2026 Dali Prefecture Travel Guide: must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transport & travel experiences (updated in August)

Looking for an ancient town without the crowds of Lijiang or Dali, with real life still flowing through its streets? Zhujiangyuan Ancient Town in Qujing is the spot. Free entry, peaceful atmosphere, and authentic local Cuan culture waiting to be discovered . 📅 Itinerary Day 1: Arrival & First Impressions · Stroll along the cobblestone streets and soak up the relaxed vibes · Explore the ancient alleys and traditional Cuan-style architecture · Chill at a local tea house and watch the world go by · Evening walk along the river as lanterns light up — the atmosphere here is different from the big tourist towns, much quieter and more genuine Day 2: Culture & Nature · Morning: Visit the nearby Zhujiangyuan Scenic Area for hiking through karst peaks and caves — cable car available for descent · Afternoon: Explore the Cuan Stele Pavilion to see the "Gem of Southern Steles" with ancient calligraphy from a thousand years ago · Evening: Night market stroll with local snacks Day 3: Slow Morning & Departure · Slow breakfast, soak in the peaceful atmosphere one last time · Visit the Cultural Sports Park nearby if you need a green break · Pick up some local souvenirs and head out 🏨 Accommodation · Xiaodong Chinese Inn — located right by the ancient town, 2-star property with outstanding 9.9/10 rating, prices around $54+ per night, breakfast available (Chinese, Western, and local options) · Local guesthouses and budget stays near the town — usually under $30–50 per night 🍜 Food Recommendations · Steamed Ersi — Qujing's intangible cultural heritage dish · Pickled Pork Knuckle Hotpot — a local signature, perfect for chilly evenings · Cuan Culture-inspired dishes — try the local farmhouse restaurants near the scenic area for the most authentic experience · Night market snacks near South Gate 📍 Tips · Getting there: High-speed train to Qujing (about 2 hours from Kunming), then a short taxi ride · Free entry: The ancient town itself doesn't charge admission — only some scenic spots cost money · Best time: Spring and autumn for comfortable weather; avoid peak Chinese holidays for a quieter experience · Explore beyond: Combine with other nearby spots — Haifeng Wetland for birdwatching, or Huize Ancient Town for more heritage · Wear comfortable shoes — you'll be walking on cobblestones most of the day #travel2026 #chinatravel

🇨🇳 Beijing? Shanghai? Think Again. 🚄 Discover China’s Most Beautiful Rail Journey: Kunming → Dali → Lijiang → Shangri-La When people think about traveling to China, Beijing’s history and Shanghai’s modern skyline are usually the first things that come to mind. But for me, one of the dream journeys I hope to experience someday is hidden in Yunnan Province: Kunming → Dali → Lijiang → Shangri-La ✨ This is more than just a trip between four cities. It is a journey where every train ride brings a new landscape, every destination reveals a different culture, and every stop feels like entering a completely different world. · -- 🌿 Stop 1: Kunming — The City of Eternal Spring The journey begins in Kunming, known as the “Spring City” because of its pleasant weather throughout the year. It is the perfect place to start exploring Yunnan, with its peaceful atmosphere and beautiful natural landscapes. ✨ Must-visit places: 📍 Stone Forest (Shilin) · A UNESCO World Heritage Site · A breathtaking natural wonder formed by thousands of unique limestone formations 📍 Green Lake Park · A peaceful escape in the heart of the city 📍 Dianchi Lake · A beautiful place to enjoy sunset views 📸 Photo Tip: Visit Stone Forest in the morning when the light creates beautiful shadows across the stone formations. 🚄 Kunming → Dali High-speed train: around 2–3 hours (Second Class tickets approximately ¥109–155) · -- 🌊 Stop 2: Dali — Where Time Slows Down Arriving in Dali feels like the journey starts moving at a slower pace. Here, there is no need to rush. The beauty is found in quiet moments—walking beside the lake, exploring old streets, and enjoying the peaceful lifestyle. ✨ Must-visit places: 📍 Erhai Lake · The symbol of Dali · Perfect for cycling, walking, and enjoying the beautiful scenery 📍 Dali Ancient Town · Charming old streets with traditional architecture and local culture 📍 Three Pagodas · One of Dali’s most iconic historical landmarks 📸 Photo Tip: The sunset by Erhai Lake is one of the most unforgettable moments of this journey. 🚄 Dali → Lijiang High-speed train: around 1.5–2 hours (Second Class tickets approximately ¥80) · -- 🏮 Stop 3: Lijiang — A Walk Through History When you arrive in Lijiang, it feels like stepping into a different era. The ancient streets, traditional wooden houses, and peaceful canals create a magical atmosphere that feels almost like a movie scene. ✨ Must-visit places: 📍 Lijiang Old Town · A UNESCO World Heritage Site · Famous for its ancient streets, waterways, and traditional architecture 📍 Jade Dragon Snow Mountain · A spectacular snow-capped mountain reaching 5,596 meters · Visitors can take a cable car to experience the high-altitude scenery 📍 Blue Moon Valley · Famous for its turquoise water and stunning mountain backdrop 📸 Photo Tip: Visit Blue Moon Valley on a sunny morning when the water looks its most vibrant. · -- 🏔️ Stop 4: Shangri-La — A Journey Into Another World The final chapter of this journey is Shangri-La. Since the Lijiang–Shangri-La Railway opened in November 2023, traveling between these two destinations has become much easier. 🚄 Lijiang → Shangri-La · High-speed train: around 1–1.5 hours · Second Class tickets approximately ¥56–70 The train journey itself is an experience, with mountains, valleys, and breathtaking landscapes changing outside your window. ✨ Must-visit places: 📍 Songzanlin Monastery · The largest Tibetan Buddhist monastery in Yunnan 📍 Dukezong Ancient Town · A historic Tibetan town with centuries of culture and tradition 📍 Pudacuo National Park · A beautiful natural area with lakes, forests, and mountain scenery · -- ✨ Why Choose This Route? Because in one unforgettable journey, you can experience: 🌿 A city with perfect weather 🌊 A peaceful lakeside escape 🏮 A UNESCO ancient town 🏔️ Snow-covered mountains 🙏 Tibetan culture and traditions One of the biggest advantages of this route is the convenient high-speed railway connection, making it possible to explore some of Yunnan’s most beautiful destinations comfortably. · -- 📅 Recommended Itinerary (8 Days) Day 1–2: Kunming Day 3–4: Dali Day 5–6: Lijiang Day 7–8: Shangri-La 🌸 Best Time to Visit ✅ March – May Beautiful weather and spring scenery ✅ September – November Clear skies and the best conditions for photography · -- 💡 Travel Tips · Shangri-La is located above 3,200 meters, so take it easy when you first arrive and allow your body to adjust. · Bring a light jacket because mornings and evenings can feel cold even during warmer seasons. · Book train tickets early during holidays and peak travel periods. · -- Some journeys introduce you to new places. But Kunming → Dali → Lijiang → Shangri-La is different. It feels like a moving postcard, where every train ride changes the scenery and every destination tells a new story. One day, I hope to sit on that train from Kunming, watch the sunset beside Erhai Lake, walk through the ancient streets of Lijiang, and finally wake up surrounded by the mountains of Shangri-La. Until then, this beautiful route remains one of the dream journeys on my travel bucket list. ✨ 💬 If you could visit Yunnan, which city would you choose first — Kunming, Dali, Lijiang, or Shangri-La? #yunnan #chinatravel #kunming #dali #lijiang #shangrila #chinarailway #highspeedrail #trainjourney #dreamdestination #travelguide #tripmoments #tripcom #chinatravel #travelchina

