, vibrant flower clusters, and impressive landscapes. Situated within the limestone mountain region of Menglun Nature Reserve, Cuipingfeng features a typical seasonal rainforest with rich limestone formations, including stone peaks, stone forests, stone pillars, and caves. Notable plant species include tropical evergreen and deciduous trees such as the Four-number Wood, Closed-flower Wood, and Oil Tree, which create a suitable environment for monkeys.

Attractions:

1. Landscape and Features:
   • The park is characterized by ancient towering trees, intertwined vines, sheer cliffs with cascading streams, and intriguing caves.
   • Visitors can enjoy serene surroundings and stunning views from various vantage points.
   • The park features a suspension bridge, two well-maintained trails, and several attractions including:
     • Cuiping Cave: Known for its diverse limestone formations.
     • Mountain Climbing Platforms: Offering panoramic views.
     • Scenic Overlooks: Providing picturesque vistas.
     • Stone Forest Areas: Highlighting unique rock formations.
2. Recreational Activities:
   • Swimming: Available in designated areas.
   • River Rafting: Enjoyable on local rivers.
   • Fishing: Opportunities are provided in specific zones.

Geography:

• Cuipingfeng is a limestone mountain ridge oriented east-west, consisting of sheer cliffs and unique limestone formations.
• The northern cliffs are dramatic and steep, while the western slope is extremely challenging to climb.
• A suspension bridge spans the Nanxing River to the east, allowing visitors to explore scenic trails.

Green Stone Forest:

• Located in the northwest part of the limestone mountains, this area features a fascinating combination of rainforest and stone forest.
• It showcases various uniquely shaped stone peaks, columns, and formations, with some reaching heights over 40 meters.
• Notable formations include:
  • Crocodile Emerging
  • Y-shaped Gate
  • Sea Cucumber Stone
  • Well Watching the Sky
  • Camel Peak
• The stone forest and rainforest together create a rare and extraordinary landscape, including features like “Tree Waterfalls” formed by ancient banyan trees.

Banyan Trees:

• The diverse plant life in Xishuangbanna includes various types of banyan trees known for their rapid growth and unique aerial roots.
• The “Tower Tree Love” phenomenon in the Olive Dam Dai Village features ancient pagodas and banyan trees intertwining, creating a striking natural scene.

Wildlife:

• The park is home to the Rhesus macaque (Macaca mulatta), measuring 51-63 cm in length.
• Characterized by a short tail and cheek pouches, the Rhesus macaque has a robust body with an average length of about 50 cm. Its limbs are roughly equal in length, and its opposable thumb aids in grasping.
• The macaque’s coloration includes a brown head, brown-gray or brown-yellow back, orange-yellow or orange-red underside, and a light gray-yellow belly.

Location:

Chinese Name:西双版纳原始森林公园
English Name:Xishuangbannan Primitive Forest Park

Located 8 kilometers east of Jinghong and north of the Lancang River, Xishuangbanna Primitive Forest Park is the closest untouched forest to the city of Jinghong. Established on 25,000 acres of tropical valley rainforest, the park boasts a forest coverage of over 98%, making it a natural oxygen bar.

The park features a range of activities including valley rainforest exploration, peacock displays, folk performances, local cuisine, and water-splashing festivals. It is one of the largest comprehensive ecological tourist attractions in Xishuangbanna.

The park embraces a lifestyle concept centered on nature, ecology, environmental protection, relaxation, and health, highlighted through seasonal cultural events: the ethnic New Year season in winter, peacock culture season in spring, rainforest culture season in summer, and ethnic costume season in autumn. From the park’s reopening until December 31, 2020, medical personnel and law enforcement across China are eligible for free admission.

Park Facilities

The Peafowl Mountain Villa, built to a four-star standard, serves as a leisure resort, showcasing green living amidst the rainforest. It offers 51 rooms, including 45 standard rooms and 6 suites. The waterside restaurant can accommodate 200 guests and offers various ethnic dishes and traditional Dai-style banquets.

The villa also features two medium-sized multifunctional conference halls equipped with professional control and sound systems for multimedia services.

