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Tengchong is a scenic area in Yunnan with rich natural beauty and historical significance. Recommended activities include:
Tengchong, a county-level city in southwestern Yunnan Province under the administration of Baoshan City, is a renowned hometown of overseas Chinese, a cultural hub, and a jade distribution center. It is also a provincial-level historical and cultural city.
This is the world's premier ginkgo kingdom. In late autumn, yellow leaves flutter in front of and behind houses, creating a breathtaking spectacle. The precious, century-old ginkgo trees imbue this small village with a sense of antiquity and profoundness. You can revel in this paradise, letting your soul drift freely amidst the golden glow, marveling at the unique spectacle of the trees shimmering like gold!
The main tourist attractions here include the Volcano National Park, Dieshu River Waterfall, Beihai Wetland Reserve, National Cemetery, and Ai Siqi's former residence.
tropical monsoon climate;
The weather is suitable for all seasons. If you come in mid- to late April, Tengchong will be full of green grass and vibrant birds.
In addition, mid-November to early December every year is the best time to visit Ginkgo Village to see ginkgo trees.
Heshun Ancient Town
Heshun Ancient Town, located 4 kilometers west of Tengchong County, is a renowned overseas Chinese hometown in Yunnan Province. It was a key town on the Ancient Tea-Horse Road and a must-stop on the Southwest Silk Road. The town's buildings are nestled in a mountainous landscape, dotted with ancestral halls, memorial archways, and ancient residences from the Ming and Qing dynasties. Li Genyuan, Acting Premier of the Republic of China, praised Heshun in a poem: "It surpasses Suzhou and Hangzhou." Tengchong is known for its three treasures: Tengxuan paper, Tengyao, and Tengbian paper. At the Heshun Library, you can observe artisans making Xuan paper using traditional methods. If you're interested, you can buy some.
Tengchong Hot Spring
Located in Qingshui Township, southwest of Tengchong County, Rehai (Hot Spring) covers approximately 9 square kilometers and boasts over 80 gas springs and hot spring clusters. Ten of these clusters boast water temperatures exceeding 90°C. Hot springs can be seen gushing everywhere, shrouding the area in a white mist. The most iconic spring in the hot sea is the Big Boiling Pot, while others include the Spectacle Spring and the Beauty Pool. Each spring has its own name and story.
Here, you can also see "eggs sold on skewers," one of Yunnan's 18 oddities. In addition, Rehai also has several sanatoriums and bathhouses where you can experience and enjoy them.
Tengchong Volcanic Geothermal National Geopark
Tengchong Volcano Park, home to 97 volcanoes and numerous lava terraces, is one of my country's four major volcanic clusters and a prime destination for exploring volcanic landscapes. The park boasts a large, concentrated, and well-preserved collection of volcanic cones, lava fields, volcanic lakes, barrier waterfalls, and columnar joints. Other attractions include Dakong Mountain, Xiaokong Mountain, Heikong Mountain, columnar joints, and the Moyu River, all accessible via hot air balloon.
Ginkgo Village
Ginkgo Village, a pristine village in Tengchong County, Yunnan Province, boasts over 3,000 ginkgo trees dotting the courtyards of its farmhouses, making it a popular destination in late autumn. Its shadow puppetry culture boasts a history of over 600 years, and its Xingyang paper umbrellas and Jiangdong embroidery are nationally renowned. The village was also a filming location for the film "Wuxia." The village is divided into four areas. Chenjiazhai, stretching from the Ginkgo Square at the village entrance to the fork in the road, is the most densely populated area for tourists and ginkgo trees, while the other areas are relatively quiet.
Tengchong is historically significant as a major trading hub in Southwest China and as a key site during the Second Sino-Japanese War. The region is also known for its volcanic activity and hot springs. It has a diverse cultural heritage, influenced by various ethnic groups, and is rich in natural beauty, making it an important site for both history and tourism.
Tengchong is located in Baoshan City, Yunnan Province, near the Myanmar border. You can reach Tengchong by taking a flight to Tengchong Tuofeng Airport, followed by a taxi or shuttle to your accommodation. Alternatively, you can take a long-distance bus from cities like Dali or Baoshan. The city is not served by a metro system.
Tengchong is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit is from April to October when the weather is mild and pleasant. The attractions, such as the volcanic parks and hot springs, are open daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. It’s recommended to visit during weekdays for a quieter experience.
Entrance fees for Tengchong attractions vary. For example, the Tengchong Volcano Park has an entrance fee of approximately 50-100 RMB. Tickets for the hot springs and museums are priced similarly. Tickets can be purchased at the attractions on-site, or you can book them in advance through local tour operators or online platforms like Ctrip.
It is recommended to book tickets in advance during peak tourist seasons (April to October) to avoid long waits, especially for popular attractions like the volcanic parks and hot springs. Booking 1-2 weeks in advance is ideal for securing tickets during holidays or weekends.
You can fully explore Tengchong in 2-3 days, which allows for a visit to key attractions like the volcano park, hot springs, and ancient towns. Longer stays offer more time for hiking and enjoying the natural beauty of the Gaoligong Mountains.
The must-see highlights in Tengchong include:
Guided tours are available for most attractions in Tengchong. Local guides typically speak Mandarin, and some may offer English-speaking services. Audio guides may also be available at some sites, though availability in languages other than Mandarin may be limited. It’s best to book a guide in advance if you prefer an English-speaking one.
The best viewpoints and photography spots in Tengchong include:
A recommended itinerary for Tengchong is:
Tengchong does not typically offer night visits or light shows. However, the region's natural beauty makes it perfect for evening walks and stargazing, especially in remote areas like the Gaoligong Mountains.
Tengchong is not as crowded as major tourist hubs in China. The least crowded times to visit are during weekdays and the winter months (November to February). Avoid the National Holidays (May Day, Golden Week) when it can become more crowded.
Most of the major tourist attractions in Tengchong have facilities such as public toilets, rest areas, and water stations. Food and drink can be found at local restaurants and eateries near popular tourist sites. Shops selling souvenirs and snacks are also common in Heshun Old Town and the Volcano Park area.
Tengchong’s attractions, such as Heshun Old Town and the National Museum, are generally accessible to elderly visitors and children. However, some of the hiking trails and volcanic sites may be challenging for those with mobility issues. It’s recommended to check accessibility with local guides or the attraction staff before visiting.
Cash is widely accepted in Tengchong, but major tourist sites and accommodations typically accept mobile payments such as WeChat Pay or Alipay. It’s still advisable to carry some cash for smaller shops or rural areas.
There are several restaurants and cafes in Tengchong, offering a mix of Yunnan cuisine and local specialties. Popular dishes include rice noodles, hotpot, and grilled meats. Many local restaurants are located around the Volcano Park and Heshun Old Town.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available in Tengchong, especially in local eateries serving vegetables, tofu, and rice dishes. Halal food options are limited but may be found in larger restaurants or nearby Muslim-friendly areas.
There are various accommodation options in Tengchong, ranging from budget guesthouses to mid-range hotels. Heshun Old Town has charming boutique hotels with traditional architecture, while there are modern hotels closer to the Volcano Park and National Museum.
Nearby attractions include:
Souvenir shops in Tengchong sell a variety of items, including locally made handicrafts, Yunnan teas, traditional clothing, and volcanic rock souvenirs.
After visiting Tengchong, the best options for continuing your trip include flights from Tengchong Tuofeng Airport to major cities like Kunming or Dali. You can also take a long-distance bus or hire a private car for exploring the surrounding areas like Baoshan or the Gaoligong Mountains.
