Cultural and Nature Exploration in Lijiang to Xishuangbanna

Itinerary:
Morning: Begin your day with a visit to Baisha Ancient Town, a peaceful Naxi settlement just north of Lijiang. Wander through its quiet lanes lined with well-preserved Ming and Qing-era buildings. At a Dongba Cultural Workshop, try your hand at writing Naxi pictographs, one of the world's few surviving pictographic scripts, and gain insight into the rich spiritual traditions of the Naxi people.
Afternoon: In the afternoon, head to Lashihai Wetland Park for a refreshing outdoor experience. Ride horseback along a stretch of the historic Tea Horse Road, paddle across the calm lake in a kayak, or feed rainbow trout at the water's edge.
Evening: As night falls, enjoy the acclaimed Lijiang Eternal Love show. This large-scale performance uses cutting-edge visuals and theatrical storytelling to bring to life the legends, history, and romance of the Naxi culture. After the show, take a leisurely stroll through Lijiang Old Town and soak up its enchanting atmosphere beneath the stars.

Attractions:
Baisha Ancient Town (Exterior visit): One of the earliest Naxi settlements and the ancestral home of the ruling Mu family, Baisha offers a more authentic, less commercialized experience than other parts of Lijiang. Its centuries-old buildings and the celebrated Baisha Frescoes blend Buddhist, Taoist, and Naxi influences, making it a hidden gem for history and culture lovers.
Lashihai Wetland Park (Ticket included): Located just 8 km from Lijiang Old Town, this highland wetland park features clear alpine lakes, swaying reeds, and rich birdlife. It's a peaceful haven for light adventures and scenic nature walks.
Lijiang Eternal Love (Ticket included): Staged at the foot of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, this scenic area is a large-scale performance park. Lijiang Eternal Love is one of China's most spectacular live performances. Combining dance, acrobatics, and multimedia effects, the show vividly tells the story of the Naxi people. The surrounding theme park includes Tea Horse Road streetscapes, ethnic villages, and lakeside attractions.

Included Activity: 
Dongba Pictograph Workshop: Gain hands-on experience with Dongba culture by learning to write ancient Naxi pictographs, an engaging and educational activity that connects you with the local heritage.
Lashihai Activities: Ride horses along a preserved segment of the Tea Horse Road, kayak across tranquil waters, and feed rainbow trout in the wetlands. These immersive experiences offer a mix of cultural connection and outdoor fun.

Dining:
Breakfast: Included at your hotel
Lunch: Yunnan-style free-range chicken hot pot (included: ¥50/adult, ¥25/child)
Dinner: Local specialties (own expense)
Recommended Food: Cured Pork Rib Hot Pot

Hotel: Lijiang International Hotel, Lijiang Ancient City Kasion Hotel (big waterwheel store), Best Li Rezen Hotel (Lijiang Old Town Waterwheel) or similar

Itinerary:
Morning: Start your day with a visit to the Cangshan Botanical Garden, a scenic gem tucked between Cangshan Mountain and Erhai Lake. Known for its poetic charm, the garden is often described as "a garden among flowers, with flowers within a garden." Begin with a fun animal encounter: feed adorable rabbits and birds in dedicated zones like Rabbit House and Bird Pavilion. Then wander through the garden's themed areas, marveling at exotic succulents, cacti, and Yunnan's native plant life. Don't miss the succulent greenhouse and cactus cottage, both popular highlights. Before noon, head to the creek for a playful mudfish-catching experience.
Afternoon: In the afternoon, take part in hands-on cultural workshops with your choice of two traditional crafts: tie-dye, botanical imprinting, pottery, or traditional papermaking. Guided by local artisans, you'll get to create your own handmade souvenir—an authentic way to connect with Dali’s rich cultural roots. Afterward, enjoy leisure time in the "Children's Garden" area, ideal for unwinding or more family fun.

