Muse travel guide and discussion

I recently visited The Muse at its new Private Salon in Mipec Riverside, Long Biên, and the experience felt even more special than before. Although it’s about a 15-minute drive from the former Tràng Tiền location (a straightforward trip across Chương Dương Bridge), the new space is absolutely worth it. Visits are by appointment only, and you’re greeted personally upon arrival. The private salon concept fosters a quiet, intimate atmosphere where you can truly connect with the artworks without interruptions. It feels less like a traditional gallery visit and more like enjoying art at your own pace. Whenever I had questions about specific pieces or wanted to explore more of the collection, the staff, who were always nearby, proved to be warm, knowledgeable, and happy to assist without disrupting the experience. For those who love contemporary Vietnamese art and value a peaceful, engaging visit, I strongly suggest booking an appointment at The Muse.

If you're visiting Ruili City in Dehong Dai and Jingpo Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan Province, the absolute must-see landmark is Ruili Port. This is a vital hub on the land route connecting China and Myanmar (Muse), a vibrant border spot where trade and people from both countries thrive. This time, as a highlight of Ruili sightseeing, we thoroughly explored Ruili Port and the surrounding town from the Chinese side! Standing before Ruili Port, you'll immediately be captivated by its overwhelming presence and imposing border gate (national gate). The magnificent architecture, standing out against the blue sky, the words "Ruili Port of the People's Republic of China," and the dignified national emblem strongly convey that this is a national border. Many tourists were gathered in front of the gate, bustling with people taking commemorative photos at the border. While viewing is from the Chinese side, the sheer scale of the national gate towering before you and the atmosphere of the clean and well-maintained plaza are well worth seeing. The unique atmosphere of a border, where the palpable tension characteristic of a border coexists with the open brightness of a tourist destination, instantly heightened the excitement of my journey. Looking slightly ahead across the gate on the Chinese side, I could clearly see the immigration facilities and townscape on the Myanmar (Mujie) side. Just a few meters away, separated by a river or road, was "another country," and the sight of foreign buildings and people coming and going is a major thrill unique to land border crossings. Witnessing the dramatic change in building design and atmosphere across the border, I could feel the geographical connection and cultural differences firsthand. Watching the constant stream of people and cargo trucks passing between the two countries, I realized this was a vital artery of the Asian route, and my heart swelled with emotion. Around the border crossing, there were exhibits and panels introducing the history and evolution of trade at Ruili Port, which I carefully viewed while taking three photographs. Ruili has long been a center of border trade, known as the "Southwest Silk Road," and you can learn in depth about how it has developed over time through historical photographs and explanations. Knowing the history of its transformation from a small trading post to the modern, massive border crossing it presents, the significance of the national gate before you feels even greater. By understanding its historical background, rather than simply viewing it as a tourist spot, I was able to deeply appreciate the cultural and economic value of this place. After visiting the border crossing, I strolled through the surrounding border town. The streets around the border are full of Ruili's unique and exotic charm. Signs in both Chinese and Burmese (Burmese script) line the streets, and people you pass by wear diverse ethnic costumes or have "thanaka," a traditional Burmese cosmetic powder, on their faces, creating a natural blend of diverse cultures. The area was bustling with shops and stalls selling Myanmar's specialties, jade, exotic imported goods, and tropical fruits, creating a vibrant and lively atmosphere. Just strolling around gave me a strong sense of foreign culture, making it the perfect area for souvenir shopping and food hopping. [Overall Impression] Exploring the Ruili Port and its surroundings was an undoubtedly satisfying experience for anyone who loves geography, history, and ethnic culture. It's rare to find a place where you can feel the spirit of Myanmar so strongly while still being on the Chinese side, experiencing both historical depth and modern dynamism simultaneously. Access from Ruili city center is also very convenient, making it an easily accessible tourist destination. When visiting Ruili, be sure to allow ample time to visit the Ruili Port and enjoy the scale of the national gate, the historical panels, and the charming surrounding streets. It's a highly recommended spot that will undoubtedly create unforgettable travel memories! #Ruili Port #姐口口shore #yunnantravel #RuiRei #China-Myanmar border #ruili #ruiliport

