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

Tucked away in the mountains of Midu, Dali, Mizhi Ancient Town is a hidden gem cherished by time. This is the birthplace of the Eastern serenade "Flowing Brook" and an enduring waystation along the Ancient Tea Horse Road for over a thousand years. Free from the clamor of over-commercialization, it offers only the quiet passage of time etched into its bluestone streets and the poetic charm flowing through its mountains and waters. 🌿 Wensheng Street: Feeling the Heartbeat of the Ancient Tea Horse Road The soul of the town lies in the stone-paved paths of Wensheng Street. The uneven bluestone slabs, polished smooth by centuries of horse hooves and footsteps, connect earth-toned rammed earth houses with beautifully carved wooden windows. · Red lanterns and colorful lights string along the street, bringing a warm, everyday charm. The "Romance of Mizhi" graffiti on the walls weaves the town's gentle spirit into daily life. · The ruins of old horse inns tucked deep into alleys and the sweeping eaves of ancient stages still let you imagine the lively scenes of resting caravans, while the lingering echoes of Nanzhao flower lantern opera seem to drift in the wind. 💧 Pearl Spring: The Ancient Spring That "Sings" As the source of the "Flowing Brook," Pearl Spring is the true soul of the ancient town. On a traditional screen wall of white plaster and black tiles, the gilded characters for "Pearl Spring" shine softly. From the spring eye beneath the wall, tiny bubbles well up constantly like pearls. The crisp, sweet spring water has flowed through the town's long history, carrying the hauntingly beautiful melody of the famous folk song with it. 🎭 Mizhi Grand Temple: The Spiritual Heart of the Ancient Town Originally built during the Ming Dynasty, the Mizhi Grand Temple holds the most profound sense of ritual in the town. With its sweeping eaves and exquisitely carved wooden stage, the ancient architecture perfectly preserves the rustic Nanzhao style. Once a place where caravan merchants prayed for safe journeys, the temple still sees curling incense smoke today. As the wind brushes past the ancient wooden beams, you can almost hear the melodious singing of the flower lantern operas of the past. ✨ Tips for Enjoying Mizhi's Slow Life · Take it easy and wander aimlessly along the bluestone streets. There's no need to rush—the best surprises of this ancient town are hidden deep within its narrow alleys. · Sit by Pearl Spring at dusk, listen to the gentle bubbling of the water, and soak in the poetic ambiance of the "Flowing Brook." · If you love culture and history, explore the ancient temple and the old stage to truly experience the deep heritage of this Nanzhao ancient town.

📍Address: Weishan Ancient Town, Weishan County, Dali Prefecture, Yunnan Province ✨Highlights: The birthplace of the ancient Nanzhao Kingdom, with over 600 years of history and a well-preserved grid-style ancient town layout! Compared to Dali Ancient Town, it is much less commercialized, with locals living here for generations, full of authentic local life; known as the hometown of Chinese snacks, offering more than 300 unique snacks; nearby are famous Taoist mountains and ancient Hui villages; cool summer climate with comfortable mornings and evenings, perfect for slow travel, cultural photography, and food tours. Just a 22-minute high-speed train ride from Dali, making it an excellent short-distance reverse travel destination. 1. Basic travel information 🚗Transportation guide 1. High-speed train (preferred) Dali Station → Weishan Station, only 22 minutes, ticket price 22 yuan, running from 7:00 AM to 8:00 PM continuously; From Weishan high-speed train station, a taxi costs 10 yuan/10 minutes to Wenxian Square in the ancient town; a 2-yuan shuttle bus is also available. 2. Self-driving About 1 hour from Dali city center; parking lots are available around the ancient town with affordable fees; motor vehicles are prohibited inside the ancient town. 3. Getting around the town The ancient town is small and best explored on foot; for short trips, electric tricycles are available; for visiting Weibao Mountain or Donglianhua Village, car rental or taxis are recommended. 🎫Tickets & opening hours (latest for 2026) ✅Weishan Ancient Town is free to enter and open all day · Gongchen Tower climb: 10 yuan | 8:00 AM–6:00 PM, panoramic view of the city’s blue-tiled roofs · Nanzhao Museum: free, reservation via official account required, closed on Mondays, open 9:00 AM–5:00 PM · Confucian Temple: 10 yuan | 8:30 AM–5:30 PM, red walls, ancient cypress trees, great for photos 💰Outside attractions · Weibao Mountain: 40 yuan | 8:00 AM–5:30 PM, famous Taoist mountain in western Yunnan · Donglianhua Village: free, ancient Hui horse caravan village ⏰Best times to visit Early morning 7:30 AM–9:00 AM, few tourists, ideal for empty shots; After 4:30 PM to avoid the heat and catch the sunset; at 7:00 PM, lanterns light up the ancient town, creating a great night atmosphere. 🗓Two itinerary options Option 1 | Classic 2-day 1-night route (recommended for first-time visitors) Day 1 Weishan Ancient Town | cultural heritage + food tour, overnight in a local guesthouse Morning: Gongchen Tower (check out the “Kui Xiong Liu Zhao” plaque) → Xinggong Tower → Nanzhao Museum to learn about Nanzhao history Breakfast: Guojiang rice noodles / Yigen noodles, experience Weishan’s signature breakfast Lunch: Explore old street snacks, try green pea cakes and grilled rice cakes while walking Afternoon: Mengyang Park → Confucian Temple → Pioneer Chongzheng Academy (a century-old academy turned trendy bookstore), wander alleys and experience traditional tie-dyeing Evening: Watch the sunset at Xinggong Tower, sunlight spreading over blue-tiled houses Night: Explore the ancient town night market and enjoy the view of Gongchen Tower lit up Day 2 Choose one route: mountain forest or ancient village 🔹Route A (cultural ancient village): Donglianhua Village, visit the horse caravan corner tower and mosque, learn about horse caravan culture, enjoy halal cuisine at noon, return in the afternoon 🔹Route B (mountain retreat): light hike at Weibao Mountain, visit Changchun Cave, Prince’s Palace, Qingxia Temple, dense forest with cooler temperatures, perfect for cooling off and oxygen intake, return in the afternoon Option 2 | One-day tight round trip (for limited time) Gongchen Tower → Nanzhao Museum → Xinggong Tower → Confucian Temple, food tour all day, return to Dali after sunset night view 🌟Must-visit attractions detailed Inside the ancient town 1. Gongchen Tower | landmark at the north gate Ming dynasty architecture, iconic Weishan photo spot, climb to overlook the entire grid-style ancient town, stunning sunset light. 2. Xinggong Tower At the town center crossroads, free to climb, surrounded by red lanterns, top spot for night photography. 3. Nanzhao Museum Houses many Nanzhao artifacts, offers a comprehensive understanding of Nanzhao’s rise, a must for culture lovers. 4. Mengyang Park + Confucian Temple Local leisure spots with towering ancient trees; the Confucian Temple’s red walls are perfect for Hanfu or modern Chinese-style photos. 5. Pioneer Chongzheng Academy An old academy transformed into an artsy bookstore, quiet and soothing, a peaceful retreat amid the bustle. Around the ancient town 1. Weibao Mountain One of Yunnan’s four major Taoist mountains, ancestral mountain of Nanzhao, serene forest, clusters of temples, Changchun Cave preserves exquisite Qing dynasty murals, top summer hiking and cooling spot. 2. Donglianhua Village An authentic Hui ethnic ancient village with a century-old horse caravan corner tower, almost no tourists, very niche and tranquil. 🍜Weishan must-try food list ✅Signature staples Guojiang rice noodles (Lao Wang Guojiang rice noodles), Yigen noodles (Su Lao San, featured on "A Bite of China"), pork rice noodles, mung bean jelly with fried dough sticks ✅Street snacks Green pea cakes, grilled rice cakes, niu da gun (rolled glutinous rice cake), Weishan rolled rice noodles, grilled milk fan, cold shrimp jelly ✅Main meals recommended Kun Master Restaurant (local flavor dishes), halal mint fried ribs, braised chicken ✅Souvenirs Weishan traditional preserved fruits, handmade tie-dye, dried beef strips 💡Tip: Most food is concentrated on North Street and South Street; avoid popular stalls at the entrance; old shops deep in the old street offer better value. 🏡Recommended accommodation areas 1. Bai ethnic courtyard guesthouses inside the ancient town (preferred | 180–360 yuan) Renovated old courtyard with three lanes and a screen wall, windows open to blue-tiled alleys, right next to snack streets, very convenient for night strolls; book early in peak season. 2. Inns around the ancient town (100–180 yuan) Newer facilities, quiet, some with free parking, 5-minute walk to the ancient town, budget-friendly. ⚠️Practical tips for summer travel 1. Strong UV rays at high altitude, sunscreen is essential; large temperature difference between day and night, bring a light jacket; mountain temperatures are even cooler. 2. Ancient town’s bluestone pavement is slippery when wet; wear non-slip flat shoes; high heels are not recommended. 3. Nanzhao Museum is closed on Mondays; plan your trip to avoid Mondays to prevent missing out. 4. Weibao Mountain roads have many curves; drive slowly; public transport is limited, prioritize taxis for round trips. 5. Focus on slow travel; don’t cram too many check-in spots; leave time to enjoy the town’s authentic atmosphere. 6. The ancient town has no noisy bars; it’s ideal for quiet relaxation; if you seek lively nightlife, consider other options. ✨Nearby combined routes If you have time, combine with: Dali Ancient Town, Xizhou Ancient Town, Midu Mizhi

