[2025 Jianchuan Stay] Travel Guide for Shiran Mountain House Resort Hotel Shaxi Ancient Town (Updated May)

Dali, a popular tourist destination in Yunnan, combines the natural beauty of Cangshan Mountain and Erhai Lake, the cultural charm of the Bai ethnic group, and a laid-back lifestyle. Here’s a practical guide tailored to different needs, covering classic routes, off-the-beaten-path experiences, food and accommodation recommendations, and tips to avoid tourist traps: ### 1. Classic Must-Do Routes **Cycling Along Erhai Lake Ecological Corridor** - **Route:** Longkan Pier → Panxi S-Bend → Langqiao → Xizhou Ancient Town (approx. 20 km) - **Highlights:** Stop by the viral S-Bend and the Lonely Tree. Rent a bicycle (¥15/day) or e-bike (¥60/day) to explore the countryside away from commercialized areas. - **Tip:** Ride in the morning for soft lighting and great photos. Head to Shuanglang for sunset views. **Hiking in Cangshan Mountain’s Hidden Trails** - **Recommended Route:** Gantong Cableway → Jade Belt Cloud Path → Zhonghe Temple (11.5 km total) - **Highlights:** Hike along the mountainside for panoramic views of Erhai Lake, visit the viral succulent-filled Jizhao Temple, and explore Qingbi Stream. - **Cost:** Cableway one-way ¥85; hiking is free. - **Note:** Weather changes quickly—bring a windproof jacket and rain gear. Some trails are slippery, so wear grippy shoes. **Deep Dive into Shaxi Ancient Town** - **Transport:** Take a bus from Dali Bus Station to Shaxi (2.5 hrs, ¥35) - **Activities:** Sunrise at Yujin Bridge, ancient stage, Pioneer Bookstore, and hillside cafés. Visit the Bai ethnic market on Fridays. - **Stay:** Shaxi Absolute Art Inn or Shiran Mountain House (¥300–500/night). --- ### 2. Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences **Zhemo Mountain Wind Farm Night Views** - **Highlights:** Dubbed "Dali’s La La Land," it’s perfect for stargazing and city-light photography. - **Note:** The mountain road is rough—hire a car (round-trip ¥300). Bundle up in winter. **Nuodeng Ancient Village’s Salt-Well Culture** - **Activities:** Explore this 1,000-year-old Bai village, visit ancient salt wells and Yuhuang Pavilion, and try Nuodeng ham. - **Transport:** Bus from Dali to Yunlong County (3 hrs), then transfer to a minivan (20 mins). **Zhoucheng Tie-Dye Workshop** - **Recommended Studios:** Puzhen Tie-Dye Museum, Lanxu Traditional Tie-Dye - **Cost:** Workshop around ¥150/person—take home your handmade scarf or bandana. --- ### 3. Food: Hits & Misses **Must-Try List** - **Bai Cuisine:** Sour-spicy fish (with plum sauce), raw pork skin with dip, and *rushan* (grilled/fried milk fan). - **Snacks:** Zai Hui Shou cold chicken rice noodles, Yang’s *rushan*, pea jelly. - **Restaurants:** Duan Gongzi (wuxia-themed), Fly to the Moon (Western), Four Seasons Wild Mushroom Hotpot. **Pitfalls to Avoid** - Silver and tea shops in the ancient town often overcharge. - Viral restaurants have long queues—dine off-peak (after 2 PM or 8 PM). --- ### 4. Where to Stay **Dali Ancient Town** - **Best for:** Nightlife lovers. - **Hotels:** Dali Ancient Courtyard No. 1, Windflower Snow Moon Hotel (budget-friendly). **Shuanglang/Wase** - **Best for:** Couples seeking sea views and romance. - **Hotels:** Moonlight in the Pines (front-row lake views), Muxi Dali · Shanjian Café (Instagrammable). **Xizhou/Caicun** - **Best for:** Peaceful countryside vibes. - **B&Bs:** Jiyisi Country Art Hotel (Xizhou), Erhai Waking Up Seaview Inn (Caicun). --- ### 5. Tips to Avoid Scams **Transport** - Book Erhai Lake car tours via official platforms (~¥300/day)—avoid street touts. - Taxis are scarce in the ancient town; use DiDi or Gaode. **Shopping** - Buy flower cakes from trusted brands like Jia Hua or Pan Xiang Ji—street stalls may use low-quality petals. - Be cautious with jade purchases unless you’re an expert. **Seasonal Notes** - Rainy season (Jun–Aug): Carry an umbrella; some mountain roads may collapse. - Winter (Dec–Feb): Seagull season, but pack a down jacket for huge temperature swings. --- ### 6. Itinerary Suggestions **3 Days, 2 Nights (Classic)** - **D1:** Dali Ancient Town → Three Pagodas → Longkan Pier cycling - **D2:** Erhai West Route (Panxi S-Bend → Xizhou → Shuanglang) - **D3:** Cangshan hike → Jizhao Temple → Depart **5 Days, 4 Nights (In-Depth)** - Add Shaxi, Nuodeng, and Weishan Ancient Town for deeper Bai culture immersion. Dali’s charm lies in its *slow living*. Skip peak holidays, check the weather, and pack sunscreen, sunglasses, and moisturizer (high UV rays and dry air). Wander leisurely to savor its poetic "wind, flowers, snow, and moon."

