Xishuangbanna is home to one of China’s most well-preserved tropical ecosystems. It’s widely celebrated as the “Kingdom of Plants,” the “Green Gem on the Crown of the Plant Kingdom,” and a “Natural Sanatorium.” As April arrives, people are welcoming one of the region’s biggest traditional festivals—the Water-Splashing Festival, which also marks the New Year in Dai culture. From April 14 to 16, locals will enjoy a three-day holiday filled with singing, dancing, and splashing water on one another to bring good luck in the coming year. The festival also draws countless tourists eager to experience the vibrant ethnic traditions firsthand.
- #在西双版纳看到了银河倒悬 I saw the Milky Way stretching across the sky in Xishuangbanna: 3.82 million views on Rednote, ranked No. 9 on the Hot Topic list
One of the festival’s highlights is the release of sky lanterns—paper-made hot air balloons that float into the night sky. During this time, flights at Xishuangbanna Airport are temporarily suspended so the sky can be given back to culture. Tens of thousands of Dai people in traditional dress join visitors from across the country to light lanterns inscribed with heartfelt wishes.
The main venue for the lantern release is along the Lancang River in Jinghong City. People gather on riverbank viewing platforms or book restaurants along the water, where they can enjoy local delicacies while watching thousands of lanterns rise into the sky. Today, we’re seeing more cultural crossover between brands and festivals, as many traditional celebrations like the Water-Splashing Festival have grown beyond their roots to become inclusive gatherings for people from all backgrounds—proof that the appreciation of beauty and sincere blessings is truly universal.
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