Yunnan might not be a province in China you’re familiar with, so it might come as a surprise when we tell you it’s a destination that belongs on any China travel list. 

AsiaTravel Founder Mei Zhang hails from the region and it’s a place that has always held a special place in our hearts. In Yunnan, you’ll find spiritual and cultural sites, beautiful scenery, tasty dishes, and much more! And it’s inevitable really, that you’d find so much diversity in an area that’s larger than Germany.

Here are four facts about Yunnan that will inspire your China travel.

RELATED READING: Top 5 Things to Do in Dali and Lijiang

Yunnan has some of China’s most breathtaking sights

You’ll find breathtaking landscapes all across Yunnan, from carefully tended rice terraces and serene lakes to sky-high mountain ranges. One such mountain range is Yulong, home to the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. This mountain range is a sanctuary for rare animals and plants and you’ll find a number of Yi ethnic minority villages in the area. On a AsiaTravel journey, we’ll help you to meet with a local shaman there who will bless your journey.

The Yuanyang rice terraces are also a must-see in the right season. Each terrace is meticulously cared for and you’ll notice that each small section will vary in color, sometimes dramatically, from those around it.

RELATED READING: 4 Best Hotels in Shangri-La

You can experience Tibetan culture without the restrictions

Yunnan shares a border with the Tibetan Autonomous Region (TAR) on its western side, and Tibetan culture has seeped through over time. If you don’t want to deal with the hassle of getting a permit to visit the TAR then Yunnan might be a good option.

Dozens of temples are sprinkled across the land and in the western part of Shangri-La, you can find monks and Lamas chanting sutras at Gadan Dongshulin Temple. Songzanlin Monastery is also well-worth a visit to see Tibetan Buddhist culture. 

Abujee is another area of Yunnan where you can see Tibetan life in action. In this remote area, you’ll walk alongside Tibetan and Yi herders tending to their flocks and can even sit down with them for a cup of salty yak butter tea.

RELATED READING: Take the High-Speed Rail to Yunnan

Yunnan is home to 25 ethnic minorities

Yunnan is one of the most culturally diverse provinces in China and is home to more than 25 ethnic minority groups. Witness the song and dance of each, see their traditional clothes, and try their delectable dishes. Three of the most prominent groups you’ll find are the Bai, Naxi, and Mosuo, each with their own unique style and customs. If you’re into the social sciences, you’ll find the variety fascinating – many of the cultures are matriarchal!

RELATED READING: Yunnan Food According to Mei Zhang

Photo Credit: Elizabeth Phung

Yunnan is home to its own unique cuisine

The flavors and techniques used in Yunnan cuisine are a blend of famously spicy Sichuan food in the north, light and seafood oriented cooking in eastern China, and fresh Thai flavors in the South. Farmers bring produce down from the mountains and locals visit the market at least once (sometimes twice) a day to ensure they get the freshest ingredients. 

One of the most well-known regional dishes is “Crossing the Bridge Noodles” and there are several stories explaining the name. If you’d like to learn more about Yunnan cuisine, AsiaTravel founder Mei Zhang’s first book, Travels through Dali: with a leg of ham, serves as a great introduction.

Yunnan is a province with a little bit of everything. Food, nature, and culture are all one of a kind in this area of China. Are you ready to embark on a journey through this incredible province?

Feature Image Photo credit: Wilson Loo on Visualhunt.com / CC BY-NC-ND

Kunming is the latest city to join the ranks of visa-free travel in China. A scheme that has been rolled out to a number of major cities in recent years, the visa-free permit gives the budding adventurer 144 hours (6 days) to touch down in, and explore, a city and its nearby environs. To qualify for visa exemption, you must be in transit from your point of origin to another country besides China. In other words, it must be a layover and you have to have the documents to prove your onward travel.

When you check in for your flight to Kunming, you’ll need to let the airline know that you’re planning to stay visa-free. Then, when you arrive, follow the “visa-free stay” signs in immigration. You’ll fill out a slightly longer entry card than normal, and your 144 hours will begin at 00:00 hours the next day.

Here’s all you need to know to get the most out of visa-free travel in Kunming.

 

Kunming: Visa-Free Travel

Often referred to as the ‘City of Eternal Spring’ for its temperate climate year-round, Kunming is the capital city of Yunnan province, a lush and culturally diverse region in China’s southwest. A major metropolis by any standards, Kunming is markedly more cosmopolitan than the rest of Yunnan province. The city has evolved a bohemian, artsy vibe, with a growing number of independent galleries, cultural centers, and cafés. 

Kunming is also a pretty well-connected city, making travel to and from the area easy. In fact, many AsiaTravel travelers use Kunming as a jumping off point for other parts of Yunnan, as well as a welcome addition to travels through Southeast Asia.

 

Photo by Fuchsia Dunlop

 

Kunming Visa-Free Travel: Where to Eat?