Attractions:
Cangshan Botanical Garden (Ticket included): This botanical garden is located in Dali's pastoral Cang'er region, nestled between the western slopes of Cangshan and the shimmering Erhai Lake. Once a nursery base for camellias and alpine rhododendrons, the garden has evolved into a vibrant space combining rare flora displays, classical landscape design, eco-friendly activities, and interactive agricultural experiences. It perfectly captures the essence of Dali's "wind, flower, snow, and moon" landscape.

Included Cultural Activity: (Choose 2 of 4)
· Tie-Dye Workshop: Discover the traditional Bai minority method of indigo dyeing using folding and knotting techniques.
· Botanical Printing: Make your own eco-print using leaves, petals, and natural pigments.
· Pottery Making: Learn hand-molding basics and create your own ceramic keepsake.
· Traditional Papermaking: Try your hand at age-old papermaking techniques using natural fibers.
(All finished crafts are yours to keep!)

Dining:
Breakfast: Included at your hotel
Lunch: Vegetarian Buddhist-style meal (included, ¥9/adult, ¥4.5/child)
Dinner: Local specialties (own expense)

Hotel: Argyle Resort Dali Yueyun, Dali Ancient Luchun Hotel, Dali Ocean Hotel or similar

Itinerary:
Morning: This morning, choose between two immersive experiences:
Me3 Luge: Glide down a 5.2-kilometer, gravity-powered track that twists through forested ridges with sweeping views of Erhai Lake. Along the way, explore playful attractions like the alpaca petting area or snap photos at whimsical Hobbit-style cottages nestled in the hills.
Flowers For Life Time: Stroll through organic rose fields on the shores of Erhai Lake, hand-pick fragrant blooms, and join DIY workshops to create rose-themed keepsakes such as flower pastries, natural lip balm, or essential oil sachets. A perfect blend of floral beauty and artisanal charm.
Afternoon: In the afternoon, delve into the natural serenity of Mocan Stream, one of the famed 18 streams of the Cangshan range. Led by an experienced local guide, choose between a peaceful forest hike or a gentle upstream walk. Depending on the season, enjoy hands-on foraging—searching for wild mushrooms, tea leaves, potatoes, or fruits.

Attractions:
Me3 Luge (Ticket included): Carved into the ridgeline near Longxiang Bridge, this high-altitude park features a 200-meter vertical drop and spiral descent inspired by glacial formations. Its "Tea Horse Spiral" replicates the 72 sharp turns of the ancient Yunnan-Tibet Road. Enjoy panoramic views, coast through forest mist, or pause at scenic platforms.
Flowers For Life Time (Ticket included): Set beside Erhai Lake, this organic rose farm blends agriculture and creativity. Explore themed areas, from flower fields and leisure zones to DIY studios where you can craft rose-infused pastries, jams, and cosmetics. A sensory escape that's as fragrant as it is fun.
Mocan Stream (Cangshan Scenic Area) (Ticket included): Flowing for 26 kilometers between Shengying and Foding Peaks, Mocan Stream is the source of Gantong Spring and is known for its crystal-clear pools, small waterfalls, and scenic valley paths. Ideal for light hikes, stream tracing, and seasonal harvesting.

Dining:
Breakfast: Included at your hotel
Lunch: Bai ethnic specialties (own expense)
Dinner: Prepared with ingredients foraged during the afternoon, cooked and enjoyed on-site

Hotel: Argyle Resort Dali Yueyun, Dali Ancient Luchun Hotel, Dali Ocean Hotel or similar

Itinerary:
Morning: After breakfast, board a high-speed train to Kunming, the vibrant capital of Yunnan Province.
Afternoon: Begin your cultural journey at the Yunnan Provincial Museum, home to a vast collection of artifacts that trace the province's diverse history. Exhibits include bronze treasures from the Dian Kingdom, Buddhist relics from the Nanzhao and Dali periods, and exquisite Ming Dynasty gold-inlaid crowns, offering a deep dive into Yunnan's rich multiethnic heritage.
Next, enjoy a leisurely walk through one of two nearby wetland parks: Wangguan or Dounan, both located along the eastern shore of Dianchi Lake. These peaceful natural havens are perfect for birdwatching, feeding migratory seagulls, or simply taking in the lakeside scenery.
End the day at Guandu Ancient Town, a historic hub of trade and culture. Wander its timeworn alleyways, admire traditional temples and courtyard homes, and soak up the tranquil, old-world charm of one of Kunming's oldest neighborhoods.

