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

【July is a great time at Erhai Lake, but you won’t find crowds lining up at Longkan Pier to catch the sunrise! That’s because the northern shore of Haizhe Park’s gentle shallows are “denser with people than the pale purple wild seaweed flowers”】 Holding a cold, freshly squeezed Dian sour jujube juice, squatting under a century-old camphor tree for half an hour at a windy, sparkling spot by the waves, then turning to be praised by a local uncle planting double-petal arrowhead flowers in Xizhou Ancient Town for spotting wild arrowhead shoots with sharp eyes. Avoid the overpriced traps on the lakeside commercial street and unlock the refreshing coolness of midsummer lake breeze wrapped in wild Dian scutellaria. Stay away from the stifling heat of the dam area, with a steady feel of around 22℃. Even the willow-leaf breeze brushing past carries the fresh aroma of stir-fried tender snails. 🌟 Three must-try experiences 1. Pluck tender arrowhead shoots on the lakeshore: At 6 AM, sneak into an empty shallow bay to pick the crisp, tender tips just sprouted in July, fresh and full of flavor on your fingertips. 2. Pound green plum and purple rice jelly in a stone mortar: At 10 AM, hide in an old Bai courtyard in Xizhou, kneading fresh Erhai green plum pieces mixed with cooked purple rice germ, wrapped in fragrant roasted walnut bits with a sweet aftertaste. 3. Chase clouds along the side path of Haizhe Park: At 7 PM, walk the long lakeside path often used by local duck farmers, watch soft clouds cling to the peaks of Cangshan Mountain and sink toward Erhai Lake, with the breeze carrying lotus fragrance into your collar. 📸 Photo tips 1. Basket by the shore: At 7 AM, stand beside the seaweed flowers with Cangshan Mountain half covered by cloud shadows and distant Xizhou rice field silhouettes in the background. Wear a cotton-linen short shirt holding half a basket of tender arrowhead shoots. Use a telephoto lens to blur the lake waves at your feet and capture green plum petals falling on your hand. 2. Workshop pounding jelly shot: At noon, lean on an old green poplar wood workbench with a bamboo basket full of fresh green plums and a rustic pottery jar of wild honey in the foreground. Toss purple rice pieces onto the jelly surface with side light creating a natural soft-focus lake mist filter. 3. Cliffside cloud atmosphere shot: At 8 PM, squat on a stone pier by Haizhe, framing wild reed branches growing at an angle in the corner of the shot. Use long exposure to capture cloud streaks sweeping over the Cangshan peaks. Reach out to touch drifting dandelion fluff. No color correction needed for stunning Cang-Erhai shots. 🏡 Smart lodging choices 1. Old Bai courtyard in Xizhou: “Erqiju,” converted from an old tie-dye workshop, with two century-old camphor trees in the courtyard. Open the window to see the outline of connected rice fields. In the off-season, enjoy free freshly brewed Cangshan snow tea and join the sisters in weaving colorful tie-dye handkerchiefs at night. 2. Lakeside guesthouse near Haizhe: Linyanwu, 3 km from the main viewpoint, just three steps out the door onto soft grass meadows. Lie on the top-floor terrace watching the sunset dye Cangshan golden red. Breakfast includes freshly baked milk fan and small rice cakes. 🗓️ 3-day easy itinerary Day 1: Pluck tender arrowhead shoots by the shore → Pound green plum and purple rice jelly in old workshop → Chase clouds along the lakeside path by Haizhe Park Day 2: Hunt for wild mushroom shoots on the hillside → Pick the first wild mint tips beside local arrowhead fields → Wade in the shallow lake and touch round stone snails Day 3: Browse handmade tie-dye crafts at Xizhou old market → Pick fresh local mountain produce → Visit Longkan Pier and Shuanglang core area off-peak Avoid the main scenic area peak hours from 10 AM to 4 PM. 💰 Cost tips · Core expenses: 39 yuan per person for the lakeside rural shuttle pass. The green plum and purple rice jelly experience is affordable. Gentle slopes and lakeshore spots are all free. · Avoid traps: Don’t buy 45-yuan Erhai-themed specialty drinks at trendy shops. A grandma’s stall at the alley entrance sells freshly squeezed sour jujube iced drinks for 7 yuan. Don’t trust “140 yuan to sneak into undeveloped Cangshan underground streams to shoot ice flowers” black guides who detour you to overpriced fake wild gastrodia shops for forced purchases. 🌡️ Safety and essentials guide Basic list: fleece-lined thin jacket, non-slip hiking shoes, portable oxygen canister, large capacity thermos Must-have: portable Dianhong flower soothing spray. Spray twice if dizzy from rapid altitude gain for quick relief from altitude sickness. ❗ Most overlooked: bring thin non-slip gloves to avoid scraping your hands on hidden stones when picking tender arrowhead shoots by the lake channels. 💡 Hard-earned tips ❌ Avoid: Don’t buy 70-yuan boxed so-called Erhai premium wild yak jerky at main street souvenir shops. At Xizhou old market, you can get authentic additive-free homemade jerky from local Bai families for 28 yuan. ✅ Insider tip: After 6 PM, take the side convenience path to Longkan Pier’s main viewpoint. Avoid the early morning crowds waiting an hour for photo spots. The viewing platform is mostly empty for casual shooting. 🦊 Fun fact: In July, tender arrowhead shoots by the lake channels are freshest on clear mornings just after the dew dries. Local Bai people blanch them and mix with ham bits as a traditional dish to refresh and cool down. 🍜 Hidden menu 1. Arrowhead tips with ham bits: Squeeze a little fresh lemon juice on tender tips and mix with Xuanwei ham bits. Fresh, fragrant, and refreshing to beat the lake heat. 2. Charcoal-grilled milk fan skewers: Local fresh milk fan pieces slow-grilled over charcoal, sprinkled with rose sugar. Crispy outside, tender and chewy inside with a milky aroma. 3. Green plum bits mixed with wild honey smoothie: Fresh green plum bits blended with wild honey smoothie. The sour, sweet, and cool layers combine to wash away all fatigue from circling the lake.