As you’ll be staying within the city limits for the duration of the 144-hour visa, we’re sure you’ll be dying to know all the best eateries and hangouts that show off the best of what the region has to offer. Making its way onto Fuchsia Dunlop’s Yunnan Gastronomic Tour for very good reason, Kunming boasts a burgeoning culinary scene, combining Chinese tradition with the spices and exoticism of Southeast Asia. While mushroom hotpot is something of a specialty in Kunming, you’ll find delicacies at every turn with restaurants to match. A firm favorite of ours is the ancient Shiping Hall (石屏会馆), where you can enjoy chili fish in a beautiful traditional courtyard – the restaurant itself is 300 years old. Alternatively, head over to the 1910 South Train Station (1910 火车南站) to sample a more modern twist on Yunnan cuisine.

Top tip: Yunnan is China’s center of coffee cultivation, and many of Kunming’s cafes use local beans. Be sure to try a cup (or two) as you explore the city.

 

 

Kunming Visa-Free Travel: What to Do?

With bellies satiated, what should you do in Kunming? Well, when you’re not filling up on tasty treats or enjoying the natural feel of the city, why not jump on the cable car and head up Sleeping Beauty Mountain where you will be rewarded with stunning views and the chance to see Dragon Gate, a collection of beautiful temples jutting out of the cliff face.

Sticking with the rocky theme, Kunming’s Stone Forest is well worth a visit too, boasting impressive limestone formations. But, be warned, the early bird catches the worm with this one, as it is a firm favorite amongst domestic tourists.

 

 

Kunming Visa-Free Travel: Where to Stay?

And finally, where to rest our weary traveler heads? A city that is laced with the beauty of nature throughout, there are plenty of choices when it comes to finding a room with a view in Kunming. Our personal favorite is the Green Lake Hotel. While the clue is in the name, this hotel boasts great views over Green Lake Park, as well as enjoying a prime location within walking distance of Kunming Old Town, and more restaurants and cafés than you can shake a stick at. It has all the modern conveniences and services you’d want, including a swimming pool to relax in after a long day of soaking up the sights.

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So, if it’s a lengthy layover you’ve found yourself with, or you are on the hunt for a trip extension with a bit of a twist, consider Kunming – a vibrant destination with none of the visa hassles.

Lhasa, the capital of the Tibetan Autonomous Region, sits high up on the Tibetan Plateau. In the Tibetan language, Lhasa means ‘Holy Land’ and the city is a center of Tibetan Buddhist life and culture. 

Staying in Lhasa gives you a convenient lodging from which to view city sights like the Potala Palace and Jokhang Temple. And from a Lhasa hotel base, out of city attractions including crystal-clear lakes and Tibetan monasteries are also easily accessible. 

RELATED READING: Top 5 Reasons Why You Should Visit Lhasa

Best Hotels in Lhasa – Songtsam Hotel, Lhasa

China’s home-grown Songtsam brand offers luxury, boutique accommodation in the country’s Tibetan regions. The brand prides itself on being part of the local community and immerses guests in local culture. Songtsam’s newest venture in Lhasa opened in 2017 and is well located approximately 15 minutes by taxi from downtown – giving a tranquil environment to retreat to. The Songtsam Chokyi Lingka, to give its full name, oozes Tibetan culture with the same philosophy of architecture as found in Lhasa’s Potala Palace. This shows up in the use of stone, wood and local earth in the building.

The Norbulingka Palace was used for design inspiration and the property even features handmade curtains from a local artisan. This is the perfect hotel for lovers of boutique touches in Tibetan style and, it even has oxygen supplies for those needing to adjust to Lhasa’s high altitude.

RELATED READING: Where Can I Visit Tibetan Buddhist Monks?

Best Hotels in Lhasa – St Regis Lhasa

This Starwood Group luxury resort hotel is an alternative to Tibetan boutique style, offering what might be best regarded as “contemporary classic” western style. The St. Regis was the first international luxury brand hotel in the Tibetan Autonomous Region and it’s located in the heart of downtown, just minutes away from the Potala Palace.

In the St Regis, you’ll constantly find yourself transfixed by the surrounding mountains. The opulence reaches a harmonious, earth-toned crescendo in the dining spaces, of which there are three: visit Si Zi Kang for high-concept Tibetan plates, Yan Ting for a range of regional Chinese cuisines, and Social for the buffet. 

RELATED READING: Do I Need a Permit to Visit Tibet?

Best Hotels in Lhasa – The Shangri-La Lhasa

Shangri-La Hotels are a well-known luxury brand with properties all around China. The Shangri-La Lhasa is in the city center on Lingkor Road and Norbulingka Road, near the historic Potala Palace. In each room, you’ll be greeted by a copy of James Hiltons’ Lost Horizon, a classic book about adventuring in the wonders of the Orient on the Tibetan Plateau.

The hotel covers a large area, and the grounds are lovely to walk around. Guests will find that rooms are decorated in Tibetan style and many overlook the magnificent mountains and the Potala Palace. Like other quality hotels, oxygen rooms and medical services are available to assist adjustment to altitude.

Whether you’re craving five-star luxury or are curious about Tibetan design, Lhasa’s hotel options are sure to delight visitors of all kinds. When you travel with AsiaTravel, we not only help you find the hotel that’s perfect for your travel style, we’ll organize a private guide and driver who will help create a truly life-changing trip.

The Tibetan Autonomous Region (TAR) is one of the more mysterious, spiritual areas of the world. It’s also a region of superlatives: the tallest mountains, largest plateaus, and highest-altitude cities. With all this in mind, it’s easy to get overwhelmed with choices when it comes to visiting.