Everyone! Here’s a super hassle-free 3-day Dali travel guide! You can fully enjoy Dali without complicated planning. Accommodation, food, and activities are all clearly arranged. Beginners can just follow this plan! · ------------------- This comprehensive travel guide, 👇 scroll down to unlock more content~ · ------------------- ✨Route overview: This itinerary is tight but covers many attractions within a limited time~ Day 1: Yunlong Taiji viewing platform — Nuodeng ancient village Immerse yourself in the tranquility of the ancient western Yunnan village and the spectacular Taiji landforms. Day 2: Weishan ancient town Stroll through the birthplace of the Nanzhao Kingdom and experience the slow pace of life in this thousand-year-old town. Day 3: Nanjian earth forest — Xiaohe Tangshui scenic area Encounter the dreamy earth forest secret spot and listen to the romantic melody of flowing water. · ------------------- Must-visit attractions: 🏡 Nuodeng ancient village: Layered houses surround salt wells hidden in the forest. The scenery is like a painting! In 2026, there will be an amazing hiking event. Perfect for family trips or deep exploration of the ancient village, where you can fully experience the thousand-year salt industry civilization✨ 🏯 Weishan ancient town: A living museum of the Nanzhao Kingdom with historic blue-tiled buildings! In May and June, jacaranda trees bloom beautifully. Wenhui Street, the Confucian temple, and Binhe Road are perfect photo spots. The purple sea of flowers combined with the ancient streets creates a romantic atmosphere💜 🏜️ Nanjian earth forest: Diverse landforms like a natural gallery showcase nature’s craftsmanship perfectly. It’s an amazing place for photos! · ------------------- ☀️Travel checklist: 👕 Dali in July is cool in the mornings and evenings with strong sun. Bring a light long-sleeve jacket and breathable short sleeves, plus a sun-protective shirt just in case. 👟 For exploring the ancient town and cycling around Erhai Lake, bring a pair of soft-soled sneakers and a pair of sandals. 🪪 ID card, student ID (for discounts), and a screenshot of your health code. Save them in advance and don’t forget to bring them. 🧴 UV rays are very strong! Bring high-SPF sunscreen, a sun hat, and sunglasses to avoid painful sunburn. 💊 Pack stomach medicine, mosquito repellent, and common medicine for altitude sickness to be safe. 📱 Power bank, selfie stick, and waterproof phone case are useful for photos and water activities along the lakeside road. 💰 Bring a small amount of cash. Some Bai ethnic minority shops only accept cash, but also have mobile payment ready. · -------------------

Planning a trip to Dali Bai Autonomous Prefecture? Don’t waste time on messy research! This 4-day itinerary covers popular spots and hidden gems, with hassle-free recommendations for food, lodging, and activities. Just follow along and enjoy your trip. · - 📒 Suggested itinerary: Day 1: Yunlong Taiji viewing platform – Nuodeng ancient village, immerse yourself in Bai culture and natural wonders Day 2: Weishan ancient town, leisurely explore the birthplace of the Nanzhao Kingdom and soak up the local vibe Day 3–4: Nanjian earth forest – Xiaohe Tangshui scenic area – Mile – Gejiu, discover off-the-beaten-path landscapes and southern Yunnan charm Return: Pack up and head home, concluding your perfect Dali journey · - Must-visit attractions: Nuodeng ancient village 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 Location: Nuodeng Town, Yunlong County, Dali Bai Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan Province Opening hours: Open all day Recommended visit time: 3–5 hours Layered traditional houses surround salt wells in this tucked-away village hidden in the mountains. Every photo looks like a healing countryside painting. There’s also a spring 2026 hiking event to deeply explore the unique charm of the thousand-year salt industry civilization~ Weishan ancient town 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 Location: Near Dagou Street, Weishan Yi and Hui Autonomous County, Dali Bai Autonomous Prefecture Opening hours: Open all day Recommended visit time: 3–5 hours A living museum of the ancient Nanzhao Kingdom, with historic blue-tile buildings. In May and June, romantic jacaranda trees bloom. Wenxian Street and the Confucian temple are great photo spots! Nanjian earth forest 🌟🌟 Location: He Guaba, Nanjian Yi Autonomous County, Dali Bai Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan Province Opening hours: Open all day Recommended visit time: 1 day A diverse earth forest landscape like a natural gallery, showcasing nature’s incredible craftsmanship. · - 👕 July in Dali is cool in the mornings and evenings with strong sun during the day. Bring a light long-sleeve sun shirt, breathable short sleeves, and comfortable flat sandals. 🎒 Carry your ID and student card, save digital copies in advance, and bring some cash in case of poor signal. ☀️ Sunscreen is essential! High-SPF sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and a hydrating spray are must-haves. 🧰 Pack stomach medicine, mosquito repellent, and a portable folding umbrella for both sun and rain. · - Save this group tour guide and experience the healing beauty of Dali’s flowers, wind, snow, and moon 🥰