Hidden away in the natural landscape of Fengyu, the Sky Rice Paddy Theater is an extraordinary piece of land art exclusive to Fotang Village and a one-of-a-kind Instagrammable photography spot in Dali. The fair-faced concrete architecture seamlessly blends with the rice paddies, ancient villages, and distant mountains, etching poetry and art right into the wilderness. Every angle offers a cinematic, high-quality shot. Core Highlights · Sky Rice Paddy Spectacle An entire rice paddy is planted on the theater's roof, creating an illusion of floating in mid-air. The rolling rice waves spread across the sky, meeting the lush mountains and white clouds in the distance. This design breaks the boundaries between traditional agriculture and architecture, delivering maximum visual impact. · Minimalist Architectural Art Meticulously designed by a Bai architect, the clean lines of the fair-faced concrete pair perfectly with the sunken theater layout. As light and shadow dance across the space, it exudes an elevated, high-end vibe. The building itself is a masterpiece. · Symbiosis of Nature and Culture Ancient pear trees grow directly through the architecture, and rice paddies wrap around the roof. It captures the raw beauty of the wilderness while concealing brilliant humanistic design concepts. Here, you can truly soak in the tranquil atmosphere of the ancient Fengyu village. Photography & Check-in Guide · Best Times to Shoot From 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM, the lighting is soft and clear, making the rice paddies look vibrant and emerald green; between 4:00 PM and 6:00 PM, the setting sun casts a golden glow over the fields, and shooting against the light creates an incredibly moody and stunning atmosphere. · Must-Capture Angles Take an overhead shot to capture the panoramic view of the sky-high rice paddy and the seamless fusion of rolling crops and architecture; frame the clean structural lines against the distant mountains to highlight its minimalist texture; step inside the theater to capture the intricate layers of light, shadow, and architectural structure. Practical Travel Info 📍 Address: Fotang Village, Fengyu Town, Eryuan County, Dali 🚗 Transportation: Self-driving or hiring a chartered car is highly recommended. It takes about 1.5 hours from downtown Dali. The mountain roads are smooth, and GPS will navigate you directly there. 🎫 Tickets: Free entry, no reservations required ⏳ Duration: 1-2 hours is perfect for a leisurely stroll and a photoshoot ✨ Pro Tips · Please protect the rice paddies and architecture. Do not trample the crops or vandalize the property · Wear solid-colored, minimalist clothing. It complements the scenery perfectly and elevates your photos · Bring your own water and snacks, as there are limited commercial facilities nearby · Make sure to wear sunscreen, as the UV rays in the mountains can be quite strong

Eryuan has long been celebrated as the "Hometown of Hot Springs," and Dali Geothermal Country is the most iconic natural hot spring destination in the area. Centered around natural sulfur hot springs, it blends traditional Bai architecture with idyllic pastoral scenery. Dozens of uniquely shaped hot spring pools are scattered throughout the park, making it the perfect retreat near Dali to relax your mind, body, and wash away travel fatigue. ✨ Core Highlights · Natural Sulfur Hot Springs Sourced from deep underground, the natural hot spring water is rich in sulfur and minerals. It leaves your skin silky smooth and is incredibly effective at relieving fatigue and relaxing muscles. The water temperature remains stable, with most pools ranging from 38-42°C (100-108°F), providing comforting warmth all year round. · A Hundred Pools, A Hundred Scenes The park features dozens of themed hot spring pools, including: ◦ Public Open-Air Pools: Spacious areas where you can soak under the blue sky and white clouds while enjoying pastoral and mountain views. ◦ Thatched Pavilion Private Baths: Semi-open pools hidden amidst lush greenery, offering high privacy and a highly healing atmosphere. ◦ Herbal Bath Pools: Infused with mugwort, rose, and traditional Chinese herbs, combining relaxation with wellness benefits. ◦ Children's Splash Pools: Shallow water areas equipped with fountains and slides, perfect for family fun. · Bai Style Architecture & Landscapes The park's architecture highlights traditional Bai elements. Grey tiles, white walls, and thatched pavilions blend seamlessly with the surrounding fields and forests—every photo you take here will look like a vibrant, culturally rich masterpiece. As evening falls and the lights come on, the curling mist over the pools adds an extra touch of gentle, romantic ambiance. 📍 Practical Travel Information · Address: Cibihu Town, Eryuan County, Dali Bai Autonomous Prefecture · Transportation: ◦ Driving: About a 1.5-hour drive from downtown Dali. Navigate directly to "Dali Geothermal Country" (大理地热国). Parking is convenient. ◦ Public Transport: Take a shuttle bus from Dali North Bus Station to Eryuan County, then transfer to local transit to reach the resort. · Tickets: Admission includes access to the hot springs. Some packages also include accommodation and breakfast, which can be booked online in advance. · Suggested Duration: Half a day to a full day. If you want a more immersive experience, we recommend staying overnight to enjoy a magical night soak. · Best Time to Visit: ◦ Daytime (9:00 AM - 4:00 PM): Excellent lighting for photography and fewer crowds. ◦ Evening/Night (After 5:00 PM): The interplay of hot spring mist and evening lights creates an absolutely stunning atmosphere. 💡 Hot Spring Tips · Before Soaking: Shower first to clean your body and adapt to the water temperature. It is not recommended to soak on an empty stomach or within 1 hour after a heavy meal to avoid discomfort. · While Soaking: Soak for 15-20 minutes at a time, then get up to rest and hydrate. Avoid staying in high-temperature pools for too long to prevent dizziness. · After Soaking: Towel off immediately and put on warm clothes to avoid catching a cold. You can enjoy some ginger tea in the rest area to further relieve fatigue. · Important Notes: ◦ Visitors with high blood pressure, heart disease, or other medical conditions should consult a doctor first. ◦ The pool decks can be wet and slippery; please walk carefully. ◦ Drinking alcohol while soaking is strictly prohibited. Please observe hot spring etiquette and protect the environment.