That’s where AsiaTravel comes in. We’ve field tested all our experiences in Tibet to ensure our clients have life-changing experiences that are tailored made to suit their travel-style. Let’s take a look at some of the many options.

RELATED READING: Best Hotels in Lhasa

Where You Should Go in Tibet -Yamdrok Tso Lake

Welcome to one of the largest sacred lakes in Tibet. Why is it on this list? Because the locals consider it one of the most beautiful places in all of Tibet! Not only is it significant for its beauty, but it is considered a holy location by Tibetan Buddhists. Surrounding the lake are four temples, each with its own significance. To understand why it is considered holy, you only have to stand on its banks and witness the deep blue water, encircled by snow-capped, cloud-crowned mountains. Bring your camera, and if you’d like, we can arrange a private picnic on the lake’s shores.

RELATED READING: Do I Need a Permit to Visit Tibet?

Where You Should Go in Tibet – Jokhang Temple

When approaching Jokhang, you’ll first be struck by the combination of Tang Dynasty architectural design and the distinct Indian vihara and Nepalese elements that make the temple a comprehensive piece of art. This is the highest temple in the world for Tibetan Buddhism and it’s also the spiritual center. Jokhang Temple is considered to be the most important temple by Tibetans and should be on the ‘must-visit’ list of anyone who is interested in world religions, history, or art. Jokhang Temple is located in Barkhor Square in the center of Lhasa, not far from the river. This is a great place to do the “kora” – which is a short pilgrimage around the grounds along with locals. The local people will put tiny rocks on top of each other by the side of the road to keep track of how many times they’ve been around the temple. 

RELATED READING: Where Can I Visit Tibetan Buddhist Monks in China?

Where You Should Go in Tibet – The Potala Palace

Not far from Lhasa city, the Potala Palace is a massive building complex that used to be home to the mighty Tibetan King Songtsan Gampo. In the 1600’s, it was reconstructed to be suitable for the Fifth Dalai Lama and if Jokhang is the spiritual center of the TAR, the Potala Palace is the political center. It is on UNESCO’s list of World Cultural Heritage Sites and houses countless works of art and archaeological treasures. A treasure trove for any history buff! In the back of the palace, you can find what used to be the lively lodgings of the Lamas.

RELATED READING: Top 5 Reasons You Should Visit Lhasa

Where You Should Go in Tibet – Mt. Everest Base Camp

You’ve heard about Mount Everest plenty of times, and maybe you weren’t even entirely sure where it was. It’s one of those legendary locations that seems so far off and impossible to reach, but here’s your chance. You can stay at a base camp at the foot of the world’s tallest mountain. While the foot of the mountain is still quite high – several miles above the surrounding landscape – you’ll be treated to an amazing scene.

RELATED READING: Why Tibetan Camping is the Perfect Holiday for Whole Body Wellness

Where You Should Go in Tibet – Tibetan Medical Expert

You may be familiar with Traditional Chinese Medicine, and Tibet has its own ancient medicine as well. In Lhasa, we’ll arrange a consultation between you and a Tibetan medical expert who can diagnose your ailments using traditional methods and prescribe special remedies just for you. 

On the wall, you can find traditional thangka paintings that show the whole medical system used by Tibetans. The expert will explain to you how it all works using the thangka painting as a visual aide.

RELATED READING: Into the Unexpected with AsiaTravel’s Small Group Tours

Where You Should Go in Tibet – Hiking 

If you want to go off the beaten path in Tibet, there are a number of monasteries that are away from the capital of Lhasa in more remote areas. On a AsiaTravel journey, you can converse with monks through your local Tibetan guide and at the Pabongka Monastery, you can take a leisurely hike of less than three hours from the monastery to a nunnery. The view will be spectacularly Tibetan: filled with prayer flags, rivers, yaks, and Tibetan dogs.

If you’re seeking a different way of living, spiritual insight, or simply to experience living history, then Tibet is not to be missed.

Feature Image Photo Credit: dotstone on VisualHunt / CC BY-NC-ND

Featured Image by Aaron Berkovich, AsiaTravel Explorer Grant Applicant 2016.

49 years ago, Earth Day was established as a worldwide event to recognize the importance of political action and civic participation in protecting our world from the negative impacts of human activity. Here at AsiaTravel, our goal of responsible and sustainable travel includes providing our guests with a greater understanding of environmental and wildlife issues. Because we love China so much, we want to ensure everything about its natural beauty and history is protected for many, many generations to come.

This year, Earth Day focuses on protecting species. From whales to trees, pandas to bees, the diversity of wildlife throughout the world is threatened because of human activity. The goals of the Day include educating and raising awareness about current rates of extinction, as well as the threats that exist to species around the world. It’s all about how we, as a global community, can protect the Earth’s wildlife.

 

Protecting Species in China

There are hundreds of plant and animal species that are threatened in China. Conservation of just two of these – the giant panda and snub-nosed monkey populations – is a small but crucial part of the movement to protect our Earth and her species. So, this Earth Day, read more about these two animals that need our help in China and how you can be involved with their protection.

