Overview

 

Yingjiang County (盈江县) is located in the western part of Yunnan Province, under the administration of Dehong Dai and Jingpo Autonomous Prefecture. It borders Myanmar to the west, with a border line extending for more than 200 kilometers, making it one of China’s important frontier counties. The county covers an area of approximately 4,400 square kilometers and has a population of around 300,000, composed mainly of Dai, Jingpo, Lisu, Achang, and Han ethnic groups.

 

The county seat is located in Pingyuan Town (平原镇), which serves as the political, economic, and cultural center of Yingjiang.

 

Geography and Climate

 

Yingjiang lies within the Longchuan River Valley, part of the Hengduan Mountain range system. The terrain is diverse, featuring river valleys, basins, and rolling mountains. The county is characterized by lush tropical and subtropical vegetation, making it one of the most ecologically rich regions in Yunnan.

 

The area experiences a south subtropical monsoon climate, with warm temperatures year-round, abundant rainfall, and a long growing season. The average annual temperature is around 20°C, and the annual rainfall reaches about 1,800 millimeters. The climate and fertile land make Yingjiang ideal for tropical agriculture and biodiversity conservation.

 

Biodiversity and Natural Resources

 

Yingjiang is a biodiversity hotspot, home to vast tropical rainforests and numerous rare species. It forms part of the Gaoligong Mountain Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO-recognized site renowned for its ecological diversity.

 

Flora and fauna: The area hosts over 3,000 species of plants and more than 400 species of birds, including hornbills, peacocks, and eagles.

 

Wild elephants are also spotted occasionally, as Yingjiang lies along the migration corridor of Asian elephants traveling between China and Myanmar.

 

The county is also rich in mineral and water resources, with multiple geothermal hot springs and rivers that contribute to both tourism and local livelihoods.

 

Ethnic Culture

 

Yingjiang is a multi-ethnic county where the Dai, Jingpo, and Lisu people have long coexisted, forming a vibrant and colorful cultural landscape.

 

The Dai people celebrate Water-Splashing Festival and have unique bamboo architecture and lush temple traditions.

 

The Jingpo people are known for their Munaozongge Festival, a grand singing and dancing event symbolizing unity and bravery.

 

Traditional clothing, music, and folk crafts reflect each ethnic group’s heritage and harmony within the region.

 

Visitors to Yingjiang can experience traditional dances, ethnic markets, and authentic local cuisine made from wild herbs, bamboo shoots, and tropical fruits.

 

Economy

 

Yingjiang’s economy relies on a mix of agriculture, forestry, mining, border trade, and tourism.

 

Major crops include rubber, coffee, tea, sugarcane, tropical fruits, and medicinal herbs.

 

Cross-border trade with Myanmar plays a significant role, facilitated by the Tengchong–Myitkyina Highway and the nearby border ports.

 

In recent years, Yingjiang has been developing ecotourism and cultural tourism, capitalizing on its unique natural environment and multi-ethnic culture.

 

Tourist Attractions

 

Gaoligong Mountain National Nature Reserve (高黎贡山国家级自然保护区) – A paradise for nature lovers, featuring tropical forests, rare wildlife, and excellent hiking routes.

 

Tongbiguan Nature Reserve (铜壁关自然保护区) – Known as “The Green Treasure House of Yunnan,” this area preserves the original tropical rainforest ecosystem and is ideal for birdwatching and ecological research.

 

Yingjiang Hot Springs (盈江温泉群) – Natural geothermal springs set among scenic valleys, popular for health and relaxation.

 

Yingjiang River Valley – A scenic stretch with stunning river views, rice terraces, and traditional Dai villages.

 

Munaozongge Square – The cultural center of the Jingpo people, where the famous Munaozongge dance festival takes place each year.

 

Transportation

 

Yingjiang is accessible by highway from Mangshi (about 100 km) and Tengchong (about 120 km). The Dehong Mangshi Airport provides convenient air links to Kunming and other major cities. Roads and border crossings connect Yingjiang to several towns in northern Myanmar, making it an important part of Yunnan’s Belt and Road Initiative frontier zone.

 

Development and Conservation

 

In recent years, Yingjiang has emphasized ecological protection and sustainable development, promoting green industries such as eco-agriculture, renewable energy, and nature-based tourism. The county plays a vital role in transboundary