Complete guide to exploring the Song-style royal garden and immersive palace banquet If you’ve grown tired of the grandeur of Cangshan Mountain and Erhai Lake or the bustle of the ancient city, then Tianxi Garden, tucked near the south gate of Dali Ancient City, is a secret spot you can’t miss. Modeled after the royal garden of the Dali Kingdom during the Song dynasty, it took 13 years to meticulously rebuild. This royal garden blends Bai ethnic architecture with traditional Chinese garden aesthetics. This detailed guide will help you unlock all the experiences in this “Little Jiangnan of Dali”! 🗺️ Quick overview · Location: About 80 meters northeast of Shuanghe Community on South Ring Road, near the south gate of Dali Ancient City, Dali Bai Autonomous Prefecture. · Highlights: Song-style royal garden, pure mortise and tenon ancient architecture, century-old trees, immersive palace banquet (Lison Banquet). · Must-see spots: · Tianxi Garden gate: A grand Bai-style palace gate with three water-drop motifs, built from golden nanmu wood using pure mortise and tenon joints, showcasing royal dignity (Photo 1). · Cuihua Tower: A 33.96-meter-tall five-story wooden pagoda with flying eaves, used by the Duan royal family for martial arts training and scripture storage during the Dali Kingdom. Its reflection in the lake is spectacular (Photo 2). · Crane Bridge: A rare 70-meter-long fully wooden mortise and tenon covered corridor bridge from modern times, spanning the water like a dragon (Photos 4, 6). · Shengde Palace: The solemn administrative courtyard of the Duan family, standing on the Cangshan central axis, full of antique charm (Photo 3). · Waterside secret: The garden is surrounded by waterways, often shrouded in morning mist (Photos 4, 6). Black swans glide among lotus leaves (Photo 7). In autumn, red maples blaze like fire (Photo 5). Every snapshot looks like a classical masterpiece. 🎫 Tickets and opening hours · Hours: 8:30 AM – 9:30 PM (both day and night visits available; banquet starts at 6:00 PM). · Ticket prices: · Adult ticket: 80 CNY per person (also offers discounts like 159 CNY for two). · Lison banquet package: Booking the immersive Lison banquet inside the garden waives the Tianxi Garden ticket. Banquet prices range from 398 CNY (standard seat) to 598 CNY (VIP seat), including traditional costumes and makeup, welcome ceremony, royal cuisine, and performances. · Discounts: On certain holidays (such as Police Day and Spring Festival), free or half-price tickets may be available. Check official announcements for details. 🚗 Getting there · Public transport: Take bus No. 8 to Yuexi Village stop, then walk. Or from Dali High-Speed Rail Station, take the Dali tourist express bus to the south gate of Dali Ancient City, then walk about 1.4 km or use a shared bike. · Driving/taxi: Navigate directly to “Tianxi Garden.” The site has underground and open parking lots, charging about 5 CNY for the first half hour and 2 CNY for each additional half hour. ⏱️ Recommended routes 🌞 Option 1: Half-day garden stroll (daytime visit) · 2:00 PM – 3:30 PM: Enter the garden and stroll. Visit Cuihua Tower, Crane Bridge, and Shengde Palace in order. Walk along the waterside boardwalk to enjoy the ancient architecture and reflections. · 3:30 PM – 5:00 PM: Garden photography. The golden hour for photos is 4:00–5:00 PM, with soft, clear light. Focus on red maples (stunning in autumn), stone arch bridges, black swans (Photo 7), and architectural details. · 5:00 PM – 6:00 PM: Experience intangible cultural heritage crafts (such as pitch-pot, rubbings, lacquer fans), or relax with tea in the tea room. 👑 Option 2: Immersive palace banquet full-day tour (highly recommended) · 2:00 PM: Arrive early for traditional costume and makeup experience. Choose from hundreds of Tang and Song dynasty outfits with one-on-one makeup, instantly transporting you back to the Nanzhao Kingdom. · 4:00 PM – 5:00 PM: After dressing up, leisurely tour the garden and take stunning photos at the top 10 spots (like the purple glazed tile wall and the place where zither music lingers). · 6:00 PM: Join the Crane Bridge welcome ceremony, led by lantern-bearing attendants and guards with halberds, creating a full ceremonial atmosphere. · 6:30 PM: Take your seat for the Lison banquet. Enjoy a palace feast with “one dish, one show; one bite, one dance,” featuring 360-degree stage performances of Bai ethnic songs and dances and Nanzhao history, along with Song-style royal cuisine infused with Dali flavors. · After 8:00 PM: After the banquet, stroll through the garden at night. The lights reflect on the lake, creating a peaceful and dreamlike scene, perfect for night portraits. 📸 Photo spots and outfit tips · Recommended photo spots: 1. Full view of Cuihua Tower: Shoot from a low angle across the water to highlight the layered flying eaves (Photo 2). 2. Crane Bridge and mist: Use early morning or evening mist to capture silhouettes or a hazy effect under the bridge (Photos 4, 6). 3. Red maples and water: In autumn, frame the shot with red maples in the foreground and capture their reflection on the water (Photo 5). 4. Black swan interaction: Close-up shots of black swans entwining necks, with green pond water and water lilies as the background (Photo 7). · Outfit suggestions: · Traditional/hanfu: The garden is an ideal spot for classical photos. Recommended are Song- or Ming-style hanfu or Tang dynasty costumes, in either soft colors (white, blue, pale pink) or rich tones (bright red, dark green). · New Chinese style/minimalist: If you prefer not to wear traditional costumes, new Chinese-style clothing or simple cotton and linen fabrics also blend well with the environment. 💡 Tips for visiting 1. Avoid crowds: Tianxi Garden is relatively off the beaten path but can get busy on holidays. It’s best to visit on weekdays or early when the garden opens for a better experience. 2. Makeup reservation: If you plan to try the Lison banquet makeup, book at least 48 hours in advance through the official WeChat channel (“Lison Banquet”). Walk-ins may not be accepted, and no refunds are available close to the banquet time. 3. Weather and seasons: Dali has strong UV rays, so wear sun protection even on cloudy days. Autumn (October–November) is best for red maples, summer for blooming lotus flowers, and the garden offers beauty year-round. 4. Respect culture: The garden features traditional architecture and religious elements. Please keep quiet and respect local customs during your visit. Stepping into Tianxi Garden is like opening a thick historical scroll. Here, you can escape the noise, listen to the wind among pavilions and towers, watch swans glide on rippling water, and experience a royal garden dream spanning a thousand years.

