In the southwestern border of Yunnan lies a place shrouded in mystery and charm—Gengma Dai and Wa Autonomous County. Here, Dai villages showcase a unique cultural diversity, and the local Dai people are known for their warmth, simplicity, and hospitality. With the rhythmic beat of an elephant-foot drum already echoing, join us on a journey through Gengma's Dai villages—an experience not to be missed!

Mangpian Village

When you get to Mangpian Village, there are only two things you really need to do: eat and shop! It has more than 500 mu of lush wetland park as the back garden. Wandering through it, you’ll feel your body and mind slow down, the noise of the outside world fading into the distance. Tired of shopping, prepare to feast on a lineup of traditional Dai dishes: grilled fish with citronella flavor, grilled chicken with citronella flavor, boiled fish with sour bamboo shoots, a variety of Dai-style cold salads, sticky rice paired with flavorful dipping sauces...Each bite is a deep dive into the rich culinary heritage of the Dai people.

During the Songkran Festival, the Dai people of Mangpian Village dress up in traditional attire and host a vibrant celebration. In addition to traditional activities such as splashing water and bathing Buddha, the village bursts into life with a bustling market scene. Stalls overflow with unique local special commodities, including exquisite Dai handicrafts and a dazzling array of special snacks. So be sure to visit Mangpian Village!

Mangtuan Village

Stepping into Mantuan Village, I was greeted by an intense festive atmosphere. Unique paper lanterns painted with images of peacocks, elephants, and other traditional motifs were hung everywhere. With over 600 years of papermaking history, this Dai village celebrates the arrival of the Dai New Year in its own unique way.

The Bathing Pagoda has been cleaned on the Splashing Square, and people joyfully exchange blessings with water guns, buckets, and other playful tools. In the handicraft exhibition area, items made from white cotton paper—like notebooks, desk lamps, and handbags—draw curious visitors to stop, admire, and pick out their favorites. Mangtuan’s papermaking tradition, blending innovation with heritage, speaks to the wisdom and perseverance of the Dai people in the village, quietly waiting for more people to hear their story.

Mangkeng Village

This Dai village, located next to Lover Lake, is lined with flowers, with dazzling landscape lights and a romantic atmosphere.

During the Songkran Festival, the calm lake surface comes alive, reflecting crowds dressed in bright Dai costumes splashing and playing. Water sparkles in the air, creating a colorful, dreamlike scene. When you visit Mangkeng Village during the Water-splashing Festival, you can also watch the traditional performances of Red Deer Dance and Kinnara Dance, accompanied by the melodic strains of Dai music. This rich cultural celebration—a living piece of intangible heritage—offers a window into the deep history and traditions of the Dai people.

Mangjian Village

If there’s a village that leaves such an impression that you long to return, no matter the distance, then in Gengma, it must be Mangjian Village. With ten thousand mu of tea gardens, a thousand mu of rice paddies, a hundred mu of flower fields, the ancient Dragon Maiden Pool, historic post roads, and a centuries-old temple, Mangjian is a place where natural beauty and rich ethnic heritage come together.

When the Water-Splashing Festival arrives, it brings blessings with every splash. Shake off the fatigue of daily life and immerse yourself in a world of rural charm—experience local farming culture, taste freshly grilled Dai fish and sweet new rice, and listen to legends passed down through generations about the ancient pond.

Don't miss this joyful festival in the heart of Dai villages. Invite your friends and head out for an unexpected encounter with beauty and tradition!

Click here to view the Chinese report

(Editors: May, Ines)