I originally thought Dali was the pinnacle until I ventured into the misty clouds of Tengchong in August…

🖼️Tengchong, a gem on the border of Yunnan, where volcanoes and hot springs intertwine, famous for its thermal springs. Heshun Ancient Town preserves a century of overseas Chinese culture, Ginkgo Village is golden and picturesque, and Beihai Wetland is a serene secret. Rich in wartime history and stunning geothermal wonders, it’s the perfect place for wellness vacations and cultural exploration. Day 1: Volcanic Geological Wonders + Slow Life in the Ancient Town Morning: Volcanic Geological Park • Explore Dàkōng Mountain and Xiǎokōng Mountain, hike to the top for a panoramic view of the volcanic crater (horse riding optional). • Visit the Volcano Museum to learn about geology. • Tips: Best to go in the morning to avoid the afternoon heat; plan for 2-3 hours. Noon: Heiyu River Scenic Area • Stop by the clear river formed by volcanic lava and admire the columnar jointing formations. • Food recommendation: Try Tengchong clay pot dishes or zongbao stir-fried meat at nearby farmhouses. Afternoon: Heshun Ancient Town • Stroll through the alleys, visit the library, Ai Siqi’s former residence, and the Wanlouzi Folk Museum. • Have a coffee by Wild Duck Lake and soak in the pastoral charm. • Tips: The ancient town combo ticket is 55 RMB, some alleys are free; staying in a guesthouse inside the town is recommended. Evening: Heshun Night Scene • Dinner recommendation: Tengchong specialties (Dàjiùjià, ěr sī noodles, and xī dòu fěn). • Night activities: Explore the ancient town’s bar street or soak in hot springs (Bailian Hot Spring optional). ------ Day 2: Beihai Wetland + Wartime History Morning: Beihai Wetland • Bamboo raft paddling, bird watching, and walking the wooden boardwalk to experience the highland wetland ecology (best iris bloom from April to May). • Tips: Ticket + boat ride about 110 RMB, plan for 2 hours. Noon: City Lunch • Recommended Tengchong-style restaurant (e.g., “Zhaowei Halal Copper Ladle Beef”). Afternoon: Western Yunnan War of Resistance Memorial Hall & National Martyrs Cemetery • Pay tribute to history and learn about the Expeditionary Army stories (free admission, closed Mondays). • Tips: It’s a solemn place, please keep quiet. Evening: Hot Sea Scenic Area • Visit geothermal wonders like the Big Boiling Pot, Pearl Spring, and Pregnant Well, and try boiling eggs in the hot springs. • Hot spring recommendation: Rehai Bath Valley or Beauty Pool Hot Spring (allow about 2 hours). ------ Day 3: Ginkgo Village / Yunfeng Mountain (seasonal options) Option A: Autumn exclusive (Nov-Dec) — Gudong Ginkgo Village • Walk through golden ginkgo forests, capture pastoral scenes, and taste ginkgo stewed chicken. • Tips: Best viewing period is mid to late November, about 1 hour drive from Tengchong. Option B: Year-round option — Yunfeng Mountain • Climb the Taoist sacred site Yunfeng Mountain (cable car + hiking) for a panoramic view of Tengchong. • Tips: The mountaintop Taoist temple is known for wish fulfillment, ideal for hiking enthusiasts. Before departure: • Buy souvenirs: Tengxuan, Tengyao, Pu’er tea, or Burmese jade (recommended to purchase at official shops in Heshun Ancient Town or the city). ------ Accommodation Recommendations • Heshun Ancient Town: Anzhiruosu, Bantinglan (great guesthouse atmosphere) • City/Hot Spring Area: Tengchong Guan Fang Hotel (high-end), Rehai Jade Hot Spring Hotel (direct hot spring access) Transportation Tips • Tengchong’s attractions are spread out; car rental with driver (about 300-400 RMB/day) or self-driving is recommended. • The airport is about 15 minutes from the city center, with direct flights to Kunming, Chengdu, and other cities. ------ Seasonal Tips: • Summer (June-August) is rainy, bring rain gear; winter (December-February) has large temperature differences between day and night, dress warmly. • Hot springs are suitable year-round but best experienced in autumn and winter! Feel free to adjust the itinerary based on your interests. Tengchong is perfect for slow travel—leaving some time to daydream is also wonderful!