7-Day Complete Itinerary Day 1: Dali | City | Shared electric scooter 14 RMB/day Intercity Transportation: No intercity transfer fees within the city Free/Paid Attractions: Free: Erhai Ecological Corridor North Section, Village Alleys Outside the Ancient City, West Erhai River Riverside Trail Paid: Free access to the outer road of Chongsheng Temple Three Pagodas; Student ticket 37 RMB/park Affordable Local Food: Laocheng Braised Pork Rice Noodles 8 RMB, Freshly Roasted Milk Fan 5 RMB High-Value Accommodation Area: Dali Caicun Affordable Hostel All prices: 43 RMB/night Day 2: Dali Lakeside Stroll | Urban-Rural Public Transportation: 13 RMB/day Free Attractions: Uninhabited mudflats on the east bank of Erhai Lake, ancient rice paddy trails at the foot of the mountains, Bai ethnic minority ancient villages in the suburbs Fee-charging: Free access to the fields surrounding Xizhou Ancient Town; 25 RMB for students at Yan Family Courtyard Affordable Snack Stalls: Cold Chicken Rice Noodles: 6 RMB; Dried Plum: 3 RMB Accommodation: Same hostel, saving on room change transportation costs Day 3: Dali → Weishan | Intercity Bus: 1 hour, 14 RMB Intercity Transportation Time Duration & Cost: 60 minutes, 14 yuan Free Attractions: Xihe Riverside Promenade, Weishan Ancient City Back Street, Wenbishan Mountain Ring Trail Fee-charging: Gongchenlou Street is free, museum student ticket 10 yuan Affordable Local Food: Weishan Yigenmian (7 yuan), Youfen (4 yuan) High-Value Accommodation Area: Weishan Old Town Affordable Hostel Cluster, 47 yuan/night per person Day 4: Weishan Mountain Hiking Day | Rural Carpooling, 16 yuan/day per person Free Attractions: Honghe River Source Valley Stream, Yi ethnic villages in the mountains, convenient farmers' markets in towns and villages Fee: Free for the surrounding forests of Da Xiao Si Temple, 18 yuan for students entering the mountains Affordable street food: Rice cake 3 yuan, pickled plums 5 yuan Accommodation: Extended stay at Weishan Youth Hostel Day 5: Weishan → Midu | Intercity bus 1.2h, fare 16 yuan Intercity travel time & cost: 72 minutes, 16 yuan Free attractions: Pixiong River Riverside Park, Mizhi Ancient Street perimeter, Dongshan Back Mountain Trail Fee: Free for the perimeter of Wensheng Street Ancient Village Expensive tickets: Lantern Exhibition Hall (student ticket: 22 yuan) Affordable local food: Midu rice noodle rolls (6 yuan), fried dough sticks (4 yuan) High-value accommodation: Midu County town hostels (average 50 yuan/night) Day 6: Midu Rural Leisure Day | Short-distance carpooling (all day, average 17 yuan/person) Free attractions: Ten thousand acres of pear orchard trails, mountain streams and shallow beaches, rural stone paths Expensive tickets: The outer river of Tiansheng Bridge is free; student admission is 26 yuan Affordable night market snacks: Roasted potatoes (3 yuan), glutinous rice cakes 4 yuan Accommodation: Extended stay at a hostel in the county town Day 7: Return trip from Midu | Bus + walking 9 yuan Free visit to the local farmers' market to buy souvenirs, riverside walk and rest, end of trip Local specialty food and affordable market shopping guide Affordable snacks in three places (all under 15 yuan) Dali: Braised pork rice noodles, roasted milk fan, cold chicken rice noodles, preserved plums Weishan: One-strand noodles, fried rice noodles, rice cakes, pickled fruits Midu: Rice rolls, fried dough sticks, roasted potatoes, glutinous rice cakes Ba (a type of rice cake) Money-Saving Shopping Tips at the Market 1. Dali Old Town Convenience Market: Individually packaged preserved plums and mushroom packets; avoid overpriced specialty shops in tourist areas. 2. Weishan Farmers Market: Vacuum-packed rice noodles and pickled vegetables; lightweight and easy to take back to your dorm. 3. Midu Local Market: Dried pears and lantern-shaped pastries; affordable and satisfying snacks. 4 Practical Travel Tips💡 1. July Outfit: Short sleeves during the day; light jacket needed for cooler mornings and evenings at the foot of Cangshan Mountain; UV radiation around the lake. 1. **Super strong sunscreen is a must-have; bring mosquito repellent if there are many mosquitoes in the mountains.** 2. **Saving on transportation:** Students with student IDs get half-price tickets on shuttle buses and at scenic spots; cycling around Erhai Lake offers the best value, allowing you to explore freely by electric bike all day. 3. **Avoiding pitfalls:** Street food in Dali Old Town is overpriced; locals go to the markets outside the city. For barbecue, go directly to small shops in villages for half-price deals. 4. **Accommodation tips:** Share a hostel bed with 2-4 people to significantly reduce the cost per person and stay within a budget of 2000 RMB.

Found a treasure, Midu Hengzhong Spring Hotel is amazing~ 🌸 hot spring soaking 🌸 perfect for families. This is my third stay, and I discover new surprises every time. I really love staying here! 💁 Service 🔸 The front desk is very friendly, check-in is quick, and they even gave me snow cream when I checked out haha~ 🔸 The hotel also has a parking lot available, which is convenient for friends driving to Midu! 🔸 There’s also a food delivery robot, so you don’t have to go downstairs to pick up takeout. It’s really convenient. 🍃 Hotel features: 🌟 Hot spring soaking. The hot spring water is drawn from 2,780 meters deep, high-quality deep freshwater with excellent water quality. 🌟 The rooms are very spacious. Every time I stay, I feel the space is especially wide and the comfort is top-notch. 🌟 The hotel’s KTV and game room are highlights too. It’s especially relaxing to come here with friends to unwind. 🌟 Large indoor hot spring swimming pool, perfect for swimming all year round, making it a great vacation spot. I always feel reluctant to leave. I really wish time would slow down so I can enjoy the peace and comfort here longer. I can’t wait to plan my next stay! Thanks to Midu Hengzhong Spring Hotel for the wonderful memories. Looking forward to seeing you again!

📍Location: Midu County, Dali Bai Autonomous Prefecture ⏰Time: Annually during the Spring Festival (peaking around the 15th day of the first lunar month) ✨Festival Highlights 1. Lantern Parade: The streets and alleys across towns and villages are adorned with colorful lanterns while parade groups perform along the routes. Colorful umbrellas, vibrant lanterns, and lion dances weave together into a flowing river of colors, making it the most popular folk extravaganza in Western Yunnan. 2. Lantern Song and Dance Performances: Midu is known as the "Hometown of Chinese Folk Art (Lanterns)." Locals spontaneously form troupes to perform traditional lantern operas. The singing is rustic, lively, and brimming with local charm. 3. Ultimate Community Carnival: It's not just a show, but a massive collective celebration for the locals. People of all ages dress in vibrant traditional costumes, holding up colorful umbrellas and fans as they join the procession. The entire town is immersed in a jubilant and festive atmosphere. 💡Tips for the Best Experience · Best Time to Visit: From the 1st to the 15th day of the first lunar month. The festivities are most concentrated in the Midu county seat and Wensheng Street in Mizhi. · Outfit Suggestions: Wear bright-colored clothing to match the lively lanterns and colorful umbrellas for stunning, picture-perfect photos. · Nearby Attractions: Take a detour to visit the Nanzhao Iron Pillar Temple to experience the fascinating blend of a thousand-year-old historical site and bustling folk traditions.

📍 Location: Miaoqian Village, Taihua Township, Midu County, Dali Bai Autonomous Prefecture 🎫 Admission: Free ⏰ Recommended Visit Duration: 1 hour ✨ Attraction Overview The Nanzhao Iron Pillar Temple is a Major Historical and Cultural Site Protected at the National Level. The centerpiece, the Nanzhao Iron Pillar, was cast during the Nanzhao period of the Tang Dynasty and boasts a history of over a millennium. As one of the few surviving Nanzhao structures and metal-casting relics in China, it is hailed as the "Number One Iron Pillar of Nanzhao." 📌 Key Highlights 1. Nanzhao Iron Pillar: Standing over 3 meters tall, the pillar features cast inscriptions and twin-dragon motifs. It serves as an invaluable artifact for studying the history, metallurgy, and religious culture of the Nanzhao Kingdom. 2. Ancient Temple Architecture: The temple complex preserves colorful paintings and wood carvings from the Ming and Qing Dynasties, alongside traditional architectural styles typical of western Yunnan. The main hall, adorned with a plaque reading "Awe-Inspiring Kunmi," exudes a solemn and majestic aura. 3. Ancient Trees and Timeless Charm: Towering ancient trees shade the temple grounds. Sunlight filtering through the canopy dances upon the thousand-year-old pillar and historic temple, creating a rustic and tranquil atmosphere. 💡 Travel Tips · The iron pillar is a precious cultural relic; please refrain from touching or climbing it during your visit. · You can easily combine this visit with the Midu Tiansheng Bridge and the Wensheng Street Ancient Post Road in Mizhi for a fulfilling one-day itinerary. · Certain sections within the temple are protected areas. Please observe visiting guidelines and help preserve the ancient structures and artifacts.