Discount Information

As of February 2020, the park offers free entry to medical personnel nationwide.

Transportation Information

External Transport At the Agricultural Bank of China bus stop opposite Jinghong City’s Jingyong Hotel, take the bus to the Forest Park with departures every hour from 8:00 to 12:00, and at 15:00, 16:30, and 17:30 in the afternoon. The fare is 5 RMB per person.

Internal Transport Inside the park, electric carts are available at 40 RMB per one-way trip or 50 RMB for a full circuit, stopping at various attractions along the way.

Xishuangbanna

Historically known as “Mengbalanasi,” meaning “ideal and magical land,” Xishuangbanna Dai Autonomous Prefecture is located at the southern tip of Yunnan Province, China. Covering 26,310 acres with a forest coverage of 98.6%, it is the best-preserved original forest south of the Tropic of Cancer. The park combines the mystical natural scenery of the rainforest with rich ethnic customs, focusing on three main themes: tropical valley rainforest, wildlife exhibits centered around peacock culture, and folk customs predominantly of the Hani and Ai Ni people. It features the Peafowl Mountain Villa, a four-star resort offering accommodation, dining, meetings, and entertainment.

Xishuangbanna is famous for its tropical rainforest landscapes and ethnic culture, making it one of China’s top tourist destinations. The Water-Splashing Festival, held annually from April 13-15, is known as the “Eastern Carnival.”

Forest Park

The Xishuangbanna Primitive Forest Park, situated in the Caiyang River valley to the east of Jinghong and north of the Lancang River, is approximately 8 kilometers from the state capital. The park, located at an altitude of 720 to 1355 meters, covers 30,000 acres and primarily focuses on tropical rainforest research and tourism while incorporating ethnic displays and leisure activities.

The area features a diverse ecosystem with rare animals like Asian elephants, hornbills, peacocks, and black-crowned gibbons, and unique plants such as the hope tree and Yunnan nutmeg. The park includes six tourism zones: the park reception area, outdoor recreation zone, sightseeing area, forest protection area, flower and fruit wood area, and the central recreation zone.

Park Attractions

The park includes a primitive hunting area with traditional tools and animals for hunting. Visitors can use bows and arrows to hunt and cook their catch at a designated area. Other attractions include a package-throwing activity with Dai youth, a water rafting point on the Caiyang River, and a peacock garden with over 400 green peacocks. The sightseeing area features vast tropical valley rainforests with various wildlife sightings. The forest protection area showcases ancient trees and unique plants like the living fossil tree and the giant leaf tree. The flower and fruit wood area has a variety of tropical fruits and flowers. The central recreation zone includes an entertainment center, conference services, and ethnic dining options.

Special Cuisine

Xishuangbanna’s Dai cuisine is renowned for its use of glutinous rice, sour flavors, grilled meats, and seafood, often flavored with wild plants. Signature dishes include sour bamboo shoot fish, lemongrass grilled fish, and various local dips.

Browns believe that eating barbecued meats is essential to enjoying meat flavors, so grilled foods are common. Local specialties include grilled mountain rat, pigeon, fish, pork, beef, and dishes like stone fish soup and fried spiders.

Local Food Spots

1. Manjinglan Flavor Street: Located in Manjinglan Village, southeast of Jinghong. This former Dai village has been transformed into a street lined with restaurants and traditional performances.
2. Golden Beach: The largest barbecue night market in the city, near the Jinghong New Bridge over the Lancang River.
3. Manla Village: A Dai village with many new restaurants offering authentic and affordable Dai food.
4. Damanmo: A famous Dai village known for its bamboo houses and specialty dishes like grilled chicken and various local snacks.
5. Manlongdai Village: Near Mengla County, known for its authentic Dai flavor restaurants operated by villagers.

Tourist Products

• Wooden Paintings: Crafted from fine wood, these depict the clothing, customs, and natural scenery of Xishuangbanna’s ethnic groups.
• Wood Carvings: Traditional items include carved Buddha figures and various animal motifs, while contemporary pieces feature wood elephants and lions.
• Black Pottery: Produced in Menghai County, including a range of functional items like pots and teapots.
• Silver Jewelry and Butterfly Decorations: Traditional silver items such as hairpins, earrings, and bracelets.

