China-Laos NO.7 Boundary Monument in Jiangcheng County, Puer
Introduction
Located within Jiangcheng Hani and Yi Autonomous County (江城哈尼族彝族自治县, Jiāngchéng Hānizú Yízú Zìzhìxiàn), the China-Laos NO.7 Boundary Monument (江城7号中国老挝界碑, Jiāngchéng 7 Hào Zhōngguó Lǎowō Jièbēi) marks a significant point along the 116-kilometer border between China and Laos. Situated at an elevation of 1,090 meters, the monument is the largest and most prominent boundary marker in the region, with the nearby highest peak being Yanjiao Mountain (岩脚大山, Yánjiǎo Dàshān) at 1,335 meters.
Natural Surroundings
The area surrounding the NO.7 Boundary Monument features tropical scenery, primarily consisting of pristine forest landscapes. Visitors may encounter various wildlife species, including:
- Langurs (琳猴, Lín hóu)
- Phayre’s leaf monkeys (菲氏叶猴, Fēi shì yè hóu)
- Slow lorises (懒猴, Lǎn hóu)
- Hornbills (犀鸟, Xīniǎo)
- Civets (果子狸, Guǒzili)
- Big cats (大灵猫, Dà líng māo)
The region is also home to living fossil tree ferns (树蕨, Shùjué) and features subtropical characteristics. To the south of the monument lies Zhengxiu (整秀, Zhěngxiù), a Dai (傣族, Dǎizú) village with unique residential architecture and customs.
Historical Significance
The newly constructed road from Jiangcheng to Laos conveniently passes by the NO.7 Boundary Monument. The history of this boundary dates back to the Qing Dynasty (清朝, Qīng Cháo) when, in 1895, France compelled the Qing government to cede parts of territory, leading to the demarcation of the China-Laos border in the subsequent year. This boundary remains to this day, hence the establishment of this monument.
Location and Accessibility
The NO.7 Boundary Monument is located in Yunnan Province (云南省, Yúnnán Shěng), specifically in Jiangcheng County (江城县, Jiāngchéng Xiàn). The Mengkang Port (勐康口岸, Méngkāng Kǒu’àn) is situated 36 kilometers from Jiangcheng city and 126 kilometers from Pu’er City (普洱市, Pǔ’ěr Shì), adjacent to Oudomxay Province (约乌县, Yuē Wū Xiàn) in Laos.
In July 2006, Mengkang Port was designated as a first-class border crossing under the national “11th Five-Year Plan.” Following its opening, it became the second first-class border crossing between China and Laos, after the Mohan Port (磨憨口岸, Móhān Kǒu’àn). On July 24, 2011, the State Council officially approved the opening of Mengkang Port, designating it as a bilateral highway passenger and cargo transport port with customs, inspection, and border defense facilities established.
How to Get There
To reach the China-Laos NO.7 Boundary Monument, visitors can take a taxi or drive from Jiangcheng County. The journey offers scenic views along the newly constructed road that connects Jiangcheng to Laos, making it an enjoyable trip.
Travel Tips
- Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn are ideal for pleasant weather and vibrant scenery.
- What to Bring: A camera for capturing the picturesque landscapes, comfortable hiking shoes, and water for hydration.
- Wildlife Viewing: Be quiet and observant to maximize chances of seeing the local wildlife.
- Local Customs: Respect the traditions of the Hani and Dai people, especially in their villages.
- Nearby Attractions: Consider exploring other scenic spots in Jiangcheng County and the surrounding areas for a broader cultural and natural experience.