Hidden within the valleys of Midu in Dali, Tiansheng Bridge is a masterpiece carved by nature's flowing waters over millions of years. It is a hidden gem highly praised by the famous writer Guo Moruo as "an unparalleled realm on earth, the greatest bridge in the human world." 🌿 Natural Wonders of Tiansheng Bridge The confronting cliffs on the east and west form a natural gateway. As Wanhua Creek flows through the valley, a colossal boulder stretches across it, forming this naturally created stone bridge. Spanning 62.4 meters in total length, standing 56 meters high, and with a deck width of 8.2 meters, it lies like a giant archway over the canyon. The intertwining textures of brown, black, and gray on the rock faces are the timeless marks left by flowing water and time. On moonlit nights, the moonlight shines through the bridge's arch and cascades into the valley, creating "Moon Hanging over the Heavenly Bridge," one of the ten ancient scenic spots of Midu. On sunny days, sunlight pierces through the stone arch, casting dappled shadows on the valley floor. The wind sweeping through the bridge, carrying the fresh scent of vegetation and streams, creates the most captivating echo in the canyon. 🏯 Ancient Cultural Heritage on the Cliffs Following the winding stone steps upward, you'll discover pavilions and halls dating back to the Ming Dynasty tucked away among the cliffs. These white-walled, blue-tiled structures are nestled into the lush mountainsides. Their swept-back eaves reflect the deep shade of the green trees, while the red walls and gray roofs beautifully contrast with the rugged rocks, perfectly blending the elegance of western Yunnan's ancient architecture with the natural grace of the wilderness. This is a spiritual sanctuary for locals and a cherished retreat for scholars. Over thousands of years, burning incense and beautiful poetry have enriched this stone bridge with a profound cultural significance. 🌬️ A Relaxing Escape Hidden in the Canyon The walking trail hugs the cliffside, flanked by steep mountain rocks on one side and the lush greenery of the deep valley on the other. The path is lined with dense, vibrant trees and the soothing sounds of a babbling brook. When tired of walking, you can rest by the cliff's edge, listening to the wind rustling through the treetops and the water trickling through the stone crevices. The hustle and bustle of the city are effortlessly filtered out by the canyon's tranquility. Legend has it that Tiansheng Bridge is the incarnation of a couple who fought against evil forces, adding a touch of romance to this stunning landscape. During the temple fair on the 15th day of the second lunar month, traditional flower lantern operas and the lively local vibe bring a vibrant warmth to the ancient stone bridge.

It felt like we stepped into a fairytale… ✨ Hidden at the foot of Cangshan Mountain lies a place that doesn’t feel real Mushi Succulent Cloud Garden 🌿 A “succulent fairy castle” Wooden houses, stone bridges… covered in living greens Like walking inside a Studio Ghibli dream 🏡 Then we slowed things down… 🚲 Cycling along the peaceful shores of Erhai Lake Mountains on one side, lake on the other Wind in your face… and nothing else matters 🌊 3 days in Dali, but the feeling stays forever 🤍 #Dali #YunnanTravel #ErhaiLake #Cangshan #FairytalePlace #StudioGhibliVibes #ChinaTrip #TravelChina #Wanderlust #NatureLovers #FYP #ForYou

Coming to Dali for May Day? Stop crowding the Old Town and the popular Erhai Lake! Most tourists flock to the popular spots, making the experience less enjoyable. Today, we share 4 little-known mountain hideaways in Dali that only locals know about. These places are less commercialized, completely free, and perfectly timed for the golden viewing season of blooming azaleas and flooded terraced fields during May Day. The scenery is stunning, and lazy travelers can simply follow this itinerary. 1. Shaxi Ancient Town The only remaining original ecological ancient market on the Tea Horse Road, preserving the simple charm of Dali from twenty years ago. ✨ May Day Highlights: Morning mist at Yujin Bridge, vast green rice fields, authentic horse caravan market Travel Tips: Stroll along the old cobblestone street, visit the ancient theater stage and Pioneer Bookstore, and consider staying overnight to experience the peaceful night in the ancient town away from the hustle and bustle. 🎫 Admission: Free ⏱ Duration: 3-4 hours 🚗 Driving Time: About 2.5 hours from Dali city by car 2. Nuodeng Ancient Village A thousand-year-old Bai ethnic village featured in "A Bite of China," built along the mountain with a strong local vibe. ✨ May Day Highlights: Experience the ancient salt wells, morning mist at Bijiang Taiji Bay, and the orderly Ming and Qing dynasty ancient houses Must-Try Food: Authentic Nuodeng ham and native chicken pot, rich in flavor and unique to the area 🎫 Admission: Free ⏱ Duration: 3 hours, gentle mountain roads suitable for all ages 🚗 Driving Time: About 2 hours from Shaxi by car, with many winding mountain roads 3. Zhuomulang Village A Huayao Yi ethnic village hidden deep in Weishan, rarely visited by tour groups, fully original and authentic. ✨ May Day Highlights: Mirror-like flooded terraced fields, traditional Yi earth houses, brightly colored ethnic embroidered clothing Experience: Simple and pure local customs, no over-commercialization, enjoy exclusive mountain and rural scenery, peaceful and relaxing 🎫 Admission: Free 🚗 Driving Time: About 1.5 hours from Nuodeng by car 4. Midu Taiji Peak A May Day light hiking treasure in Dali, where the high mountain azalea sea blooms as expected. ✨ May Day Highlights: Wild azaleas covering the mountains, ancient stone temple in the clouds, panoramic views of mountains and sea of clouds from the summit Tips: The altitude is high with significant temperature differences between day and night, remember to dress in layers 🎫 Admission: Free, easy hiking 🚗 Driving Time: About 1 hour from Weishan county by car 4-Day May Day Itinerary in Dali (Relaxed pace, no rushing or special forces) Day 1: Early morning off-peak visit to Dali Old Town → Head to Shaxi Ancient Town, stay overnight in Shaxi Day 2: Leisurely walk through Shaxi rice fields → Head to Nuodeng Ancient Village, watch the mountain sunset Day 3: Early morning visit to Nuodeng Taiji Bay mist → Explore Zhuomulang Yi village terraced fields, stay overnight in Weishan Day 4: Hike to Taiji Peak to enjoy the azalea sea → Return trip wrap-up Exclusive May Day Travel Tips to Avoid Pitfalls 1. All four hidden spots are free of charge, easily avoiding 90% of tourists for a full experience 2. Many attractions are in mountainous areas with winding roads, drive slowly and carefully 3. Strong UV rays on the plateau, remember daily sun protection and carry a light jacket 4. May Day is peak season for tourism, accommodations are tight, book in advance to avoid last-minute price hikes or no availability 5. Mountain weather is changeable, carry a foldable umbrella for sudden weather changes Escape the noisy crowds and head to Dali’s deep mountain ancient villages Feel the fresh mountain breeze and see a sea of flowers and mist This is the most comfortable and healing way to travel during May Day✨

