Traveling Around the World - Revisiting Banna, Part 6: Floating Markets of the Six Countries on the Lancang River

Number of days：6 days
Time: February
Average cost: 4800 yuan
With whom：a person
Updated: 2024.03.06

From late February to early March 2024, during a trip to Xishuangbanna, Yunnan, I visited the Lancang River Six Countries Floating Market. This photo shows the entrance to the Lancang River Six Countries Floating Market.

The film "Lost in Thailand" brought Thailand's floating markets to the public's attention. Boats gently rocked beneath dazzling lights, while colorful fabrics and vibrant fruits adorned the rivers. Seduced by the Southeast Asian charm, many began yearning for this pristine, dreamlike nation. However, to experience the wonders of floating markets, you don't have to travel abroad; you can experience them at the Lancang River Six Countries Floating Market in Xishuangbanna. (Photo taken at the Lancang River Six Countries Floating Market.)

The Lancang River Six Countries Floating Market is China's first Southeast Asian-style floating market. It is located in Xishuangjing, Gaozhuang, Xishuangbanna, and opened in November 2018. Lancang River Six Countries Floating Market

Located on the Lancang River (the Mekong River is called the Lancang River in China), the Six Countries Floating Market differs from its Thai counterparts in that it allows you to experience the unique characteristics and essence of China, Thailand, Myanmar, Laos, Cambodia, and Vietnam all at once. Lancang River Six Countries Floating Market

Take a complimentary, internet-famous mini-boat for a rafting trip on the Lancang River. Lancang River Six Countries Floating Market

On both sides are the brightly lit floating markets. Lancang River Six Countries Floating Market

A dazzling array of Southeast Asian handicrafts, local specialties, clothing, and specialty products from various ethnic groups are on display. Lancang River Six Countries Floating Market

Special snacks from various countries gathered together, making it difficult to choose. The taste is authentic, the quality is good and the prices are affordable. Lancang River Six Countries Floating Market

The small boats swaying on the river also have distinct ethnic characteristics, with unique shapes and are very interesting. Lancang River Six Countries Floating Market

Rafting on the Lancang River, which is known as the "Oriental Danube" for its picturesque scenery, the waterways crisscross and weave between quaint bridges and pavilions, and exquisite wooden buildings, each with its own style. It is said that it is almost impossible to find two identical wooden houses here. Lancang River Six Countries Floating Market

To cater to the needs of tourists from all over, the floating market is not only open to boat tours, but also to walking tours. With its changing scenery and well-connected routes, cruising the river and enjoying the scenery is also a great pleasure here.

The floating market is not only open to boat tours, but also to walking tours. With its changing scenery and well-connected routes, it is also a great pleasure here. The performances at the floating market are also captivating. Young women dressed in the distinctive costumes of the six nations sway gracefully, showcasing their pristine ethnic culture to visitors amidst song and dance. This creates a beautiful and rare sight on the Lancang River. Photo taken at the Lancang River Six Nations Floating Market.

At night, the Liuguo Water Market becomes even more romantic and unique. The lights are on everywhere, and the whole water market is gorgeous and dreamy. It is called the Magic Waters by netizens. It’s like being in the beautiful Southeast Asia, with antique Thai umbrellas, dim lights, simple and kind vendors, and people coming and going. Although it’s crowded, people seem to have chosen to maintain the tranquil and far-reaching temperament here. You may say it is simple, a small business, not worth mentioning, but every stall owner has his own unique business philosophy, turning business into his life, together making this a fascinating must-see place on your trip to Xishuangbanna. Lancang River Six Countries Floating Market