Jinghong Ethnic Customs Park in Xishuangbanna

Ethnic Customs Park is located along the picturesque Liushai River (流沙河) in the southern part of Jinghong City (景洪市), covering an area of 1,000 acres. Originally a research base for tropical planting, it was officially transformed into Ethnic Customs Park in 1988 by the local government. The park integrates the valuable tropical plants of Xishuangbanna (西双版纳) with the vibrant ethnic customs of the region, serving as a miniature representation of the beautiful landscapes of Xishuangbanna.

Chinese Name: 民族风情园 (Ethnic Customs Park)

Location: Liushai River (流沙河), South of Jinghong City (景洪市), Xishuangbanna (西双版纳)

Opening Hours: Year-round, Monday to Sunday, 08:00 AM to 06:00 PM

Area: 1,000 acres

Established: 1988

Attractions and Scenic Features

Tropical Botanical Gardens

The park is home to various tropical fruit trees, such as mangoes, lychees, pomelos, star fruits, breadfruit, coconuts, and bananas. It also features special areas for coffee plantations, fast-growing forests, bamboo groves, betel palms, and palm trees. These lush and diverse plants make the park a paradise for nature lovers.

Mango Trees: The mango grove provides ample shade and a relaxing resting spot for visitors.

Lychee Trees: With their lush greenery, these trees offer a tranquil escape from the sun.

Coconut Trees: Towering, graceful palms adding to the tropical atmosphere of the park.

Cultural Exhibits and Ethnic Villages

The park is home to several traditional bamboo houses (干栏式竹楼) designed in the architectural style of various ethnic groups, including the Dai (傣族), Hani (哈尼族), Lahu (拉祜族), Blang (布朗族), Jino (基诺族), and Yao (瑶族). Visitors can explore the local culture, including handicrafts, clothing, and ethnic customs of these communities.

Dai Cultural Zone (傣族文化区): A space dedicated to the Dai people, featuring their famous Peacock Dance (孔雀舞).

Hani and Lahu Exhibitions (哈尼族与拉祜族展区): Learn about the Hani and Lahu peoples, their unique traditions, and agricultural practices.

Blang and Jino Groups (布朗族与基诺族展区): Discover the Blang and Jino peoples, with exhibits on their way of life and historical significance.

Xishuangbanna Liberation Monument (西双版纳解放纪念碑)

The Xishuangbanna Liberation Monument is an iconic structure commemorating the region’s liberation. It stands as an important symbol of Xishuangbanna’s historical significance and is a major landmark within the park.

Wildlife and Animal Performances

Visitors can enjoy performances featuring trained elephants in the elephant performance hall, and also view animals like crocodiles, peacocks, and a variety of birds in the bird park (百鸟园).

Seasonal Information

Climate

Xishuangbanna (西双版纳) has a tropical monsoon climate (热带季风气候) with distinct wet and dry seasons. The average annual temperature is around 22°C (72°F). The wet season (雨季) runs from May to October, and the dry season (旱季) spans November to April. The best time to visit is from October to June.

Wet Season (雨季): May to October

Dry Season (旱季): November to April

Activities

Interactive Cultural Experiences

Visitors can participate in traditional activities such as Hani Rope Jumping (哈尼族独绳秋) and explore exhibitions that introduce the Dai (傣族), Hani (哈尼族), Jino (基诺族), Blang (布朗族), Yao (瑶族), and Lahu (拉祜族) ethnic groups.

Folk Dance and Music

Enjoy traditional dance and music performances such as:

Peacock Circle Dance (孔雀圆圈舞): A signature dance of the Dai (傣族) people.

Bamboo Dance (竹舞): A lively and vibrant Hani (哈尼族) dance.

Three-string Dance (三弦舞): A traditional dance of the Lahu (拉祜族) people.

During the Water Splashing Festival (泼水节), various performances and cultural activities are organized, including Dai weddings (傣族婚礼), cock fighting (斗鸡), and traditional rituals.