Shangyong Town of Mengla County in XishuangBanna

Shangyong Town (尚勇镇) is located in the southeastern part of Mengla County (勐腊县), Xishuangbanna Dai Autonomous Prefecture (西双版纳傣族自治州), Yunnan Province. It lies between 21°10′—21°26′ N and 101°27′—101°41′ E. To the east, it borders Laos with a 174-kilometer-long national boundary; to the south, it connects to the Mohan Border Trade Zone (磨憨边境贸易区); to the west, it neighbors Mengman Town (勐满镇); and to the north, it borders Mengla Town (勐腊镇).

History and Culture

Shangyong Town (尚勇镇) boasts a long history. The Moxie Salt Mine (磨歇盐矿) has been known for its ancient salt mining tradition, with its salt products historically exported to Laos. The name “Shangyong” (尚勇) is derived from the Dai language and means “riding clouds and mist.” It is said that the Buddha (Shakyamuni) once visited this area during his travels.

Local Customs

Shangyong Town (尚勇镇) is home to multiple ethnic groups, primarily the Dai people (傣族), along with Han (汉族), Miao (苗族), Yao (瑶族), and Hani (哈尼族) minorities. Each group preserves its unique cultural traditions. Visitors can experience the vibrant ethnic culture through festivals such as the Dai Water Splashing Festival (泼水节) and the Hani October New Year (十月年).

Climate and Best Time to Visit

Shangyong Town (尚勇镇) has a tropical monsoon climate, with an average annual temperature of 21°C and annual precipitation of about 1700 mm. The best time to visit is from November to April, when the weather is cooler and ideal for outdoor activities.

Recommended Attractions and Suggested Duration

  • Mohan Port (磨憨口岸): A significant border port where visitors can experience the bustling border trade. Suggested visit time: 1–2 hours.
  • Shangyong Tropical Rainforest (尚勇热带雨林): Home to well-preserved tropical primary forest, perfect for eco-tourism and adventure. Suggested visit time: 3–4 hours.
  • Moxie Salt Mine (磨歇盐矿): A place to learn about the ancient salt-mining process. Suggested visit time: 1–2 hours.

Transportation

  • Self-driving: From Kunming (昆明), take the Kunming-Mohan Expressway (昆磨高速). The total distance is about 500 kilometers and the drive takes approximately 6 hours.
  • Public transportation: First travel to Jinghong City (景洪市), then take a long-distance bus to Shangyong Town (尚勇镇), with a travel time of around 3 hours.

Local Cuisine

Shangyong Town (尚勇镇) features cuisine primarily from the Dai ethnic group. Recommended dishes include:

  • Dai-style Barbecue (傣味烧烤): Dishes like lemongrass grilled fish and roast suckling pig.
  • Sour Soup (酸汤): A unique local soup made from fresh regional ingredients.
  • Bamboo Rice (竹筒饭): Rice steamed in bamboo tubes, infused with a fragrant bamboo aroma.

Shopping

Local specialties include tea, rubber products, and handmade crafts. These can be purchased at town markets or in the border trade zone.

Accommodation

There are a few simple guesthouses and homestays available in Shangyong Town (尚勇镇). For travelers with higher accommodation standards, it is recommended to stay near Mohan Port (磨憨口岸), where better hotel options are available.

Travel Tips

  • Respect local ethnic customs, especially when visiting temples or villages.
  • When visiting tropical rainforests, bring insect repellent and necessary protective gear.
  • While traveling near border areas, follow regulations and do not cross the border without permission.

Suggested Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Shangyong Town (尚勇镇), check in to your hotel, and visit Mohan Port (磨憨口岸) to explore the vibrant border area.

Day 2: Head to Shangyong Tropical Rainforest (尚勇热带雨林) for an eco-adventure. Return to the town in the evening and enjoy local cuisine.

Day 3: Visit Moxie Salt Mine (磨歇盐矿) to learn about traditional salt production, then conclude your journey.

Shangyong Town (尚勇镇) is a captivating destination that offers both natural wonders and rich cultural experiences. From exploring the mysteries of the tropical rainforest to immersing in ethnic festivities and savoring local delicacies, this border town promises an unforgettable adventure.