Starlight Night Market

Starlight Night Market is one of Xishuangbanna's newer attractions, located in the southern plaza of the Dajinta Temple and along the east and west streets of the square. This market, part of the Gaozhuang Xishuangjing tourist area, typically opens around 6 or 7 PM and stays lively until midnight. The market offers a variety of local delicacies, Southeast Asian snacks, unique handicrafts, ethnic clothing, and gemstone jewelry. Besides food and shopping, the night market provides an immersive cultural experience.

Market Layout

Starlight Night Market is nestled at the foot of the Dajinta Temple in Jinghong, adjacent to the Lancang River, and is divided into six distinct areas:

1. Golden Pagoda Area: The market centers around the Dajinta Temple, with the red-brick area in front of the pagoda known as the Red Brick Zone. The long streets on the east and west sides of this zone make up the Ganbai Shopping Area.
   
2. Starlight Night Market Zone: Standing in the Red Brick Zone, you'll see thousands of stalls illuminated like stars, which is how the Starlight Night Market got its name.

3. Food Zone: Surrounding the main market area is a curved road, known as the Food Zone. This area is situated along the Lancang River, offering a scenic backdrop for dining.

4. Dance and Music Area: To the south of the Food Zone, there's a bridge leading to the famous Six Nations Water Market, which features a lively music and dance area where traditional "Dai Disco" takes place.

Things to Do at Starlight Night Market

1. Taste Local Delicacies: The night market is filled with a variety of snacks, such as Dai-style sour vermicelli, Dai-style preserved chicken feet, lemongrass grilled fish, pineapple rice, and roasted beef. These treats offer a taste of the local culinary culture.

2. Shop for Handicrafts: The market features handicrafts and ethnic clothing from Yunnan, Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, and Cambodia, making it a perfect place to pick up unique souvenirs.

3. Photography Spots: The night market is beautifully lit, making it an ideal spot for photography. The Golden Pagoda area, in particular, offers stunning views both day and night.

4. Experience Ethnic Costumes: Visitors can rent traditional Dai or Hani costumes at the market and take photos in these vibrant outfits.

5. Enjoy Performances: The nearby Six Nations Water Market often hosts traditional music and dance performances, offering a glimpse into Xishuangbanna’s rich minority cultures.

Suggested Itinerary

1. Start at the East Ganbai Area: Begin your visit by strolling west from the East Ganbai Area to the Red Brick Zone. Here, take the opportunity to snap photos and then head up the steps to visit the Golden Pagoda. Admission is 30 CNY per person.

2. Explore the West Ganbai Area: After touring the pagoda, return to the Red Brick Zone and continue westward to explore the West Ganbai Area.

3. Riverside Stroll: Walk to the end of the market and through the alleys, heading east along the riverside path. Enjoy the scenic views while taking photos before returning to the Starlight Night Market to browse the stalls.

4. Food and Night Views: After exploring the market, follow the outer ring of the Food Zone from west to east. Here, you’ll find popular street foods from across China and Southeast Asia. After enjoying the food, cross the bridge for a different perspective of the market and to admire the night views of the Lancang River.

5. Six Nations Water Market: End your night at the Six Nations Water Market and the Funsix Music Stage, where you can experience the local "Dai Disco." Entry is 58 CNY per person. After enjoying the performances, head back to your accommodation for a well-deserved rest.

How to Get There:

- From City Center: Take the Jinghong K1 bus to the Gaozhuang Xishuangjing (Starlight Night Market) stop and walk 77 meters to the market. Alternatively, take the Jinghong 4 bus to the Gaozhuang Xishuangjing stop and walk 529 meters, or take the Jinghong Z21 bus to the same stop and walk 625 meters.

- From Local Airport/Train Station: From Gasa International Airport or Xishuangbanna Railway Station, take the Jinghong 4 bus to the Gaozhuang Xishuangjing stop and walk 529 meters to the market.