Hidden deep within the Cangshan Mountains of Eryuan, Dali, Niudiao Mountain is a hidden hiking gem beloved by locals. Renowned for its alpine meadows, plateau lakes, and cloud-sea pastures, it remains untouched by overdevelopment, preserving the most pristine mountain landscapes. It is perfect for travelers who enjoy light hiking, scenic views, and unwinding. 📍 Must-Visit Attractions List 1. Alpine Meadow Pastures | Healing Mountain Scenery · Endless alpine meadows drape over the rolling hills. The vibrant green grass contrasts beautifully with the distant mountains, offering a panoramic view that stretches across the Cangshan range. · Cattle and sheep graze leisurely on the meadows. When the wind blows, the grass ripples like waves, offering a deeply relaxing and healing vibe. · Recommended time: 1 hour. Stroll through the meadows, feel the mountain breeze, take panoramic photos, and enjoy the tranquility away from the hustle and bustle. 2. Plateau Lakes | Emerald Mirrors in the Mountains · Tucked away deep in the meadows are plateau lakes with crystal-clear waters mirroring the blue sky, white clouds, and surrounding peaks like emeralds. · The lakeside meadows bloom with wildflowers, showcasing different charms depending on the season. The light and shadows are absolutely stunning on sunny days, making it a delightful surprise along the hike. · Recommended time: 40 minutes. Sit quietly by the lake, capture the reflections, and soak in the serene mountain atmosphere. 3. Light Hiking Route | Beginner-Friendly Mountain Trek · The 8-10 km light hiking trail consists mostly of gentle meadow paths with minimal elevation gain, making it incredibly easy for beginners. · The route winds through meadows, forests, and pastures. The scenery changes with every step, offering full views of Cangshan and occasional encounters with wildlife. · Recommended time: 3-4 hours. Take a slow hike, savor the roadside scenery, and enjoy the journey without rushing. 4. Sea of Clouds & Sunrise/Sunset | Exclusive Mountain Views · On clear mornings after the rain, spectacular seas of clouds often appear, rolling through the valleys like a fairytale wonderland. · At dusk, the setting sun casts a golden glow over the peaks, meadows, and lakes. This romantic, sun-drenched scenery is the perfect way to wrap up the hike. · Recommended time: 30 minutes. Start early in the morning for the sea of clouds, and secure a prime viewing spot in advance for the sunset. 🚗 Transportation & Itinerary Suggestions · Transportation: Self-driving or hiring a chartered car is highly recommended. It takes about 1.5-2 hours from downtown Dali. The mountain roads are winding, so drive carefully. There is no direct public transportation, so independent travel via transit is not advised. · Itinerary: A one-day hike is recommended. A relaxed route could be: Parking Lot → Meadow Pasture → Plateau Lake → Observation Deck → Return via the same route. The entire trek is easy and not tiring. · Nearby pairings: You can drop by Eryuan West Lake and Fengyu Ancient Town to experience the rural charm of Dali, making it ideal for a two-day trip. ✨ Warm Tips · There are no commercial shops on the mountain. Be sure to bring plenty of water, dry provisions, and snacks to keep your energy up. · The high altitude brings extreme temperature drops between day and night, along with strong winds. Always pack a thick coat or windbreaker regardless of the season. · The trails are mostly grassy and muddy. Comfortable, slip-resistant hiking shoes are a must; avoid slippers or high heels. · Protect the mountain environment. Littering is strictly prohibited—please take all your trash with you. · Always check the weather before departing. Rainy days make the mountain paths slippery and severely compromise the views. Sunny days offer the best experience. · Cell signal is poor on the mountain. Download offline maps in advance, stick to the designated trails, and never venture into undeveloped areas.

Hidden just outside of Dali lies an absolutely stunning wilderness retreat. Far from the hustle and bustle of the ancient city, you'll find nothing but rolling meadows, gorgeous rhododendrons, and surging seas of clouds. It's the perfect getaway for nature lovers seeking peace, quiet, and pristine landscapes. 📍 Must-Visit Highlights 1. Ma'er Mountain Alpine Meadow | Healing Wilderness Scenery · A rare, expansive alpine meadow in western Yunnan. Soft green grass blankets the mountainsides, offering boundless views. Gaze out at the endless mountain ranges—the lush greenery everywhere is truly therapeutic. · On sunny days, the brilliant blue sky and white clouds create the perfect backdrop for ethereal nature photography. The grass swaying in the wind simply radiates a relaxing vibe. · Suggested stay: 1 hour. Stroll through the meadow, feel the mountain breeze, capture panoramic shots, and enjoy the tranquility of being away from it all. 2. Rhododendron Sea | A Limited-Time Seasonal Marvel · The peak blooming season runs from April to June. Dozens of acres of wild rhododendrons burst into bloom, interweaving shades of pink, rose, and pure white to create a fairytale landscape. · The floral sea blends perfectly with the meadows and mountains, offering incredible depth for photos. No need to pose—every casual snap looks like a masterpiece. · Suggested stay: 1.5 hours. During the blooming season, a morning visit is highly recommended. The soft light and fewer crowds make for much better photos. 3. Mountaintop Observation Deck | A Prime Spot for Sunrises, Sunsets, and Seas of Clouds · The highest point of Ma'er Mountain offers a panoramic view of the entire landscape. On a clear day, you can even spot Cangshan Mountain and Erhai Lake in the distance. · Spectacular seas of clouds often appear in the early morning, rolling like a mystical wonderland. In the evening, the sunset bathes the wilderness in a breathtaking golden glow. · Suggested stay: 40 minutes. For the sea of clouds, aim to arrive before 6 AM. For the sunset, grab the best viewing spot early. 4. Wilderness Hiking Trail | A Pristine Trekking Experience · These pristine, untouched dirt paths wind through meadows, floral seas, and forests. The trek is easy and not physically demanding, making it ideal for beginners. · The scenery transforms with every step. Get up close and personal with the raw charm of Dali's wilderness, listen to the birds and mountain breeze, and let your stress melt away. · Suggested stay: 1 hour. Take it slow and savor the natural beauty along the way. 🚗 Transportation & Itinerary Suggestions · Transportation: Self-driving or hiring a private car is highly recommended. It’s about a 2 to 2.5-hour drive from downtown Dali. The mountain roads are winding, so drive carefully! There is no direct public transit, so attempting this via public transportation is not advised. · Itinerary: A half-day or full-day trip is ideal. A great route would be: Mountain Base → Alpine Meadow → Rhododendron Sea → Mountaintop Observation Deck → Hiking Trail. · Nearby Attractions: Consider pairing your visit with Eryuan and Fengyu Ancient Town to experience Dali’s charming countryside—perfect for a relaxed day trip. ✨ Sweet Reminders · There are zero shops on the mountain. Make sure to pack plenty of water, snacks, and food to keep your energy up. · Due to the high altitude, the temperature drops dramatically at night and the wind can be fierce. Always bring a heavy jacket or windbreaker, regardless of the season. · The trails can be steep. Wear comfortable, slip-resistant sneakers or hiking boots. Leave the sandals and high heels at home! · The rhododendrons are wild plants. Please do not pick the flowers or trample the bushes. Help protect the local ecosystem. · Check the weather before you go. Rain makes the mountain roads dangerously slippery and dulls the views. Sunny days guarantee the best experience. · Cell service on the mountain is spotty at best. Download offline maps in advance, stick to the marked trails, and never wander into undeveloped areas.

