Simao

Introducing Simao

Simao District, under the jurisdiction of Pu'er City, Yunnan Province, is located in southern Yunnan Province, south-central Pu'er City, and the middle and lower reaches of the Lancang River. It lies between 22°27′–23°06′N and 100°19′–101°27′E. It borders Jiangcheng County to the east, Lancang County and Jinggu Dai and Yi Autonomous County to the west, Xishuangbanna Dai Autonomous Prefecture to the south, and Ning'er County to the north. It covers a total area of ​​3,928 square kilometers. As of 2017, Simao District governed three townships and four towns. In 2015, the district had a permanent population of 313,000. In 2015, the district's GDP reached 12.0025 billion yuan, with a per capita GDP of 38,500 yuan. Simao District is the historical starting point of the Ancient Tea-Horse Road, also known as the Southern Silk Road. It is one of Yunnan's three major customs towns and was once known as the "Southeast Asian Land Port" and "Silver Simao." The main relics in Simao District include Shiping Guild Hall, Simao Confucian Temple, Simao Old Customs, and the Ancient Tea-Horse Road; historical figures include Tongmenghui member Lu Zhiyi and honest official Chen Qizhou.

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Most Popular FAQs for Simao

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Simao, now the central district of Pu'er City in Yunnan, has historically been a key trading hub, especially for Pu'er tea. It is culturally significant for its ethnic diversity and tea production, contributing to Yunnan's identity as a major tea region.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Simao is located in southern Yunnan, near the borders with Myanmar and Laos. It can be reached via Pu'er Simao Airport, long-distance buses, or trains to Pu'er. Local taxis and buses provide convenient transportation within the city.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Most attractions are open from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best times to visit are in spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) for comfortable weather and scenic views.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

Entrance fees vary: Simao Ancient Town is usually free, Pu'er Tea Gardens may charge 20–50 RMB. Tickets can generally be bought onsite, with some locations offering online purchase options.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Booking is typically not required, except for large tea plantations or guided tours during peak season. Online booking 1–2 days in advance is recommended.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

One to two days are enough to explore main attractions, tea gardens, and nearby scenic spots.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

• Simao Ancient Town
• Pu'er Tea Gardens and plantations
• Wuliang Mountain scenic area
• Ethnic villages showcasing Dai and Hani culture
• Simao Riverside Park

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are mostly available in Chinese. Some tea plantations and tourist agencies offer English-speaking guides upon request.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• Wuliang Mountain viewpoints for panoramic landscapes
• Tea plantations with terraced fields
• Sunset views along Nanlang River in Simao Riverside Park
• Traditional architecture in Simao Ancient Town

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start with Simao Ancient Town, then visit local tea plantations. Follow with a visit to ethnic villages, and finish with Wuliang Mountain or Simao Riverside Park for nature and photography.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Evening strolls along the river are popular. Special light shows are rare, but some tea gardens offer evening cultural performances.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

The city is generally calm. Weekdays and non-holiday periods are least crowded, especially at tea plantations and scenic spots.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

Facilities include public toilets, small cafes, local restaurants, rest areas, and souvenir shops at key tourist spots.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Urban areas and tea gardens are mostly accessible. Mountain trails may be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) are widely accepted; cash is useful in remote villages or small shops.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

• Local Yunnan cuisine restaurants in Simao city center
• Cafes at tea plantations
• Street food stalls near Simao Ancient Town

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available at many restaurants; halal options are limited and may need prior inquiry.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• City center hotels and guesthouses in Simao
• Resorts or homestays near tea plantations
• Budget hotels along main roads and near railway station

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

• Paiyangshan Nature Reserve
• Puer Tea Culture Museum
• Nearby ethnic villages showcasing local culture

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

• Pu'er tea cakes and tea products
• Handicrafts from local ethnic groups
• Traditional Yunnan snacks and small artworks

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

Buses, taxis, or flights from Pu'er Simao Airport are convenient for traveling to other parts of Yunnan or neighboring provinces.