The Fabryk

On this part of our Yunnan, China (云南, 中国) journey, we make a short but unforgettable stop in the city of Pu’er (普洱市)...formerly known as Simao (思茅)...on our way to Kunming.

What started as a simple overnight stay turned into something deeper. A friend had told us about a Red Panda Forest (小熊猫庄园) tucked away in the hills just outside the city, and that mission became our main goal. 🐼

But as we wandered the streets, shared tea with locals, and devoured smoky Chinese barbecue (烧烤), we discovered that Pu’er isn’t just about its famous tea...it’s full of warmth, flavor, and quiet wonder. The kind of place you wish you had more time to enjoy.

From the wisdom of tea masters to the peaceful forests where endangered red pandas still roam, this stopover left us with far more than we expected.
If you’re ever passing through Pu’er, maybe don’t pass through so quickly.

And yes… we did find the red pandas. ❤️

📍 Featured Location: 小熊猫庄园 (Red Panda Forest)
We recommend using DiDi to get there—it’s about a 45-minute ride from downtown.
Entry is ¥150 RMB per person, and includes the internal shuttle through the park.
You can also stay overnight in a forest lodge surrounded by red pandas:
➡️ https://trip.tp.st/6SXvRPXC

We also mentioned the Giant Panda Research Center in Chengdu...We did end up going here and will show it in a future video, but for more info, check it out here: https://trip.tp.st/Jsoxg9dc

────────────────

00:21 - Dropped in Pu’er: Where Exactly Are We?
01:13 - First Impressions of Pu’er (普洱) City
02:25 - A Tea Ceremony with Our “Ferry God-Mothers”
03:54 - Our First Real Chinese Barbecue (烧烤) Experience
05:07 - Entering the Red Panda Forest (小熊猫庄园)
11:28 - We FINALLY Found the Red Pandas ❤️🐼❤️
15:02 - Reflections & Farewell from Pu’er

────────────────

✨ We’re documenting every part of our Yunnan journey...and next stop: Kunming.

Follow along for more China & Travel adventures:
Website: https://thefabryk.com/destinations/china
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefabryk/

────────────────

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🏡 The hotel we stayed in Pu’er:
Perting Luxury Art Hotel - https://trip.tp.st/jpMYnPgk

✈️ Find your flights to China:
Skyscanner - https://bit.ly/3K1w9Df
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Epidemic Sound - https://share.epidemicsound.com/ao2ybc

────────────────

#ChinaVlog #PuerTea #RedPandas #YunnanTravel #ChineseBarbecue #ChinaHiddenGems #WildlifeVlog #TravelChina #普洱 #小熊猫 #烧烤
#OffTheBeatenPath #ExploreChina #ChinaNature #TeaLovers #BackroadsChina #CulturalTravel #UndiscoveredChina #HiddenDestinations #TravelAsia #ChinaAdventures #NatureInChina #PandaVlog #ChineseStreetFood #SlowTravelChina #StoryDrivenTravel

We Came for Red Pandas… But Found So Much More in Pu’er 🇨🇳

GIVE US A LITTLE LOVE ☕️ Buy us a coffee - buymeacoffee.com/thefabryk

After surviving a bout of food poisoning, Fabio and Ryan took a friend’s advice and headed deep into the mountains of Yunnan...into Ximeng, the heart of Wa culture (佤族）.

But… who are the Wa people? And why do they worship ox skulls?

They’re one of China’s 55 ethnic minorities (中国少数民族), but beyond that, you won’t hear much about them. This video takes you to the borderlands of China and Myanmar, where life looks, sounds, and feels like another country entirely.

From traditional dress to mysterious rituals, we explore a culture that few outsiders have ever heard of....let alone visited.

🎥 Come with us to Ximeng, where the roads are winding and the culture runs deep.