Hey guys! Today I'm sharing Yunnan's top 10 luxury wilderness resorts – all carefully selected premium hotels that offer paradise-like vacation experiences. Hotel enthusiasts, don't miss out! 😍 Pic 2️⃣: SUNYATA Hotel at Jieda Meili Price: ¥2,200+ Nestled at the foot of Meili Snow Mountain, featuring million-dollar window views with 360° panoramic vistas of the "Golden Sunrise" over Meili Snow Mountain Pic 3️⃣: Moon & Pine Erhai Hotel, Dali Price: ¥2,500+ Dali's premier waterfront property with the best Erhai Lake views – enjoy healing scenery right from your bed 💕 Pic 4️⃣: Xujiu·Mountain & Lake Affairs, Lugu Lake Price: Varies by room type/season Located by stunning Lugu Lake with breathtaking mountain-lake scenery and unique Mosuo cultural experiences Pic 5️⃣: Banyan Tree Heshun Price: ¥3,800+ In Tengchong, Baoshan – blending local cultural elements with elegant architecture (avg. ¥3,848/person) Pic 6️⃣: Banyan Tree Jingmai, Pu'er Price: Varies Situated in Pu'er's tea mountains amid vast tea plantations. Zen-inspired design harmonizes with nature Pic 7️⃣: Banyan Tree Mayu Valley Price: Varies In Tengchong featuring dramatic volcanic landscapes and abundant hot springs – renowned for Banyan Tree's premium service Pic 8️⃣: The Tribute Nanuo Mountain, Xishuangbanna Price: Varies Hidden in Nannuo Mountain's lush tropical rainforest with refreshing air Pic 9️⃣: Songtsam Meili Lodge Price: Varies Another Meili Snow Mountain gem with authentic Tibetan character – architecture blends seamlessly with nature Pic 🔟: Tia·Hidden Waters Retreat Price: Varies At a hidden Yunnan water town with serene views – minimalist yet cozy home-like design Pic 1️⃣1️⃣: Poushan·Wild Luxury, Eryuan Price: Varies In geothermal-rich Eryuan featuring unique landscapes – rustic architecture complements the environment Which of these wilderness resorts caught your eye? 👉 Drop questions below – let's chat! 💕

Hey everyone, today I'm sharing the top 10 luxury wilderness resorts in Yunnan. These are all carefully selected, top-tier hotels that offer a secluded paradise-like vacation experience. Hotel enthusiasts, don't miss out!😍 . Image 2️⃣: Jixia Mountain Meili SUNYATA Hotel Reference Price:💰: 2.2k+ Located at the foot of Meili Snow Mountain in Yunnan, it boasts breathtaking window views, offering a 360-degree panoramic view of the sunrise over Meili Snow Mountain. . Image 3️⃣: Dali Bright Moon Among the Pines Erhai Lake Hotel Reference Price:💰: 2.5k+ A waterfront hotel in Dali with the best views of Erhai Lake. Enjoy the healing scenery from the comfort of your bed.💕 . Image 4️⃣: Lugu Lake Xuj旧・Mountain and Sea Reference Price:💰: Varies by room type and season Situated on the shores of beautiful Lugu Lake, where the scenery is stunning, you can also experience the unique Mosuo culture. · Image 5️⃣: Heshun Banyan Tree Reference Price:💰: 3.8k+ Located in Tengchong City, Baoshan City, Yunnan. The hotel blends local cultural characteristics with elegant and grand architecture. . Image 6️⃣: Pu'er Jingmai Banyan Tree Reference Price:💰: Varies by room type and season Located in Pu'er Jingmai Mountain, surrounded by vast tea plantations, the air is filled with the fragrance of tea. The hotel's design is full of Zen, blending seamlessly with the natural environment. · Image 7️⃣: MGallery by Sofitel, Banyan Tree Ringha Reference Price:💰: Varies by room type and season Located in Tengchong, Yunnan, the hotel is surrounded by magnificent volcanic landscapes and abundant hot spring resources. Banyan Tree is renowned for its high-quality service and comfortable accommodation. . Image 8️⃣: Xishuangbanna Jianglv・Nannuoshan Reference Price:💰: Varies by room type and season Hidden in the Nannuo Mountains of Xishuangbanna, surrounded by lush tropical rainforest, the air is fresh and pleasant. . Image 9️⃣: Songtsam Meili Lodge Reference Price:💰: Varies by room type and season Also located at the foot of Meili Snow Mountain, this hotel has distinctive Tibetan characteristics. The hotel's architecture blends perfectly with the natural landscape, and the magnificent view of Meili Snow Mountain can be seen from the room's windows. . Image 🔟: Tiya・Anyin Water Time Reference Price:💰: Varies by room type and season The hotel is located in a niche destination in Yunnan, surrounded by tranquil water scenery. The hotel's design is simple and warm, creating a homey feeling. . Image 1️⃣1️⃣: Eryuan Pushan・Wild Luxury Reference Price:💰: Varies by room type and season Located in Eryuan, which boasts unique natural scenery and rich geothermal resources. The hotel's architectural style is simple and natural, complementing the surrounding environment.

Dear friends, how will you spend the Spring Festival? Here is a classic 6-day itinerary for Kunming, Dali, and Lijiang! Enjoy the Spring Festival to the fullest and savor the beautiful moments of your journey! The trip is full of fun and excitement! · ------------------- 🌟📝Itinerary: Day 1: Dianchi Lake—Green Lake Park—Jinma Biji Archway—Guandu Ancient Town Visit the scenic spots of Kunming and immerse yourself in the natural and cultural essence of the city all day long. 🏞️🏞️ Day 2: Dianchi Lake—Haigeng Dam—Stone Forest Scenic Area Explore the secret places of Dianchi Lake and feel the grandeur of nature. 🗺️🌳 Day 3: Dali Ancient Town—Wenxian Tower—Erhai Lake—Erhai Ecological Corridor—Dali West Lake Walk through the ancient town and experience the ecological beauty of Erhai Lake. This day is a visual feast. 🌅⛪ Day 4: Jade Dragon Snow Mountain—Glacier Park Cableway—Impression Lijiang Show—Lijiang Ancient Town Climb the snow-capped mountains and admire the glaciers. The ancient charm of Lijiang and the grandeur of nature are intertwined. ❄️⛰️ Day 5: Shuhe Ancient Town Visit Shuhe Ancient Town and enjoy the tranquility and comfort of a slow-paced life. 🏡🎈 Day 6: Depart for Kunming Airport. You will miss this place and want to come back. We look forward to seeing you again in the southwest. 🛫🏞️ · ------------------- 👖 Travel essentials: Fashionable and comfortable clothes! The weather in Kunming, Dali, and Lijiang is cool in January, so bring more sweaters and down jackets. Don't forget comfortable shoes and a wool hat to keep you warm and stylish! 👓 Next, let's talk about the accessories you need for the trip. Don't forget that you are in a strange place. A hat and sunglasses can help you block the dazzling sunlight. A flashlight and binoculars will be very useful when you are exploring! 🎒 Also, how can you forget your backpack and suitcase? We recommend a lightweight and practical suitcase and a multi-functional backpack. Bring your sense of belonging with you and feel the charm of Yunnan! 📷 Don't miss the beautiful scenery. Photos are our memories, but you should enjoy the process of taking photos while enjoying the scenery! So, bring your professional camera or phone camera and have a photo feast! 🔖 When traveling in a foreign country, you should not ignore the importance of documents. Personal passports, ID cards, cash, and bank cards are essential. If you plan to rent a car, a driver's license is also very important. 💊 Finally, let's talk about health. In January, during the winter vacation, bring some common medicines, such as motion sickness medicine and cold medicine, as well as warm clothes and sunscreen. Let's enjoy a healthy trip and the beauty of Yunnan this winter vacation! · ------------------- After experiencing the warm sunshine of Kunming, the romance of Dali, and the ancient charm of Lijiang, you will feel more and more peaceful. This is Yunnan, a bright and affectionate place!

