Xishuangbanna 🌏 🌱

#earthdayjourney We visited the stunning Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden, where thousands of rare and native plant species are protected in one of China’s most important conservation areas. We explored shaded jungle trails and saw firsthand how researchers and local Dai communities work together to preserve biodiversity. On Earth Day, walking under the rainforest canopy felt like being wrapped in the Earth’s embrace. I would highly recommend it for anyone curious about tropical ecosystems and real-world conservation. Address: Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden, Menglun Town, Jinghong City, Xishuangbanna Dai Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan, China 🌳🌺🦜 We explored the Wild Elephant Valley, where we spotted a small herd from a safe viewing tower. The park is dedicated to protecting wild Asian elephants and educating visitors on coexistence and conservation. Local rangers told us about the elephant corridors and how communities adjust farming practices to avoid conflict. Spending Earth Day here was humbling — I would recommend this experience to anyone who wants to support meaningful wildlife protection. Address: Wild Elephant Valley, Mengyang Town, Jinghong City, Xishuangbanna Dai Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan, China 🐘🌿👣 We spent time in a traditional Dai minority village, where stilt houses sit beside rice paddies and banana groves. The locals welcomed us with homegrown tea and showed us their eco-friendly way of life—using bamboo, fermenting food, and living in rhythm with the seasons. It was a powerful reminder that sustainability is not a new idea—it’s a way of life that’s been practiced here for centuries. I would highly recommend visiting to see how culture and nature are beautifully intertwined. Address: Dai Minority Village, near Manting Park, Jinghong City, Xishuangbanna Dai Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan, China 🏡🍃🍵