On Guanghehan Mountain in the suburbs of Ruili City, the dazzling Dai palace stands by the Ruili River, with Muse in Myanmar just across the water. It is a reconstruction of the original site of the third-generation palace of the Si dynasty of the Luchuan Kingdom. Standing in the corridor, you can see the outline of the neighboring country. But when you reach the main hall’s entrance, something feels off—the pillars are golden, but inside it’s empty, with only a few support columns holding it up, like a shell with just a facade. It is said that reconstruction began around 2010, but funding ran out halfway through, and work stopped around 2021. 🦚 A beautiful shell with an empty heart The golden stone pillars on the outer corridor of the main hall are carved with intricate patterns. The red and gold colors are indeed luxurious, and the large golden pagoda in the distance shines brightly under the blue sky. But up close, the walls still show cement, some corridor floor tiles are unfinished, and the entire scenic area lacks any supporting facilities. Some online visitors say this place “only finished the exterior and then ran off,” and standing here, it does feel that way. However, because it’s abandoned, there are very few tourists, allowing a quiet view of Ruili city at the foot of the mountain and Myanmar across the river. 🏔️ Even an unfinished project has its own charm After wandering the mountaintop for over an hour, there were almost no people except for occasional photographers. The wind blows across the Ruili River, clouds move quickly, smoke curls from Myanmar’s houses in the distance, and the golden pagoda reflects the sunlight nearby. It is said the government is seeking investment to revive this project, but no one knows when construction will resume. Although this “unfinished palace” is empty inside, the dazzling shell paired with the hollow interior gives it a magical feel unique to this border town—both beautiful and desolate.

Ruili, on the western edge of Yunnan and bordering Myanmar, is filled with a strong Southeast Asian vibe. Experience unique border culture on one route, perfect for a 2-day short trip📸. In the morning, visit the village shared by two countries, where the border line runs through the village. Check in at the popular spots “One Autumn Swinging Two Countries,” boundary marker No. 71, and the China-Myanmar shared water well to get up close to the fascinating sight of one village spanning two countries. Then head to the Jiegao national gate to take photos with the solemn gate and the “Ends of the Earth” stone monument, and enjoy a distant view of Muse, Myanmar, soaking in the unique border atmosphere. In the afternoon, explore Ruili’s main Buddhist temple, where the golden pagoda and Dai-Thai style architecture make for great photos. Dress appropriately when entering the temple. Nature lovers can visit the Moli tropical rainforest, where clear springs and ancient trees accompany you for a refreshing walk through the woods. In the evening, stroll through the city night market to try puluda, sapei, pounded chicken feet, Burmese milk tea, and a variety of fresh, affordable tropical fruits. Be sure to bring sunscreen and strong mosquito repellent. Attractions are spread out, so renting a car or self-driving is recommended. Always follow border regulations and never cross the border line illegally. The jade market is tricky—avoid buying at high prices if you’re not knowledgeable. No need to travel overseas—experience exotic scenery and the unique charm and romance of this border town right in Ruili✨

The Ruili River flows quietly, and the border line runs through the village of "One Village, Two Countries." Ruili, leveraging its unique geographical advantages, has become a renowned oriental jewelry city, attracting jade merchants and showcasing the brilliance of jade. Arriving in Ruili by car, it was already dusk, the tropical evening breeze carrying the atmosphere of the border town. We enjoyed a lemon-flavored meal near the hotel, then entrusted our anticipation to the night. As dawn broke, we set off for "One Village, Two Countries." An invisible border line traverses the village, dividing the same Dai ethnic village in two. The Chinese side is called Yinjiang, and the Myanmar side is called Mangxiu. The cold border described in geography textbooks transforms here into a tangible, human experience. The village boasts the most expensive border line: a 400-meter-long border walkway inlaid with over 5,000 warm, lustrous jade stones, each bearing the weight of time, silently telling the story of the millennia-old bond between the two countries, connected by mountains and rivers; the most popular spot for visitors is "One Autumn, Two Countries." A swing set spans the border, its wooden chair gently rocking, making you feel as if you're traversing between the two countries. Not far away, the China-Myanmar Friendship Well embodies the most genuine neighborly warmth, a testament to the generations-long friendship between the two nations. The No. 71 China-Myanmar border marker, a gray stone monument, stands silently, marking the boundary between the two countries; beyond the fence lie the houses and farmlands of Mangxiu Village in Myanmar. In the afternoon, enjoy a Dai-style hand-grabbed meal outside the scenic area before heading to the renowned Jiegao Port. The solemn Ruili National Gate stands tall, its national emblem hanging high, exuding a dignified air. Standing in the square and gazing into the distance, a border barrier separates the two countries' landscapes. On one side, orderly customs channels flow, with trucks and border residents moving smoothly; on the other, the streets and houses of Muse, Myanmar, offer a glimpse into different worlds. Shops line the China-Myanmar street, displaying jade, Southeast Asian snacks, and Burmese handicrafts. Of course, you should also pick out a jade bracelet for yourself. In reputable shopping malls, most jadeite is genuine; as for prices, it depends on your bargaining skills. As night fell in Ruili, we headed to the long-rumored Delong International Jewelry Night Market. While ordinary night markets are filled with food and lively atmospheres, this place is a unique late-night haven for jadeite. It's not just a place to buy and sell jade; it's also a visible microcosm of the border region.

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