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Explore Tengchong County’s volcanic landscapes, hot springs, and historical sites. Visit the Heshun Ancient Town, the Tengchong Volcano Park, and the Yunnan-Myanmar border area for a cultural and natural experience. Don't miss the scenic Beihai Wetland Park for outdoor activities and birdwatching.
Tengchong, a county-level city under the administration of Baoshan City in Yunnan Province, is located in southwestern Yunnan Province and west of Baoshan City. It borders Longyang District to the east, Longling County and Lianghe County to the south, Yingjiang County and the Republic of the Union of Myanmar to the west, and Lushui City in Nujiang Lisu Autonomous Prefecture to the northeast. The city is 606 kilometers from the provincial capital, Kunming, 200 kilometers from Myitkyina, Myanmar, and 602 kilometers from Ledo, India. It is a key gateway and hub connecting China to South and Southeast Asia.
As of 2014, Tengchong City covers an area of 5,845 square kilometers, with a border line of 148.075 kilometers. It has jurisdiction over 11 towns and 7 townships. In 2014, its total population (permanent population) was 659,900; in 2014, its gross domestic product (GDP) reached 13.34 billion yuan.
On December 7, 2016, Tengchong was listed as one of the third batch of national new urbanization comprehensive pilot areas. In June 2017, Tengchong was named a National Sanitary City. In November 2017, it was recognized as a National Civilized City. In November 2018, it was selected for the 2018 National "100 Happy Counties" list. On December 12, 2018, it was named one of the second batch of "Lucid Waters and Lush Mountains Are Gold and Silver Mountains" practice and innovation bases. On December 13, 2018, it was selected as a list of advantageous areas for China's characteristic agricultural products.
Tengchong City has a tropical monsoon climate, combining the advantages of continental climate and maritime climate. The weather is sunny and warm in winter and spring, and cool and pleasant with alternating sunny and rainy weather in summer and autumn. The average annual rainfall is 1,531 mm, and the average annual relative humidity is 77%. The lowest temperature in winter is not lower than 0℃, so you can avoid the cold, and the highest temperature in summer does not exceed 30℃, so you can avoid the heat. It has been rated as "one of the most suitable places for human habitation."
Tengchong is a renowned hometown of overseas Chinese, a place of literature, and a hub for jadeite distribution. It is also a provincial-level historical and cultural city. During the Western Han Dynasty, Tengchong was known as Dianyue, and during the middle period of the Dali Kingdom, Tengchong Prefecture was established. Due to its strategic location, it has been heavily garrisoned throughout the dynasties. During the Ming Dynasty, a stone city was built, earning it the nickname "The First City at the Extreme Frontier." Tengchong's major tourist attractions include the Volcano Group National Park, Dieshuihe Waterfall, Beihai Wetland Reserve, National Cemetery, Ai Siqi's Former Residence, Yunnan-Burma Anti-Japanese War Museum, Tengchong Confucian Temple, Tengchong Volcano National Geopark, and Tengchong Hot Springs.
It is recommended to visit for about 3 days.
free
Open all day
Tengchong County, located in Yunnan Province, is historically significant due to its volcanic activity, rich biodiversity, and cultural heritage. It has served as an important trading hub between China and Myanmar, and is famous for its hot springs, geothermal activity, and ancient architecture.
Tengchong is located in the southwest of Yunnan Province, near the border with Myanmar. It can be reached by taxi or private car from Baoshan city, and by long-distance buses. Tengchong has an airport with flights connecting to major cities like Kunming.
Tengchong County is open for visitors year-round, with the best times to visit being from March to May and September to November when the weather is mild and comfortable for outdoor exploration.
Most attractions in Tengchong County charge an entrance fee. Prices vary, but for places like the Tengchong Volcano Park, the ticket price is around ¥40-¥60. Tickets can be purchased on-site or through local travel agencies and online platforms.
Booking tickets in advance is recommended for popular attractions, especially during peak seasons. You can book tickets 1-2 days in advance via online platforms or at travel agencies.
To fully explore the main attractions of Tengchong County, you will need about 2-3 days. This includes visits to hot springs, historical sites, and natural parks. If you plan to explore further into nearby areas, 4-5 days are ideal.
Must-see attractions include the Tengchong Volcano Park, Heshun Ancient Town, the Beihai Wetland Park, the hot springs, and the historical Yunnan-Myanmar border areas. These places offer a blend of natural beauty and rich history.
Guided tours are available in Chinese, and some tour operators may offer tours in English, especially in popular tourist areas. Audio guides are available at major attractions, but it is advisable to check in advance for availability in foreign languages.
The best photography spots are the Tengchong Volcano Park, where you can capture stunning volcanic landscapes, and the Beihai Wetland Park for beautiful nature shots. The old architecture of Heshun Ancient Town also offers unique photography opportunities.
Start your visit with the Tengchong Volcano Park, then head to Heshun Ancient Town. Afterward, enjoy the hot springs and relax in the Beihai Wetland Park. If time allows, explore the historical sites near the Yunnan-Myanmar border.
Night visits and light shows are not common in Tengchong. However, the region's natural beauty, especially in places like Beihai Wetland Park, offers serene evening strolls with great views.
Tengchong can get busy during national holidays, especially in October and during summer. The least crowded times to visit are weekdays in the off-season (winter and early spring).
Facilities are available at most attractions, including toilets, food stalls, water stations, and rest areas. Larger sites like Tengchong Volcano Park have souvenir shops and restaurants serving local cuisine.
Most major attractions in Tengchong are accessible for elderly and disabled visitors, with ramps and wheelchair-friendly paths at popular sites like the Volcano Park and Heshun Ancient Town.
Mobile payments such as WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely accepted throughout Tengchong. Credit cards may also be accepted at larger attractions and hotels, but it’s advisable to carry cash for smaller purchases.
There are several restaurants and cafes in Tengchong, offering local Yunnanese dishes such as “Crossing the Bridge Noodles” and hot pot. Many restaurants are located near the main tourist attractions, especially in Heshun Ancient Town.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available in many local restaurants, especially in tourist areas. Halal food options are available, particularly in places catering to Muslim visitors near the Yunnan-Myanmar border.
There are various accommodation options in Tengchong, from budget hotels to more luxurious resorts. Popular choices include the Tengchong Resort, Hot Spring Hotels, and several guesthouses in Heshun Ancient Town.
Nearby attractions include the Gaoligong Mountains, which offer great hiking opportunities, and the historical Yunnan-Myanmar border area. These sites can be visited easily in a day trip from Tengchong.
There are souvenir shops in Heshun Ancient Town and near other major attractions. Common souvenirs include Yunnan tea, local handicrafts, embroidered goods, and jewelry made from local materials.
After visiting Tengchong, you can take a bus or taxi to Baoshan for further travel. Alternatively, there are flights from Tengchong Airport to major cities like Kunming.
