Things to do in Dali Prefecture
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Top 10 attractions in Dali Prefecture
Erhai Lake
Erhai Lake lies quietly at the foot of the Cangshan Mountains and east of Dali Ancient Town, serving as Yunnan's second-largest plateau freshwater lake after Dianchi Lake. Stretching narrowly over 40 km from north to south, its silhouette resembles both a human ear and a crescent moon. The Bai people traditionally call large lakes "seas," and with its vast expanse and sea-like waves when winds rise, it earned this romantic name. The nineteen peaks of Cangshan stand like a screen to the west, reflecting the lake's shimmering waters—a scenery long praised as "silver Cangshan and jade Erhai." This is also the setting for the "Erhai moon," one of Dali's famed "wind, flower, snow, and moon" four scenic wonders. The classic way to explore Erhai Lake is riding or hiking along the lakeside ecological corridor, where you can stop anytime along the 100 km shoreline: Longkan Dock on the western shore features boardwalks extending into the water and rows of dawn redwoods, making it a popular sunrise spot. Further north, Panxi S-bend's waterfront trail curves gracefully along the lake, with a solitary tree in the water and pastoral shores serving as iconic photo backdrops. Taking a cruise offers distant views of Little Putuo Island and a chance to visit Nanzhao Folk Island, often accompanied by Bai ethnic tea ceremonies and dances. Jinsuo Island in the southern lake has been home to Bai fishermen for generations, preserving both village charm and Benzhu faith traditions. During the summer Torch Festival, lakeside villagers toss pine resin powder, creating fiery sparks, while the legend-linked Shuahai Festival—honoring Lady Bojie and Duan Chicheng's serpent-slaying tale—keeps Bai bravery alive by the lakeshore. To slow down, head to Shuanglang Ancient Town by the lake and pick a waterfront café to spend half a day. At dawn, wait for the sunrise on the western shore; in the evening, watch the sunset paint the Cangshan Mountains golden-red from the eastern shore—riding along the lakeshore, cruising back to gaze at the mountains from the lake center, or simply sitting by the water—these experiences perfectly piece together different facets of Erhai Lake.Dali City · 22.7km from downtown
Dali Ancient City
Dali Ancient City is nestled against the Cangshan Mountain and faces the Erhai Lake. This area was once the capital of the Nanzhao Kingdom and the Dali Kingdom. The preserved city layout mainly inherits from the reconstruction of the Dali Prefecture during the Ming Dynasty. Bai ethnic courtyards with white walls and blue tiles spread out along the chessboard-like streets. Locals spend their leisure time gardening, basking in the sun, and chatting, creating a slow-paced lifestyle that distinguishes this ancient city from many imitation historic districts. You can start your exploration from the south gate tower during the day, where the characters "Dali" on the wall serve as a popular photo backdrop. Climbing the tower offers a panoramic view of dark-tiled rooftops and distant Cangshan Mountain. Fuxing Road, extending north from the south gate, is the ancient town's central pedestrian street, lined with shops in Ming and Qing styles displaying marble carvings, tie-dye fabrics, silverware, and ethnic costumes. Wuhua Tower at the intersection, originally built during the Nanzhao period and rebuilt several times, remains a landmark of the town. Nearby, the Honglongjing area features clear streams flowing along the streets, making it a pleasant spot to rest when tired. The Renmin Road area is packed with snack stalls, fruit vendors, and handicraft shops, where you can sample local flavors like grilled rushan cheese, cold chicken rice noodles, and Xizhou baba. As night falls, another scene unfolds. Bars and cafés along Foreigner Street (originally Huguo Road) and Renmin Road light up one after another, with live music drifting from the shops to the streets. The town seamlessly transitions from daytime leisure to nighttime vibrancy within the same ancient city.Dali City · 14.3km from downtown
Xizhou
Xizhou is located 18 km north of Dali Ancient Town, nestled between the Cangshan Mountains to the west and Erhai Lake to the east. This well-preserved Bai ethnic settlement is the birthplace of Xizhou baba cakes. Strolling through the ancient town, you'll encounter seniors in traditional Bai costumes, local bakeries selling baba cakes, and authentic Bai architecture – all radiating rich Bai cultural charm. Xizhou at a glance The Zhengyi Gate serves as the west entrance to Xizhou Ancient Town, leading directly to its historic streets. Just a few hundred meters inside the west gate stands a 500-year-old banyan tree—so massive it takes several adults to encircle its trunk—making it an iconic landmark of Xizhou. Not far into the ancient town stands Ziyunshan Temple, a Qing Dynasty structure that appears quite weathered. Local elderly residents often gather here for activities and sunbathing. Further in lies Sifang Street, a small square surrounded by shops that