Don't even think about celebrating the 2025 Yunnan Water Splashing Festival without reading this!

Hey everyone, the dates for the 2025 Yunnan Water Splashing Festival are finally set! As a die-hard Water Splashing Festival enthusiast who has been to Yunnan for the past five years, I'm here to offer you a piping hot guide to ensure you have a blast without any mishaps🎉 ⏰2025 Water Splashing Festival Dates: April 13 - 15 📅Suggested Itinerary: - April 11: Arrive in Xishuangbanna, check into a hotel near Gaozhuang Xishuangjing, and start your vacation mode, getting used to the laid-back atmosphere. - April 12: Dive into the bustling night market, shop for Water Splashing Festival gear, rent some beautiful Dai costumes, and get fully prepared for the upcoming revelry. - April 13: Witness the opening ceremony of the Water Splashing Festival, then immerse yourself in the massive water splashing carnival, and unleash your joy! - April 14: Visit Manting Park and the Total Buddhist Temple, which are great for photos during the day. In the evening, head to the Mekong River Night Market for a feast and soak in the lively atmosphere. - April 15: Explore Wild Elephant Valley, encounter adorable elephants, and conclude your perfect trip before heading back. 🎈Recommended Locations: - Gaozhuang Xishuangjing: The main venue of the Water Splashing Festival, with an electrifying atmosphere that will instantly ignite your passion. - Manting Park: A fairytale world during the day, a photographer's paradise; bonfires and festivities at night create a magical ambiance. - Total Buddhist Temple: Enjoy the tranquility of Buddhist culture, pray for blessings, and experience inner peace. - Mekong River Night Market: A foodie's haven, stroll and savor delicious food while admiring the stunning night view. 📦Must-Have Items: - High-quality waterproof phone pouch: Protect your electronic devices and capture beautiful moments. - Dark-colored quick-drying clothes: Dry quickly after getting splashed, avoiding any embarrassment. - Comfortable slippers: Sneakers are a no-no; slippers are the best choice for water activities. - High SPF sunscreen: Yunnan's UV rays are strong, so sun protection is essential. - Unique water guns: Buy them locally for affordability and as souvenirs. 📣Important Notes: - Leave valuables at the hotel; the splashing scene is too wild, and things can get lost easily. - For women, dark-colored T-shirts with shorts are recommended for a refreshing and comfortable outfit. - Be gentle when splashing water on the elderly and children, showing kindness. - Waterproof your camera to prevent it from malfunctioning. - Book accommodation in advance, as prices skyrocket closer to the festival. 🍜Food Recommendations: - Dai-style grilled fish: Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, infused with flavorful spices, you'll fall in love with it instantly. - Pineapple rice: Sweet and soft, full of tropical flavors. - Paoluda: Crispy bread paired with sweet coconut milk, a rich and delightful treat. - Pickled chicken feet: Sour and spicy, you won't be able to stop. - Tropical fruits: Mangoes, pineapples, durians… fresh and juicy. 📷Photography Tips: - The streets are less crowded in the early morning, perfect for capturing artistic photos. - Capture dynamic moments during the water splashing to record the joy. - The night market's dazzling lights provide natural illumination. - Rent a Dai costume for an immersive experience of the ethnic culture. One last reminder, book your flights and hotels in advance! Otherwise, your wallet will really suffer😭 I've already booked everything on Trip.com and am ready to go. Looking forward to seeing you all at the Water Splashing Festival!