6 Recommended Tourist Spots in Jinghong, the Southernmost City of China with a Southeast Asian Atmosphere!

Jinghong, located along the southern border of China, is a land long inhabited by the Tai (Lue) people and is known in the local language as “Xishanpanna.” It boasts a street whose name means “12,000 Rice Fields,” and its surroundings are filled with rural landscapes, making agriculture a thriving industry here. Incredibly, the Tai people even produce and consume natto and rice.

Jinghong is also famous as a city with a strong Southeast Asian vibe, where wild elephants once roamed in abundance and Buddhism has deeply influenced the culture. In particular, its water-throwing festival—similar to Thailand’s Songkran—is renowned, and many tourists visit Jinghong specifically for this celebration. Now, let’s introduce 6 recommended tourist spots in Jinghong!

1. Wild Elephant Valley

Established as a wildlife sanctuary for wild elephants in 1990, Wild Elephant Valley features not only an elephant exhibit but also a monkey hill and a bird park, along with tropical plants scattered throughout the area.
The lush forest view from a roughly 30‑minute ropeway ride is sure to soothe your soul.

Although the chances of seeing a wild elephant are slim, simply trekking through the forest while searching for traces like elephant footprints and dung is an exciting experience. The valley also offers an elephant show featuring trained elephants that play games such as walking over people or playing soccer, and you can even feed them. This is a must-visit attraction unique to Jinghong, especially recommended for families.

2. Manting Park

Located on the southern side of Jinghong, Manting Park is the oldest park in the city with a history of over 1,300 years. The park is home to coconut trees and banyan trees, giving you the sensation of exploring a jungle. Inside the park, there is a peacock garden where over 100 peacocks roam free, allowing for easy interactions.

There are plenty of attractions within the park! In particular, the “Sōbutsu-ji” (General Buddha Temple), which attracts the devotion of the Tai people, is a must-see. As one of the highest-ranking Buddhist sites in Xishanpanna, it is considered a “place of learning” visited by many monks from Jinghong and surrounding regions. Conveniently located about 2 km from the city center, it is highly recommended.

3. Xishanpanna Tropical Botanical Garden

Boasting the largest scale in China, the Xishanpanna Tropical Botanical Garden is located about 70 km west of Jinghong in the town of Menglun. It is uniquely set on an alluvial island in the Luo Suo River, known locally as “Hyoudan Island,” and is affectionately called the “Menglun Botanical Garden” by locals.

Thanks to the year-round warm climate in Jinghong, the area is very well suited for cultivating tropical plants. Over 10,000 species of plants are on display here, and you can see many rare and precious species that are globally unique. There are plenty of fascinating plants such as flowers that change colors and clock flowers that bloom on schedule, as well as flowers that sway rhythmically to the beat. This attraction is sure to delight visitors of all ages. Wild long-tailed macaques and fireflies are also a highlight!

4. Xishanpanna Tai Ethnic Park

For those who wish to experience Tai culture firsthand, the Xishanpanna Tai Ethnic Park is highly recommended. Originally, five Tai villages were developed into a tourist destination, creating an area where traditional and modern houses coexist.

A popular attraction is the reenactment of the “water-throwing festival” celebrated every April by the Tai people. You can even rent traditional costumes and participate in the festivities—a memorable experience for your visit to Jinghong. However, be prepared to get soaked! Near the entrance, you will also find “Chunman Daibutsujin,” a temple famous for its golden pagoda, which has a history of over 1,400 years. The complex includes a Tai-style house where foreign VIPs have stayed as well as facilities available for general tourists. It’s an excellent place to experience intercultural exchange by staying overnight.

5. Xishanpanna Tropical Flower Garden

Located in the heart of Jinghong, the Xishanpanna Tropical Flower Garden is situated within the premises of the Yunnan Institute of Tropical Crops. As the name suggests, this area is like a “flower garden” with over 300 species of tropical flowers planted in the “Hundred Herb Garden” area.

Because Jinghong’s climate remains warm even in winter, you can enjoy a continuous display of blooming flowers year-round. In addition, the garden features areas dedicated to orchards, rare plant species, and economic crops. In total, the garden boasts an impressive 7,000 plant species over an expansive area of about 80 hectares, including crops such as rubber trees, coffee, and cocoa. Don’t miss the magnificent giant Onobasu growing in the pond! Enjoy a tropical vibe at the Xishanpanna Tropical Flower Garden.

6. Xishanpanna Ethnic Culture Garden

The Xishanpanna Ethnic Culture Garden is a tourist spot where you can experience the cultural traditions of six ethnic groups living in the area, including the Zhinou, Lahu, and Tai peoples. Covering a total area of about 30 hectares, the grounds are planted with a variety of tropical plants such as mangoes, lychees, and coconut trees.

Women dressed in traditional ethnic costumes introduce their respective cultures, making it interesting to discover the differences between them as you explore the garden. And don’t forget the ethnic cuisine! Savor delicious dishes while enjoying the ethnic dances and shows performed on stage. This attraction is perfect for anyone looking to experience the rich cultural heritage of the region.

◎ Summary

Jinghong offers a unique blend of exotic atmosphere, where you can fully enjoy its distinctive borderland charm. Experience everything from the vibrant natural beauty to close encounters with minority cultures. With its cool climate different from other cities and a variety of ethnic experiences, Jinghong is an ideal first destination in China for travelers coming by land from northern Thailand or Laos. It’s a perfect city for intercultural exchange. Use this article as a guide and embark on your journey to southern China!

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6 Recommended Tourist Spots in Jinghong, the Southernmost City of China with a Southeast Asian Atmosphere!