Can't-miss attractions along the China-Laos railway: China section

Sun-River National Park in Pu'er

The word "Pu'er" may remind many of the renowned tea from Yunnan Province, but it is also the name of a city. Not surprisingly, it is one of the country's major Pu'er tea producing areas.

Back in ancient China, the region served as an important stop along the Tea Horse Road, a trade route linking Yunnan and Southwest China's Tibet autonomous region. This had something to do with its location, close to three other countries – Vietnam, Laos and Myanmar. The Mekong River, or Lancang River in China, also runs through the city. It is the longest river in Southeast Asia and often dubbed the "Danube of the East."

Apart from its tea, Pu'er holds rich natural resources. The Sun-River National Park is highly recommended if you are craving some fresh air and a close encounter with nature. The dense subtropical rainforests in the park provide habitats for over 800 animal species and 2,000 different plants.