Girls! Don't miss this when you visit Yunnan! A complete guide to a 6-day tour of Kunming, Dali, and Lijiang. Explore Yunnan without detours! . 🛣️ Itinerary: D1: Dianchi Lake - Green Lake Park - Jinma Biji Archway - Guandu Ancient Town Explore Kunming on the first day. Enjoy the beautiful scenery of Dianchi Lake, stroll through Green Lake Park, visit Jinma Biji Archway to experience the ancient charm, and finally visit Guandu Ancient Town at night. D2: Stone Forest Scenic Area - Small Stone Forest Scenic Area - Ashima Explore Stone Forest on the second day. Marvel at the natural wonders, explore Small Stone Forest, and discover the legend of Ashima. D3: Dali Ancient Town - Wenxian Tower - Erhai Lake - Erhai Ecological Corridor - Dali West Lake Explore Dali. Experience the historical charm of the ancient town and Wenxian Tower, the tranquility of Erhai Lake and the nature of the ecological corridor, and the beauty of Dali West Lake. D4: Jade Dragon Snow Mountain - Glacier Park Cableway - Impression Lijiang Show - Lijiang Ancient Town Challenge Jade Dragon Snow Mountain on the fourth day. Take the cableway to see the glacier wonders, watch the Impression Lijiang Show at night, and visit Lijiang Ancient Town to experience romance. D5: Shuhe Ancient Town Take a day trip to Shuhe Ancient Town. Experience Naxi culture and enjoy a slow-paced life. D6: Kunming - Airport Transfer - Return Visit Kunming again, say goodbye to Yunnan, and return with beautiful memories. . 🎒 Travel checklist: Must-have items for a Yunnan tour of Kunming, Dali, and Lijiang 👗 Clothing: Down jacket, sweater, and long pants to cope with the temperature difference between day and night; bring some short-sleeved shirts for more comfort during the day. 🎩 Accessories: Sunglasses, sun hat, and scarf for sun protection and fashion; rain gear for unexpected rainy days. 👟 Shoes: A pair of comfortable sneakers for walking in the ancient town and climbing mountains; a pair of slippers for easy indoor and outdoor shoe changes. 📄 Documents: ID card, student ID/discount card for easy ticket purchase and accommodation; driver's license for more freedom on a self-driving tour. 💄 Skincare and makeup: Sunscreen and lip balm for strong UV rays in Yunnan; basic makeup for better photos. 💊 Other items: Common medicines such as cold medicine and painkillers for emergencies; power bank and data cable to stay connected. . If you like this Yunnan itinerary, don't miss it! Save it and start your next trip! 🌈✨

Visited Dali 20 times, but missed these 4 places! Every summer vacation is the peak season for Dali. If you don't want to follow the crowd and want to go to some private and niche places, I recommend you to avoid the three ancient cities and towns (Dali, Xizhou, Shuanglang), and go to these four places~ 1️⃣ Bird Hanging Mountain The Bird Hanging Mountain in summer is just like Hayao Miyazaki's anime! Mountains, meadows, cattle and sheep, heart-shaped lakes, coupled with Dali's blue sky and white clouds, are absolutely beautiful. If you are lucky, you can even pick mushrooms in the forest. (168/person 4-6 people start) We even experienced a horse riding copy in Bird Hanging Mountain, 20 yuan per horse, although only five minutes. 2️⃣ Poluo Temple Compared with the hustle and bustle of Jizhaoan, I prefer the tranquility of Poluo Temple. The master on the mountain is very interesting, incense is optional, there is no specific amount. There are bees on the mountain, and buying honey is also optional. The cooking master has a black dog, a big gold chain, usually locked in the backyard. There is also a fat orange, already eight years old, who catches mice on the back mountain when he is free. The vegetarian meal on the mountain is 20 per serving, cash is recommended. Because 90% of people have no signal on the mountain. 3️⃣ Covered Bridge The covered bridge is a must-stop station for me around the sea. The seemingly ordinary covered bridge, each bridge hole is a photo composition artifact. There are lonely trees around, big trees stretching into the sea (you can take photos on the tree), and various flower seas. You must wear a fluttering skirt here, otherwise you will lose a lot. 4️⃣ Chicken Nest Coffee This is a magical coffee shop on a mountain where almost no one is. It is not only a coffee shop, but also an elderly farmer painting society in Dali. The local girls will paint on the mountain, and the paintings will make you exclaim "the master is among the people". As a non-native who has been living in Dali for a long time, I want to say that Dali is not only Cangshan and Erhai. It may not have too stunning scenery, but Dali is really slow and suitable for life. The commercial part of it also exists, which is inevitable for any tourist city. It's just that we who live in Dali all the time will perfectly avoid it. If you don't know how to play in Dali, come and find me!

