Shiping Travel Guide

Discover the culturally rich and scenic beauty of Shiping, Yunnan through our comprehensive travel guide. Find information on attractions, activities, food, lodging, culture, transportation, and more.


Introduction to Shiping

Nestled in the southeastern part of Yunnan, China, Shiping is a charming county with a rich cultural heritage and natural beauty. Surrounded by mountains and bordering Vietnam, Shiping boasts a unique blend of Han Chinese and Hmong cultures. You’ll find ancient temples, historical sites, stunning scenery, delicious local cuisine, and hospitable locals in this hidden gem of Yunnan. Whether you’re a history buff, outdoor enthusiast, foodie or simply looking for an off-the-beaten-track destination, Shiping is definitely worth a visit!

List of Places to Visit in Shiping

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Guangde Temple - A prominent Tang Dynasty era temple that hosts a large number of Buddhist scriptures
  • Shiping County Museum - A popular cultural attraction that showcases the rich history and folk customs of the region
  • Xicheng Folk Museum - A small but charming museum that displays the traditional culture of the Hmong ethnic group
  • East Pagoda - A magnificent pagoda that offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys
  • West Pagoda - An exquisite pagoda with intricate artwork and stunning architecture

Natural Attractions of Shiping: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Shiping Natural Reserve - A stunning nature reserve with lush greenery, waterfalls, and diverse fauna
  • Jilongshan Scenic Area - A popular park with a breathtaking view of the sunrise and sunset that offers hiking trails and stunning waterfalls
  • Jiaxiu Rock Scenic Area - A beautiful rock formation that offers a natural view of the surrounding mountains and valley
  • Jilong Lake - A charming lake that offers boating, fishing, and picturesque views of the natural beauty that surrounds it

Hiking/Biking Routes of Shiping

Shiping is famous for its scenic hiking and biking routes that are often dotted along the natural terrain that is easily accessible. There is a vast network of scenic trails that lead through the mountains, along rivers and through the countryside. Some of the most popular areas for hiking and biking include the Shiping Natural Reserve, Jilongshan Scenic Area, and Jiaxiu Rock Scenic Area.

Best Things to Do in Shiping: Activities and Tours

  • Hiking and biking tours - Enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys on a guided tour
  • Visit the local markets - Experience the vibrant and bustling atmosphere of the local markets that are filled with fresh produce, handicrafts, and souvenirs
  • Attend local festivals - Experience the colorful and vibrant culture and customs of the Hmong ethnic group during the local festivals
  • Take a hot air balloon ride - Explore the stunning landscape of Shiping from the sky on a hot air balloon ride
  • Visit the temples and pagodas - Learn about the rich cultural heritage of Shiping by visiting the ancient temples and pagodas

Week-Long Itinerary for Shiping

Day 1: Arrive in Shiping and visit the Shiping County Museum and Guangde Temple
Day 2: Explore the Shiping Natural Reserve and Jilong Lake Day 3: Hike or bike through the Jilongshan Scenic Area and Jiaxiu Rock Scenic Area Day 4: Take a hot air balloon ride and attend a local festival Day 5: Visit traditional villages and enjoy local food Day 6: Visit the West Pagoda and explore the local markets Day 7: Depart Shiping for your next destination.

Food and Drink Scene of Shiping

Must-Try Dishes

Shiping is well known for its delicious traditional food. Below are some dishes to try:

  • Hmong-style roast pork - A mouth-watering dish that is often served during festivals and special occasions
  • Hmong-style sour fish soup - A tangy and flavorful soup made with fresh fish and unique spices
  • Sticky rice - A popular dish made with glutinous rice that is often eaten with spicy sauce or meat dishes
  • Crispy fried tofu - A crunchy and crispy dish made with fresh tofu that is often served as an appetizer or snack

Local Beverages

  • Yunnan black tea - A rich, earthy tea that is grown locally in Yunnan and has a bold flavor
  • Yunnan pu-erh tea - A fermented tea that is aged for several years and has a unique flavor
  • Rice wine - A traditional Hmong beverage that is often consumed during festivals and special occasions

Where to Stay in Shiping: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Shiping offers various options for accommodation including hotels, hostels, and guesthouses. You should look for lodging near the town center or near the tourist areas. Some of the best places to stay in Shiping include:

  • Linhai Hotel - A comfortable and affordable hotel in the city center, offering cozy rooms and excellent service
  • Huangjiao Guesthouse - A charming guesthouse that is famous for its traditional architecture and friendly staff
  • Golden River Hotel - A luxurious hotel with modern amenities and stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys

What to Buy in Shiping: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Some of the best souvenirs to buy in Shiping include:

  • Handicrafts - There are various handicrafts available in Shiping, such as pottery, embroidery, and painting
  • Tea leaves - Yunnan is famous for its tea, so it’s a great idea to stock up on some high-quality tea leaves
  • Spices - Shiping is home to a variety of unique spices and herbs, so you can bring home some of them and add them to your food

Local Culture and Customs of Shiping

Shiping is steeped in tradition and culture that reflects the Hmong ethnic group and their customs. The locals celebrate many festivals and events throughout the year such as the Hmong New Year, the Spring Festival, the Torch Festival, and the Mid-Autumn Festival.

Best Time to Visit Shiping

The best time to visit Shiping is from March to November when the weather is comfortable and there is minimal rainfall. This is also a good time to explore the natural beauty of the region and enjoy outdoor activities. However, Shiping can still be visited throughout the year, as the weather is temperate all year round.

Do’s and Don’ts of Shiping

Do:

  • Try the local food and drinks
  • Respect the local culture and dress modestly when visiting temples or pagodas
  • Learn some Chinese/Mandarin phrases as it will help you communicate with the locals
  • Always carry some cash as some establishments may not accept credit cards

Don’t:

  • Don’t disrespect the local customs and culture
  • Don’t litter or damage the environment
  • Don’t take photographs of the locals without their permission

Safety and Health

Safety in Shiping

Shiping is generally a safe place to visit. However, you should be careful when hiking or biking and follow the guidelines provided by the guides or the local authorities.

Health in Shiping

You should be aware of the weather conditions and carry warm clothing when visiting during the winter months. Moreover, it is advisable to carry bottled water, especially when traveling in rural areas.

Getting to Shiping: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Shiping

The nearest airport to Shiping is the Mile Airport, which is approximately 100 km away. From there, you can take a taxi or bus to Shiping.

Bus Stations Near Shiping

Shiping has a well-connected bus station that provides regular services to other cities in Yunnan and neighboring provinces.

Other Options

You can also hire a car or take a taxi to reach Shiping.

How to Get Around in Shiping

Shiping can be easily explored on foot as most of the tourist attractions are within walking distance from the town center. Additionally, you can also rent a bike or hire a taxi to explore the surrounding areas.

Where to Go Next from Shiping: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Some of the nearby destinations from Shiping include:

  • Jianshui - A charming ancient town that is famous for its Confucian temples and traditional architecture
  • Yuanyang Rice Terraces - A picturesque terraced farmland that offers stunning views of the natural beauty of Yunnan
  • Mile - A small city that is famed for its hot springs, ancient temples, and beautiful scenery

Conclusion

Shiping is a hidden gem in Yunnan that offers a unique experience of Chinese culture and Hmong customs. From hiking and biking to exploring ancient temples and dining on delicious local cuisine, Shiping is a destination that you won’t forget! With this comprehensive guide, you’ll have all the information you need to plan your trip to this beautiful county in Yunnan.