The southernmost town of Yunnan bordering Myanmar and Laos, Jinghong is a quaint sleepy town with laidback atmosphere. The main natives here are the Dai who are Hinayana Buddhists, the Buddhist sect that thrives in Laos, Myanmar, Cambodia and Thailand. The town has seen some modern development recently but maintains its easy-going and friendly atmosphere.

The city may not have major tourist attractions – besides a variety of hill tribe villagers and century-old Buddhist temples – but become a popular destination for Thai tourists who come here to see the Dai who bear striking resemblance both physically and linguistically to the Thais. Particularly, the Dais are famous for their water splashing New Year celebration held in mid April, usually from 13 to 15 April. The celebration is held for three days with various activities including local boat race, games, dances and water splashing. The same event is held nationwide during the same period in Thailand, Myanmar, Laos and Cambodia. Expect to get wet all day since locals believe the wetter you are, the happier you will be in the new year.

Apart from domestic flights in China, Jinghong can be accessed by plane from Bangkok or an overnight boat trip from northern Thailand on the Mekhong River passing Myanmar.