Sections:
00:27 | Off to Ximeng – bus from Lancang 🚌  
01:28 | First look: what's with all the ox heads? 🐂  
04:24 | Lunch at a Wa restaurant 🍜  
06:28 | Who are the Wa people? 🎎  
08:52 | Exploring the eco-tourism zone 🌿  
10:04 | Hiking the ox head hills 🏞️  
13:46 | Stroll around Mengsuo Longtan Lake 🌊  
15:42 | Wa-style drinks – cheers! 🍶  
16:56 | Dinner round two – more Wa cuisine 🍲  
17:52 | Leaving Ximeng + eco travel talk ♻️  
20:28 | The truth behind the Wa & the ox heads 🔍  

Follow along for more China and Travel adventures:🌍 
Website: https://thefabryk.com/destinations/china
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefabryk/

Support our channel through these links (at no extra cost to you):

🏡 The hotel we stayed in Ximeng: 
Ximeng Hongshangjia Hotel - https://trip.tp.st/MrosAN4D

✈️ Find your flights to China:
Skyscanner - https://bit.ly/3K1w9DfTrip.com - https://trip.tp.st/XcaGxagP

🩺 Travel Insurance: 
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🎵  Easy Video Editing:
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🎧 Music in this video: 
Epidemic Sound - https://share.epidemicsound.com/ao2ybc

#WaPeople #Ximeng #YunnanTravel #ChinaEthnicGroups #HiddenChina #CulturalExploration #IndigenousAsia #BorderlandsChina #ChinaVlog #TravelChina #OffTheBeatenPath #YunnanCulture #ChinaMinorities #EthnicChina #RemoteChina #UndiscoveredChina #WaCulture #AsianTribes #WaTraditions #BackpackingChina #WaCommunity #CulturalPreservation #WaEthnicGroup #ChinaUnseen #AsianBorderlands #WaFestival #WaTraditionalLife #ExploringYunnan #ChinaHiddenGems #LostTribes

China’s Most Mysterious Ethnic Group? Meet the Wa People 🇨🇳

Private video

Our next stop on our Yunnan, China adventure was Jingmaishan (景迈山), a part of Pu’er in China and an area most famous for cultivating tea starting over 1,000 years ago (the oldest know tea cultivators, as a matter of fact). 

Tag along as we get invited into random guest houses and learn the local tea-making process, watch “sunrises” over the tea plantations, and go to some villages deep in the Jingmaishan area where we meet members of the Dai (傣族) and Blang (布朗族) ethnic minority Groups - the original cultivators of Pu Erh tea (普洱茶). 

Near the end of the video, Fabio gives his HONEST first impressions of China after being in the country for a few days.

Come along with us as we experience the real China (the rural China that few Westerners get to see).

Sections
00:00 - Intro/How We Got to Jingmaishan
02:56 - Our “Loose” China Plans
04:46 - Touring a Tea Factory (which doubles as a guest house)
06:26 - Our First Tea Ceremony
08:55 - Heading to Watch the Sunrise
11:09 - Our First Local Breakfast
11:56 - Village 1 (A Dai Village) - 糯岗老寨
16:52 - Having a Local Lunch
17:59 - Village 2 (A Blang Village) - 翁基
21:14 - Fabio’s First HONEST China Impressions

Locations: 
The General Area - Jingmai Mountains 景迈山
Smaller Villages within Jingmaishan - 糯岗老寨 and 翁基

Follow along for more China and Travel adventures:🌍 
Website: https://thefabryk.com/destinations/china
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefabryk/

Support our channel through these links (at no extra cost to you):

🏡 The guest house we stayed in Jingmaishan: 
Lancang Tea Youxiaoju Inn - https://trip.tp.st/s12eWng5

✈️ Find your flights to China:
Skyscanner - https://bit.ly/3K1w9DfTrip.com - https://trip.tp.st/XcaGxagP

🩺 Travel Insurance: 
Genki - http://www.genki.world/with/thefabryk

🎵  Easy Video Editing:
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🎧 Music in this video: 
Epidemic Sound - https://share.epidemicsound.com/ao2ybc

#chinaadventure
#yunnanchina
#jingmaishan
#puertea
#chinesetea
#teaculture
#travelchina
#offthebeatenpath
#teaexperience
#teaceremony
#daipeople
#blangpeople
#culturaltravel
#ruralchina
#chinavlog
#fabioandryan
#sustainabletravel
#authentictravel
#asiatravel
#chinatea
#travelseries
#yunnantravel
#mountainlife
#slowtravel
#teatour
#ecoexplorer
#teaplantation
#teatime
#chinastories
#traveldeep

We Visited the BIRTHPLACE of Tea in Yunnan, China 🇨🇳

After spending a month in Laos, we took the China-Laos Railway...thanks to the suggestion of our Chinese friends...to cross the border into China! 

Our first stop? Jinghong (景红), the heart of Xishuangbanna in Yunnan province.

