Jinuoshan Jino Ethnic Town in Jinghong City, XishuangBanna

Jinuo Mountain Jinuo Ethnic Township (基诺山基诺族乡) is located in the northeast of Jinghong City (景洪市), Xishuangbanna Prefecture (西双版纳州). It borders Menglun Town (勐仑镇) of Mengla County (勐腊县) to the east, connects with Menghan Town (勐罕镇) to the south, adjoins Mengyang Town (勐养镇) to the west, and neighbors Dadugang Township (大渡岗乡) to the north. It is only 24 kilometers from the downtown area of Jinghong City, with convenient transportation as National Highway 213 and the Kunming–Bangkok Highway pass through the area.

History and Culture

Jinuo Mountain is the main settlement of the Jinuo ethnic group (基诺族), the last ethnic group officially recognized in China. The Jinuo people were originally called Youle people (悠乐人); “Ji” (基) means “uncle” and “Nuo” (诺) means “descendant,” signifying a people who honor their maternal uncles. Before the founding of the People’s Republic, the Jinuo people lived in isolated mountainous forests, still in the primitive stage of society. After liberation and particularly following the Third Plenary Session of the 11th Central Committee, Jinuo Mountain has seen rapid development under the care of the Communist Party.

Customs

The Jinuo people revere the sacred drum and refer to themselves as the “People of the Drum.” Their traditional festival is the “Temaoke Festival” (特懋克节), held annually from February 6 to 8. Traditional dances include the Sacred Drum Dance, Bamboo Pole Dance, and Sowing Dance. Their ethnic crafts include weaving, embroidery, and basketry. The Jinuo people claim to be descendants of Zhuge Liang (孔明), with local legend saying some of his soldiers were left behind during his southern expeditions in the Three Kingdoms era and became the ancestors of today’s Jinuo people.

Climate and Best Time to Visit

Jinuo Mountain Jinuo Ethnic Township (基诺山基诺族乡) has a subtropical climate with an average annual temperature of 18–20°C and annual rainfall of around 1100 mm. The best time to visit is from November to April, when the weather is cool and ideal for outdoor activities.

Recommended Attractions and Suggested Visit Duration

Jinuo Ethnic Village 
Located in Bapo Village (巴坡村), between Wild Elephant Valley (野象谷) and the Tropical Botanical Garden of Menglun (勐仑植物园), this village is the ancestral home of the Jinuo people. Visitors can immerse themselves in traditional Jinuo culture and lifestyle.
Suggested duration: 2–3 hours

Jinuo Village Scenic Area
Based around the natural village of Bapo (巴坡自然村寨), this scenic area combines the Jinuo people’s strong ethnic character, historical culture, ancient spiritual traditions, unique housing and clothing styles, and picturesque landscapes into an enriching experience.
Suggested duration: 3–4 hours

Transportation

By Car
From Kunming (昆明), drive along the Kunming–Mohan Expressway (昆磨高速) to Jinghong City (景洪市), then continue to Jinuo Mountain Jinuo Ethnic Township (基诺山基诺族乡). The total distance is about 500 km and takes approximately 6 hours.

By Public Transport
First arrive in Jinghong City (景洪市), then take a local bus or taxi to reach Jinuo Mountain Jinuo Ethnic Township.

Local Cuisine

The local cuisine features Dai-style (傣族) dishes and Jinuo ethnic specialties. Recommended dishes include:

  • Dai-style Barbecue: Lemongrass grilled fish, roasted suckling pig
  • Bamboo Tube Rice: Steamed rice cooked in bamboo, with a fresh bamboo aroma

Shopping

Local specialties such as Pu’er tea (普洱茶) and handmade crafts are available at village markets and are great for souvenirs.

Accommodation

There are a few homestays and guesthouses in Jinuo Mountain Jinuo Ethnic Township, offering simple accommodations. For more comfortable stays, consider hotels in Jinghong City (景洪市).

Travel Tips

  • Respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting temples and ethnic villages.
  • When traveling in mountainous areas, protect yourself from insect bites and bring necessary supplies.

Suggested Itinerary

Day 1
Arrive at Jinuo Mountain Jinuo Ethnic Township and check into a local guesthouse. Visit Jinuo Ethnic Village (基诺民俗山寨) to explore traditional Jinuo culture and lifestyle.

Day 2
Visit Jinuo Village Scenic Area (基诺山寨景区) for a deeper understanding of Jinuo history and daily life.

Day 3
Shop for local products at the village market. Conclude your journey.

Jinuo Mountain Jinuo Ethnic Township (基诺山基诺族乡) is a captivating destination offering a unique blend of natural beauty and ethnic culture. Here, you can experience life at the border, witness the traditions of one of China’s rarest ethnic groups, and enjoy a culturally enriching journey. May your time here be unforgettable.