Ethnic Festivals

• Dai: Water-Splashing Festival: Held from April 13-15, featuring Buddhist activities, boat races, and water splashing.
• Hani: Gatsungpa Festival: Celebrated from January 2-4, involves making sticky rice cakes and traditional mountain activities.
• Lahu: Lahu Festival: Occurs around the Chinese New Year, featuring sticky rice cakes and traditional dances.
• Blang: Hawsasa Festival: Mid-July event involving family rituals and prayers for safety.
• Jino: Wumok Festival: Held from February 6-8, with drum ceremonies and traditional activities.

Warm Tips

Xishuangbanna has a tropical rainforest climate with mild winters and warm summers. The region experiences a dry season from November to April and a rainy season from May to October. The average annual temperature is 21°C, with no snow even in January. A sweater is generally sufficient for winter.

Chinese Name:普洱景谷县小黑江森林公园/小黑江亚热带雨林森林公园
English Name: Xiaohongjiang Subtropical Rainforest/Xiaoheijiang Forest Park in Jinggu County, Puer

Geographical Location and Natural Environment

The Xiaohongjiang Subtropical Rainforest is situated on the southern slopes of the Wuliang Mountains, at the border between Jinggu Dai and Yi Autonomous County and Ning’er Hani and Yi Autonomous County in Pu’er City, Yunnan Province, China. The river originates from the Dawang Tianhou and Zhaojiashan areas in Zhenyuan County, flows through Jinggu and Ning’er Counties, and eventually merges into the Lancang River. This region intersects with the Tropic of Cancer, featuring a highly diverse climate and lush subtropical rainforest vegetation. The mountains are gentle and welcoming, and the river is clear and tranquil. Dense subtropical broad-leaved forests line the riverbanks, while higher elevations are covered with pristine forests.

Natural Resources

The Xiaohongjiang area is rich in natural resources, with bamboo forests, large banyan trees, dragon’s blood trees, tree ferns, and other vegetation. The region is also home to wildlife, including macaques, lorises, François’ langurs, and peacocks. Moreover, it is a starting point of the ancient Tea Horse Road, featuring vast ancient tea gardens and thousand-year-old tea trees. In the depths of the forest, large wild animals can often be spotted, making this area a perfect destination for self-driving travel enthusiasts.

Literary Description

Famous writer Zhang Chang offers a poetic depiction of the mountains and waters of Xiaohongjiang in his essay “The Unspeakable Beauty”. He writes, “The mountains here are not the kind that pierce the sky like sharp swords in northwest Yunnan. They are not steep or imposing but are gentle and approachable. The water is also gentle, without the roaring wildness or turbulent frenzy. Xiaohongjiang is soft and graceful, with a gentle flow that creates calmness. The most beautiful aspect of Xiaohongjiang is its forests and waters; every stretch of the river is accompanied by forests, starting with the singing pine trees, then the mixed forests of conifers and broad-leaved trees. The tree canopies are not sharp like those in cold regions but rather curved like parabolas, lush green and soft. Being here, anyone would want to dive into this gentle water, becoming one with nature.”

Tourism Experience

The Xiaohongjiang Forest Park offers different scenery throughout the year:

• Spring: Flowers bloom in profusion, and birds sing in the verdant valleys.
• Summer: Cool breezes and a pleasant climate make the park an ideal retreat.
• Autumn: Characterized by golden leaves, vibrant colors, and fragrant wild fruits.
• Winter: The forest remains lush, the river water clear, presenting a magnificent view.

In this pristine forest, visitors can immerse themselves in the embrace of Mother Nature, finding peace and solace for the soul.

Information about Xiaohongjiang Forest Park

• Location: Approximately 40 kilometers from the county seat of Jinggu Dai and Yi Autonomous County, located at the border between Jinggu and Ning’er Counties in Pu’er City, Yunnan Province.
• Transportation: The road leading to the park is a Class Four asphalt road, suitable for self-driving.
• Local Specialties: Xiaohongjiang is known for its distinctive fish species, including red-tailed fish, striped fish, sharp-snouted fish, bald-headed fish, green fish, Jiang carp, and red-finned fish. There are also numerous local farm-stay options around the area where visitors can experience authentic local cuisine.