Yunnan is known as one of the most beautiful regions in China, famous for its diverse ethnic cultures and warm climate. While Ryan has lived in China before (and has fallen in love with Yunnan before), this is Fabio’s first time, so what will our first impressions be? 🤔

Join us on this vlog adventure as we explore Jinghong’s top attractions, including: The lively Gaozhuang Night Market, The stunning Manting Park and The golden Buddhist Dajin Pagoda Temple.

China is a whole new world for us, and we can’t wait to share this journey with you! 

Subscribe for more travel stories! 

Have you been to China? Let us know your favorite places in the comments!

CHAPTERS:
1:16 – Boten: The Last Stop in Laos Before China 🇨🇳
3:34 – Crossing into China: Passport Control 🛂
4:36 – Jinghong Railway Station: Train Experience 🚆
5:56 – Checking In: Our First Hotel in China 🏨
7:22 – Exploring Manting Park 🌳
8:14 – First Impressions of China 👀
13:00 – WeChat 101: The App You Can’t Live Without (in China) 📱
14:42 – Gaozhuang Night Market: A Feast for the Senses 🌙
19:10 – Las Vegas Vibes in China 🎰
20:02 – Our First Chinese Dinner 🥢
23:34 – Day 2: Getting a SIM Card in China 📅

Follow along for more travel adventures:🌍 
Website: https://thefabryk.com/destinations/china
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefabryk/

Support our channel through these affiliate links (at no extra cost to you):

🏡 Where we stayed in Jinghong:
HomeInn (highly recommended for a night or two): https://trip.tp.st/yvH2LRWF

📲 Our recommended eSim:
Get it from Trip.com, honestly Airalo did not work really well, but this one worked fantastically (and you don't need a VPN): https://trip.tp.st/XWyOpJYk

🏞️ Prebook Manting Park Tickets:
https://trip.tp.st/GvqEHMFX

✈️ Find your flights to China:
Skyscanner - https://bit.ly/3K1w9DfTrip.com - https://trip.tp.st/XcaGxagP

🩺 Travel Insurance: 
Genki - http://www.genki.world/with/thefabryk

🎵  Easy Video Editing:
CapCut Pro - https://www.capcut.com/capcut_pc_web/...

🎧 Music in this video: 
Epidemic Sound - https://share.epidemicsound.com/ao2ybc

#ChinaVlog #Xishuangbanna #Jinghong #Yunnan #ChinaTravel #BackpackingChina #TravelVlog #MantingPark #GaozhuangNightMarket #BuddhistTemple #SoutheastAsia #LaosToChina #ChinaLaosRailway #DigitalNomad #GayTravelVlog #HiddenGems #DajinPagoda #ZongfoTemple

The China We Never Expected in Xishuangbanna 🇨🇳

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Rent a car in Podgorica, Montenegro, and enjoy the freedom to explore the city and the stunning landscapes nearby. Discover top rental tips, costs, and must-see destinations in our 2025 guide! 🚗✨

Renting a Car in Podgorica, Montenegro: All You Need To Know

Boost your mood and energy with simple steps! Embrace positivity, gratitude, and self-care while balancing work, travel, and personal interests. Live fully and enjoy the journey.

5 Radiant Remedies to Brighten Your Day

Your ultimate Gay Berlin Guide: Discover iconic gay bars, legendary clubs, LGBTQ+ friendly hotels, top queer events, and tips for exploring Europe’s most inclusive city.

Gay Berlin Guide: LGBTQ+ Culture, Bars & Hotspots 🇩🇪

Maintain your youthful and boyish looks and energy a bit longer by adding these 5 anti-aging supplements into your daily regimen.

The Best Anti-Aging Supplements For Men

Plan the ultimate 3-day road trip from Almaty to Kolsai Lakes, Lake Kaindy, and Charyn Canyon. Packed with tips to make your adventure seamless and unforgettable!

Road Trip From Almaty to Kolsai Lakes, Lake Kaindy & Charyn Canyon

​Explore traditional Serbian food in Belgrade. From creamy Popara to potent rakija, discover the rich flavors and cultural heritage of this vibrant city.

Exploring Traditional Serbian Food: A Journey Through Belgrade

Find out why taking a slow day in your hotel and hotel room can enhance your vacation. Recharge, bond with your partner, and enjoy the amenities for a more memorable getaway.

Why Everyone Should Embrace a Slow Day in Their Hotel

Gay travel guide to Porto: LGBTQ+ bars, vibrant dining, boutique stays, and tips for enjoying one of Portugal’s most charming and inclusive cities.