Giant Pandas

An emblem of wildlife protection (literally) around the world, giant pandas represent a rallying cry for species preservation. With around 1,800 giant pandas left in the wild, the need to protect and nourish one of China’s national treasures is of paramount importance to help safeguard this extraordinary creature.

Originally widespread throughout China and neighboring countries, giant pandas are now found almost exclusively in the bamboo forests of western China. While it may seem ‘easy’ to protect a species that is undeniably adorable, it has taken an incredible amount of time and resources to bring the panda population in China back from the brink of possible extinction. 

These cute and cuddly cubs need our help to thrive in the wild | Image by Andrew and Annemarie on Flickr

In 2016, the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) reclassified pandas from ‘endangered’ to ‘vulnerable’. While this classification still falls within the broader definition of ‘threatened’, the removal of pandas from the endangered list was made possible due to the numerous programs that exist within China, including breeding centers, reserves, and research facilities.

Although giant pandas have a very limited breeding period each year, prefer to subsist on just one type of (relatively un-nutritious) food, and have natural habitats which have been destroyed by a variety of human incursions, the intense care that has gone into these black-and-white fluff balls has enabled their population to rebound in recent years. The fight for their protection is far from over, but the success of this iconic Chinese bear shows what is possible for species around the world – even if the reproductive odds are stacked against them.

Snub-Nosed Monkeys

Like pandas, snub-nosed monkeys have a rather limited habitat, made worse by the incursion of human settlements. Found mostly in the snow-capped, forested regions of Sichuan, Gansu, Shaanxi, and Hubei, these nose-bone-less primates also have their favorite foods, meaning any destruction to those particular food sources (like clearing forests or even harvesting dead trees) can drastically reduce the availability of resources for the monkeys.

Tonkin Snub-Nosed Monkeys | Image by Quyet Le on Flickr

Related Reading: Take a trip to see the monkeys in Sichuan

Reserves have been established throughout central and southwest China, with one area even going so far as to feed the monkeys. Although a controversial move, as Dr. Long Yongcheng – a preeminent primatologist that specializes in the snub-nosed monkey – explained to AsiaTravel’s founder Mei Zhang: “This is a window for people to get to know the snub-nosed monkeys. If no one knows, then no one cares. The purpose of feeding is to educate and influence more people to care about a beautiful species that’s worthy of our care.”

 

Witness the conservation for yourself

Sustainable travel has been part of our mission since AsiaTravel was born on the sacred slopes of Mount Kailash 19 years ago. We’re proud of the green practices we have in place and continue to seek new and innovative ways to showcase and protect China’s heritage, both natural and manmade. Creating journeys to showcase the immense diversity of wildlife throughout China is what we do best, and we do that by ensuring protection, conservation, and education are prominent aspects of each of our customized adventures.

A wild panda hiding amid her favorite food in Chengdu | Image: Aki Yang

Today, we are pleased to announce the launch of our brand-new journey in the Wolong Nature Reserve. The trip, focusing on the protection and conservation of giant pandas in the wild, allows guests to track giant pandas, volunteer at the Wolong Panda Center as a panda keeper for the day, take a night safari into the forest to see other nocturnal animals, and learn the basics of panda conservation from expert guides. This new expedition into the lush mountains of Wolong allows visitors a rare and intimate view into the process behind protecting pandas. 

For those looking for even more species spotting, AsiaTravel’s tour through Sichuan offers an animal adventure like no other. Hike through the primeval forests of Jiuzhaigou, a reserve that protects no less than 1,600 golden snub-nosed monkeys, and see the incredible primates in the wild. You’ll also be treated to an evening drive to see creatures of the night and, of course, the chance to venture into a 100,000-acre sanctuary that contains one of the most diverse and intact ecosystems in Asia. Contact us now to experience wildlife conservation first hand and learn more about AsiaTravel’s other conservation efforts. 

For more ways to get involved with panda protection, or to donate to conservation efforts in Chengdu, visit the Chengdu Research Base or read more from the World Wildlife Fund. 

For more information on other endangered species in China, including snub-nosed monkeys and ways to get involved, visit China’s Wildlife Conservation Society and WWF China. 

Originally posted on Caixin Global

 

The end of the year is nearing, and before that, the great migration of Golden Week. If you are like me, you bought flights months ago for your winter, if not also summer, travel. Now you can no longer delay planning what to do with your kids once you land. Having done this a few times — and many more times for my clients — here is my hard-learned advice for traveling China with your family. 

 

1. Don’t try to cover all of China in one trip

A typical family itinerary includes Beijing for the Forbidden City and the Great Wall, Xi’an for the Terracotta Army, Chengdu for the pandas, and Shanghai for Disney. Don’t do this if you know you can afford another trip to China later on. Yes, these are all important cities with classic sites, but in the summer all these locations are hot, hot, hot — nearly 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit). It’s miserable enough just to walk straight through the Forbidden City, a mere kilometer walk. But with all the side visits inside the palace, that walk can stretch into four hours under the sun. You are guaranteed a whiny child — who will possibly turn into a thirty-pound weight for you to carry — in no time. When visiting all these classic sights day after day, your China trip can turn into drudgery for everyone involved in no time. The best thing to do is to visit one major city like Beijing, and then fly off to Yunnan or Tibet to spend the second half of the trip cooling off, where temperatures are likely to be closer to 25 degrees Celsius during the day.