Nanjian is known as the hometown of Tiao Cai (a local vegetable dish). There aren't many attractions here except for the Earth Forest, and the others are quite far from the county seat. The county seat is a very new and clean place, suitable for northern Chinese to come for health and wellness. To the north is Midu County, which has the ancient town of Mizhi, conveniently located between Nanjian and Midu, about thirty kilometers from each side. It's on the way from Nanjian and very convenient for sightseeing. Mizhi Ancient Town was also born because of the Ancient Tea Horse Road. The old street paved with stone slabs running north to south, along with the shops and residences on both sides, have been renovated to restore the look of the Tea Horse Road. This place is also considered the hometown of the song "Xiao He Tang Shui" (Little River Flows), and the Xiao He Tang Shui Scenic Area built accordingly is located on the southern edge of the ancient town, offering excellent scenery. Walking along the trail by the little river is a very pleasant experience, as if stepping into a peach blossom land where nature and countryside blend harmoniously. The former residence of Yin Yigong is in the town, featuring exhibitions introducing his life and the background story of creating "Xiao He Tang Shui." He is regarded as a local pride. Traveling is not just about sightseeing; after returning, I researched the creation of "Xiao He Tang Shui" and found it involves an unresolved case. The song has a local folk song background, fitting well with the fusion characteristics of the two folk songs "Fang Yang Diao" and "Yue Liang Chu Lai Liang Wang Wang." It was also processed and arranged by underground workers like Yin Yigong and Gaoliang, and performed by the Nanfeng Choir of Yunnan University. After the people involved have passed away, the disputes of later generations are merely about fame and fortune. They are all the pride of Yunnan, so let's just remember the beauty. The most famous site in Midu County is the Nanzhao Iron Pillar Temple, the only national cultural protection unit in the entire county. It is about five kilometers west of Midu County seat and more than thirty kilometers from Mizhi Ancient Town. The Nanzhao Iron Pillar enshrined inside is a witness to Yunnan's history, dating back more than 1,100 years. The temple has been rebuilt several times, but the iron pillar has always remained. There is a guard at the entrance charging five yuan; it is definitely worth a visit. Arrived at the county seat for lunch at noon, then visited the Midu Museum. The museum is not large, and here I also saw an introduction to the Nanzhao Iron Pillar and replicas. In front of the museum is a garden square, surrounded by the Confucian Temple and Dongyue Temple. The Confucian Temple still has the main hall and some buildings remaining and now serves as the Midu Library. The Midu itinerary ends here, and the next stop is Xiangyun County. A reminder: to the west of Midu County is Weishan County, which has the ancient city of Weishan. I drove there in 2018; it’s a place off the beaten path, so don’t miss it if you come by. Midu · Dali Bai Autonomous Prefecture

In the eastern valley of Midu County, Dali Prefecture, Yunnan Province, two stone cliffs face each other from east to west, resembling a gate between two mountains. The Wanhua Stream flows beneath, and a huge boulder spans across the cliffs like a city gate, forming a natural stone bridge. On March 17, 2026, we visited this national AAAA scenic area. After parking, we purchased tickets (20 yuan per person for those outside Dali Prefecture, half price for ages 60-70) and entered the scenic area, slowly ascending the left side stone steps. The Natural Bridge is not only famous for its steep and spectacular features but also combines natural scenery with cultural relics— Along the ascent, Taoist sites such as the Laojun Hall, Earth Mother Hall, Medicine King Hall, and God of Wealth Hall are built along the mountain and unfold one after another; On the descent, ancient buildings with flying eaves and upturned corners like the Jade Emperor Hall, Three Teachings Hall, Guanyin Hall, and Crown Prince Pavilion stand against the stone cliffs; Inside the scenic area, cliff inscriptions can be touched and read, with characters either vigorous or gentle, engraving the elegance of the Tang and Song dynasties into the rock... At the valley entrance, a huge natural stone arch bridge spans dramatically between the opposing cliffs— This is the Natural Bridge: 62.4 meters long, 8.2 meters wide on the bridge surface, and 56 meters high. The giant stone resembles a long rainbow drinking the ravine. Looking up, sunlight shines through the bridge hole, and light and shadow flow between the rock walls...

In spring, the Donggu Pear Orchard in Midu, Yunnan welcomes a breathtaking moment as tens of thousands of pear blossoms compete to bloom. On the rolling hills, clusters of pear flowers cover the branches—some are about to bloom, like shy young girls; others are in full bloom like snow, showcasing pure beauty. The petals are as thin as cicada wings, glowing faintly under the sunlight and emitting an elegant fragrance, making one feel as if they are in a dreamlike realm. Strolling through the pear orchard, visitors can fully enjoy this tranquility and beauty, experience the magical gifts of nature, and achieve complete relaxation. Every corner here is filled with poetry, and every snapshot taken is a stunning masterpiece. Such a romantic and enchanting vast pear orchard is waiting for your arrival. Come to Donggu Pear Orchard in Midu, Yunnan, for a romantic date with the pear blossoms and create your own beautiful spring memories!

We always thought the romance of Dali was only hidden between Erhai Lake and Cangshan Mountain, until we accidentally wandered into the ordinary alleys of Hongyan Town in Midu, only to discover the stunning Jade Emperor Pavilion standing behind the blue tiles and white walls—its flying eaves spread like bird wings, carved beams flowing like cloud patterns, even the door rings hold the moonlight from three hundred years ago. There are no crowds of tourists here, only the rustling sound of the ancient cypress trees swayed by the passing breeze, as if you can hear the breath of Ming Dynasty craftsmen chiseling wood and stone. 🏯 Architectural Code Through Time and Space · The triple-eaved Xieshan roof resembles a phoenix spreading its wings, with 24 sets of dougong brackets hiding mechanical secrets, standing firm after seven major earthquakes · Over 200 painted panels between the beams tell the story of "Investiture of the Gods," with cinnabar and gold leaf still vivid after years of wind and rain · The coffered ceiling inside spirals upward, and looking up you can see the twenty-eight lunar mansions shifting in the light and shadow 📍 Exploration Guide · Ready to Go [Location] Gucheng Village, Hongyan Town, Midu County, Dali Prefecture (15 minutes by car from the county seat) [Admission] Free entry (closed every Monday for maintenance) [Best Time to Visit] 8-10 AM (when the light mist makes it look like an ink painting), in the evening you might hear villagers singing Midu mountain songs [Hidden Experience] Walk around to the ancient stage behind the pavilion to watch elders play and sing "Top Ten Sisters" with the sanxian lute, instantly transporting you back to the Ancient Tea Horse Road 🚌 Recommended In-Depth Itinerary Day 1: Dali Ancient Town → 1-hour self-drive to Hongyan Town → Explore Jade Emperor Pavilion → Lunch with "Hongyan Lamb Hotpot" → Afternoon stroll on Ming and Qing dynasty streets to buy tie-dye fabric → Overnight at a farmhouse to listen to rain and watch stars Day 2: Climb Qinglong Mountain behind the pavilion for a panoramic view of the countryside → Visit Yi embroidery workshop → On the way back, stop at Mizhi Ancient Town for a tofu feast 💡 Local Insider Tips 1. Photographers, bring a wide-angle lens! The 300-year-old ancient locust tree in front of the pavilion perfectly complements the architecture 2. Flash photography is prohibited inside the hall; use a reflector to illuminate details instead 3. On the 15th day of the first lunar month, there is a traditional temple fair where you can watch the intangible cultural heritage "Lantern Dance" performance 4. Nearby farmers sell homemade walnut milk and plum wine, prices are half those in tourist areas 5. On rainy days, the flying eaves reflected on the bluestone pavement create a natural ink painting When the sunset gilds the glazed tiles and the copper bells at the eaves ring softly in the wind, you will understand why the Bai people regard this as the "sacred hall connecting heaven and earth." There is no commercial noise here, only the calmness accumulated by time—perhaps true travel is stepping into such a corner, letting your heartbeat gradually synchronize with the pulse of ancient architecture.