Gay Porto Guide: LGBTQ+ Culture, Bars & Hotspots 🇵🇹

Gay Lisbon Guide: The ultimate LGBTQ+ travel guide to Europe’s most welcoming city! From nightlife and hidden queer spots to cozy stays and must-try dining—here’s how to experience Lisbon at its gayest.

Gay Lisbon Guide: LGBTQ+ Culture, Bars & Hotspots 🇵🇹

If you are headed to Berlin for the sole purpose of Berghain, make sure to book a hotel nearby Berghain (even if you may not be sleeping much).

The Best Hotels Near Berghain (Berlin 🇩🇪)

From authentic Neapolitan pizza to mouthwatering İskender kebap, discover the best places to eat in Cologne, Germany. A foodie's guide by Fabio Marcato.

The Best Restaurants in Cologne, Germany

Gay travel guide to Tirana: LGBTQ+ spots, local dining, cozy stays, and tips for exploring Albania’s capital, where the scene is a late bloomer but full of potential.

Gay Tirana Guide: LGBTQ+ Culture, Bars & Hotspots 🇦🇱

Gay travel guide to Thessaloniki: Gay bars and clubs, lively dining, unique stays, and tips for exploring Northern Greece’s vibrant, welcoming city with a rich cultural scene.

Gay Thessaloniki Guide: LGBTQ+ Culture, Bars & Hotspots 🇬🇷

My inside experience on a gay yoga retreat with AthensFlow Retreats. Connect, relax, and rejuvenate with yoga, wellness, and delicious vegan cuisine.

AthensFlow Retreats: My First Gay Yoga Retreat Experience

Explore a detailed 2-week Japan itinerary for Honshu island, covering Tokyo, Osaka, Nara, and more with travel tips and major attractions.

2-Week Japan Itinerary (from Tokyo)

Wondering what to do in Paros? From sun-soaked beaches to charming villages and Naoussa's nightlife, this ultimate guide covers the best things to do in Paros—through our eyes.

What to Do in Paros, Greece: A Complete Travel Guide

Discover the essential items and packing hacks for travel for a hassle-free travel experience. From packing tips and travel essentials to self-care and finances, learn everything you need to know to become a savvy traveler. This post covers topics such as backpacking, digital nomadism, clothing, tech, medications, travel documents, vaccinations, and more.

Travel Light: Packing Hacks for Digital Nomads & Backpackers

A travel guide to gay Cape Town: diverse dining, Cape Town best gay bars, stunning stays, and tips for exploring South Africa’s vibrant, inclusive city with breathtaking views.

Gay Cape Town Guide: LGBTQ+ Culture, Bars & Hotspots 🇿🇦

Visiting Mykonos without breaking the bank? Discover budget travel tips, cheap eats, free activities, and ways to avoid overpriced tourist traps.

Mykonos on a Budget: How to Visit Mykonos Without Going Broke

Here's the best Montenegro itinerary for an unforgettable Balkan adventure. Explore stunning coastal towns, rich culture, off-the-beaten path places, and travel tips for an authentic experience in Montenegro.

A 5-Day Montenegro Itinerary 🇲🇪

Gay travel guide to Belgrade: Gay bars and clubs, unique dining, cool stays, and tips for exploring this vibrant city where the gay scene is underground but definitely alive.

Gay Belgrade Guide: LGBTQ+ Culture, Bars & Hotspots 🇷🇸

Looking for a fabulous winter escape? Gay ski weeks bring epic slopes, wild parties, and stunning mountain views, all with a side of LGBTQ+ pride. Pack your gear and let’s go!

The 2025 Gay Ski Weeks Calendar: From Aspen to the Alps

A list of things to do in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan as well as day trips from Bishkek into Kyrgyzstan's sublime nature.

The Best Things to Do in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan

Your ultimate gay Milan guide: Explore the best gay bars, clubs, saunas, and LGBTQ+ hotspots. Discover chic dining, stylish stays, and the vibrant queer side of Italy’s fashion capital.

Gay Milan Guide: LGBTQ+ Culture, Bars & Hotspots 🇮🇹

My contrasting experience wandering through Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan and the surrounding Ala-Archa Canyons.

A Two-Sided Journey Through Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan

Gay Frankfurt Guide: Explore LGBTQ+ nightlife, the best gay bars, welcoming hotels, and must-know tips for enjoying one of Germany’s most inclusive cities.

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We are a gay travel and lifestyle blog highlighting off-the-radar places, experiences, and stories.

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