Recommended Travel Itinerary

1. Xiaohongjiang Forest Park: Enjoy the rainforest scenery and experience the tranquility of this well-preserved ecological zone.
2. Bailong Park: Located in Xiaojinggu Town, Jinggu County, taste the local Pu’er tea and appreciate the unique tea culture.
3. Mengwo Zong Buddhist Temple: One of the largest temples in southern Yunnan, known for its unique “pagoda embracing tree” and “tree embracing pagoda” phenomena. Built during the Shunzhi period of the Qing Dynasty, it embodies rich Dai culture and history, leaving a lasting impression on visitors.

Summary

The Xiaohongjiang Subtropical Rainforest, with its unique natural landscapes, abundant flora and fauna, and profound cultural heritage, is a sparkling green gem in the Pu’er region. For those seeking tranquility and a connection with nature, it is an exceptional travel destination.

Best Time to Visit

The Xiaohongjiang Subtropical Rainforest can be visited year-round, with each season offering a unique experience:

• Spring (March to May): This is one of the best times to visit, with mild temperatures and a burst of vibrant flowers and lush green foliage. The forest comes alive with bird songs and blooming plants, making it a perfect time for nature walks and photography.
• Summer (June to August): The weather is warm, and the forest provides a cool escape from the summer heat. This is an ideal time for exploring the forest trails and enjoying the refreshing breeze along the riverbanks.
• Autumn (September to November): Another excellent time to visit, autumn is characterized by pleasant temperatures, golden foliage, and the scent of ripening wild fruits. It’s perfect for leisurely hikes and enjoying the rich colors of the landscape.
• Winter (December to February): Although it’s cooler, the forest remains lush and green, with clear river water and a serene atmosphere. Winter visits can offer a peaceful, crowd-free experience in a beautiful natural setting.

How to Get There

Xiaohongjiang Forest Park is located about 40 kilometers from the county seat of Jinggu Dai and Yi Autonomous County, Yunnan Province. Here’s how to get there:

1. By Air: The nearest airport is Pu’er Simao Airport (SYM), located about 100 kilometers from the park. From the airport, you can take a bus or hire a car to reach Jinggu County, and then continue to the forest park.
2. By Car: The park is accessible by a Class Four asphalt road, making it suitable for self-driving. From Jinggu County, it’s a scenic drive to the park, taking approximately 1 to 1.5 hours. Follow the signs towards Ning’er County, and you’ll find the park well-marked along the route.
3. By Bus: Public buses and mini-buses operate from Jinggu County to the vicinity of the park. Check local bus schedules for routes that go towards Ning’er County, and ask the driver to drop you off at the nearest stop to Xiaohongjiang Forest Park. From there, you may need to walk or take a local taxi to the park entrance.

Useful Travel Tips

• Clothing: Wear comfortable, breathable clothing suitable for hiking and walking in the forest. During cooler months, bring a light jacket. Rain can be unpredictable, so carrying a waterproof jacket or an umbrella is advisable.
• Footwear: Sturdy, comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots are recommended, as trails may be uneven or slippery, especially during the rainy season.
• Safety: Be aware of local wildlife, and follow safety guidelines provided by park authorities. Avoid straying from marked trails to protect both yourself and the delicate ecosystem.
• Insect Repellent: Mosquitoes and other insects can be common, especially in the summer. Bring insect repellent to avoid bites.
• Hydration and Snacks: Carry sufficient water and snacks, especially if you plan on hiking or spending a lot of time exploring. While there are some local eateries and farm-stay options around the park, it’s best to come prepared.
• Photography: The park offers beautiful landscapes and wildlife for photography enthusiasts. Ensure you bring your camera, along with a protective cover in case of rain.
• Local Customs: Respect local customs and the natural environment. If visiting nearby temples or cultural sites, dress modestly and follow any guidelines provided.
• Guided Tours: Consider hiring a local guide for a more enriching experience. They can provide insights into the flora, fauna, and cultural significance of the area.
• Accommodation: There are farm-stay options and guesthouses available near the park. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak travel seasons like spring and autumn.

