KUNMING -- On Tuesday evening, a group of 15 tourists from Thailand and Laos walked out of the China-Laos Railway's Xishuangbanna station, greeted by a water-splashing ceremony and a lively dance performance.

They are the first tour group from ASEAN countries to visit the Dai autonomous prefecture of Xishuangbanna in Southwest China's Yunnan province since the implementation of a new visa relaxation policy, which allows tour groups from these countries to visit the prefecture -- a popular tourist destination in Yunnan -- visa-free for up to six days.

During their stay, the tour group will appreciate the natural scenery of Xishuangbanna, and experience local cuisine and ethnic customs.