Things To Do
in Matan

Matan, China, is a picturesque town nestled in the scenic region of Yunnan Province. Known for its lush landscapes, vibrant culture, and rich history, it offers a unique blend of natural beauty and local traditions. Visitors can explore ancient temples and enjoy stunning mountain views, making it a perfect destination for both adventure seekers and cultural enthusiasts.

The warm hospitality of the locals adds to the charm of this hidden gem in China.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Local Culture
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Matan Ancient Town, where you can stroll through narrow streets lined with traditional architecture and local shops.

afternoon
:

After lunch, head to the nearby Matan Temple, a historic site that showcases beautiful carvings and offers panoramic views of the surrounding hills.

evening
:

Enjoy a traditional Yunnanese dinner at a local restaurant, followed by a peaceful walk along the river to admire the sunset.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Adventure
morning
:

Begin with a hike in the nearby mountains, taking in the fresh air and breathtaking scenery.

afternoon
:

Visit a local tea plantation to learn about the tea-making process and sample some of the finest brews in the region.

evening
:

Return to town for a lively evening at a night market, where you can try various street foods and enjoy live music performances.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Meal at a Local Restaurant$5
Coffee$2
🚕Taxi Ride (within town)$3
🍺Local Beer$3
🏨Budget Hotel Night$20

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning natural scenery and outdoor activities
  • Rich cultural heritage and friendly locals
  • Affordable cost of living
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities
  • Language barrier may pose challenges for non-Chinese speakers
  • Transportation options might be less frequent
  • "你好" - Hello
  • "谢谢" - Thank you
  • "请问厕所在哪里?" - Where is the restroom?
  • "我不懂" - I don't understand
  • "多少钱?" - How much is this?

Places to Visit in Matan

Visit one of these nice places.

Matan Ancient Town

Capture the essence of traditional architecture and vibrant street life in this historic town.

Matan Temple

A stunning backdrop with intricate carvings and breathtaking views, perfect for panoramic shots.

Tea Plantations

The rolling hills of tea fields create a picturesque landscape ideal for nature photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Matan

Matan boasts a rich culinary scene that reflects the diverse flavors of Yunnan Province, blending herbs, spices, and fresh ingredients.

Matan Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Crossing-the-Bridge Noodles

A signature Yunnan dish featuring rice noodles served in a rich broth with various toppings such as meats and vegetables.

Must-Try!

Yunnan Ham

A cured ham that is famous for its unique flavor, often served with local pickles.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Matan Night Market

A bustling market where you can find a variety of street foods, including grilled meats, dumplings, and sweet treats.

Climate Guide

Weather

Matan experiences a mild climate year-round, characterized by four distinct seasons. Spring (March to May) brings mild temperatures with occasional rain, making it a great time for outdoor activities. Summer (June to August) is warm and humid, with frequent rain showers. Autumn (September to November) is cool and dry, offering perfect conditions for hiking. Winter (December to February) can be chilly, especially at night, but daytime temperatures remain pleasant.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Elders

Always show respect to elders; it's customary to greet them first and offer assistance if needed.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to start eating before you begin, and avoid sticking chopsticks upright in rice, as it's seen as a funeral gesture.

Dress Modestly

While Matan is relatively liberal, dressing modestly, especially when visiting temples, is advisable.

Safety Guide

Safety

Matan is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates. However, standard precautions should be taken, such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and keeping valuables secure. It is advisable to have travel insurance and familiarize yourself with local emergency numbers.

Tipping in Matan

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not customary in Matan, but rounding up the bill or leaving small change is appreciated in restaurants.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted, but mobile payment apps like WeChat Pay and Alipay are popular among locals.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Temperatures are mild, flowers bloom, making it an excellent time for outdoor activities and photography.

Summer

Warm and humid with occasional rain; perfect for enjoying lush green landscapes but be prepared for sudden showers.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures and vibrant fall colors create a beautiful setting for hiking and exploring.

Winter

Chilly but clear; ideal for those who prefer fewer crowds and enjoy a quieter atmosphere.

Nightlife Guide

Matan at Night

Matan offers a relaxed nightlife scene, with a few bars and cafes that come alive after sunset. The night market is a major attraction, where visitors can enjoy street food, local beers, and live performances. Although the nightlife is not as vibrant as in larger cities, it provides a unique experience to mingle with locals and other travelers in a laid-back atmosphere.

Hiking in Matan

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Dragon's Backbone Trail

A scenic trail that offers stunning views of terraced rice fields and is suitable for moderate hikers.

Shilin Stone Forest Trail

A more challenging hike through unique stone formations, providing a truly memorable outdoor experience.

Airports

How to reach Matan by plane.

Kunming Changshui International Airport

Located approximately 200 km from Matan, this airport serves as the main gateway to Yunnan Province, with domestic and international flights available.

Getting Around

Walkability

Matan is a walkable town, with many attractions located within a short distance of each other. The ancient town is particularly pedestrian-friendly, allowing visitors to explore its narrow streets and alleys at leisure. Sidewalks are available, although some areas may be uneven due to the historic architecture.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Ethnic Minorities

Matan is home to various ethnic minorities, including the Yi and Bai peoples, contributing to the region's cultural diversity.

Young Professionals

Many young professionals are drawn to Matan for its natural beauty and relaxed lifestyle, often working in tourism or agriculture.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is widely popular among locals, with community teams often playing in local parks.

Table Tennis

A favorite pastime, table tennis can be seen played in various public spaces and is a common sport among all age groups.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Matan is generally light, making it easy to navigate by foot or bicycle. Public transportation options include buses and taxis, but they may not be as frequent as in larger urban areas. During peak hours, roads can become congested, so planning ahead is advisable.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Matan.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many local restaurants offer vegetarian-friendly dishes, but it's advisable to ask about ingredients to avoid meat-based broths.

Gluten-Free Options

While gluten-free options may be limited, rice dishes are abundant, and it's possible to find suitable meals with some guidance.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities in Matan are limited but generally adequate for minor ailments. There are local clinics and a hospital, but for more serious conditions, travelers may need to go to larger cities like Kunming. It's advisable for visitors to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

Discover China

Read more in our China 2025 Travel Guide.

China Travel Guide