#underratedspots Most people see Kunming as just a stopover before heading to Dali, Lijiang, or Shangri-La. I almost did the same, but after spending a day here, I realized it's one of Yunnan's most underrated cities. Instead of rushing for the next train, slow down and enjoy Kunming's charming old streets, café culture, and relaxed pace. A simple one-day itinerary: · Breakfast at a local rice noodle shop (Crossing-the-Bridge Noodles) · Stroll around Kunming Old Street (昆明老街) · Visit Guanghua Street (光华街) for its historic buildings and photo spots · Explore Jingxing Flower & Bird Market (景星花鸟市场) for local snacks, tea, flowers, and souvenirs · Coffee break at one of the trendy cafés around the old town · Walk to Nanping Pedestrian Street (南屏步行街) for shopping and street food · End the day with dinner and a night walk as the old streets light up beautifully. Kunming may not have the dramatic scenery of Dali or Lijiang, but that's exactly its charm. It's the perfect place to slow down, experience local life, and ease into your Yunnan adventure instead of rushing from one destination to another. #Kunming #KunmingOldStreet #YunnanTravel #ChinaTravel #HiddenGem #UnderratedDestinationn #SlowTravel #TravelChina #YunnanItinerary #TravelGuide

This 10-day Yunnan adventure is seriously a vibe! Here’s your scroll-stopping itinerary for China’s most dreamy province – perfect for Insta, your travel poster, or just planning your next epic trip. Get ready for jaw-dropping sights, historical gems, and foodie moments you’ll be chatting about for ages! 🇨🇳 Yunnan, China 10 Days: Kunming • Dali • Lijiang 📍 Days 1–3 | Kunming Kunming (昆明), Yunnan’s chill capital, is called "Spring City" for a reason – the weather is always ✨ just right! · 🌿 Green Lake Park (Cuihu) | Cuihu South Rd, Wuhua District | Open 6am–9pm · 🏮 Kunming Old Street | Zhengyi Rd, Wuhua District | Open 9am–11pm · 🪨 Stone Forest (UNESCO) | Shilin Yi Autonomous County, about 1.5h from downtown | Open 8am–6pm · 🌸 Dounan Flower Market | Dounan South Ave, Chenggong District | Best early morning · 🚠 Western Hills & Dragon Gate | Xishan Forest Park, Xishan District | Open 8am–6:30pm · 🚄 High-speed train to Dali – Book tickets on trip.com for the smoothest ride! 📍 Days 4–6 | Dali Dali is all about those chill lake views, ancient towns, and Bai culture flavor. · 🛕 Three Pagodas | Chongsheng Temple, North of Dali Old Town | Open 8am–6:30pm · 🏘️ Dali Ancient Town | Yu’er Rd, Dali | Open all day · 🏡 Xizhou Ancient Town | Xizhou Town, 20km from Dali | Open all day · 🎨 Bai Tie-Dye Village | Zhoucheng Village, Xizhou | Open 8am–5pm · 🌊 Erhai Lake Ecological Corridor | Around Erhai Lake | Best during daylight hours · 🌅 Shuanglang Sunset | Shuanglang Town, Erhai Lake’s northeast | Sunset magic! · 🐎 Shaxi Ancient Town | Jianchuan County, between Dali & Lijiang | Small-town vibes · 🚗 Continue to Lijiang 📍 Days 7–9 | Lijiang Lijiang (丽江) brings dreamy mountain views, cobblestone streets and UNESCO-level wow. · 🏯 Lijiang Old Town (UNESCO) | Ancient City District | Open all day · 🐉 Black Dragon Pool | Heilongtan, North Old Town | Open 7am–7pm · 🏛️ Dongba Culture Museum | Xiangshan Rd, North Old Town | Open 8am–6pm · 🏔️ Jade Dragon Snow Mountain | Yulong Naxi Autonomous County | Scenic area opens 8am–4pm · 💙 Blue Moon Valley | Inside Jade Dragon Snow Mountain Scenic Area | 8am–4pm · 🖼️ Baisha Ancient Town | Baisha Village, 8km north of Lijiang | Open all day · 🌊 Tiger Leaping Gorge | 60km north of Lijiang | Open 8am–5pm 📍 Day 10 · 🚄 High-speed train back to Kunming · ✈️ Departure (Peace out, Yunnan!) 💡 Travel Tips · 📱 Pay like a local: Alipay or WeChat Pay is clutch · 🗺️ Download Amap (Gaode Maps) for seamless trips · 🎫 Book your bullet train tickets early on trip.com · 🫁 Take time to acclimate if you’re heading up high (your body will thank you!) · 🍜 Don’t leave without munching on: · Crossing-the-Bridge Noodles (SO comforting!) · Wild Mushroom Hot Pot (earthy goodness) · Xizhou Baba (crispy + sweet street snack) Best Time to Visit: March–May & September–November (hello, perfect weather!) Transportation: High-Speed Rail + Taxi or DiDi for those short hops Duration: 10 Days / 9 Nights Ready to live your best China travel life? Yunnan’s got you!

