Baoshan

Baoshan City is located in the southwest of Yunnan Province, bordering Myanmar. As a vital stop on the "Southern Silk Road," it has long been renowned as the "Cultural Hub of Western Yunnan." With a history spanning over 2,000 years, this region boasts rich cultural diversity, pleasant weather, and abundant natural resources. It is a famous hometown for overseas Chinese in Yunnan and a prime ecotourism destination. Must-Visit Attractions 1. Heshun Ancient Town Highlights: Voted China's Most Charming Town, it is the largest overseas Chinese settlement along the Southern Silk Road, blending Central Plains culture, ethnic frontier traditions, and Southeast Asian influences. Key Sights: Century-old library, Ming and Qing dynasty architecture, idyllic countryside views, and the winter spectacle of 3,000 ancient ginkgo trees turning golden in the Ginkgo Village (part of Heshun). 2. Volcanic Geothermal Scenic Area Unique Feature: A geological wonder where volcanoes coexist with hot springs, featuring 99 volcanoes and 88 thermal springs, including the awe-inspiring Great Boiling Pot and Pearl Spring. Experiences: Hot air balloon rides over volcanic craters, soaking in natural sulfur or selenium-rich springs. Recommended: The five-star Angsana Hot Spring Village. 3. Tengchong Ginkgo Village Best Season: Late November to early December, when ancient ginkgo leaves blanket the village like a "golden carpet," perfect for photography and cultural immersion. 4. Western Yunnan Anti-Japanese War Memorial & Martyrs' Cemetery Historical Significance: Commemorates key WWII battles like the Battle of Songshan and the Hump Route, showcasing Baoshan's pivotal role in the war. 5. Beihai Wetland Natural Wonder: A rare floating-mat wetland. In spring, vast meadows mirror the lakes, offering activities like grass rafting and birdwatching. 6. Lujiangba Coffee Plantation Specialty: Core production area for Yunnan’s premium small-bean coffee. Experience coffee farming, roasting, and tasting at spots like Lujiangba Coffee Plantation. Baoshan Food Guide Known for its "wild, spicy, fragrant, and fresh" flavors, Baoshan cuisine blends multi-ethnic influences. Must-tries: 1. Fire Pot Beef Specialty: Slow-cooked beef in copper pots over charcoal, served with mint and aromatic herbs. Best paired with rice noodles or dipping sauce. Recommended: Yongchang Fire Pot Beef (Jiulong Road) or Banqiao Laojiu Restaurant. 2. Pea Pudding How to Eat: Thick pea paste with fried dough or rice cakes, sweet or savory—a local breakfast staple. Try: Tengchong Pea Pudding (various street stalls). 3. Copper Pot Beef Hotpot Highlight: Secret-recipe broth with wild mushrooms or seasonal veggies, ideal for winter. 4. Rice Noodles & Ersi Specialty: Chewy Baoshan ersi with diverse broths. Recommended: Hetu Restaurant’s smoked pork ersi or "Dian San Duo" roasted pork rice noodles. 5. Rice Rolls & Porsu Buns Rice Rolls: Steamed rice wrappers with bean sprouts and chives, topped with special sauce. Top pick: Lujia Lane Chicken Skin Rolls. Porsu Buns: Flaky layers made with lard. Mingfang Porsu Buns (Tongren Street) is a time-honored choice. 6. Sappa & Fruit Salad Sappa: Dai-style dishes—bitter (with ox bile) or lemony-spicy. Fruit Salad: Mango, pineapple, etc., dipped in chili salt or vinegar—a local twist. 7. Night Markets Sanguan Night Market: Street food galore—grilled milk fans, pounded chicken feet, and Burmese-style desserts. Aoxin Night Market: Seafood BBQ and tropical fruits, buzzing with energy. Travel Tips Best Seasons: March–April (rapeseed flower seas) or November–December (Ginkgo Village). Transport: Baoshan Airport connects to major cities; self-driving or private cars are ideal for exploring. Stay: Heshun’s boutique guesthouses or Tengchong’s hot spring hotels (e.g., Angsana) for luxury wellness.