📌 Foreword: A Pearl of Ancient Roads Sealed by Time, Hiding the Thousand-Year Civilization of Western Yunnan Hidden in the folds of the mountains in northwestern Yunnan lies a forgotten ancient town—Shaxi. Located between the three major tourist cities of Dali, Lijiang, and Shangri-La, it remains isolated from the hustle and bustle, preserving its most authentic self. Here, there is no commercial clamor like Lijiang, no crowds like Dali; only the hoofprints on the bluestone paths, the dappled light and shadow on the ancient stage, the murmuring waters of the Heihe River, and the enduring atmosphere of a thousand years of daily life. Shaxi's value lies not in its trendy tourist attractions, but in the profound history and vibrant heritage it carries—it is the only surviving thousand-year-old market town on the Ancient Tea Horse Road, a cultural treasure listed in the "101 World Monumental Heritage Sites in Danger" in 2002, an important birthplace of the bronze civilization in western Yunnan from the Warring States period to the Western Han Dynasty, and a cultural home where the Bai, Yi, and other ethnic groups coexist and thrive. From a bronze tribe over 2,500 years ago to an ancient post station during the Tang and Song dynasties, and then to a major commercial town during the Ming and Qing dynasties, every inch of Shaxi bears the marks of time; every building, every craft, and every folk custom tells a thousand-year-old legend. This in-depth tour of Shaxi took me 10 days, avoiding the pitfalls of commercialization. My footsteps covered the core area of ​​Sideng Street, the Aofengshan ancient tomb complex, the Shibaoshan grottoes, surrounding traditional villages, and intangible cultural heritage workshops. I spoke with veteran craftsmen upholding their skills, scholars deeply immersed in history, and young inheritors who have returned to their hometowns to start businesses. I immersively explored Shaxi's historical transformation from the Bronze Age civilization to the Tea Horse Road, deciphering the commercial secrets of ancient markets, the transmission of intangible cultural heritage, the cultural integration of multiple ethnic groups, and how contemporary Shaxi preserves its nostalgia and revitalizes itself through protection and development. This post, exceeding 7,800 words, focuses on "historical origins + on-site visits + cultural interpretation + practical tips," packed with valuable information. It boasts both archaeological evidence and vivid stories of artisans; it showcases the legendary trade of the Ancient Tea Horse Road and the dedication to intangible cultural heritage; it captures the everyday life of ancient villages and offers innovative contemporary travel experiences. This journey will take you through the mists of time, allowing you to touch the millennia-old cultural heritage of Shaxi and unlock the unique charm of this pearl of the ancient road. It's perfect for all travelers who love history, intangible cultural heritage, slow travel, and in-depth exploration. 🗺️ Itinerary Overview (10 Days 9 Nights, In-depth yet relaxed, immersive exploration and experience) Day 1: Arrive in Dali → Jianchuan → Shaxi Ancient Town (Rest and explore the town's nighttime atmosphere and local life) Day 2: Shaxi Ancient Town → Sideng Street Core Area (Ancient Stage, Xingjiao Temple, Sifang Street) → Understanding the spatial layout and commercial history of the ancient market Day 3: Shaxi Ancient Town → Aofengshan Bronze Culture Cemetery → Jianchuan Museum (Tracing the origins of Shaxi's Bronze Age civilization, exploring the tribal legends from the Warring States period to the Western Han Dynasty) Day 4: Shaxi Ancient Town → Yujin Bridge → Heihui River Ancient Channel → Exploring the remains of the Shaxi section of the Ancient Tea Horse Road, recreating the caravan trade scene Day 5: Shaxi Ancient Town → Shibaoshan Grottoes (Exploring the Buddhist art treasures of the Nanzhao and Dali Kingdoms, interpreting...) (Cultural Connections Between the Grottoes and Shaxi) Day 6: Shaxi Ancient Town → Intangible Cultural Heritage Experience Day (Bai ethnic group's Jiama making, Jianchuan wood carving observation) → Dialogue with young inheritors, experiencing the rebirth of intangible cultural heritage Day 7: Shaxi Ancient Town → Surrounding Traditional Villages (Shilong Village, Hualong Village) → Unlocking the "One Town Leading Seven Villages" tourism and rural revitalization practice Day 8: Shaxi Ancient Town → In-depth experience of caravan culture (Hike along the ancient caravan road, caravan culture museum) → Listening to the oral history of the caravan descendants Day 9: Shaxi Ancient Town → Exploring off-the-beaten-path spots (Pioneer Shaxi Bai Ethnic Bookstore, Ouyang Courtyard, revitalization project of idle ancient courtyards) → Experiencing the collision of tradition and modernity Day 10: Shaxi Ancient Town → Summary and review, purchasing intangible cultural heritage souvenirs → Return trip 📜 Tracing the Origins: The Thousand-Year Civilization of Shaxi—From Bronze Tribe to Tea Horse Pearl To understand Shaxi, one must first trace its civilization's origins. The history of Shaxi is far longer than we imagine. Its civilization spans the entire development of western Yunnan from the Bronze Age to the present day, and can be roughly divided into four key stages: the Bronze Age (Warring States to Western Han Dynasty), the Ancient Road and Post Station Period (Tang and Song Dynasties), the Golden Age of Commerce (Ming and Qing Dynasties), and the Period of Protection and Revitalization (Modern and Contemporary Times). Each stage has infused Shaxi with unique cultural genes, shaping the Shaxi we know today. ### I. The Bronze Age: The "Heroic Tribe" of Western Yunnan, the Dawn of Civilization The origins of civilization in Shaxi can be traced back more than 2,400 years to the late Warring States period and early Western Han Dynasty. During this period, Shaxi was already one of the centers of bronze smelting in western Yunnan, and also a tribal settlement with strong military power. This conclusion is not based on mere speculation, but on archaeological evidence from the Aofengshan Bronze Culture cemetery. In August 1977, members of the Hongwei Brigade of Shaxi Commune, while quarrying stone at the highest point of Aofengshan, unexpectedly discovered a large number of bronze, pottery, and stone artifacts. Subsequently, the Yunnan Provincial Institute of Cultural Relics and Archaeology conducted a formal excavation in 1980, unveiling the mystery of the Shaxi Bronze Age civilization. The Aofengshan Bronze Culture cemetery yielded 217 pit tombs, of which 93 tombs contained 429 funerary objects, 216 of which were bronze, accounting for more than half. These bronze artifacts are diverse, covering four main categories: weapons, production tools, daily necessities, and ornaments. Weapons were the most numerous, including bronze swords, bronze axes, bronze halberds, bronze spears, bronze arrowheads, and bronze arm armor, enough to equip an elite warrior force, demonstrating the military strength of the Shaxi tribe at that time, making them a "heroic tribe" in western Yunnan. Besides weapons, numerous production tools were unearthed among the bronze artifacts, such as bronze chisels, shavings, and axes. Even more surprisingly, archaeologists discovered stone molds for bronze production, proving that these bronze artifacts were not imported from elsewhere but were smelted and cast locally in Shaxi. This indicates that Shaxi's bronze casting industry was already quite advanced at the time, forming a complete production