A Warm Retreat in the Hidden Gem of Shaxi! Encountering "Xishang Yanyu"

The surprises of Dali often lie in its unassuming corners. The most delightful unexpected discovery during this trip to Shaxi was stumbling upon the "Xishang Yanyu" homestay. From the moment I stepped into the courtyard, a sense of relaxation and joy akin to "coming home" washed over me. Every detail exuded thoughtfulness and warmth, making me wish I could freeze time here. **Ambiance: A Poetic Canvas of Countryside and Starlit Dreams** True to its name, "Xishang Yanyu" nestles quietly at the foot of serene mountains, far from the hustle and bustle. Open the window, and you’re greeted with healing views of terraced fields, quaint villages, and lush distant peaks. Mornings begin with gentle sunlight and the melodious chirping of birds, the air fragrant with earth and grass. At night, as the lights dim, the sky unveils a dazzling tapestry of stars—rarely seen in the city—so vast and deep they feel within reach. While it lacks the grandeur of Erhai Lake, it offers Shaxi’s unique tranquility and leisure, like an unfolding pastoral poem that soothes the soul. **Rooms: Rustic Elegance, Blending Bai Charm with Modern Comfort** Our room perfectly embodied the homestay’s style. Beyond being immaculate, its design was ingenious. Natural wood dominated the space, paired with carefully curated Bai ethnic decorations, preserving local charm while embracing modern simplicity. The bedding was soft and skin-friendly, ensuring a restful sleep, and the shower’s strong water pressure washed away travel fatigue effortlessly. The entire space radiated rustic elegance, with thoughtful touches that made our stay exceptionally cozy. **Service: Heartwarming Hospitality from the Hosts** If the ambiance sets the tone, the warmth of the owners is "Xishang Yanyu’s" most touching highlight! Upon arrival, they greeted us at the door, eagerly taking our luggage and instantly easing our travel weariness. Their recommendations weren’t generic but like a friend sharing hidden gems: which path leads to breathtaking rice fields, which local shop serves the most authentic cheese and ham, and when to visit Shaxi Ancient Town to avoid crowds and savor solitude. They even prepared a hand-drawn travel map for us. Evenings spent in the courtyard, sipping tea under the stars while listening to their stories of Shaxi, filled the night with genuine care and homely warmth. **Highlights: Easy Exploration, Terrace Views, and Proximity to the Ancient Town** - **Restaurant Viewing Terrace:** Behind the homestay’s restaurant lies a terrace with stunning views—a perfect spot to capture Shaxi’s dawn and dusk. Whether it’s the sunrise painting the sky, the sunset gilding the fields, or the starry night, every shot is a breathtaking masterpiece. - **Steps from Shaxi Ancient Town:** The homestay’s unbeatable advantage is its proximity to the heart of Shaxi Ancient Town! A short walk takes you to iconic spots like the Ancient Stage, Xingjiao Temple, Yujin Bridge, and Pioneer Bookstore. This means you can: - Enjoy the serene, crowd-free ancient town at dawn. - Retreat to the homestay for a midday break, avoiding the afternoon bustle. - Return effortlessly after sunset, just a leisurely stroll away.