🏘️ Why to go to Dali? Dali’s Old Town is lively and crowded, full of tourists, shops, and noise. Just outside, various villages offer a calmer, slower life surrounded by nature and local culture. 🌅 Peace and Freedom Mornings in the villages are quiet, with birds, roosters, and gentle winds. Streets are wide and empty, and the air feels fresh. Cycling or scootering around gives total freedom - you can stop by a lake, a market, or a small café anytime. ☕ Simple Pleasures Village life is about small joys: fresh local food, cozy cafés, and watching the sun rise over the mountains. Everyday routines feel slower, more grounded, and naturally relaxing. 🌄 Nature Everywhere Rice fields, lotus ponds, and distant mountains surround the villages. Stepping outside is always stepping into calm, with open skies and seasonal beauty that the Old Town cannot offer. ✨ So...? For a slower, more peaceful lifestyle, Dali’s villages beat the Old Town. It’s not just escaping crowds - it’s enjoying space, nature, and life at a gentle pace. #china #yunnan #dali #rurallife

In Huading Flower Valley, flower-covered terraces flow gently along the mountain slopes. The air is fresh, the pace is slow, and the scenery feels natural rather than designed. It’s a place to walk, breathe, and simply take in the view. 🌺 Location · Yunnan Province, China · Nearest major city: Dali (approximately 60–80 km, 1.5–2 hours by car) · Elevation: around 2,200–2,500 meters Huading Flower Valley is a quiet, little-known valley with blooming terraces and mountain landscapes. 🪻What makes this place special · Vast lavender fields and wildflowers, especially stunning in spring · Mountain terraces and non-touristy villages · A perfect spot for photography and slow, mindful walks · Pure, living nature with no crowds of tourists 💰 Entrance fee · Entrance ticket: approx. 80–100 CNY · Optional extras: small parking fee or a local guide (around 20–30 CNY) · Total estimated cost: 100–130 CNY Prices may vary slightly depending on the season. 🚗 How to get there From Dali: 1. By car or taxi (about 1.5–2 hours) 2. You can also join a small local mini-tour (not mass tourism, small groups) Important: The road is mountainous, so it’s best to travel during daylight hours. 📅 Best time to visit · March – June: peak blooming season · Summer: green landscapes and mild weather · Winter: fewer colors, but beautiful mountain views 🌷 How much time to plan · 2–4 hours for walking through the fields and the valley · Can be combined with visits to nearby villages and mountain terraces 📌 Honest tips · Very limited infrastructure: almost no cafés or shops · Wear comfortable walking shoes · It can be windy due to the elevation · Locals are friendly, but English is rarely spoken 🎒 Best for · Nature and flower lovers · Photographers and content creators · Travelers looking for quiet, authentic places away from crowds ❌ Not ideal for those expecting cafés, frequent buses, or developed tourist facilities #ChinaAdventures #yunnan #travel2026