 

Image by Chastagner Thierry via Unsplash

 

2. Don’t wait until July or August to travel

China’s school year generally finishes in mid-July, a full month after schools in the US. Take advantage of this window and go to China in mid- or late-June, and leave China by mid-July. Most Chinese students only get to travel in the summer as well, so train tickets, plane tickets, and even entrance tickets to sights like the Forbidden City can sell out quickly. If you can, go to China early rather than late. Then plan to send your kids to summer camps later in July and August.

 

3. Don’t cover too many sights in one day

I have three kids: one 16-year-old boy and two girls aged 13 and 10. The 16-year-old is on a completely different schedule, so I often take my two girls to travel together. Anytime we go anywhere, they ask me to promise one thing beforehand: Not to do too many touristy things. When we were in Rome, we agreed to do one two- to three-hour tour every day, but after that, be free to roam. It was the best decision, as we took the touring part as a daily lesson in history or art, and dedicated the rest of our time to vacationing. Even in China, where we lived for many years, I am ashamed to say that we haven’t visited that many must-see sights.

 

Image by Ray Rui via Unsplash

 

So on this trip, we will visit the Temple of Heaven, and maybe the Forbidden City – but that’s it. In our free time, I will install WeChat on their phones and link their WeChat Pay to my bank card, so that they can walk around the neighborhood and buy ice cream or chips with their phones. I will also install a bike-sharing app so that we can all ride bikes around to shop or to go to the movies.

This is the new China I want them to experience, the one that’s modern and changing fast. While my Apple Pay is often refused in the US, you can walk around China for an entire two weeks with just a phone. WeChat Pay requires the app to be tied to a Chinese bank account, but it’s worth the trouble to open an account at a local bank in Beijing, even if it’s just for 10 days. The formerly cash-only society is now completely cashless, and that’s what I want my kids to be exposed to – not just the touristy sites.

 

4. Don’t ban social media

If I could ban Instagram and Snapchat from my kids’ phones, I would. But in China, I install a VPN to help them stay on their favorite platforms. A few things won’t work in China: Gmail, Facebook, YouTube, Netflix, Instagram, Twitter, and Snapchat. As for Facebook and Twitter, my kids couldn’t care less – those are old-fashioned anyway. But Instagram and Snapchat are their lifelines to friends at home. The grim prospect of losing touch dampens their enthusiasm for China, so I promise them a VPN to sweeten the deal. A VPN is an app you can download to your phone that helps you access sites that are unavailable in China, and they cost around $15 a month (although if you’re in China for a shorter trip, most apps have a free trial period). It sounds complicated, but once it’s installed, it’s fairly simple to use. I want to encourage my girls to post and share what surprises them or what entertains them in China. This way, they tend to be more observant of their surroundings.

 

5. Don’t be frugal

Every time I return to China, I am amazed by what a bargain Chinese luxury hotels are. In New York, $250 will get me a room at the Residence Inn in Jersey City. But in China, I can stay at the Ritz-Carlton in downtown Shanghai for the same price, where there is a nice pool to splash around in to cool off. 

 

Image by Rosewood Beijing

 

There is a Chinese saying that goes: “Be frugal at home, but spend generously on the road.” I abide by this completely. When at home, and you have a nice kitchen and fresh produce from the farmers’ market, there is no need to eat out unless it’s a special occasion. But when you’re on the road, spending a few nights at a luxurious hotel with amazing breakfast buffet, and a gorgeous pool, your kids will love their China trip. It costs a little more, but the experience is worth a lot more. So why not?

 

Mei Zhang is the founder of AsiaTravel and author of Travels Through Dali With a Leg of Ham, out via Penguin Books. Follow Mei’s travels on Instagram at @wildchinamei.

While the fabled city of Shangri-La is said to be hidden somewhere deep in the mountains of Tibet, the real-life city actually lies in the southwestern province of Yunnan. Our newest journey was designed to allow you to truly drink in the experiences of this region – never hustling you along, but rather letting the trip leisurely unfold so the area’s atmosphere and nuances can be truly be appreciated. After all, there are some things that can’t be told – only experienced at a slower pace. 

To introduce our new expedition across Yunnan, we’re sharing some of the places you’ll go and the people you’ll meet along the way. 

First Stop: Lijiang

Located in Yunnan, meaning “South of the Clouds”, Lijiang is found just south of the Tibetan Plateau. This is one of China’s most diverse regions featuring a kaleidoscope of cultures, ecologies, and terrains.

If you’re only able to spend a single night here, you’re selling yourself short. To truly discover this ancient town, we suggest you enjoy a few different experiences outside of wandering through Lijiang’s old town. Lijiang is an excellent jumping off point for the serene landscapes and friendly villages just outside of town. 

After exploring the Old Town, load up and journey just outside Wenhai Valley to spend an afternoon with meeting a Shaman of a local Yi village. On the way, we’ll stretch our legs with a stroll through the valley, accompanied only by open fields and grazing yak.  While China has caught up with many parts of the developed world in their city centers, there are still pockets of the old culture scattered around and this is certainly one of them. Here, you’ll learn about the local people’s animist faith as the shaman-cum-chief shares his views on religion, village life, and the modern world.