serves as the town's central hub. Exploring Xizhou typically begins at Sifang Street, the birthplace of the renowned local snack Xizhou baba, which offers authentic flavors. Explore Bai ethnic architecture Bai-style folk houses are a hallmark of Xizhou, with structures spanning different historical periods. The most visited residences belong to the Yan and Yang families. The Yan Family Residence, located at the southwest corner of Sifang Street, features the classic Bai courtyard layout known as "three rooms with a screen wall" and "a quadrangle with five courtyards." As the wealthiest of Xizhou's "four great families" in the past, this residence offers a glimpse into the Yan family's former grandeur. Visitors can enjoy Bai ethnic song and dance performances and sample the traditional "Three Courses of Tea" here. Tickets are available for those interested in architecture and ethnic culture. The Yang Pinxiang Residence, situated east of Xizhou, shares a similar layout but stands out for its exquisite wood carvings and particularly ornate, flowing gatehouse. Nearby Sifang Street also houses another Yan Family Compound, ideal for a quick introduction to Bai-style dwellings. Explore Haishe Peninsula Additionally, it's worth mentioning the Haixi Peninsula east of Xizhou Ancient Town. Head approx. 3–4 km east toward Erhai Lake until you reach Haixin Pavilion, then continue a few hundred meters further to Jingui Temple. Here you'll discover a lush oasis approx. 100m wide and 1 km long, resembling a jade hairpin piercing the shimmering waters of Erhai Lake—locals call it "Haixi" (Sea Tongue). With few visitors, this spot offers breathtaking scenery: azure skies, white clouds, emerald trees, crystal-clear waves, and waterfowl gliding through the landscape, creating a perfect harmony with nature. Every photo taken here looks like a painted masterpiece. Travel recommendations Xizhou is not far from Dali Ancient Town. If you're staying in Dali Ancient Town, you can take a ride or cycle there for a day trip to explore the area. Alternatively, you may choose to stay overnight in Xizhou and visit Butterfly Spring the next day.Dali City · 30.5km from downtown
Yang Li Ping Art Space
Yang Li Ping Art Space is located at the northern end of Yuji Island in Shuanglang Town, Dali, Yunnan. Built in 2000, it was originally the private residence of dancer Yang Liping facing Erhai Lake. Designed by Bai ethnic artist Zhao Qing with the concept of "harmonious coexistence with nature," it blends the charm of Bai folk houses with modern design. The entire structure is built on reefs, combining local bluestone with steel frames, and the building extends toward Erhai Lake, appearing to float above the water from a distance. Inside, multiple split levels undulate, with most rooms facing Cangshan Mountain and Erhai Lake. A century-old banyan tree grows through the central hall, symbolizing the coexistence of tree and architecture, creating a highly recognizable scene here. Today, this private residence has been opened to the public as an art space. Inside, it displays paintings by artist Ye Yongqing and preserves props from Yang Liping's dance drama "Pingtan Impression," as well as scenes from her former daily life. The spacious terrace faces Erhai Lake, offering a view of Nanzhao Folklore Island opposite. Visits require advance reservations and entry in batches; travelers planning to come are advised to arrange their itinerary in advance.Dali City · 34.2km from downtown
Shuanglang Ancient Town
Shuanglang Ancient Town is situated on the northeastern shore of Erhai Lake in Dali City, where crystal-clear waters meet the majestic Cangshan Mountain's nineteen peaks. This area encapsulates the finest landscapes of the Cangshan-Erhai region and stands as one of the most iconic Bai ethnic settlements along the lake. On sunny days, sunlight filters through the clouds, casting mesmerizing reflections on the water with the undulating Cangshan range as a backdrop—a dream shot for photography enthusiasts. The heart of Shuanglang is Yuji Island, named for its resemblance to a jade table and connected to the ancient town by Yuji Bridge. The island features artistic landmarks like Yang Liping's Sun Palace and Moon Palace, making it an unmissable spot for enjoying Erhai Lake's breathtaking views. Shuanglang is not only a paradise of natural scenery but also a model of Bai ethnic culture blending with modern art. Perfect for strolling, sightseeing, savoring local cuisine, and staying in seaside homestays, it offers an immersive experience of poetic living where "mountains mirror human joy, and waters reflect enduring affection."Dali City · 34.5km from downtown
The Dream Land