Hey there! April and May are the golden months for budget travel! The weather is mild, flowers are in full bloom, and most importantly, there are fewer tourists and lower prices. A quick search on the high-speed rail will unlock these treasure cities. Today, I'm sharing 3 of my personal favorite "budget travel paradises". Follow this guide, and you can have a blast for 3 days with an average of just CNY 500 per person. Students and working folks, let's go! 🎒 Must-read before departure! A guide to saving money 1. Don't forget your essential documents and gear: ID card, student ID (a must-have for half-price tickets at scenic spots!), power bank, lightweight camera (essential for taking beautiful photos), disposable towels, and bed sheets (pack them in your suitcase for hygiene and convenience). 2. Outfit formula: Light jacket + short sleeves + long skirt (big temperature difference between morning and evening), comfortable sneakers (for walking all day without tiring your feet), sun hat, and sunglasses (the April sun can be unforgiving!). 3. Plan your budget in advance: Book high-speed rail tickets 15 days in advance (often with discounts), choose hostels or homestays for accommodation (CNY 30-80 per person), prioritize free attractions, and look for local eateries recommended by locals to minimize the risk of disappointment. 🌿 Stop 1: Lishui, Zhejiang | A hidden scenic paradise in Jiangnan They say "Zhejiang Green Valley" is a heavenly place, and it's no exaggeration! In April, Lishui is surrounded by clouds, mist, and flowers. The morning mist on the Ou River is like a traditional ink painting, and the rapeseed flower fields in Guyan Painting Village are in full bloom. The best part is that 90% of the attractions are free, making it a paradise for budget travelers! ✅ Must-visit attractions 1. Guyan Painting Village: Free admission before 6:00 am! Watch fishermen casting their nets and small boats sailing across the river. Every shot is like a scene from National Geographic. 2. Yunhe Terraces: Free viewing platform on the periphery! During the April irrigation period, the layered terraces reflect the blue sky, like mirrors of the earth. 3. She Township Window: Catch the "March 3rd" festival in April (around April 15th this year) for a free experience of bamboo pole dancing and long table banquets. Taking photos in She ethnic costumes is super photogenic! 🍜 Foodie list ✔️ Lishui Casserole: A large bowl for CNY 15, with plenty of tofu balls, dried bamboo shoots, and meat slices. The broth is so delicious you'll want to lick the bowl clean! ✔️ Qingtian Stone Carving Coffee: Stop by Qingtian Overseas Chinese Township and enjoy authentic Italian coffee for CNY 30, paired with a French crepe, and pretend you're in Europe! 🚗 Transportation and accommodation Take the high-speed rail to Lishui Station, then take bus No. 1 for CNY 1 to the city center. Stay in a homestay in Guyan Painting Village (CNY 80/night in the off-season), and enjoy the river view right outside your window! 💡 Tips: Don't buy the scenic area sightseeing bus ticket! You can walk around the core area in 10 minutes, saving money and enjoying the pastoral scenery at your own pace. 🌊 Stop 2: Dali, Yunnan | A slow-paced life of wind, flowers, and snow at 20℃ Spring in Dali is so gentle! The snow on Cang Mountain hasn't melted yet, the Erhai Lake is breezy at 20℃, and the Xizhou rice fields are lush green. The best part is that prices are half of what they are during peak season, making it a great choice for students! ✅ Must-visit attractions 1. Erhai Ecological Corridor: Rent an electric bike (CNY 50/day) and ride from Caicun to Panxi, passing through reed marshes and S-bends along the way. When you're tired, sit by the sea and watch the waves crashing on the shore. It's super therapeutic! 2. Xizhou Ancient Town: Buy a freshly baked Poplar Leaf Cake (CNY 5/piece), and take photos in the wheat fields. The white walls and gray tiles paired with golden wheat ears create a perfect Japanese-style fresh vibe. 3. Shaxi Ancient Town: A thousand-year-old town quieter than Dali Ancient City. The stone roads and caravan relics are well-preserved. A cup of ancient tree tea costs only CNY 10, and time seems to slow down. 🍜 Foodie list ✔️ Bai Stone Barbecue: CNY 40 per person. Beef, tofu, and mushrooms are grilled on a stone slab and dipped in a secret sauce. It's super delicious! ✔️ Xidoufen Fried Dough Sticks: A must-eat for breakfast! A bowl of Xidoufen costs CNY 5. Dip the fried dough sticks in the soup, and add chopped green onions and chili peppers. It's the perfect way to wake up in the morning! 🚗 Transportation and accommodation Take the high-speed rail to Dali Station, then take bus No. 8 for CNY 2 to the ancient city. Stay in a hostel in Nanmen (CNY 30/bed/night). It's more cost-effective to team up and rent a car to circle Erhai Lake. 💡 Tips: Choose the "Jade Belt Road" for hiking in Cang Mountain! This free route is less crowded and offers beautiful scenery. You can overlook the entire Erhai Lake. Remember to wear non-slip shoes! 🏮 Stop 3: Changting, Fujian | A thousand-year-old Hakka ancient city forgotten by time This is my personal favorite hidden gem! Changting Ancient City is less crowded than Fenghuang and has lower prices than Lijiang. The bluestone streets, ancient Ming and Qing streets, and Hakka Tulou buildings are like stepping back into Jiangnan 10 years ago. ✅ Must-visit attractions 1. Changting Ancient City Wall: Free to climb! Go in the evening to watch the sunset dyeing the Jichuan Gate red. The red lanterns hanging on the city wall make it feel like you're filming a historical drama. 2. Diantou Street: A gathering place for time-honored brands! A bowl of tofu pudding costs CNY 3, a serving of poached pig kidney soup (with unlimited rice refills) costs CNY 15, and there are also freshly made ginger candies and dried tofu. It's super satisfying to eat and stroll around! 3. Dingwuling: A "mosquito-free ancient village" hidden in the mountains! Tulou buildings, stone streets, and old camphor trees. The old grandma at the entrance of the village sells rice wine for CNY 3 a cup. It's sweet and delicious! 🍜 Foodie list ✔️ Changting Rice Noodles: A large bowl for CNY 10, with beef balls and pickled cowpeas. The broth is made with pork bones and is so delicious you'll want to drink it all! ✔️ Taro Buns: A Hakka specialty! The glutinous rice skin is filled with taro paste and meat filling. They can be steamed or fried and are fragrant and filling for CNY 5 each! 🚗 Transportation and accommodation Take the bullet train to Changting South Station, then take bus No. 1 for CNY 1 to the ancient city. Stay in the Nanmen Hotel (CNY 50/night), and you can walk to the riverside in 5 minutes to see the night view. 💡 Tips: Renting a Hanfu costume costs only CNY 30! Go to Wolong Academy to take photos of the waterside pavilion and corridors. You can easily create a Jiangnan blockbuster. Remember to bargain! 📝 Budget travel summary: Saving money is the key! 1. Travel during off-peak season: April and May are not peak seasons, so accommodation and tickets are cheaper, and there are fewer people if you avoid weekends. 2. Free activities: Each city has hidden free attractions (such as Nanming Mountain in Lishui and Longkan Pier in Dali). Doing more research can save you hundreds of dollars. 3. Local guides: Follow the grandmas and grandpas in line to buy snacks, and choose old restaurants without internet celebrity check-ins for meals. The taste is authentic and cheap. Hey there, the joy of spring is on the road! These three cities are directly accessible by high-speed rail, with beautiful scenery and low prices. Just posting a photo on WeChat Moments can get you 999+ likes. Save this guide and call your bestie/boyfriend to set off. Budget travel can also be super stylish! ✨