Wutai Grand Temple, Midu County, Dali Bai Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan Province Midu County is a historic cultural city with rich cultural heritage and natural landscapes, including the Wutai Grand Temple. Wutai Grand Temple is an ancient architectural complex located on Wutai Road in Midu County. It is a Buddhist temple and one of the nationally protected key cultural relics. The temple was originally built during the Tang Dynasty and has undergone multiple reconstructions and renovations to form its current scale. The temple covers an area of about 6,000 square meters, with a building area of approximately 2,000 square meters. The architectural style inside the temple is unique and exquisitely decorated, especially the roof decorations, which are very magnificent, featuring extensive colorful paintings and carvings that fully showcase the superb craftsmanship of ancient artisans. In addition to the architecture itself, the lush greenery surrounding the temple is also very rich, with an ancient ginkgo tree that leaves a deep impression. Every autumn, the leaves of the ginkgo tree turn golden yellow, creating a beautiful scene in harmony with the ancient buildings. Moreover, Wutai Grand Temple is a very suitable place for visiting. Every summer, a "summer camp" event is held here, attracting many tourists. At the same time, many monks and believers live and reside in the temple, providing visitors with an experience of Buddhist culture and life.

👉This is my third time in Dali, so this time I chose some spots I haven't been to before. Save this and take your time to check it out. · ✅️ Two-day Dali itinerary for your reference: Day 1 👉 Erhai Lake cycling around the lake - Dali Ancient Town or Xizhou Ancient Town - Chongsheng Temple and Three Pagodas Day 2 👉 Xingsheng Bridge - Yunxiang Mountain - Tuanshan Park - Cang'er Avenue · 1️⃣ Erhai Lake cycling: The most beautiful kilometer to cycle around Erhai Lake. The scenery by the lake is great and worth experiencing. 2️⃣ Dali Ancient Town: If you like lively places, go early to explore. During holidays, it gets crowded with people and cars, causing traffic jams, so be cautious. Xizhou Ancient Town is a bit more off the beaten path. 3️⃣ Chongsheng Temple and Three Pagodas: A 5A scenic area, very large. The sightseeing shuttle bus takes you directly to the main hall, Nine-Dragon Bathing Buddha, Copper Guanyin Hall, Heavenly King Hall, Mountain Gate, Gathering Shadow Pool, Three Pagodas, and Three Pagodas Reflection Park. For reference only. 4️⃣ Xingsheng Bridge: Drive 🚗 and navigate to Erhe Forest Park South Gate 1. This European-style bridge is called the "Seine River of Dali." 5️⃣ Yunxiang Mountain: A great spot to overlook Cangshan Mountain, Erhai Lake, Dali cityscape, and watch the sunset. You can try the Dali Road Extreme. The road up the mountain is all slopes, so definitely don’t cycle here. 6️⃣ Tuanshan Park: A hidden gem viewpoint loved by locals. Drive and park at the south gate, then hike up. The view from the top is excellent and worth visiting. 7️⃣ Cang'er Avenue: A very straight avenue in Dali leading directly to Erhai Lake. Navigate to the intersection of Cang'er Avenue and Hongsheng Road. It’s better to visit in the afternoon during winter for clearer views. · ✅️ Small tips: ▪️ Dali is still quite cold in winter, so bring a thick coat. ▪️ The sun is strong and UV rays are intense, so be sure to use sunscreen. ▪️ If you have extra time, Dali is perfect for a slow and leisurely visit. 4-5 days is not too much. ▪️ During peak season, you don’t have to stay by Erhai Lake. You can choose a guesthouse a bit further inside for better value. · 🌟 Feel free to discuss if you have questions. I’ll reply to everything I know 😎 ·

❤️ This is my second time in Dali, and this time I found a super off-the-beaten-path spot that only locals visit. It’s not far from the city center and has an excellent vantage point to overlook the entire Erhai Lake—truly a real-life version of "The Truman Show." 🏔 Take a taxi directly to the mountaintop, where there is a 180-degree unobstructed viewing platform. It features pure white scenic installations, including the Anaya Chapel, the Mirror of the Sky, Roman columns, and the Gate of Happiness—perfect for photos. Since it’s not well-known, there aren’t many people. Behind the installations is the blue Erhai Lake. Viewing Erhai and the surrounding cityscape from a drone’s perspective—who gets it? It’s breathtakingly beautiful. 📍 Name: Tuanshan Park 🎫 Admission: Free 🌟 Tips for visiting: ✔️ You need to make a purchase at the café to enter the white scenic area; any coffee or drink will do. ✔️ Be sure to visit on a sunny day with clear skies for the best visibility and stunning views of Erhai Lake. ✔️ Avoid shooting portraits at noon when the sun is overhead; aim for before 9 AM or between 3-4 PM for better angled light. 💫 How to get there: 🚗 By car or taxi, navigate to "Chaiwu Café" to drive directly to the mountaintop. 🏃🏻‍♀️ On foot, enter from the north gate of Erhai Park and take the long staircase—it’s just a 10-minute walk to the top.

🗺️🗺️Itinerary Day 1: Changshui International Airport→Kunming Hengfu Hotel (Changshui International Airport Branch) Day 2: Kunming Railway Station→Dali Railway Station→Cangshan National Geopark Cangshan Cableway→Zhonghe Temple→Yudai Cloud Path→Halal Food Street→Dali Chunshan Sky City Inn Day 3: Shilong Ecological Courtyard→Shaxi Ancient Town→Xiyuan No. 2 Courtyard Inn Day 4: Yujin Bridge→Xiang 12 Western Restaurant→Bailongtan→Xunyun Villa→Kairui E-sports Smart Hotel (High-speed Railway Station Erhai Park Branch) Day 5: Midu Day 6: Baiziguo Day 7: Qiuyuan Coffee CAFE→Chongyi Village→Erhai Moon Wetland Park→Hou Siniang Eryuan Yousuo Specialty Dishes→Yalong Bay Hotel (Dali High-speed Railway Station Erhai Park Branch) Day 8: Xizhou→Linden Center Republic of China Garden Restaurant (Baocheng Mansion Branch)→Dali Erhai Ecological Corridor→Dali Ancient City→Yalong Bay Hotel (Dali High-speed Railway Station Erhai Park Branch) Day 9: Dali Railway Station→Kunming Railway Station→Yunnan Nationalities Museum→Haigeng Park→Yunnan Nationalities Village→Kunming Rehabilitation Center Guesthouse Day 10: Changshui International Airport

Mizhi Town Midu County, Dali Bai Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan Province Mizhi Town is located in the southwest of Midu County, Dali Bai Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan Province. It borders Juli Town to the east, Nanjian Town of Nanjian Yi Autonomous County to the south, Weishan Yi and Hui Autonomous County to the west, and Yinjie Town to the north. It is 30 km from the county seat and has a total area of 132.05 square kilometers. As of the end of 2019, Mizhi Town had a registered population of 16,473. History: In the second year of the Yuanfeng era of the Western Han Dynasty (109 BC), after "Emperor Wu of Han had affairs with the southwestern barbarians," the Han people from the inland moved here to settle. During the Nanzhao period of the Tang Dynasty, Mizhi was a must-pass place on the "Kainan Ancient Post Road" (the Ancient Tea Horse Road) in western Yunnan. During the Ming and Qing Dynasties, it was the 15th mile of Zhaozhou; after Midu County was established, it belonged to Chengnan 2 Township. In the 20th year of the Republic of China (1931), it was the fifth district. On February 1, 1940, Mizhi Township was established. History and culture: Intangible cultural heritage Mizhi Town is the birthplace of the world-famous song "Xiao He Tang Shui" (Small River Flows), the cradle of Midu folk songs and lantern culture, which are national intangible cultural heritage, and one of the birthplaces and gathering areas of national intangible cultural heritage (lantern folk songs). It is known as the "Hometown of Chinese Lantern Art." During the Lantern Festival on the 15th day of the first lunar month every year, more than 30 lantern performance teams with more than 5,000 people in Mizhi Town perform cultural programs such as "Double Dragons Playing with a Pearl," "Double Lions Dancing," "Phoenix Leading a Kylin," "Song and Dance Performance," and "Beauty Rowing." Scenic spots: Mizhi Town has provincial-level scenic spots such as Taiji Mountain, Mizhi Temple, Wensheng Street, a national historical and cultural village, the former residence of Yin Yigong, Osmanthus Ke, and Pearl Spring. Local specialties: Mizhi Town has local specialties such as Mizhi tofu, red snow pear, wild edible mushrooms, morel mushrooms, honey, and Ligusticum wallichii.