Wenhai Valley | Image by AsiaTravel

There’s also the option of Baisha Old Town, where you’ll be shown how to make a bronze tea set and have the opportunity to share a meal with a local family. Other travelers in this area have said that it was the people that really stood out to them, so we’ve taken special care to make interacting with the residents, whether a Shaman or a family, a key part of the experience.

Next Stop: Tacheng

Only four hours away from Shangri-La, Tacheng is home to one of the strangest, most adorable creatures you’re likely to find on a trip: the Snub-Nosed Monkey. Unfortunately, they have become endangered as a result of their exceptionally soft fur and people believing that their bones have medicinal properties. Luckily, a sanctuary has been established to help protect these lovable animals. Delight in their antics while wandering through the conservatory and basking in its natural beauty.

Beyond wildlife, you will also have the opportunity to visit a family and learn about their lives as they share stories over fresh soy milk and tofu. We find that some of the most interesting experiences can be simply seeing and hearing how people from another culture live while figuratively breaking bread with them.

 Snub-Nosed Monkey in Yunnan | Image by AsiaTravel Client Karen Ahn

If you’re up for it, there is also a famous cave near Elephant Trunk Mountain which is said to have been home to the Buddha on his path to enlightenment. Join the pilgrimage to this holy site and visit a temple that was built there by over one thousand followers.

Grand Finale: Shangri-La

While Shangri-La is a mythical city, it also became a literal city when Zhongdian officially changed its name to match that from James Hilton’s famous novel, Lost Horizon.  Located about 3,200m above sea level, the city is surrounded by snow-capped mountains, primeval forests, and several bodies of water.

On your adventures through Shangri-La, visit the Songzanlin Monastery, known to resemble the former palace of the Dalai Lama in Lhasa. Home to over 700 monks, it is the biggest Tibetan monastery in Yunnan. While there, step away from your typical way of life as you watch monks debate theology and philosophy.

The Songzanlin Monastery in Shangri-La | Image by AsiaTravel Client Steve Frazier

If nature is more your thing, soak up the sounds of the wild on a hike around Pudacuo National Park and explore the park’s numerous cobalt lakes, lushly forested mountains, endless grasslands, and flowing rivers. Though the region may be small – it only covers 0.7% of China’s landmass – it is one of the most biodiverse regions on the planet and contains over 20% of the country’s plant species and almost 100 endangered animal species. Truly a nature lover’s dream!

If you’re eager to slow down and delve into this diverse corner of the world, we invite you to look at our new Dreaming of Shangri-La: Yunnan’s Tibetan Valleys journey is for you. From mingling with shamans and monks to discovering ancient villages and verdant natural spaces, each experience in this veritable paradise will surely spark a lust for deeper connections on your future adventures.

Featured Image by drnan tu on Flickr 

When people think of Beijing, many things likely come to mind: the Great Wall, Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven. But how many people think of the city’s art scene? In fact, there is actually a thriving artist community mere minutes from the heart of the country’s government which strives to push the limits of society and normalcy.

The soul of this art scene is found in what’s known as the 798 District or, alternatively, the Dashanzi Art District (DAD for short). Originally constructed as part of 156 “joint factory” projects aimed at building then-modern electronic joint components, including the area’s namesake 798 factory, the project was greenlit in 1952 with the help of East Germany.

Picture by Anthony G. Reyes on Flickr

From your first step into the district, Germany’s influence is apparent. Specifically, the Germans were tasked with the duty of drawing up building specifications, so much of the area’s architecture is reminiscent of a European style. Upon its completion in 1957, the factory quickly became known as one of the best places to work in all of China. Employing between ten and twenty thousand individuals, workers received a plethora of benefits including extracurricular activities, cheap living (only about 1/30th of their income), an orchestra, literary clubs, and publications. This was true luxury. Unfortunately, nothing gold can stay. Economic reforms made by Deng Xiaoping in the 1980s coupled with a lack of governmental support led to 798’s gradual decline and the factory was eventually made useless.

Industrial Architecture in 798 | Picture by La Priz on Flickr

As luck would have it, during the shuttering, the local artists’ community happened to be looking for a home at the same time. Since their avant-garde style was typically frowned upon by the government, the artists had been looking for locations on the fringes of society, and 798 fit the bill. It was eventually adopted by the art community in the mid-to-late 1990s and early 2000s. An almost overnight success, the inaugural exhibition in 2002 pulled in over 1,000 people, signaling the beginning of the area’s renaissance.

Over time, word of mouth attracted artists and designers from around the country to come and work in the buildings. With an industrial feel, tremendous chimneys, and practical, high-arched ceilings, it was the perfect home for all manner of creatives. Adding to the historical feel of the district, the Maoist slogans of bygone eras, which were once painted on the ceilings in large red letters to motivate workers, remain and now serve as what some have described as “Mao kitsch.”

Maoist Slogans in 798 | Picture by: drnan tu on Flickr

As with most successful art communities, the popularity of the district led to significant gentrification. The formerly low-rent area experienced not only an influx of artists but also people with money wanting to take part in the revelry. With this money came galleries, lofts, publishing firms, high-end tailor shops, cafes, and many more unexpected additions. By 2003, thirty artists and organizations had already set up studios or offices while a waiting list of 200 more wished to move in.