These days, Huang Yi's location is in Dali, Seeing the video that Huang Yi posted a few days ago is BellaVita, So I followed Huang Yi's footsteps~ After arriving, the deepest feeling is! The decoration inside is really comfortable~ There is really a feeling of coming to the Thai tropical rainforest We ordered the same mushroom hotpot as Huang Yi here As soon as it was served, I smelled a strong fragrance The taste of the soup base is still quite fresh and rich~ It is full of various ingredients It's really delicious - 【Freshly cut beef slices】 The texture of the beef will be tender The best time to put it in is when it just changes color If you taste it carefully, there is a faint milky flavor🥛 It's really more and more fragrant 【Nine-square grid side dishes】 There are nine different side dishes on it I really like the peeing beef balls inside The QQ is bouncy and chewy 【Hotpot noodles】 The noodles are soaked in the taste of the soup, which is quite flavorful Every bite feels very satisfying BellaVita·Rainforest Garden Sea View Restaurant 📍No. 28, Xiapo Shancun, Huanhai West Road

"Tianlong Babu Film and Television City" is located about 20 minutes by bus from Dali Ancient Town. It is a film studio village. It is a Chinese film studio that looks like a real town in dramas, so even if you actually visit it, it will feel like a real town because it is so elaborately made down to the smallest details. It's like you are in the drama. It is an amusement park where you can experience a time trip.

#Mainland China Attractions Erhai Lake, formerly known as Kunming Lake, Erhe River, Yeyu Lake, etc. Located in Dali City, Dali Bai Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan Province, the lake covers an area of ​​about 246 square kilometers. It is the second largest lake in Yunnan after Dianchi Lake and the seventh among China's freshwater lakes. It is named "Erhai Lake" because of its shape resembling a human ear. Erhai Lake is a very famous scenic spot with various hotels, homestays and restaurants scattered around the lake, providing complete supporting facilities. When you come to Erhai Lake, you can choose to drive around the lake, ride a bicycle along the lake, or take a walk along the lakeside, all of which will make you feel particularly happy. The blue sky, white clouds, dancing willow branches, clear lake water, and sometimes you can see large groups of seagulls circling in the sky. It is fascinating and very beautiful. I really recommend it.

#Mainland China Attractions Cangshan Mountain, also known as Dian Cangshan Mountain, is located in the central part of Dali Bai Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan Province, west of Erhai Lake. It is an important water source of Erhai Lake and a national geological park. The Cangshan Scenic Area covers an area of ​​470 square kilometers and includes Gantong Temple, Ximatan, Butterfly Spring, Huadian Dam, Shimen Pass and other attractions. Cangshan Mountain has beautiful natural scenery, numerous scenic spots and places of interest, and offers a panoramic view of Erhai Lake. To visit Cangshan Mountain, you can take the cable car, but since there are many attractions, it is recommended to reserve half a day to a day to have a good look around. Of course, if the weather is good, the scenery will be even better.

【Departure from Hong Kong🇭🇰】Transportation Tips - - Available Lazy Plan 1⃣️: Direct flight from Hong Kong to Dali Money-saving solution 2⃣️: Direct flight from Shenzhen to Kunming 2.5hr → Kunming High-speed Railway Station to Dali Station 2.5hr → Dali Station take a taxi into Dali Ancient City 0.5hr ✅ Local attractions - - Cangshan, Erhai, Tea Horse Road, Dragon Pier (Long Ni Pier), Xizhou Ancient Town, Double Gallery, Starry Flower Sea (You can rent pony "Coke" and Cao Nima to take pictures, "Coke" is very obedient, the grass mud horse is more naughty, being taken care of by the boss and boss) ✅ Hotel - - Recommend the bed and breakfast in the ancient city, the price of about ¥ 200, convenient and comfortable, and the bed and breakfast in the ancient city are decorated very taste, can experience. It is recommended to stay in a B&B on [Yu'er Road], which would be more convenient and quiet in the bustle. ✅ Food and Restaurant - - Local Chicken Rice Noodles, Crossing Bridge Rice Noodles, 👍🏻 Baked Tofu 👍🏻, Mushroom Hot Pot, Lap Rib Hot Pot, Stone Slab Grill, Dai Style Cold Stuff ✅ Shopping Guide - - You can go to experience the costume photography, within ¥ 300 to photograph a set of costumes ✅ Play tips ———— You can rent a tricycle, within ¥300 a day, can take you where you want to go and wait for you to pick you back, you can go anywhere you want to go in a day. The local lady in the tricycle I rented was super nice. ‼ ️‼ ️ Suitcase Tips - - In Dali is summer are not need to turn on the air conditioner, the wind is very strong, super invincible dry, moisturizing products bring more, clothes do not need to bring too thick, there is a jacket and trousers enough. Moreover, Yunnan is located on a plateau, UV rays are very strong, sunscreen products must be brought and must be wiped every day, even without strong sunlight UV rays are very strong, do not be careless. #Yunnan #Yunnan Travel #Dali Ancient City #Overseas Tour #South of Caiyun #Mainland China Attractions #Mainland Travel

Dali Ancient Town in Yunnan, China, is an enchanting and picturesque destination that offers visitors a glimpse into the region's rich history and culture. The town is located at the foot of the Cangshan Mountains and is surrounded by the beautiful Erhai Lake, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers. The ancient town is known for its well-preserved architecture and traditional buildings, dating back to the Ming and Qing dynasties. Visitors can explore the narrow cobblestone streets, quaint courtyards, and traditional shops, or admire the ancient temples and pagodas. Dali Ancient Town is also a hub for local arts and crafts, with various galleries, workshops, and markets showcasing traditional Chinese art and handicrafts. Visitors can watch local artisans create beautiful ceramics, textiles, and jewelry, or purchase unique souvenirs to take home. The town also features a range of excellent dining options, with local Yunnan cuisine and traditional Chinese dishes available at various restaurants and street vendors. Visitors can also enjoy a cup of tea or coffee at one of the many charming cafes and teahouses. Dali Ancient Town is easily accessible by public transport, with several bus routes connecting it to other parts of the city. The town also hosts various festivals and events throughout the year, including the Butterfly Festival and the March Street Carnival, offering visitors a chance to experience the local customs and traditions. Overall, Dali Ancient Town in Yunnan, China, is a charming and tranquil oasis amidst the bustling city. With its rich history, stunning architecture, and beautiful natural surroundings, it is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to China.