Located on a gentle hillside just outside the heart of Shaxi Ancient Town, Shiran Shanshe Resort offers breathtaking panoramic views of idyllic countryside dotted with persimmon trees. The sweet fruit adds a delightful touch to the tranquil setting, while the town center is just a short 15-minute walk away, offering the perfect blend of peace and convenience. The exterior of the guesthouse showcases classic Bai architecture, while the interior boasts an eclectic mix of styles, featuring an open-plan American-style kitchen and French-style lattice windows. Adorning the walls are paintings and charming trinkets collected from around the world, each with its own unique story. Warm hues, soft lighting, and natural wood and stone accents create a welcoming and relaxing ambiance in the guest rooms. Thoughtful touches include handmade tea sets, local teas and snacks, and a Marshall speaker for an immersive audio experience while you get ready. When you prefer to stay in, relax on the veranda, soak up the sun, or unwind in the dining area while watching TV. The guesthouse is impeccably clean and boasts exceptional service. Breakfast offers both Western and Chinese options, which you can pre-order with the staff the day before. And don't miss the afternoon tea, featuring delicious homemade cakes prepared by the owner herself.

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1. Basic Information 📍 Location Sideng Street, Shaxi Ancient Town, Jianchuan County, Dali Bai Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan Province (specific location is recommended to be confirmed in advance via map navigation) ⏰ Recommended visiting time** - Suitable for all year round, spring (March to May) is pleasant, autumn (September to November) is colorful - Bookstore opening hours: usually 9:00-20:00 (it is recommended to call in advance to confirm) 2. Bookstore Features 1. Architectural Style - Transformed from a traditional Bai granary, retaining ethnic elements such as rammed earth walls and wooden structures - Integrating modern design concepts to form a unique cultural space 2. Cultural Experience - Selected books on Yunnan local culture and ethnic minority themes - Provide local cultural exhibitions and handicraft experience activities (reservation required in advance) 3. Check-in Highlights - Iconic "Poetry Tower" rotating bookshelf - The viewing terrace on the second floor overlooks the panoramic view of the ancient town 3. Itinerary Planning Suggestions One-day tour plan | Time period | Activity arrangement | |--------|----------| | 09:30-11:00 | Visit Xingjiao Temple and Ancient Theater (5 minutes walk from the bookstore) | | 11:00-12:30 | In-depth experience of Xianfeng Bookstore (reading + taking photos) | | 12:30-14:00 | Lunch: Shaxi Fire Pit House (recommended Matsutake Chicken Soup) | | 14:00-17:00 | Yujin Bridge Walk + Horse Riding Experience on the Ancient Tea Horse Road | | 17:00-18:30 | Half-mountain coffee to watch the sunset (1.2 kilometers from the bookstore) | Two-day tour plan Day2 extension route: Bailongtan hiking (6 kilometers round trip) → Ouyang Dayuan visit → Friday market (if time permits) 4. Transportation Guide 🚗 Self-driving route - Depart from Dali: Hangrui Expressway → Dali Expressway → S311 Provincial Road, about 2 hours - Depart from Lijiang: Dali Expressway → Jianchuan Exit, about 1.5 hours 🚌 Public transportation - Dali/Lijiang Bus Station → Jianchuan County → Transfer to a rural bus to Shaxi - Recommended carpooling: Dali Ancient City → Shaxi (about 80 yuan/person) 5. Accommodation Recommendations | Type | Name | Features | Reference Price | |------|------|------|----------| | High-end | Jixia Mountain | Designer Hotel/Book Bar | ￥1500+ | | Mid-range | Shiran Mountain House | Mountain View Courtyard | ￥600-800 | | Youth Hostel | Maquan 46 | Backpacker Gathering Place | ￥80-150 | 6. Local Food - Must-try list ✅ Cheese with ham ✅ Tree flower with matsutake ✅ Bai three-course tea ✅ Handmade rose sauce - Recommended restaurants 📍 Longfeng Ruiying Halal Restaurant (Beef Hot Pot) 📍 Raven Coffee (Hand Brew + Homemade Desserts) 7. Precautions 1. During the Spring Festival holiday (around February 13, 2025), there may be more tourists, it is recommended: - Book accommodation 15 days in advance - Follow the bookstore's official account to get special event information 2. The ultraviolet rays on the plateau are strong, so you need to prepare sunscreen + sun hat 3. Some shops only accept cash, it is recommended to bring about 500 yuan for backup