Midu County is located in the western part of Yunnan Province, China, in the southeastern part of Dali Bai Autonomous Prefecture. It is a region with a long history and rich culture. Here is some basic information about Midu: · Geography and Area: Midu County covers an area of 1,523 square kilometers and is located in the southeastern part of Dali Prefecture in the western Yunnan Plateau. It borders Xiangyun and Nanhua counties to the east, Jingdong and Nanjian counties to the south, Weishan County to the west, and Dali City to the north. · Population and Ethnic Groups: As of 2023, Midu County has a total population of approximately 320,000, with 6 towns and 2 townships. It is home to 23 ethnic groups, including Han, Yi, Bai, Hui, and Wa, with ethnic minorities accounting for 11.27% of the total population. · History and Culture: Midu has a long history and is one of the cradles of human civilization. It was inhabited by early humans as far back as the Paleolithic era. Midu was the ancient capital of the Bai Kingdom and is one of Yunnan Province's 59 revolutionary old districts. It is known as the "Hometown of Lanterns," "Famous Cultural City," and "Hometown of Folk Songs." Midu folk songs and lantern opera are national intangible cultural heritage, with famous songs like "Xiao He Tang Shui," "Shi Da Jie," "Xiu He Bao," and "Midu Mountain Song" gaining international recognition. · Natural Scenery and Climate: Midu boasts beautiful scenery and a pleasant climate, belonging to the mid-subtropical monsoon climate zone. The annual average temperature is 17.3°C, and the average annual rainfall is 824.4 mm. It is known for its mild winters and cool summers, earning the reputation of "weather like March all year round, flowers blooming in all seasons." · Economy and Resources: Midu has fertile land and abundant resources. Its agriculture produces rice, corn, wheat, and economic crops like tobacco, vegetables, and fruits. The mineral resources, especially in Jinbaoshan and Jiudingshan, are rich, with Jinbaoshan's platinum-palladium metal reserves reaching 45 tons, making it a large-scale mine. · Transportation: Midu, historically known as the "throat of the six zhaos," is a major transportation hub leading to western Yunnan and Southeast Asia.

The Mizhi Scenic Area is located in Midu County, Dali Prefecture. We traveled 35 km from Nanjian to the north along the Xianglin Highway to reach the area. Mizhi Town is famous for its tofu feast, where all the dishes are made with tofu as the main or secondary ingredient, and are delicious and fragrant. We ate a tofu feast at the "No. 1 Tofu Feast" restaurant, and were full of energy as we looked around. The Huadeng Square in Mizhi Town is paved with bluestone, and the Mizhi Temple, built in the early years of the Qianlong period of the Qing Dynasty (1736), is located on the edge of the square. The temple contains buildings such as the Guansheng Hall and the Yuhuang Pavilion, and a white jade ancient tea tree planted when the temple was built is still in full bloom today. The Fifth District Office of the Republic of China in Midu County is now a small exhibition hall, introducing the district and its subordinate towns. Interestingly, a district office had only one district chief and seven staff members, while the subordinate towns had only three staff members, which is very backward compared to today. Mizhi Town has a street called Wensheng Street, which is an ancient post road. At the entrance of the street is the Tuzu Temple, which has a history of thousands of years, and the Kuixing Pavilion, which has withstood hundreds of years of wind and rain. Along the street, you can feel the ancient customs and the changes of the times. We spent a few dozen minutes visiting the former residence of Yin Yigong. This political worker of the Communist Party did an amazing thing by organizing and creating the folk song "Xiaohuangtangshui", which was sung from Midu to the international music stage. At the end of Wensheng Street is the Pearl Spring in the Mizhi Scenic Area, where a square stone well on the ground is filled with bubbles that look like strings of crystal-clear pearls, hence the name. The old tree in front of the Pearl Spring is called the Wangxiang Tree, and the ancient bridge on the ancient post road, the Phoenix Bridge, is one of the most famous ancient bridges on the ancient post road. This tree and this bridge have witnessed countless historical stories and the hardships and tears of many people, and now they are watching people live a happy life.

On the edge of the bustling city, Tuanshan Park is like a quiet paradise. As you step inside, the winding paths are like ribbons weaving through the lush forest. Sunlight filters through the leaves, casting dappled shadows like a dreamlike mosaic of gold. Here, flowers bloom in abundance, and the seasons paint a colorful picture. In spring, cherry blossoms fall like snow; in summer, the moonlit lotus pond is refreshing; in autumn, the maple leaves burn like fire; in winter, the plum blossoms emit a subtle fragrance. Tuanshan Park is not only a showcase of nature but also a haven for the soul. Among the pavilions and towers, listen to the wind, the birds, and the rustling leaves, creating a harmonious symphony of nature. Let your weary soul find peace and comfort here, and enjoy the gentle caress of time.

It's a great place to stroll around that only locals know about. It's not crowded and the scenery is beautiful. Who would have thought that there would be a Chinese garden on the top of the mountain? 🌲 . You can search for Tuan Mountain Park (North Gate) on the map 🔍 There is a parking lot 🚗, enter the park and navigate to 'Camellia Garden' . Take photos along the way, maple leaves, autumn osmanthus, pavilions Then you will see the sign in p10, go straight ahead and you will arrive . After taking photos, you can cross the road to Erhai Park to see seagulls! Go! 🏠: Tuan Mountain Park

