They call this region Xishuanbanna. (chinese names are difficult for us). It lies in the deep south of Yunnan, close to the borders with Vietnam, Laos and Myanmar.
Many minorities live here. It is probably one of very few areas in China where you still can see people wearing national costumes… No, in the capital of t he region – Jinghong it is hard to see them. I recognized that the best opportunity for that will be Sunday market in a little township of Manghun – like 2 hours drive by bus from Jinghong. The minibus costs 15 yuans and there are 2-3 buses each hour.
Yes, on the matket I saw in the crowd people in interesting dressing, but it was only like 10 percent of them in the crowd. They are shy, so be discret taking their photos. The market – products is also interesting to see…
After return to Jinghong I started to look for the bread. Can you imagine? In the capital of the region with fancy hotels, nightclubs and international airport it is not possible to buy regular bread… They eat noodle soup or steamed dumplings for breakfast. Finally in the huge, luxury supermarket I found sweet bread with raisins – like a cake… It cost 4.50 y bed pound. Butter, margarine, cheese even there were not available…