Despite its success, every now and again the area came under threat due to its strategic location between the city center and Beijing airport. As property values continued to increase, pressure came to demolish the area and convert the land into something more profitable, most recently in 2007. Luckily for art lovers everywhere, it was eventually decided that the area would remain a special art zone. And in 2009, the area was refurbished and renovated making it as good as new.

Today, visitors to the district are able to enjoy large-scale sculptures in the area’s open spaces, take in regular fashion shows, and experience a variety of other cultural events. What was once a small, abandoned factory area has now become one of the most visited areas in Beijing – coming in 3rd after the Forbidden City and Great Wall.

Sculptures and Galleries in 798 | Picture by: drnan tu on Flickr

So, if you find yourself in Beijing’s 798 Art District, don’t be surprised if you see everything from giant murals of King Kong to Dali-esque sculptures or other exhibits that defy description. And if you enjoy artistic expression in all its forms, 798 should definitely be on your itinerary.

For anyone curious about one of the world’s oldest societies and those who love learning and experiencing history, we developed our newest trip just for you. Created in conjunction with the Asia Society, it is aptly titled “Asia Revealed: An Archaeological Journey with Dr. Ye Wa”, allowing the more creative among us to imagine what Indiana Jones might feel like if he was exploring Asia today. For the rest, you’ll enjoy a firsthand experience of historical locations and how they exist today, receive expert insight into how life was like back then, and learn how the two are inextricably linked.

Introducing your Guide: Dr. Ye Wa

 

Dr. Ye Wa | Picture by AsiaTravel

Having completed her Bachelor’s degree in Xi’an, China, Dr.Ye Wa then traveled to the USA for her Master’s of Anthropology which she obtained from the University of Oregon and went on to complete her Ph.D. in Archaeology from UCLA. Her specialty perfectly matches this trip as her studies focused primarily on the Neolithic period and Tang dynasty mortuary practices. Since 2010, she has been co-directing the International Field School of Archaeology at Yangguanzhai in Shaanxi, China. She is currently focusing her efforts on understanding ethnoarchaeological approaches, Neolithic settlement patterns, and the relationship between patterns and specialized pottery production.

What You’ll Uncover: Journey Rundown

For the first three days, you will delve into the culturally and historically significant region in and around modern-day Xi’an including the Terracotta Warriors, the Great Mosque, Yangguanzhai (an 800 square kilometer archaeological dig site), tombs, and grottoes. It really starts you off with a bang, steeping you in the ancient culture and its modern-day reflections. For more present-day delights, you’ll wander through the Muslim Quarter and experience a variety of delicacies and small performances by the vendors.

The Terracotta Warriors in Xi’an | Picture by Scott Swigart on Flickr

Comfortably early on the fourth day, you will jump on a speeding bullet train to head to your next major destination: Tianshui. Before heading to your accommodations, however, you’ll first be whisked off to the Maijishan Grottoes which contain a collection of over 7,000 Buddhist statues and murals boldly inscribed on a hillside rockface. But don’t fret – your luggage will be watched over the entire time and you’ll be able to enjoy the trip unencumbered. In the evening, you will be fascinated by a discussion entitled “Monks and Merchants” between your expert guide, Dr. Ye Wa, and the museum curator.

The Maijishan Grottoes | Pictue by kahumphrey on Flickr

On the following day, you will embark on a day trip to one of the largest remaining carved statues of Buddha in China. Then, after soaking up the history, you will have the evening to explore or relax at your leisure.

Finally, you will journey to the western city of Dunhuang for the remainder of your archaeological adventure. While there, you’ll stand in awe of the Mogao Grottoes, considered the pinnacle of Buddhist art and fashioned across 492 grottoes over the course of a millennium. You will also meet with the Getty Museum team, visit the Yulin Caves, inspect ancient farmland relics in Suoyang, and hear the rumbling sands (as dubbed by Marco Polo) of the Mingsha Sand Dunes. This is only a taste of the activities you’ll get to experience over the course of these days – we should leave some things as surprises, no?

The Mingsha Sand Dunes in Dunhuang | Picture by David Stanley on Flickr

Expert Lectures 

Over the course of this ten-day trip, you will also be treated to three unique expert lectures to help deepen your understanding of what you have seen or will see on the trip. Presented by or in partnership with Dr. Ye Wa, your expert guide, each lecture is part of a three-part series entitled “Conversations with the Past.”

The Silk Road Before the Silk Trade: Communications Between the East and West Prior to the 4th Century A.D.

This lecture will center around one of the largest Neolithic archaeological dig sites in China, Yangguanzhai, which covers an area of 800sqkm. It has been selected as a top 10 national archaeological discovery (first in 2013, then again in 2017). After the lecture, you will enjoy lunch with the director of this massive dig site alongside Dr. Ye, allowing you to partake in a discussion about the Silk Road’s role in establishing communications between the East and the West before the 4th century A.D.

“Monks and Merchants” — Buddhist Grottos Along the Silk Road

In addition to your expert tour guide, you’ll be introduced to Neil Schmid, a Scholar-in-Residence at the Dunhuang Academy. He also happens to be one of the world’s leading authorities on medieval Buddhism’s visual culture. He and the Getty team will provide you insight into their joint efforts with the Dunhuang Museum to promote the conservation of the Mogao caves and the sustainable tourism to these majestic Buddhist locations.

