5 Days South Yunnan Ethnic Minority Discovery and Tropical Forest Photograph Tour

Introduction

Yunnan Province is a kaleidoscope of Chinese culture, boasting a stunning array of 25 minority groups that account for nearly half of the country’s 56 ethnic groups. The province’s incredible diversity raises questions about the criteria used to determine minority status and classification, with factors such as race, language, culture, religion, and history playing a significant role. This unconventional tour offers a thrilling journey, blending winter wonder at Yuanyang Rice Terraces with summer excursions through lush tropical forests in Xishuangbanna. As you wander through southern Yunnan’s cities, you’ll have the chance to immerse yourself in the unique traditions and customs of minority groups like the Yi, Hanis, Lahu, Wa, and Dai, each with their own distinct story to tell.

Highlights

• Visit the tropical forests in the south of Yunnan and other attractions among the area.
• Experience the different ethnic lives and cultures.
• Appreciate the colorful rice terrace.
• Unique winter wonderland experience at Yuanyang Rice Terraces
• Exotic tropical forest adventure in Xishuangbanna
• Cultural immersion with multiple minority groups
• Charming city exploration in southern Yunnan
• Unforgettable experiences with local families and communities

Breif Itinerary

• Day 1 Kunming-Shilin-Jianshui
• Day 2 Jianshui-Yuanyang
• Day 3 Yuanyang
• Day 4 Yuanyang-Yuanjiang-Puer
• Day 5 Puer-Menglun-Jinghong

Google Map

Detailed Itinerary

• The Stone Forest Awaits
  • Embark on a scenic drive of 86 km to the breathtaking Stone Forest, a world-renowned wonder that has captured the hearts of locals.
  • As they say, “It’s a waste of time not to visit the Stone Forest while visiting Kunming,” echoing the deep affection for this natural marvel.
• Get Lost in Wonder
  • As you immerse yourself in the quintessential karst landscape, you’ll be struck by the sheer majesty of this geological wonder.
  • Take a 4-hour drive to Jiangshui, where your adventure is just beginning.
• Jianshui’s Hidden Gem
  • Upon arrival in Jianshui, explore the charming Jianshui Old Town and visit the Chaoyang Gateway, an impressive structure built during the Ming Dynasty (1389) and affectionately known as “Miniature Tian’anmen” due to its resemblance to Beijing’s iconic Tian’anmen Square.
• A Private Haven
  • Step into the serene Garden of Family Zhu, a typical southern private garden that exudes tranquility and charm. Jianshui, a small town in Honghe prefecture, Yunnan province, is a must-stop on the road to the famous Yuanyang rice terraces.
  • With its rich history and cultural heritage, Jianshui is a treasure trove of historic buildings and places of interest, including over 100 temples, academies, and large residences.

• A Cultural Heritage
• Begin your day with a visit to the Confucius Temple, a 700-year-old institution that is the second largest of its kind in China. Then, explore Tuanshan Village, Shuanglong Bridge, and the serene Garden of Family Zhang.
• A Treasured Gem
  • Tuanshan Village is a rare and precious example of a traditional walled Yunnan village compound, added to the World Memorial Fund for Architecture’s list of internationally significant sites in 2005. Its unique architecture and cultural heritage make it a must-see destination.
• Sunset Spectacle
  • In the afternoon, transfer to Yuanyang and witness the breathtaking sunset over the terraced fields of Laohuzui (Tiger Mouth). Overnight at Mengnong Chieftain Palace, where you can rest and prepare for the next day’s adventures.
• The World’s Largest Rice Terraces
  • Yuanyang is renowned for its majestic rice terraces, crafted by the Hani people over one thousand years ago and still in use today.
  • This self-sustaining ecosystem is a testament to the Hani people’s ingenuity and dedication to ecological preservation.
  • The terraces are irrigated with spring water from the surrounding forest during winter and early spring, allowing for a single harvest each year.