Xiaohongjiang Forest Park is a hidden gem offering tranquility, natural beauty, and cultural heritage, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

Chinese Name:石林县圭山国家森林公园
Guishan National Forest Park is situated in Shilin Yi Autonomous County, southeast of Kunming, Yunnan Province. The park is named “Laogui Mountain” due to the majestic mountain peaks resembling the back of a giant sea turtle. It is also known in the local Yi language as “Gou Boma,” meaning “Mountain of the Wild Goose.”

Geography:

• Elevation: 2,601 meters above sea level
• Dimensions: 14 kilometers long (north to south) and 10 kilometers wide
• Total Area: 3,206 hectares
• Highest Peak: The peak of Guishan is the tallest in the county, with a relative elevation of 981 meters.
• Geological Features: The park features typical karst landforms formed from ancient soluble carbonate sedimentary rocks and limestone.

Forest Coverage: Guishan is covered by 80% forest, featuring diverse vegetation predominantly influenced by the plateau subtropical monsoon climate. The forest includes semi-humid evergreen broadleaf forests.

Scenic Highlights:

• Morning and Evening Views: In the early morning, visitors can witness the sunrise and morning glow from the summit. At sunset, the evening glow is equally breathtaking.
• Winter Snow: Guishan is particularly striking in winter when it is covered in snow, creating a world of ice and snow that resembles “northern landscapes” with silver snakes and frozen mountains.
• Sea of Clouds: The cloud sea at Guishan is a notable feature, visible from both the summit and lower elevations. The cloud sea creates a mystical atmosphere with its shifting, floating, and standing white mist.

Flora and Fauna:

• Forest Vegetation: The park is home to a variety of forest vegetation, including species like Yunnan Oak, Fragrant Tree, Yellow Hair Oak, and Rhododendrons. The diverse flora contributes to the park’s rich ecological environment.
• Protected Plants:
  • National Level II: Chinese Toon, Yunnan Camphor Tree, Three-Leafed Pine, Beech, Magnolia, Eucommia, and Fan Fern.
  • Provincial Level II: Small Fruit Southern Candle, Cracked Fruit Tea.
  • Provincial Level III: Yunnan Fragrant Tree, Tea Tree, Ten Thousand Health, and Spiny Lotus.
• Medicinal Herbs: The park boasts over 100 types of medicinal herbs, including herbs like Grass Bird, Leaf Flower, Gastrodia, Three Needles, Half Summer, Lily Plum, Gentian, and Platycodon.

How to Get There:

• From Kunming: The park is approximately 100 kilometers southeast of Kunming. Visitors can travel by road, with a drive taking around 2 to 3 hours.
• Public Transportation: Buses from Kunming to Shilin can be taken, followed by a local transfer to the park.

Best Time to Visit:

• Spring and Summer: Ideal for enjoying the vibrant wildflowers and lush green meadows.
• Winter: Best for experiencing the snow-covered landscape and serene winter scenery.
• Autumn: Offers beautiful foliage and clear views of the surrounding landscapes.

Travel Tips:

• Prepare for Weather: Weather conditions can change rapidly, so bring layers of clothing and rain gear.
• Footwear: Wear sturdy hiking shoes suitable for rocky and uneven terrain.
• Local Guidance: Consider hiring a local guide to enhance your experience and provide insights into the park’s unique flora and fauna.
• Permits: Check for any required permits or entry fees before your visit.

Awards:

• 2021: Selected as one of Yunnan Province’s “Beautiful Villages” for its scenic and ecological significance.

This park offers a mix of natural beauty, diverse ecosystems, and unique geological features, making it a noteworthy destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

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Chinese Name:石林县圭山国家森林公园 Guishan National Forest Park is situated in Shilin Yi Autonomous County, southeast of Kunming, Yunnan Province. The park is named “Laogui Mountain” due to the majestic mountain...

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