Dali Wuben Village, a poetic and picturesque beautiful village. In the warm spring of March, the peach blossoms and rapeseed flowers of Wuben Village bloom successively over a thousand acres, making it a great place for flower enthusiasts! Originally attracted by the scent of the peach blossoms, I found myself even more captivated by the endless beauty of the rapeseed flowers. Wuben Village belongs to Julei Town, Midu County, Dali. The locals pronounce Julei as 'zuǒ' rather than 'jū'. 'Ju' means a ridge, and 'lei' means large. The name Julei Town means: a village under a large mountain ridge, which was written as Zuo Li in ancient times and later evolved into Julei. When searching for the best places to appreciate flowers in Dali during spring, 'Wuben Village' and its peach blossoms frequently caught my eye. Looking at the clouds and mist swirling above Wuben Village, and the pretty pink peach blossoms on the surrounding terraces, it's like a natural beauty straight out of a poem or a distant land, truly enviable. It is understood that 'Wuben Village' was originally named 'A Wu Bai', which in the Yi language means 'a place with many tadpoles'. Later, due to the village's hidden and misty appearance throughout the year, it was renamed 'Wuben Village'. Wuben Village boasts clear mountains, beautiful waters, fertile land, dense vegetation, moist air, and a pleasant climate. ✅ In March, the peach blossoms bloom, and the thousand acres of peach blossoms in Wuben Village also bloom successively, competing in beauty, together with the mountains and waters of Wuben Village, forming a beautiful watercolor painting, giving the impression of a charming mountain village like a paradise on earth. ✅ At the beginning of March, I drove to explore the beautiful countryside of Wuben, seeking and smelling the fragrance of flowers, and getting up close and personal with the peach and rapeseed flowers. While cultivating my sentiments through flower appreciation, I used my camera to record the beauty of spring here. ✅ The 6-kilometer road from Julei Town, Midu, Dali to Wuben Village has many winding mountain roads that require cautious driving. Wuben Village has two parking lots, with the higher one being larger and offering a panoramic view of Wuben Village, while the smaller one by the lower water pond is smaller. ✅ We arrived at Wuben Village at the beginning of March for a flower appreciation trip. We were originally attracted by the thousand acres of peach blossoms here, but the first thing that caught our eye was the large expanse of terraced rapeseed flowers in front of Wuben Village. The rapeseed flowers of Wuben Village, whether viewed from afar or up close, are very beautiful. The rapeseed flowers on the terraces are scattered in an orderly manner, with curved rapeseed ridges, and behind them, the high village of Wuben and the peach blossoms on the hillside, 'two flowers mismatched' create an endlessly beautiful scenery. ✅ Wuben Village tourist area, in previous years around International Women's Day, would organize a Peach Blossom Cultural Festival. As of early March this year, there has been no news about this, and it is unknown whether there will be a Peach Blossom Cultural Festival this year? ✅ We arrived at Wuben Village for flower appreciation at the beginning of March, and from the on-site tour, we found that this year's peach blossoms only bloomed in a few areas, with most of the hillside peach blossoms yet to bloom. We originally came for the beautiful scenery of the thousand acres of peach blossoms in Wuben Village, but what greeted us were sporadic peach blossoms in bloom. However, the rapeseed flowers here are also quite nice. Going on a flower appreciation trip with a relaxed attitude will be more relaxing and enjoyable. After all, it's a flower appreciation journey, and any gain is satisfying! 🗺️Address and Transportation: 📌 Address: Wuben Natural Village, Julei Village, Julei Town, Midu County, Dali. 🚗 Transportation: Wuben Village is 6 kilometers from Julei Town, Julei Town is 20 kilometers from Midu County, and Midu County is 60 kilometers from Dali Railway Station. You can navigate and drive yourself or hire a car to Wuben Village. 📝Practical Tips: · Wuben Village tourist area is open for free, with parking lots that are also free of charge. · The duration of flower appreciation in Wuben Village is about half a day. Wuben Village has local specialty foods that can be processed and prepared according to your needs. · The peach blossom season in Wuben Village lasts for about 20 days, with the most flowers around International Women's Day. · It's the perfect time to admire the rapeseed flowers in Wuben Village. The beautiful scenery of a thousand acres of peach blossoms in full bloom is expected around mid-March. · Wuben Village Dragon Tree Forest, with its straight and tall dragon trees, is very suitable for summer leisure. Next to the Dragon Tree Forest is the Mist Dew Spring, which has very good water quality. Villagers often cook there, enjoying leisurely moments. · Wubo Pond covers more than 20 acres and is the 'heart' of Wuben Village, or you could say the 'eye' of Wuben. The water is perennial, never drying up, providing irrigation for the villagers' production and also playing a role in climate regulation. It is the 'spiritual essence' of Wuben Village. If you like the content of this article, please give it a like! I am a travel expert, travel photographer, and homestay manager. Follow the travel expert for a trip without violations, exploring cities and landscapes.

Midu County is an hour and a half drive from Dali and was one of the important nodes on the ancient Tea Horse Road. Compared with the pastoral scenery and comfortable atmosphere of Shaxi Ancient Town, Midu is ancient and quiet: 🟡Xiaohe Tangshui Scenic Area: As the birthplace of the world-famous song Xiaohe Tangshui, this scenic area is known as the 'Xiaohe Tangshui Nostalgia Land'. Although the artificial traces of the scenic area are a bit heavy, the several attractions are all next to each other. It's okay to walk around and feel the small bridge and flowing water. You can also see local uncles and aunts playing mahjong and dancing, which is quite interesting. 🟡Pearl Spring: Pearl Spring is located at the entrance of the Xiaohe Tangshui Scenic Area. The spring water is very clear, and bubbles like pearls emerge from the water, hence the name Pearl Spring. 🟡Wensheng Street: An important post station on the Tea Horse Road, the street is full of shops and past horse shops. The large horse shops can accommodate horse teams with hundreds of horses. You can go to the Horse Team Culture Museum to watch a documentary to better understand the history of Wensheng Street and the horse team culture. 🟡Mizhi Temple: Founded in the early years of the Qianlong period of the Qing Dynasty, there is a very beautiful white tea tree in the courtyard. Stepping into Midu County gives you a feeling of traveling through a time tunnel. Walking along Wensheng Street, you can feel the echo of horseshoes in the long river of history: the streets are full of people, lanterns are fluttering in the wind, and the bosses are greeting the passing horse teams...

In the early winter of 2024, I came to Dali for the third time and started a different journey in Dali. The first stop was Midu County, located in the southern part of Dali Prefecture, about 60 kilometers from Xiaguan. It is one of the sources of the Red River, formerly known as 'the throat of the six Zhaos'. It is also a nationally renowned hometown of lanterns and folk songs. The famous lantern songs 'Midu Mountain Song', 'Embroidered Lotus Bag', 'Top Ten Sisters', and the folk song 'Little River Flowing', known as the Oriental Nocturne, all come from Midu. The arranger, lyricist, and organizer of 'Little River Flowing', Yin Yigong, was born in Wensheng Street, Mizhi Town, Midu County. We visited Yin Yigong's former residence to learn about the past and present of this work. The voice of the famous female singer echoed in our ears. Unfortunately, the original female singer is no longer there, and we can no longer enjoy the original folk song singing. Mizhi has also been a necessary route for the 'Kainan Ancient Post Road' in western Yunnan since the Tang and Nanzhao periods. It is an important post station on the ancient Tea Horse Road between Yunnan and Tibet. The Wensheng Street Tea Horse Ancient Post Road is more than 700 meters long. The so-called horse-leading stone is made of stone strips about one meter long and thirty centimeters wide, connected end to end, with irregular loose stones on both sides. It is a typical road paving style on the Tea Horse Road. Such a road is not for visual effects, but is very practical when transporting goods by horse. The old houses on both sides of the ancient street are many of the former horse team rest horse shop ruins. The mottled mud walls and tilted wooden pillars seem to be telling the bustling past of merchants gathering and horse teams shuttling. On the Yaxi River south of Wensheng Street is the Phoenix Bridge, which is one of the most famous ancient bridges on the Mizhi Tea Horse Road. It is exquisitely shaped and is a rare physical material for studying ancient bridge architecture and the history and culture of the Tea Horse Road. It is listed as the seventh batch of national key cultural relics protection units by the State Council. On the west side of the Phoenix Bridge deck is a 'four unlike' (neither lion, tiger, kirin, nor other animals) unicorn stone carving that has experienced wind and rain. It is 1.8 meters high and weighs a thousand catties. It is a water-controlling beast that Mizhi people use to subdue water disasters and bless peace. Next to the Phoenix Bridge is the Civilization Pavilion, originally named the God of Wealth Pavilion, which has a history of more than 1,400 years. The Tea Horse Road passes through it, perhaps it was the hope of the horse team in the past that they could bring them wealth after a long journey. The houses next to the Phoenix Bridge were once the filming location of the TV series 'Go to the Place with Wind'. Walking past the Phoenix Bridge, a square ancient well appears in front of you, named Pearl Spring. There are strings of white bubbles from time to time, like crystal clear pearls, gurgling out from the bottom of the well, creating a fascinating natural wonder. The different journey in Dali, to be slowly recorded later.

Midu's tourist attractions include: 1. National key cultural relics protection unit 'Nanzhao Iron Pillar' 2. Provincial key cultural relics protection unit 'Li Wenxue Yi Farmer Uprising Site' 3. Yongzeng Yuhuang Pavilion 4. Baiya City Ruins 5. Jindunwo Ruins 6. Taiji Peak in Mizhi Township These attractions are beautiful, with a pleasant climate, brilliant history and culture, rich cultural relics, and are good places for tourism.