Baoshan Travel Guide

Discover the best cultural attractions, natural wonders, hiking and biking routes, food and drink options, and transportation options in Baoshan, Yunnan, with this comprehensive travel guide.


Baoshan is a hidden gem in Western Yunnan, a province located in Southwest China. This lesser-known destination is rich in cultural attractions, natural wonders, hiking and biking routes, delicious food, and local products. In this comprehensive Baoshan travel guide, we explore the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and much more.

Introduction to Baoshan

Baoshan is a prefecture-level city in Western Yunnan, China. It is located at the confluence of the Nu and Lancang Rivers, and borders the province of Myanmar. The city is known for its ethnic diversity, with many ethnic groups including the Dai, Hani, Lisu, and Yao living together. Baoshan is a great destination for those looking for off-the-beaten-path experiences.

List of Places to Visit in Baoshan

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Baoshan is rich in history and culture. The city is home to several museums and historical places that are worth visiting. These attractions offer a glimpse into the city’s diverse ethnic groups and their unique cultures.

  • Lisuzuoyi Museum of Ethnic Culture - This museum showcases the traditional culture and customs of the Lisu people, one of the ethnic groups living in Baoshan. It provides insight into their clothing, handicrafts, music, and dance.

  • Saihanba National Forest Park - This park is home to the Saihanba historic site, where you can see the ruins of several ancient temples and pagodas. It also offers scenic views of the surrounding mountains and forests.

Natural Attractions of Baoshan: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Baoshan is a nature lover’s paradise. From pristine forests to snow-capped mountains, there are several natural attractions that you must explore when in Baoshan.

  • Gaoligongshan National Nature Reserve - Covering an area of over 8,000 square kilometers, the Gaoligongshan National Nature Reserve is one of the largest and most diverse nature reserves in China. It is home to rare and endangered species like the Yunnan snub-nosed monkeys and clouded leopards.

  • Tengchong Volcano Park - This park is home to hundreds of volcanic cones, hot springs, and geysers. It offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Baoshan

Baoshan is a great destination for hikers and bikers. Its diverse landscapes offer several hiking and biking routes for all fitness levels.

  • Bingzhongluo to Rawu Lake - This 7-day trek takes you through some of the most remote and beautiful parts of Western Yunnan. You’ll trek through small villages, cross rivers, and see stunning mountain scenery.

  • Luguhu Lake Biking Route - This 2-day bike ride takes you around the picturesque Luguhu Lake. You’ll pass through several charming villages, see traditional architecture, and enjoy scenic views of the lake and mountains.

Best Things to Do in Baoshan: Activities and Tours

From cultural experiences to outdoor adventures, there are several things to do in Baoshan. Here are some of the best activities and tours to add to your itinerary.

  • Tengchong Hot Springs Tour - Soak in the natural hot springs and relax in the beautiful scenery of Tengchong. This tour also includes a visit to the Beihai Wetlands and Heshun Ancient Town.

  • Baoshan Old Town Walking Tour - Explore Baoshan’s old town and see its well-preserved traditional architecture, charming streets, and bustling markets. This walking tour also includes a visit to the city’s famous Drum Tower.

Week-Long Itinerary for Baoshan

Here’s a suggested week-long itinerary for Baoshan, which includes the best experiences that the city has to offer.

Day Itinerary
1 Visit the Lisuzuoyi Museum of Ethnic Culture in Baoshan.
2 Explore the beautiful Baihanluo Village and see its stunning rice terraces.
3 Take a hot air balloon ride over the Tengchong Volcano Park.
4 Hike the Bingzhongluo to Rawu Lake trek.
5 Visit the Saihanba National Forest Park and see the ancient temples and pagodas.
6 Relax in the natural hot springs of Tengchong.
7 Shop for local souvenirs and products at Baoshan’s bustling markets.

Food and Drink Scene of Baoshan

The food scene of Baoshan is a combination of local and Chinese cuisine. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Steam Pot Chicken - This is a classic dish from the Hani ethnic group. The chicken is cooked in a bamboo pot along with mushrooms and other spices, giving it a delicious aroma and flavor.

  • Crossing-the-Bridge Noodles - This is a popular noodle dish from Yunnan, where thin rice noodles are served in a hot broth along with meat, vegetables, and herbs.

Local Beverages

  • Puer Tea - Puer tea is a fermented tea produced in Yunnan. It is known for its earthy flavor and health benefits.

  • Huangjiu - Huangjiu, also known as yellow wine, is a type of Chinese rice wine made from glutinous rice, water, and wheat yeast. It has a mild and sweet flavor.

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

Baoshan offers a range of accommodation options to suit different budgets and tastes. Here are some of the best hotels, hostels, and guesthouses in Baoshan.

  • Hua Tian Yi Hotel - This hotel offers comfortable rooms with modern amenities and is located in the heart of Baoshan’s city center.

  • Haven Tibetan Guesthouse - This guesthouse offers cozy rooms with traditional Tibetan decor and is located in a tranquil part of Baoshan.

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

Baoshan is known for its local products, handicrafts, and souvenirs. Here are some of the best things to buy in Baoshan.

  • Puer Tea - Yunnan grown Puer tea is known for its high quality and health benefits.

  • Ethnic Handicrafts - You can find a variety of ethnic handicrafts in Baoshan, including jewelry, textiles, and ceramic wares.

Local Culture and Customs of Baoshan

Baoshan is a melting pot of different ethnic groups, each with their unique culture and customs. Respect for local culture and customs is essential. When visiting temples or other sacred sites, dress appropriately and behave respectfully.

Best Time to Visit Baoshan

The best time to visit Baoshan is during the Spring and Autumn seasons, around March to May and September to November. During this time, the weather is pleasant, and the scenery is at its best.

Do’s and Don’ts of Baoshan

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs.

  • Try local cuisine and beverages.

Don’t:

  • Take photographs of people without their permission.

  • Wear revealing clothing when visiting temples or other sacred sites.

Safety and Health

Safety in Baoshan

Baoshan is generally safe for travelers. However, it is advisable to take precautions like keeping your valuables safe and staying aware of your surroundings, especially at night.

Health in Baoshan

It is advisable to drink bottled water and avoid consuming raw or undercooked food to prevent any health issues from arising. Also, bring any necessary medication along with you.

Getting to Baoshan: Transportation Options and Logistics

Baoshan is well-connected to major cities in China by air, train, and bus.

Airports Near Baoshan

  • Baoshan Yunrui Airport - This airport serves both domestic and international flights.

Bus Stations Near Baoshan

  • Baoshan Bus Station - This bus station serves regional and national routes.

Other Options

  • Train - The nearest train station is in Tengchong, which is about 50 km from Baoshan.

How to Get Around in Baoshan

Baoshan has a well-developed public transportation system, including buses and taxis. Hiking and biking are also popular ways to get around and explore the city.

Where to Go Next from Baoshan: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Baoshan is located in an excellent spot to explore Western Yunnan and its neighboring countries. Here are some of the best destinations to visit after Baoshan.

  • Lijiang - This ancient town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is known for its well-preserved traditional architecture and scenic views.

  • Dali - Dali is another ancient town in Yunnan known for its historic sites and cultural attractions.

Conclusion

Baoshan is a hidden gem in Western Yunnan that offers a unique blend of culture, nature, and adventure. With this guide, you can explore the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, food and drink options, and transportation options. Plan your trip to Baoshan today and experience the beauty of off-the-beaten-path China.