Attractions:
Yunnan Provincial Museum (Exterior visit): Located in Guandu District near Guandu Old Town, this is the largest museum in the province. It showcases cultural artifacts spanning from prehistoric to modern times, with standout pieces from the Dian Kingdom, the Nanzhao and Dali Kingdoms, and various ethnic minorities.
Wangguan Wetland Park (Exterior visit): A compact but picturesque park nestled on the southeastern shore of Dianchi Lake. Known for its quiet ambiance, seasonal flowers, and thoughtful landscaping, it offers an ideal setting for a relaxing stroll away from tourist crowds.
Dounan Wetland Park (Exterior visit): Located just north of Wangguan Wetland, this 650-mu park features preserved willow-lined paths and expansive lakeside views. Its natural charm and open spaces make it perfect for a peaceful afternoon.
Guandu Ancient Town (Exterior visit): Once a thriving commercial hub during the Ming and Qing dynasties, Guandu remains one of the oldest and most culturally significant towns in Kunming. With its ancient temples, cobblestone lanes, and heritage architecture, it offers a quiet glimpse into the city's historic past.

Dining:
Breakfast: Included at your hotel
Lunch: Local cuisine (own expense)
Recommended Food: Crossing-the-Bridge Rice Noodles, a Yunnan specialty
Dinner: Local cuisine (own expense)

Hotel: Howard Johnson Flower City Hotel Kunming, Qing Tian Xin Yue Hotel, Shining Star Hot Spring Hotel or similar

Itinerary:
Morning: After breakfast, board a high-speed train to Xishuangbanna, a lush tropical region in southern Yunnan known for its rich biodiversity and distinct Southeast Asian charm.
Afternoon: Begin your rainforest adventure at Wild Elephant Valley, a renowned nature reserve and one of the best places in China to spot wild Asian elephants in their natural habitat. Your first stop is the Asian Elephant Museum, where engaging exhibits introduce you to the biology, behavior, and cultural significance of these majestic animals. Next, enjoy a light forest walk along the Elephant Observation Walkway, which leads to a scenic viewing deck nestled in the jungle. Surrounded by dense foliage and exotic flora, keep an eye out—you might catch a glimpse of elephants wandering through the trees. Then take to the skies on the Rainforest Cable Car, which glides above the canopy for a stunning aerial view of the rainforest. Along the way, you'll visit several themed gardens, including the Lizard Garden, Butterfly Garden, and Orchid Garden, each showcasing the area's remarkable biodiversity. Later, immerse yourself in a unique performance at the Rainforest Theater, an open-air venue deep within the jungle. Here, local dancers and musicians perform barefoot among the ferns and vines. This immersive show blends tribal dance, traditional instruments, and sounds of nature to celebrate the harmony of nature and culture.
Evening (Optional Free Time):
Gaozhuang Xishuangjing Cultural Zone: Explore grand Dai-style architecture, shops, and vibrant night views.
Starlight Night Market: Browse food stalls, artisan crafts, and tropical snacks in this popular local night market.

Attractions:
Wild Elephant Valley (Ticket included): Located 36 km north of Jinghong, this nature reserve offers one of China's best opportunities to encounter wild Asian elephants. A 4 km boardwalk winds through dense rainforest, where you'll find rare tropical plants and signs of elephant activity such as footprints and dung. Near the south gate, entertaining elephant shows highlight the intelligence and agility of these animals.
Rainforest Theater (Exterior visit): Set deep in a forest glade, this nature-inspired theater features performances by local ethnic groups, blending music, dance, and natural soundscapes. Between performances, Wa youths may invite visitors to smell and identify freshly picked rainforest herbs—adding a sensory layer to this living cultural experience.

