Jinghong is the laid back, tropical capital of Xishuangbanna, Yunnan, it's also known as ‘the City of Dawn’. It’s situated on the Lancang River (Mekong River), nearly every street is lined with plants and coconut trees, and many of the local nationalities can be seen wearing their colourful traditional clothing which adds to the splendour of this beautiful city.

As recently as ten years ago the city buildings in Jinghong were mainly traditional wooden Dai houses, most of the inner city buildings have now been modernised. However traditional houses still exist on the outskirts of the city and in the nearby villages; so you don’t have to travel far.

"It has become a favorite tourist spot for Chinese holidaymaker's, escaping colder climates and wanting to experience life in a tropical city. It also sees a steady flow of foreign visitors who are normally in transit to and from Laos and Thailand; both countries are easily accessible from Xishuangbanna.

For travelers, it's a great place to relax and absorb the great mix of different cultures whilst planning your next destinations. You can dine with the locals at one of their favourite hangouts, the Dai barbecue or there’s also Burmese, Muslim and Western foods, different Chinese foods from all over the country and the famous local delicacy, ‘Across the Bridge Noodles’.

If you’re tired from a long journey there are plenty of opportunities to relax. A traditional massage or a visit to the local hot springs.

Jinghong is also blessed with some amazing parks due to its rich resources of flora only to be found in Xishuangbanna. Namely the Tropical Plant and Flower Garden and the Chunhuan (Manting) Park.

Xishuangbanna and Jinghong also host some of the best festivals in Yunnan. Between February and March two festivals, the ‘Tanpa’ and the ‘Tanjing’ festivals take place. The first is for the initiation of novice monks, the latter honors Buddhist texts. The main festival of the year is held over three days in the middle of April. It’s called the ‘Water-Splashing Festival’. Everybody gets a soaking on day two to wash away any bad luck. (click here to see a YouTube video of a local Bulang Beggar festival.)

Staying in Jinghong gives you easy access to the countryside to witness the peaceful village life of the various minorities. Each of them proudly retains their own traditional lifestyle.

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