Dali's The Dream Land is perched on the coastal cliffs of East Ring Road, a creative holiday retreat that seamlessly blends Mediterranean architectural aesthetics with the breathtaking views of Cangshan Mountain and Erhai Lake. Unlike traditional cultural tourism towns, this destination embraces the "Mountain and Sea Theater" design concept. Its pristine white terraced buildings cascade along the mountain slopes, while arched corridors interplay charmingly with succulent plant landscapes, creating a dynamic three-dimensional art space where light and shadow dance. Visitors can climb up the winding Flower Street, where around every corner awaits a thoughtfully designed viewfinder—an arch perfectly framing the Erhai Lake and Shuanglang, or a perforated brick wall casting butterfly-shaped light spots from the sunset at just the right moment. Twelve themed courtyards each hold their own charm: Moroccan-style terracotta planters brimming with bougainvillea, a Türkiye-inspired cave tea house offering Bai ethnic "Three Courses of Tea" experiences, and a Bohemian textile workshop hosting regular tie-dye sessions. As night falls, the cliffside lights gradually illuminate, blending the live melodies from the starlit lounge with the rhythmic waves of Erhai Lake into a mesmerizing duet. The monthly "Local Inspiration" market offers hidden gems: Bai ethnic woodblock printing demonstrations by heritage bearers, rose-flavored Xizhou baba pancakes from innovative vendors, and indie designers transforming tie-dye fabrics into trendy backpacks. For nature lovers, hike the back mountain trail to an abandoned quarry where rust-red cliffs and wild cacti create a starkly beautiful photography spot. This place doesn't replicate exoticism—through architecture and human interactions, it lets every visitor become part of the mountain-and-sea narrative.Dali City · 10.2km from downtown
Shaxi Ancient Town
Ancient Town Shaxi was once an important stop along the Ancient Tea Horse Road. As the route declined, it gradually faded into obscurity. However, this very isolation has preserved its tranquil, rustic charm, allowing it to retain the authentic atmosphere of its tea-trading past. Locals in northwest Yunnan say: "Visit Dali, pass through Lijiang, but don't miss Ancient Town Shaxi." Tour Route Crossing the ancient stone bridge over the Heihui River—Yujin Bridge—and walking about 100 meters along the old trail, you'll reach the East Village Gate, locally known as "Jiezi Gate." Built with rammed earth, this narrow gate allows only two horses to pass simultaneously, preserving its original appearance from the Tea Horse Road era. Beyond it lies Sideng Street, the sole surviving market along the Tea Horse Road and the heart of Ancient Town Shaxi. The street is paved with red sandstone slabs, flanked by an ancient opera stage facing west on the east side and Xingjiao Temple facing east on the west side, creating a symmetrical layout that divides the square into northern and southern halves. Surrounding the square are shops and horse inns, with three ancient alleyways extending in all directions of the town. Ancient Town ShaxiHighlights: Xingjiao Temple Xingjiao Temple is a major highlight of Ancient Town Shaxi. As one of the few remaining Bai ethnic "Atoli" Buddhist temples from the Ming Dynasty in China, its exquisite murals and carvings are worth savoring. Visitors can enter for free by registering their ID cards. During ethnic festivals, Bai people dressed in traditional costumes gather at Sifang Street, playing the dragon-headed sanxian and performing songs and dances on the stage. The bustling square fills with crowds while devotees worship at the temple, creating a joyous atmosphere. The liveliest celebration is the annual Prince Festival on the eighth day of the second lunar month. Accommodation and dining Ancient Town Shaxi is quite small and can be explored in just 1–2 hrs of casual strolling. However, if time allows, we recommend staying overnight to leisurely wander along the old streets and savor the tranquil charm that Dali Ancient Town lacks. The town offers affordable accommodations like youth hostels and various inns. You can grab meals at roadside eateries or try local specialties such as yacon, matsutake mushrooms, and milk cakes.Jianchuan · 25.2km from downtown
Erhai Lake Ecological Corridor
Nestled in the embrace of Dali Basin, the 129-kilometer Erhai Lake Ecological Corridor winds through mountains, waters, and cultural heritage like a living ecological scroll. This dynamic tapestry organically weaves together natural restoration zones, Bai ethnic villages, and wetland views, offering visitors an immersive eco-exploration experience. In the early morning, you can walk along the wooden boardwalk into Sanshengdao Wetland to observe the ecological scene of moorhens nesting among the reeds. Cycling enthusiasts are recommended to choose the route from Yangnanxi to Longkan, where you'll often encounter the striking crests of hoopoe birds while riding through the eucalyptus-lined paths. The corridor features specially designed birdwatching walls, turning the agile hunting movements of grey herons into a tranquil ecological spectacle. In late fall, the bald cypress forest at Majiuyi gradually transforms into an amber-hued spectrum, creating a natural studio for photography enthusiasts to capture the changing seasons. Traditional Bai ethnic villages scattered along the way preserve authentic local lifestyles, where the aroma of rushan cheese wafting through whitewashed walls with gray-tiled roofs offers visitors tangible clues to intangible cultural heritage. The ecological monitoring exhibition area uses visualized data to tell the story of underwater forest restoration. For the best experience, stop by Caicun Pier at dusk to watch sunset hues dye Erhai Lake celadon-green, witnessing the timeless dialogue between Cangshan Mountain's eighteen streams and the ancient lake. This corridor has no walls or boundaries. We recommend wearing lightweight sports shoes and bringing binoculars to slowly explore and experience the unique ecological rhythm of the plateau lakes. The six types of science interpretation systems set up in the reserve will guide you to understand the ecological secrets behind every Ottelia acuminata flower.Dali City · 21.8km from downtown