system. Furthermore, the tomb yielded a large number of exquisite ornaments, such as bronze hairpins, rings, bracelets, agate necklaces, and turquoise beads. One necklace alone strung 12 agates and 35 turquoise stones, demonstrating exquisite craftsmanship and a level of luxury far exceeding expectations, clearly indicating the wealth and civilization of the Shaxi tribe at that time. According to archaeological research, Shaxi existed concurrently with the "Dian Kingdom" in the Dianchi area, making it an important civilized settlement in western Yunnan. The flourishing of a advanced Bronze Age civilization in Shaxi was inseparable from its unique natural conditions. The Shaxi Basin was flat, with the Heihe River flowing through it, facilitating irrigation and making it suitable for agricultural production, providing a solid material foundation for the development of civilization. Simultaneously, the area surrounding Shaxi was rich in mineral resources, especially copper reserves, providing ample raw materials for the development of bronze casting. Furthermore, Shaxi's location at a crucial node on the "Shu-Shendu Road" (Southern Silk Road) fostered early trade and cultural exchange, which also contributed to the advancement of bronze-making techniques. However, this once powerful bronze-producing tribe ultimately disappeared mysteriously into the annals of history. It is speculated that frequent warfare was the main cause of its decline—at that time, western Yunnan was rife with tribes and constant conflicts. Although the Shaxi tribe was militarily strong, the prolonged warfare ultimately wore down the entire tribe, leading to its annexation by other tribes. Its civilization was gradually buried by history, leaving only the Aofeng Mountain burial complex, silently recounting its former glory. Today, in the Shaxi Bronze Civilization Exhibition Area of ​​the Jianchuan Museum, we can still see these unearthed bronze treasures. Touching the mottled surfaces of the bronzes, it's as if we can travel back a thousand years, witnessing the heroic spirit of Shaxi warriors charging into battle, and feeling the civilization and luxury of that heroic era. The bronze heritage of Shaxi has not completely disappeared. Later Jianchuan wood carving, metal forging, and other techniques have, to some extent, inherited the wisdom of bronze casting, becoming important carriers of the continuation of Shaxi civilization. ### II. Tang and Song Dynasties: The Rise of Ancient Road Stations and the Emergence of Caravan Culture After the decline of the bronze civilization, Shaxi remained dormant for centuries until the Tang and Song Dynasties. With the rise of the Southern Silk Road (Shu-Shendu Road) and the opening of the Yunnan-Tibet Tea Horse Road, Shaxi re-emerged, becoming an important station on the ancient road. Caravan culture took root in Shaxi from then on, becoming one of the core genes of Shaxi culture. Shaxi's geographical location determined its important position on the ancient road—located at the intersection of the "Bonan Ancient Road" and the "Yunnan-Tibet Ancient Road," it was a vital route connecting Dali, Lijiang, Shangri-La, and even reaching Myanmar and India, making it a true "transportation hub" on the ancient road. At that time, silk and tea from Sichuan, medicinal herbs and furs from western Yunnan, and jewelry and spices from Southeast Asia all needed to pass through Shaxi before being transported by caravans to various destinations. Thus, Shaxi gradually became an important post station and trading node on the ancient road. During the Tang and Song dynasties, Shaxi's post station functions gradually improved, forming the rudiments of a market town. At that time, Shaxi already had dedicated rest areas for mule caravans, warehouses for storing goods, and trading venues. Mule drivers traveled down the Heihui River to Tengyue Yifang, or climbed the slope of Maping Pass to Misha and Nuodeng. Every day at sunset, both groups of mule caravans would arrive at Shaxi's evening market. After nightfall, traditional operas were performed on the ancient stage, and the evening market in Sifang Street opened. The cacophony of bargaining, the ringing of mule caravan bells, and the singing on the stage blended together, creating Shaxi's most vibrant and lively scene. During this period, Shaxi's...

📌 Foreword: A Cultural Heritage Highland in Western Yunnan, Gifted by Time Hidden in the folds of the mountains in northwestern Yunnan, Jianchuan lies like a rough gem polished by time, nestled in the golden triangle region of Dali, Lijiang, and Shangri-La. Formerly known as "Yidu," meaning "Southern Gateway" in the Naxi language, it was a crucial intersection of the Southern Silk Road and the Yunnan-Tibet Tea Horse Road, the starting point of the Bronze Age civilization of the Yunnan-Guizhou Plateau, the art palace of the Nanzhao and Dali Kingdoms, and a treasure trove of Bai culture. In 2023, Jianchuan was officially designated a "National Historical and Cultural City." Behind this honor lies 5,300 years of uninterrupted cultural accumulation, an epic of dynasties etched in red sandstone, a legendary craftsmanship carved into wood, and a national memory flowing in songs. When Jianchuan is mentioned, most people only know about the bustling tea-horse trade of Shaxi Ancient Town, unaware that Jianchuan is the cultural heart of this land; they know the Shizhongshan Grottoes as the "Southern Dunhuang," but are unaware that it is the only physical evidence for studying the history of the Nanzhao and Dali Kingdoms; they know the folk song "Jianchuan carpenters are everywhere," but are unaware that this woodcarving craft has graced the Forbidden City and the Great Hall of the People, stunning audiences for over a thousand years. Jianchuan's rich history lies not in individual attractions, but in its integration of prehistoric civilization, bronze smelting, grotto art, woodcarving craftsmanship, tea-horse trade, and Bai ethnic customs, forming a unique cultural landscape where "a mountain hides grottoes, a piece of wood carries craftsmanship, a city connects the past and present, and a song has been passed down for a thousand years." This in-depth tour of Jianchuan lasted 12 days, avoiding the hustle and bustle of commercialization. My footsteps covered Jianchuan Ancient City, Haimenkou Ruins, Shizhongshan Grottoes, Shaxi Ancient Town, Jianchuan Woodcarving Intangible Cultural Heritage Park, the Shibaoshan Song Festival, and surrounding traditional villages. I engaged in dialogues with archaeologists, grotto research institute experts, intangible cultural heritage craftsmen, and Bai opera inheritors, immersing myself in the evolution of Jianchuan's civilization from the Neolithic Age to the present day. I delved into the secrets of the Shizhongshan Grottoes' construction, the inheritance of Jianchuan woodcarving techniques, the historical connection between Shaxi and Jianchuan, and the living genes of Bai culture, restoring the most authentic cultural heritage of this "renowned cultural city." This post, exceeding 8,000 words, centers on "historical origins + in-depth analysis of key locations + dialogue with intangible cultural heritage craftsmen + practical guides." It offers rigorous support from archaeological evidence, vivid stories of artisans, aesthetic analysis of grotto art, practical explanations of woodcarving techniques, the legendary trade of the Tea Horse Road, and the everyday life of the Bai ethnic group. It takes you through the mists of time, allowing you to touch the millennia-old cultural heritage of Jianchuan and unlock the ultimate secrets of western Yunnan's history and culture. 