中老铁路“牵引”西双版纳文旅产业驶入快车道

Core Insights - The China-Laos Railway has significantly boosted the development of the cultural and tourism industries in Xishuangbanna, Yunnan Province, since its opening in December 2021, transforming the region into a key hub for connectivity [1][2] Transportation and Connectivity - The railway, spanning 1,035 kilometers, has facilitated the movement of over 60 million passengers and more than 70 million tons of cargo by November 2025, enhancing connectivity between China and Southeast Asia [2] - Xishuangbanna has leveraged various transportation networks, including the Lancang-Mekong River and the Kunming-Mohan Highway, to improve its external connections [1] Economic Impact on Local Projects - The "Rainforest Huating" wellness project in Jinghong City has reported sales exceeding 500 million yuan, benefiting from the reduced travel time due to the railway [2] - The ancient Manhe Na Dai Village, with over 1,200 years of history, has developed a tourism industry through a "Party Building + Company + Farmers" model, resulting in 109 guesthouses and 20+ popular shops, with projected visitor numbers reaching 1.1 million in 2024 [2] Cultural Exchange and Tourism Growth - The Aoguan Xishuangjing Night Market has become a cultural exchange platform, featuring around 3,000 stalls, with 37% local and 12% Southeast Asian merchants, and is expected to attract over 20 million visitors in 2024 [3] - Jinghong City anticipates receiving 57.34 million domestic and international tourists in 2024, with total tourism spending reaching 85.69 billion yuan, marking a 63.3% increase in resident travelers [3] Regional Development Strategy - Xishuangbanna is evolving from a remote border area to a regional wellness and tourism destination, exploring unique pathways for local economic development [5]