Going to Shaxi, it seems that there is only one difference between going once and countless times Those who like it will love it at first sight People who don't like it may think it's too quiet and boring. There is never a lack of excitement in a busy city This ancient and quiet place soothes the overly sensitive and tense nerves of the scribes. The first hotel I stayed in when I first went to Shaxi was Shiran Shanshe I like this kind of building that blends in with nature without stealing the show. When you look up during the day, you will see the sunlight flowing in the space☀️ At night, when you look up, you can see the sky full of stars. Although it has been open for a long time But time not only mottles facilities, but also polishes the quality and settles the temperature At that time, Zaizai was arrogant and enjoyed everyone's love. Ah Dou was very hurt and quietly hid in his own little universe. Nowadays, the boys are so fat that their necks are invisible and they can't hold up their shoulders. Adou becomes e in the nourishment of kindness~ Sometimes you can flirt with someone you like😍 Maybe this is the meaning of store pets. They are a little bit of fate and a little surprise on the journey It is also a warm and shining memory

🌾Shiran Mountain House🌾 🌺It's really too beautiful!! Every corner has been carefully designed, including the perfectly matched fresh flowers everywhere. The overall design is rustic wooden style, with earthy rough walls, complemented by lots of wooden frames and glass, allowing sunlight to pour in anytime, creating various shadows, and every casual photo looks great‼️ 🏨The homestay has 10 rooms, and we stayed in a family suite (there are two such rooms in the homestay), which can accommodate an extra bed for children. The butler said this room was where Sister Liu Yifei stayed during filming. The room's lighting is also very good!! There is a glass bay window for viewing, which overlooks the homestay's central courtyard, with green plants, flowing water, and kittens, truly a paradise on earth. There's also a small balcony with a chair, making it a pleasure to sit and read. 📍The location of the homestay is also very good, quiet yet convenient, just 4 minutes away from the ancient town's Dongzhaimen, and a five-minute walk to Yujin Bridge. What's better is that it's not inside the ancient town, so cars can drive right up to the entrance, which is crucial for not having to drag luggage over cobblestone roads. 🍜Let's talk about breakfast, the breakfast is amazing!! There are Western and Chinese options. The Chinese option is rice noodles, and the Western option is sandwiches, both delicious! There's also a goodnight sweet soup~

Shaxi Ancient Town is the most beautiful ancient town in Yunnan in my mind. After being popularized by 'Go to the Place with Wind', it has not been deviated by commercialization. The unique and simple beauty is still worth a visit. 🚗 Going to Shaxi Shaxi is more than 100 kilometers away from Dali, a 2-hour drive, and the best travel time is 2 days and 1 night. There are many carpooling to and from Shaxi every day, the price is 80 yuan/person. In addition, Didi and Hello can also arrange carpooling, the cost is similar. 🎐 Play in Shaxi Shaxi Ancient Town belongs to Jianchuan County, Dali. The entire ancient town is not large, and you will inadvertently find the place where Xu Hongdou has been. 1️⃣ Ancient stage: The center of Shaxi Ancient Town, the night Kui Pavilion lights up beautifully 2️⃣ Yujin Bridge: The necessary road for the ancient horse team to enter Shaxi, Heihui River is very beautiful 3️⃣ Xingjiao Temple: A typical Azhali temple, which was renovated more than a decade ago 4️⃣ Pioneer Bookstore: The landmark building of Shaxi, the bookstore has the same position as Li Xian 5️⃣ Half-mountain Coffee: One of the best scenic spots in Shaxi, you can see the whole view of Shaxi 6️⃣ Shibaoshan: A little far from the ancient town, but the grottoes will definitely shock you 7️⃣ Mountain Wind Courtyard: A small courtyard located in Lighthouse Village, the heart-shaped tree house is very beautiful 🍲 Eat in Shaxi 1️⃣ Public Restaurant: Clear soup fish hot pot is its signature, tender to the point of falling teeth 2️⃣ Xi Lu Xiaoyuan: Private dishes that must be eaten every time I come to Shaxi, the braised chicken is delicious 3️⃣ Jiajia Farmhouse Dishes: Cheap and delicious farmhouse restaurant 4️⃣ First See Shaxi: The most popular restaurant in Shaxi, need to make an appointment in advance 5️⃣ Ancient Road Huifeng: The cannon chicken is very good, very appetizing 6️⃣ Love and Old Food: Miyazaki Hayao's fairy tale hut, daily limited set meal, need to make an appointment 7️⃣ Xiang 12: Western restaurant opened by Wu Yanzu in Shaxi, the beef burger is huge and delicious 🏨 Stay in Shaxi If you want to stay in a cost-effective homestay, recommend: 97's Appointment, Er Lai Homestay. If you want to stay in a high-quality homestay, recommend: Xilinyuan Hotel, Jixia Mountain, Shiran Mountain House. tips: It's best not to bring a suitcase to Shaxi, the whole ancient town is a stone road, dragging a suitcase will make you desperate. I went to Shaxi with a backpack, which is very convenient. I stuffed my camera, laptop, charging cable, water cup, and some sundries in my backpack, so it's very easy to play in Shaxi. Follow my Shaxi travel guide, slowly feel this ancient town, you will definitely have a unique and pleasant trip.🐶