Dining:
Breakfast: Buffet at your hotel
Lunch: Elephant-themed lunch made with local ingredients (¥50/adult, ¥25/child)
Dinner: Local specialties (own expense)

Hotel: KingWorld Hotel Xishuangbanna, Empark Grand Hotel or similar

Itinerary:
Morning: Begin your day with an exciting and immersive trek through the Jinuo Mountain Rainforest in Xishuangbanna. On this morning, you'll explore the lush landscape and forage for edible wild herbs like mountain catweed, crabs, and small fish in the valleys.
Afternoon: After lunch, continue your exploration deeper into the rainforest. Here, you'll learn valuable survival skills, including first aid and self-rescue techniques, while discovering the rainforest's fascinating natural wonders. Experience the thrill of swinging through the jungle on a traditional forest swing. Along the way, you'll explore the unique relationship between the rainforest and Pu'er tea, sample seasonal tropical fruits, and learn the art of tea-making using bamboo tubes. Additionally, you'll be taught how to identify edible plants and natural water sources, along with insights into the region's diverse flora and fauna. After the trek, head back to Jinuo Village to immerse yourself in the culture and traditions of the Jinuo ethnic group.

Attractions:
Jinuo Mountain Village (Ticket included): Located in the eastern part of Jinghong, KinJinuo uo Village is the ancestral home of the Jinuo ethnic group. This picturesque village offers an excellent opportunity to appreciate the natural beauty of Jinuo Mountain while also diving into the vibrant local culture and customs.
Trekking Information:
Duration: 4 hours
Distance: 4.5 km
Elevation Gain: 100 meters
Highest Elevation: 900 meters
Guide-to-Guest Ratio: 1:8
Refreshment Stops: En route, there are rest stops where you can purchase snacks and drinks.
Trekking Notes:
The trek is 4.5 km in total. We recommend packing light and leaving unnecessary items behind to make the journey easier. (Be sure to bring mosquito repellent, your phone, and a portable charger.)
We will cross a stream during the hike, so it's a good idea to bring an extra pair of pants, just in case they get wet or dirty.
Comfortable outdoor shoes are essential. Please avoid high heels or shoes that are hard to walk in.
A local guide, with extensive knowledge of the region, will accompany you (1 guide per 10 participants).
Complimentary bottled water will be provided throughout the hike.
You may store your personal belongings, excluding valuables, in the vehicle used for transport. The same vehicle will be used for both the outbound and return trips.

Dining:
Breakfast: Included at your hotel
Lunch: Traditional rainforest feast featuring ethnic flavors
Dinner: Local specialties (own expense)

Hotel: KingWorld Hotel Xishuangbanna, Empark Grand Hotel or similar

Itinerary:
Morning: After breakfast, journey to the Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden, a key research facility of the Chinese Academy of Sciences. This vast garden is home to an extensive collection of tropical plants and rich ecological landscapes. Explore the Western Zone, which features themed gardens like the Flower Garden, Exotic Plants Garden, and Ficus Garden, and enjoy engaging talks that highlight the plant diversity and ecosystem complexities of this region.
Afternoon: Continue your visit at the Aquatic Plant Garden, where you can admire the rare Victoria Regia water lilies. Then, explore other captivating zones, including the Shaded Plants Garden, Fruit Garden, and National Tree & Flower Garden, each offering a unique glimpse into different plant species and ecosystems.

Attractions:
Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden (Ticket included): Located in Menglun Town, Mengla County, Xishuangbanna, this expansive garden is the largest and most diverse botanical garden in China. Known locally as Menglun Botanical Garden, it's split into two main areas: the Eastern Zone, which focuses on tropical rainforests and ethnic culture, and the Western Zone, showcasing a wide range of plant species and scientific research displays.

