Pause the hike for a moment, I have to make a trip to Yanbian first. The wildest party this summer—the Yanbian Torch Festival—is simply legendary! Hiking on hold, just go for it!
by NORA GREER
Jul 14, 2025
Pause the hike for a moment, I have to make a trip to Yanbian first.
The wildest party this summer—the Yanbian Torch Festival—is simply legendary! 🔥 Hiking on hold, just go for it!
🗓️ Main venue locked · Gesala Yi Ethnic Township
⏰ July 16
1️⃣ 13:30-14:30 Thousand-People Duoluohe Performance: Ethnic minority girls twirling their skirts, intangible cultural heritage dance so stunning it takes your breath away
2️⃣ 15:30-18:30 Traditional Competitions: Wrestling + Cockfighting + Sheep Fighting, go cheer loudly outside the arena
3️⃣ 19:20-19:50 Ten-Thousand-People Guozhuang Dance: Hold hands with strangers and dance wildly, even social anxiety won’t scare you
4️⃣ 19:50-20:30 Bimo Blessing Ceremony: Hundreds light the fire, thousands send the fire, tens of thousands gather around the bonfire, the whole scene explodes with energy
5️⃣ 20:30-21:00 Drone Show: Lighting up the starry sky with technology, a must-see
Bonus: Visit the Gongfu Market in the afternoon (bring home Yanbian specialties); camp under the starry sky at night ✨ super romantic
🏞 Nearby Recommendations
🍃 Gesala Ecotourism Area: Right next to the main venue! Hike through the primeval forest and breathe fresh air, instantly entering a fairyland
🍃 Green Stone Forest Scenic Area: Dark green strange rocks create a mysterious vibe
🍃 Ertan National Forest Park: See the hydropower dam, truly spectacular
🍽️ Don’t forget the food
Yanbian Pickled Fish: Sour and spicy soup base, addictive with every bite!
Yanbian Barbecue: Charcoal-grilled on the spot 🍖, the aroma will make the next table drool!
Yanbian Beef: Eat big chunks of meat and feel amazing! Dipping in chili powder is perfect
🔥 For late-night snacks, head straight to the barbecue stalls! The lively atmosphere is the soul
🚄 Transportation:
🚘 Self-driving: About 6-7 hours from Chengdu to Yanbian County (be careful during the rainy season)
🚅 High-speed train: About 4.5 hours from Chengdu to Panzhihua South Station, then transfer at Panzhihua Passenger Center to a bus from Panzhihua to Yanyuan, get off at Gesala Ecotourism Area on the way
💡 Hard-earned Tips:
✅ Check the weather, bring sunscreen + light jacket + umbrella
✅ Wear comfortable shoes! Dancing and jumping for 3 hours is no dream
✅ Bring a power bank! It’s hard to borrow one on site
✨ There are no bystanders at the Torch Festival, only revelers. See you at Gesala on 7.16! 🔥
Post by NORA GREER | Jul 14, 2025