Mogao Grottoes | Picture by AsiaTravel

Conservation of Silk Road Treasures

The final lecture will again involve the Getty Museum team. For this discussion, the team will walk you through their other efforts to understand how to best approach sustainable tourism of the ancient Buddhist location, the Mogao Caves, and how they can conserve the splendor of the locations for years to come.

After all that adventure and history, you’ll be sent off in true AsiaTravel fashion – with a suitcase full of curios and a head full of unforgettable memories.

Featured Image by Songtsam

Founded by award-winning director Baima Duoji, the Songtsam Lodges form the only collection of Luxury, Tibetan-style retreats in the fabled Shangri-La region. Each hotel showcases the scenery, culture, and spirituality of its location, presenting a rounded picture of this renowned region with each lodge spinning its own unique thread.

With spectacular views and an abundance of biodiversity, this region has recognized the increasing demand for sustainable forms of tourism and hopes to protect its spectacular landscapes and rich wildlife. Constructed using unique local materials and artisanal techniques, the Songtsam Lodges have proven themselves to be trailblazers in the field of responsible travel without compromising its high standards to hospitality. Boasting a total of eight different lodges dotted throughout the valleys of the Shangri-La, we’ve painstakingly selected our favorite three, and here’s why.

The Songtsam Shangri-La Lodge | Picture by Songtsam

Songtsam Shangri-La Lodge

Occupying a traditional Tibetan dwelling, the Shangri-La Lodge sits unassumingly in the childhood village of Songtsam’s founder, Baima Duoji. With views framed by mountain ranges in all directions, the flagship hotel offers a gateway to the Tibetan Kingdom in a rustic village setting. The village itself is self-sustainable, showcasing age-old farming practices and hardy beasts at your front door. At a mere ten minutes’ walk from the Sonzanlin Lamasery, you can find inner calm as you practice Tibetan Buddhist meditation at the largest monastery in the whole of Yunnan which is still home to over 700 monks. Whether it’s learning of cultural preservation efforts in Shangri-La Old Town or joining a Tibetan family for dinner, the Songtsam has made significant efforts to bring host and traveler together in a mutually beneficial way. Upon retiring to your room, admire the hotel’s collection of handpicked furniture and intricately woven carpets, featuring modern comfort and Tibetan style in a delicate balancing act. Not far from the border (you can spot Tibetan peaks from the hotel’s open-air roof terrace), this site offers a Tibetan feel without the need for a permit.        

The Songtsam Lodge in Lijiang | Picture by Songtsam

Songtsam Lijiang

At an altitude of 2,400 meters, the Songtsam Lijiang is the lowest of the lodges, marking the start of the Yunnan-Tibet Route, and the perfect opportunity to get acclimatized. The hotel is situated in the traditional Naxi village of Ciman and offers easy access to charming Lijiang while avoiding the touristy old town. Nestled between the Yulong Snow Mountain to the north and the Wenbi Peak in the south, the sprawling lodge connects guests to the striking landscapes of this region through Naxi-style floor-to-ceiling windows. On the larger side of Songtsam lodges, guests can enjoy added bonuses in the form of a fitness center, spa, and outdoor pool. As an important crossroads between Tibetan and Han culture, the hotel reflects the importance of preserving heritage by blending traditional Chinese art and Tibetan-style carpets throughout. For the history buffs, the ancient Horse Tea Trail also passes by the hotel, telling the story of a westerner that lived in Yunnan for over 27 years.

The Songtsam Lodge in Tacheng | Picture by Songtsam

Songtsam Tacheng

Buffeted gently from all sides by fertile, low mountain valleys, Tacheng Lodge finds itself among Tibetan, Naxi, and Lisu ethnic minority communities. The views from each of the lodge’s nine rooms are awash with fertile rice paddies and vineyards, while the outdoor pool offers the perfect chance to unwind after the journey. As part of a farming community, hotel guests can delight in the fresh produce of this bountiful area by hand selecting their own ingredients from the organic gardens. The hotel is also within walking distance of Hadda village, with its black roofs and warm-hearted residents who welcome guests as long-lost friends. Get to the heart of local culture by joining an evening of traditional dance or learning more about the rare Yunnan Golden Snub-Nosed Monkeys which are among the world’s most endangered primates. With views that stretch through the scenic valley, your private terrace is the perfect spot to enjoy the last rays of sun before a restful night’s sleep in rural tranquility.

The Songtsam Lodge in Tacheng | Picture by Songtsam

As individually crafted, boutique hotels, the Songtsam Lodges offer the inquisitive traveler the chance to explore this extremely beautiful region in a personal and responsible manner. Whether it’s tips on the best golden-hour spot or an amusing tale of a runaway yak, the entirely locally-sourced staff reinforces the Songtsam’s grounding in this region, making for a truly unforgettable stay. These may be our three favorite lodges, but there are so many more to explore, each with their individual personality and astounding location. Get in touch to find out more about the different lodges and the option of hopping from our three favorite lodges along our Dreaming of Shangri-La route.