The Three Pagodas in Dali, China, are an ancient and breathtaking testament to the region's rich history and architecture. The pagodas, dating back to the 9th and 10th centuries, are among the oldest and most well-preserved structures of their kind in China. The three pagodas are located on the grounds of the Chongsheng Temple, surrounded by lush greenery and tranquil ponds. The pagodas, each standing at over 200 feet tall, are made of bricks and feature unique architectural designs and intricate carvings. Visitors to the Three Pagodas can explore the temple grounds, admire the pagodas from up close, or climb to the top of the tallest pagoda for stunning panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. The temple also features various exhibitions and displays showcasing the history and culture of the region. The Three Pagodas are easily accessible by public transport, with several bus routes connecting the site to other parts of the city. The area also hosts various cultural and religious festivals throughout the year, offering visitors a glimpse into the local customs and traditions. Overall, the Three Pagodas in Dali, China, are a must-visit destination for anyone interested in ancient history, architecture, and culture. With their stunning beauty, rich history, and tranquil surroundings, they are sure to leave a lasting impression on any visitor.

📍Detailed address: The hotel is located in the Wetland Park scenic area on the west coast, less than 15 meters from Erhai Lake, truly nestled between the mountains and the sea, with breathtaking views all around! Rest here and enjoy the boundless blue waves of Erhai Lake, the moon shining on the flowers, the green peaks of Cangshan Mountain entering the clouds, and the everlasting verdant beauty! The sea view room is less than 15 meters from Erhai Lake, allowing you to fall asleep to the sound of the waves and moonlight. Take a stroll along the west coast and you will come across a courtyard - Chuanjia Heyuan (Dali Haixi Store). The hotel is 8 kilometers away from Dali Ancient Town, 17 kilometers by car from Banxi Village, 5 kilometers from China's most beautiful nunnery Jizhao Temple, 40 minutes by car from Santorini (Ideal Country), 12 kilometers from Erhai Park, 27 kilometers from Dali Airport, 23 kilometers from Xizhou, 30 kilometers from Zhoucheng, the hometown of tie-dyeing, and 50 kilometers from Shuanglang Scenic Area. 🌟Highlight features: The hotel decoration style combines Chinese and Western elements, showcasing traditional Chinese culture while also incorporating modern amenities. The courtyard is located in the ecological wetland park. Get up in the morning and watch the sunrise, take a walk around the wetland park, slow down time. The appropriate space often understands you better than people, feel the poeticization of space and the ritual sense of life.

The three pagodas are located within the big complex of Chongsheng Temple, in Dali China. The three pagodas are separated from the rest of the temple buildings by a building that forms a bridge over a road that passes through the complex. The pagodas form a triangle, where the main square pagoda was built first about 1800 years ago, and the other two smaller circular pagodas were built 100 years later, with a different style. The pagodas are quite incredible architecturally. The other temple buildings are regular, classical but modern Buddhist temples. The Congshan mountain forms a great background. A vegetarian buffet is served for lunch, for about 20RMB. #China#Dali #threepagodas

Just went before the New Year, the flow of people is not much, the drive is very relaxed, the whole process is quite other hahaha Seeing the recent New Year holiday there has been crowded we go to really see people all day black are jammed into cars such popular places we have the opportunity to travel next time really do not be a holiday 🥲

When visiting Erhai Lake in Dali, Yunnan, one of the best things to do is wake up and catch the early morning sunrise over the lake☀️✨⭐️ The sun rises around 8am and rises over distance mountains across the lake!💫 You can view it from the western side of the lake and find a quaint spot along the cycling path - there are many viewing spots or areas you can stop in! arrive early to catch the whole sunrise🌅☀️🌷 #yearofrabbit #newyearadventure #dali #yunnan #lakes #lakeerhai #erhai #china #chinasolo #chinadestinations #chinatravel #chinatrips

Yunnan travel, Dali, the ideal place! Santorini by the side of Erhai Lake! ❣️Positioning is the ideal state! No need for tickets or accommodation~ You can drive or take a taxi. It's a great place for taking photos in Dali. When I went there, there weren't many people~ You can take a picture of the ideal state seen from afar! There are many stairs inside, making it easy to find a good angle to stand. At night, it's also very beautiful with the lights on~

Don’t waste your time in Dali ancient town. It’s pretty much the same as any ancient town in China except for it’s much much bigger but this place, Xizhou is an authentic and Quaint ancient town. Everything is walkable, and it is a lot less touristy than the dali ancient town. Here you’ll find some of the best local food. There aren’t many bars around, but there are some gorgeous boutique hotels. #tripblazers #china

Visiting Dali Ancient Town and came across the Dali Photography Museum which was an interesting experience The Museum had an exhibition based on the External Light on Dali’s Photography across a Century where Yunnan was taken as a photography research base to capture the rich culture and groups of minority people and showcase it through the lens of the camera 😍😍 The exhibition hall is on the 2nd Floor and comprises of amazing photographs of various minority groups in Yunnan Province through the years.. alongside this you can also see various chinese and Japanese made cameras dating back to the 18th Century stores in glass cabinets for you to explore with various old printing machines 😍😍😍 If your in Dali Ancient City, so explore this amazing museum as there is alot to learn here 🤩 📍Dali Ancient City ( Dali Photography Museum) 🕰️ 10:00 - 18:00 🎫 Free #newyearadventure #yunnantravel #yunnan #yearofrabbit