Dining:
Breakfast: Included at your hotel
Lunch: Local specialties (own expense)
Dinner: Local specialties (own expense)

Hotel: KingWorld Hotel Xishuangbanna, Empark Grand Hotel or similar

Itinerary:
Morning: After breakfast, head to Manzhang Village, a historic settlement with over 500 years of history in Xishuangbanna. Here, you'll dive into the heart of Dai culture with a variety of hands-on experiences. You'll have the opportunity to try activities like paper-making, traditional pottery, inscribing palm-leaf manuscripts, fishing at the dock, tea tasting, and Dai weaving (choose 4 out of 6 activities). Immerse yourself in the fascinating traditions of the Dai ethnic group.
Afternoon: After lunch, head to the Golden Buddha Temple, a serene and awe-inspiring place of worship. Admire the magnificent architecture and feel the tranquility of this important Theravada Buddhist site. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through Manting Royal Garden, the former private garden of the Dai kings. Discover the stunning ancient Dai architecture, lush tropical plants, and enjoy the peaceful ambiance. In the evening, experience a captivating cultural performance at the Manting Royal Garden Theater, blending the ethnic cultures of the region.
Evening: End your day with the Mekong River Night Fire Dance Show. This cultural performance celebrates the traditions, dance, music, and costumes of the Mekong River Basin nations. The show includes an interactive water lantern release (one lantern per guest) and a bonfire celebration, inviting you to join in the lively festivities.

Attractions:
Manzhang Village (Exterior visit): Located in Mengyang Town, Manzhang Village is home to the Dai people and is renowned for its well-preserved traditional culture. It offers a variety of hands-on experiences that allow visitors to engage with local crafts and gain insights into Dai customs. Highlights include traditional weaving, paper-making, and bamboo weaving, providing an authentic look into this unique community's cultural heritage.
Golden Buddha Temple (Exterior visit): Nestled near Manting Park, the Golden Buddha Temple is a central pilgrimage site for Buddhists in Xishuangbanna. With its impressive architecture, intricate carvings, and peaceful surroundings, it's a must-visit for anyone interested in Buddhist culture and history. It is also an important pilgrimage site for local Buddhists and historically served as a place of worship for the ruling class before the region's liberation.
Manting Royal Garden (Ticket included): Once the private garden of the Dai king, Manting Royal Garden is a beautiful historical park that showcases the essence of Dai royal culture, Buddhist influences, and ethnic traditions. The garden is divided into themed areas, including the vine zone, peacock garden, and traditional Dai and Thai-style buildings. It's a peaceful retreat to appreciate nature and the ethnic diversity of the region.
Mekong River Night Fire Dance Show (Ticket included): This vibrant evening show highlights the diverse ethnic cultures of the Mekong River region through dance, music, and interactive performances. Guests will also take part in the water lantern release by the river, symbolizing peace and prosperity. It's an unforgettable cultural experience, filled with energy and enthusiasm.

Included Activity: Paper-making, traditional Dai slow-wheel pottery, inscribing with palm-leaf manuscripts, dockside fishing, tea tasting, traditional Dai weaving (choose 4 out of 6 activities).
The traditional skills of the Dai people have been meticulously preserved and passed down through generations in the village. Visitors can explore these time-honored crafts, offering a rare opportunity to connect with the authentic cultural heritage of the Dai ethnic group.

Dining:
Breakfast: Included at your hotel
Lunch: Traditional Manzhang Village cuisine (¥50/adult, ¥25/child)
Dinner: Buffet at Manting Royal Garden Restaurant (¥80/adult, ¥40/child)

Hotel: KingWorld Hotel Xishuangbanna, Empark Grand Hotel or similar

Itinerary:
Morning: Enjoy a leisurely morning with free time to relax and wake up at your own pace.
Recommended Attraction: Xishuangbanna Primitive Forest Park.
Afternoon: As your journey comes to a close, head back to the comfort of your home. Looking forward to your next adventure with us.

Dining:
Breakfast: Included at your hotel
Lunch: Local specialties (own expense)