Haishe Ecological Park
Haishe Ecological Park is a small-scale park located on the west bank of Erhai Lake. Its land area includes a part that extends out into Erhai Lake. Surrounded on three sides by the water, it is an enchanting sight to behold. There are large trees and Chinese mugwort in the park, and some eroded trees can be seen in the shoals along the coast. Visitors can enjoy Erhai Lake by taking a boat trip. They can also choose to have a cup of coffee in a park cafe. If one is lucky, he/she may see egrets resting on the wetlands. The scenery in Haishe Ecological Park changes with each passing season. In autumn, the park is a swath of golden yellow, making it very suitable for landscape shots.Dali City · 31.2km from downtown
Foreigner Street
Foreigner Street is a bluestone street running east-west within Dali Ancient City. It is approx. 1 km long and intersects with major streets such as Fuxing Road and Bo'ai Road. This is a district in the ancient city concentrated with bars and cafes, where lights gradually turn on after nightfall, making it much livelier than during the day. The shops along the street feature a blend of Chinese and Western styles, with tie-dye shops, jewelry and antique stores, and art galleries standing side-by-side with teahouses converted from Bai ethnic residences and restaurants serving Chinese and Western cuisine. Here, you can stroll and eat along the way, try Bai ethnic snacks, and hunt for handmade souvenirs.Dali City · 14.4km from downtown
Experiences you can't miss in Dali Prefecture
Featured Cultural experiences in Dali Prefecture
View all Cultural experiences![Intangible cultural heritage experience at Bai Family Traditional Tie-Dye Workshop in Xizhou, Dali, Yunnan [Professional guidance + Finished product can be taken home]](https://ak-d.tripcdn.com/images/0357312000qhi8aq495DD_C_568_320.jpg?_fr=wc)
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Featured Food & drink in Dali Prefecture
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Dali Lisong Banquet: Blending Cultural Grace, Savoring the Charm of Cangshan Mountain and Erhai Lake
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Featured Outdoor experiences in Dali Prefecture
View all Outdoor experiences![Dali 360° Erhai Lake Private Charter 1-day Tour [Pure Fun Private Charter + One Booking per Group + Optional Attractions]](https://ak-d.tripcdn.com/images/0356r12000nh1pfzoB1B3_C_568_320.png?_fr=wc)
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Free things to do in Dali Prefecture
Erhai Lake
Dali City · 22.7km from downtownDali Ancient City
Dali City · 14.3km from downtownXizhou
Dali City · 30.5km from downtownYang Li Ping Art Space
Dali City · 34.2km from downtownShuanglang Ancient Town
Dali City · 34.5km from downtownThe Dream Land
Dali City · 10.2km from downtownShaxi Ancient Town
Jianchuan · 25.2km from downtownErhai Lake Ecological Corridor
Dali City · 21.8km from downtownHaishe Ecological Park
Dali City · 31.2km from downtownForeigner Street
Dali City · 14.4km from downtown
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Private Tours in Dali Prefecture
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What travellers say about Dali Prefecture
202***2815 August 2026
5.0
You asked me if it's worth visiting? My assessment is that Erhai Lake in Dali is probably the only place worth going. Although most of the scenery is man-made, the covered bridges and S-shaped bends are really just over-hyped and not very interesting. This one place is basically enough by Erhai Lake; don't waste time going anywhere else. It's quiet and saves time; one place is enough. This applies to any place.
Haishe Ecological Park
爱旅游桂城武小花2 June 2025
5.0
Walking into Dali Foreigner Street, you will be instantly swept by the surging crowd. This bluestone road is only a kilometer long, but it carries countless bustles. On both sides of the street, Chinese and Western restaurants and specialty shops are next to each other, with signs flashing above people's heads. Tourists are shoulder to shoulder, some are tasting food, some are choosing souvenirs, and some are taking pictures with cameras. Shuttled through the crowded crowd, the sound of conversations in different dialects and the shouts of shops are in your ears, making you truly feel its unique charm and experience the unique fireworks in the travel.
Foreigner Street