One of the must visit places in Dali is Erhai lake. The best way to enjoy the lake is taking a bike ride along the lake. There are many bikes, you pay the fee and the deposit to locals and you have a bike for three hours. There are coffee shops nearby for taking a rest and enjoying the view but we preferred just to sit by the lake on the small rocks to have mor natural view. #yunnan #erhailake #dali

I went to the scene of the TV play "Go to the Windy Place". Following the plot, I went to the ancient town of Dali, Xicun in Xiangyang, Xizhou ancient town, the famous Erhai Lake, Shaxi ancient town and Fengyang city. There should be a lot of famous places in Dali that are still waiting for the drama. There is a clip that impressed me deeply. It is a very beautiful scenery. It is the Cangshan Mountain in the snow. The most attractive time for the city is in winter. It's not particularly hot, it feels very refreshing, and you can see a variety of geological features. The main thing is that it is very romantic to calm down and enjoy it alone.I am a person who likes to live by the sea, but the ancient cities and villages here are so distinctive, and the price is close to the people, there is a feeling of simplicity, small bridges and flowing water, quiet houses, ethnic minority customs, and the place where the heroine lives in the TV series "Go to the Windy Place" is almost exactly the same. There are also many pedestrian streets and shopping malls and supermarkets, so it's easy to buy things. As we all know, the popular scenic spots here are the ancient city, Erhai Lake and Cangshan Mountain. However, there are still some scenic spots that are not inferior to the above ones in terms of features and scenery.And that is Shaxi Ancient Town: a tranquil ancient town, surrounded by green mountains and waters, with beautiful environment, fresh air and little human interference. Songsheng Temple: It looks like the royal residence in ancient times, with red walls and green tiles. It is very big. Xizhou Ancient Town: It is very beautiful here, with ancient streets, many beautiful women, and golden fields as far as the eye can see. It is simply the beauty of poetry. In some places, there is also a chance to take a tricycle, which is very contemporary.我到了电视剧《去有风的地方》的取景地 顺着剧情我到了大理的古镇,向阳的溪村,喜洲古镇,著名的洱海,沙溪古镇,凤阳邑。 后面还在等追剧应该还有很多大理有名的地方。 有一个片段让我印象深刻,是一个非常美的景色,是雪中的苍山,这座城市景色最吸引人的时候就是冬季。不会特别热感觉很清爽,能看到多种风貌的地质。主要是一个人静下心来享受很浪漫。我是一个喜欢住在海边的人,可是这里古老城池和村镇太有特色了,而且价格亲民,有一种古朴,小桥流水,宁静的大家宅院,少数民族风情的感觉,和电视剧《去有风的地方》里的女主住的地方几乎一模一样。这里还有很多步行街,也有商场超市,买东西很容易。 众所周知 这里的热门景区古城,洱海,苍山。不过还有一些景区不论特色还是景色都不输上面几个。那就是 1沙溪古镇:宁静的古镇,青山绿水环绕,环境优美,空气新鲜,少有人类干扰。 2嵩圣寺:这里很像古代的皇室居住地,红墙青瓦,非常大。 3喜洲古镇:这里非常漂亮,古老的街道,还有好多美女,金色的田地一望无际。简直就是诗词中的美景。 在有些地方还能有机会乘坐三轮车非常有时代感。

These pagodas are an icon of Dali, in-between Dali Old Town and Xizhou Old Town. They are worth a visit! The pagodas are ancient and with the backdrop of Dali's mountains you can see how they became an icon. If it's not hot travel a little while up the hill behind the pagodas to get a panoramic view of them. behind the pagodas there's a huge temple complex you can visit, if you have the strength (we didn't 🤭) #tripblazers#summervacation#celebratewithtrip #passionpassport#awesomepic

Dali city is a county level city that actually encompasses all the settlements surrounding the Erhai Lake. The modern central part is located in the south and is your most probable entry point since the bus and train stations are located there. That part is also probably the one you will be least interested in. Although it's coastal area does have nice views and some fancy hotels most travelers head out to one of the smaller places around the lake, most notably the Dali Old Town. Dali Old town is technically a tourist center and most travelers choose to stay in or around it. The famed three pagodas as well as the starting point for climbing CangShan are all located near the Old Town. The town itself is nice enough and rather big. The fact that it is not pedestrianized and that pavements are very often blocked with stalls and parked cars does make it a bit hectic, especially in the high season, so staying on the fringes of it is probably a better option. To be honest, most of the things we wanted to see and do In Dali had nothing to do with the Old Town itself. It is a good place to eat and drink though, although 'tourist surcharge' will most certainly apply. If you have not arrived by car, renting an e-bike for exploring short distances is actually a good idea. The three of us got on one e-bike and squeezed it out of all of its juice while exploring around. So much so, that we actually had to recharge on the way because the declared 70km range probably did not refer to a 160kg+ weight-load. Great way to discover surrounding villages that offer a bit more authenticity and bit less crowds that the Dali Old town.Most of the town pictures you see above(5-6-7) are actually from XiZhou (喜洲古镇) a smaller village further north really worth a visit. Quite a lot of people also like renting one of the pink convertibles and I suppose it is a good way to reach farther as well as take that ever so important Instagram photos. I would come here again. The place does offer some real peace and quiet as well a serene landscape, even though it is often hidden by noise of the crowds and commerce. #wintergetaway

Take you to see the real Santorini in Dali. Online photos of various Dali Santorini have all been carefully post-processed. This set of photos restores the real appearance there. Although there is no post-processed romance, it is indeed good. Taking photos there, as long as you find a good angle, every shot is a masterpiece of Dali Santorini.

Walk the streets and small alleys of the ancient city in Dali to find the best cocktails, delicious Italian food, rose flavored pastries, key lime pie, the tastiest street food and drinks and many handmade market goodies. We went in the afternoon and ended up staying all night, bar hopping listening to live music!#summervacation #passionpassport #dalitravel #dali