🏜️Shaxi Ancient Town originated in the period of Nanzhao's rise, it is the only surviving market on the ancient tea-horse road, and it is also the ancient town where Xu Hongdou lives in 'A Place with Wind'. 🌅The surrounding natural scenery is beautiful, and the buildings in the city are simple and full of characteristics. You can walk around the whole town in one or two hours, but it is more suitable to calm down and enjoy the slow time. 🚌Transportation We went from Jianchuan, next to the small door of Jianchuan Passenger Station, you can find the green van to Shaxi Ancient Town. The fare per person is 20 yuan, and the journey takes about one hour. The car will directly reach the parking lot of Shaxi Ancient Town Tourist Center. On the return journey, you can walk along the 084 county road of the ancient town to the entrance of the ancient town, where you can take a van back to Jianchuan. 💌Tips: Because the mountain road is winding, it is easy to cause motion sickness 🎐 Play in Shaxi Shaxi Ancient Town belongs to Jianchuan County, Dali, the whole ancient town is not big, and you will inadvertently find the place where Xu Hongdou has been. 1️⃣ Ancient stage: the center of Shaxi Ancient Town, the night Kui Pavilion lights are absolutely beautiful 2️⃣ Yujin Bridge: The necessary road for the ancient horse team to enter Shaxi, Heihui River is very beautiful 3️⃣ Xingjiao Temple: A typical Azhali temple, which was renovated more than a decade ago 4️⃣ Pioneer Bookstore: The landmark building of Shaxi, the bookstore has the same position as Li Xian 5️⃣ Half-mountain coffee: One of the best scenic spots in Shaxi, you can see the whole view of Shaxi 6️⃣ Shibaoshan: A little far from the ancient town, but the grottoes will definitely shock you 7️⃣ Mountain Wind Courtyard: A small courtyard located in Lighthouse Village, the heart-shaped tree house is very beautiful 🍲 Eat in Shaxi I came to Shaxi 3 times, and every time I came, I could eat delicious food: 1️⃣ Popular Restaurant: Clear soup fish hot pot is its signature, tender to the tooth drop 2️⃣ Xi Lu Xiaoyuan: The private dish that must be eaten every time I come to Shaxi, the yellow braised chicken is delicious 3️⃣ Jiajia Farmhouse Dish: Cheap and delicious farmhouse restaurant 4️⃣ First see Shaxi: The most popular restaurant in Shaxi, need to make an appointment in advance 5️⃣ Ancient Road Huifeng: The cannon chicken is very good, very rice 6️⃣ Love and Old Food: Miyazaki Hayao's fairy tale hut, daily limited set meal, need to make an appointment 7️⃣ Xiang 12: The western restaurant opened by Wu Yanzu in Shaxi, the beef burger is huge and delicious 🏨 Stay in Shaxi If you want to stay in a cost-effective homestay, recommend: 97's Appointment, Er Lai Homestay. If you want to stay in a high-quality homestay, recommend: Xilinyuan Hotel, Jixia Mountain, Shiren Mountain House. 🎈tips: It is best not to bring a suitcase when you come to Shaxi, the whole ancient town is a stone road, dragging a suitcase will make you desperate. I went to Shaxi with a backpack, which is very convenient. I stuffed my camera, laptop, charging cable, water cup, and some sundries in my backpack, so it will be very easy to play in Shaxi.