Southwest Yunnan is more inline with Southeast Asia than the rest of China, being more geographically and ethnically suited. It is one of lowland jungle areas and a year-round climate, yet lacks any outstanding cities or big natural attractions.
The Burma Road runs through Southwest Yunnan in the form of the now G320 Kunming-Mandalay highway, providing access to towns and cities in the region. Baoshan is the main city in the Baoshan Region and comes with a small airport with flights from Kunming.
The nearby Tengchong region is the main tourist spot, with its large Volcano Park that encompasses many active cones and relaxing spring pools. Yunfeng Mountain is within reach of Tengchong by bus and is a major pilgrimage site with cable car access and good hiking.
Other popular areas in Southwest Yunnan include the town of Mangshi (Luxi) and the Dehong Prefecture, along with the latter’s associated Burma border crossing points of Ruili and Wanding.
Getting There & Away
The best way to get to the Baoshan Region from within China is through Kunming, the Yunnan capital. You can be there within the hour via daily flights from Kunming to Baoshan Airport, or head along the G320 Kunming-Mandalay highway by bus (8 hours). Kunming Wujiaba Airport is the main airport in Yunnan with 3 hour flights from Beijing.