🗺️ Itinerary Overview (12 Days 11 Nights, In-depth and Relaxed, Immersive Experience) Days | Core Itinerary | Highlights Day 1: Arrive in Dali → Jianchuan Ancient City → Rest Initial exploration of the Ming Dynasty's "Four Gates and Three Streets" layout, experiencing the vibrant atmosphere of the ancient city. Day 2: Jianchuan Ancient City → Jianchuan County Museum → Haimenkou Site Tracing the origins of the Bronze Age civilization on the Yunnan-Guizhou Plateau, interpreting the wisdom of prehistoric stilted architecture. Day 3: Jianchuan Ancient City → Shizhongshan Grottoes (Shizhong Temple Area) Decoding the Nanzhao royal family's statues, analyzing the integration of Buddhist art. Day 4: Shizhongshan Grottoes (Shiziguan Area + Shadengqing Area) → Shibaoshan Visiting the earliest grotto statues, experiencing the fusion of nature and culture. Day 5: Jianchuan Woodcarving Intangible Cultural Heritage Park → Ancient City Woodcarving Workshop Observing the entire woodcarving process, talking with veteran craftsmen, and experiencing basic carving. Day 6: Jianchuan Ancient City → Shaxi Ancient Town (Sideng Street Core Area) Unlock the ancient tea-horse market under Jianchuan's jurisdiction, interpreting the symbiotic cultural heritage of "one county, one town" Day 7: Shaxi Ancient Town → Aofengshan Ancient Tomb Complex → Jianchuan Museum (Bronze Exhibition Area) Connecting the bronze civilizations of Shaxi and Jianchuan, restoring the tribal structure of western Yunnan Day 8: Jianchuan Ancient City → Baoxiang Temple → Haiyun Residence Exploring the "Hanging Temple," interpreting the diverse integration of Buddhist culture in Jianchuan Day 9: Bai Opera Training Center → Shilong Village → Intangible Cultural Heritage Experience (Jia Ma Making) Listening to the thousand-year-old Bai opera, experiencing the living inheritance of Bai folk customs Day 10: Jianchuan Ancient City → Wenxianlou (Literature Building) → Zhao Fan's Former Residence → Zhou Zhongyue Memorial Hall Tracing the cultural heritage of "a renowned cultural city," interpreting the spirit of Jianchuan literati Day 11: Villages surrounding Jianchuan (Sanhe Village + Qinghua Village) Unlocking the inheritance of rural intangible cultural heritage, experiencing traditional Bai life Day 12: Jianchuan Ancient City → Souvenir Shopping → Return Trip Summarizing and reviewing, taking away the craftsmanship and cultural memories of Jianchuan 📜 Tracing the Origins: The Millennial Civilization of Jianchuan – From Prehistoric Settlements to a Renowned Cultural Hub The history of Jianchuan's civilization is a microcosm of the evolution of civilization in western Yunnan. From the prehistoric ancestors who settled near water 5300 years ago, to the dawn of the Bronze Age civilization on the Yunnan-Guizhou Plateau 3000 years ago; from the artistic peak of the Nanzhao and Dali Kingdoms period, to the rise of Jianchuan as a "renowned cultural hub" during the Ming and Qing Dynasties; from the preservation of intangible cultural heritage in modern times to the contemporary integration of culture and tourism, each stage has left a clear imprint of civilization, constituting Jianchuan's unique cultural heritage. I. Prehistoric to the Bronze Age (5300 years ago – Western Han Dynasty): The Dawn of Civilization and the Beginning of the Metal Age The starting point of Jianchuan's civilization can be traced back to the late Neolithic period 5300 years ago. The discovery of the Haimenkou site completely rewrote the history of civilization on the Yunnan-Guizhou Plateau. In 1957, villagers in Haimenkou Village accidentally unearthed thousands of wooden piles while dredging a river. Subsequent three systematic excavations unveiled the mystery of this prehistoric mega-site—the largest waterfront stilt house complex discovered in my country to date. The more than 4,000 wooden piles, buried deep underground, are arranged in a neat pattern, bearing witness to the wisdom of the early inhabitants in choosing to live near water. The core value of the Haimenkou site lies in its complete presentation of the civilizational leap from the Neolithic Age to the Bronze Age. The bronze artifacts and bronze casting molds unearthed at the site, based on clear stratigraphic relationships, have been identified by archaeologists as the "starting point of the Bronze Age civilization on the Yunnan-Guizhou Plateau." Professor Li Boqian of Peking University emphasized that this physical evidence from clearly defined strata confirms that the ancestors of Haimenkou had mastered mature bronze smelting technology 3,000 years ago. The high degree of consistency between the stone artifact decorations and the patterns on the red pottery recreates the production scene of "casting bronze with stone molds" at that time, marking the beginning of Yunnan's metal civilization. Besides bronze casting, the Haimenkou site also yielded a large number of stone tools, pottery, and bone tools. The rice cultivation remains among them prove that Jianchuan was an important origin of rice-farming culture in western Yunnan. The early inhabitants of that time cultivated rice and raised livestock while simultaneously smelting bronze and making tools, forming a primitive civilization of "agriculture + handicrafts." The 216 bronze artifacts unearthed from the Aofengshan ancient tomb complex in Shaxi are directly descended from the bronze-making techniques of Haimenkou, proving that during the Warring States period to the Western Han Dynasty, Jianchuan had formed a bronze-farming tribal alliance centered on Shaxi, becoming the core of civilization in western Yunnan. During this period, Jianchuan, benefiting from the water conservancy of the Heihe River, abundant copper resources, and early trade along the Southern Silk Road, became a frontier for cultural exchange between the Yunnan-Guizhou Plateau and the Central Plains and Southeast Asia. The agate and turquoise ornaments unearthed at the Haimenkou site are similar to artifacts from the Dian Kingdom in the Dianchi area, confirming the close cultural and trade ties between Jianchuan and the Dian Kingdom at that time, laying the foundation for subsequent cultural integration in Jianchuan. II. The Tang and Song Dynasties: Nanzhao and Dali Kingdoms (738-1253 AD): Artistic Pinnacle and Cultural Fusion During the Tang and Song Dynasties, with the rise of Nanzhao and the continuation of the Dali Kingdom, Jianchuan ushered in its first peak of civilization. As the "Yidujian" (administrative region) of Nanzhao and the "Jianchuan Jiedu" of Dali, Jianchuan was not only a military stronghold but also a center of culture and art. The excavation of the Shizhongshan Grottoes, the rise of Jianchuan wood carving, and the spread of Buddhist culture jointly forged the brilliance of this period. During the Nanzhao period, Jianchuan, with its pivotal position on the Tea Horse Road and the Southern Silk Road, became a meeting point of Central Plains, Tibetan, and Southeast Asian cultures. The Nanzhao royal family's emphasis on Jianchuan promoted the birth of grotto art—the Shizhongshan Grottoes, which began in the mid-to-late Nanzhao period and underwent more than 300 years of carving during the Dali Kingdom, eventually formed a complex of 17 caves and 233 statues, becoming the earliest and best-preserved grotto complex in Yunnan. These sculptures, crafted from red sandstone, seamlessly blend the political life, Buddhist beliefs, and Bai ethnic customs of the three Nanzhao kings, making them veritable "History of the Nanzhao and Dali Kingdoms carved in stone." Meanwhile, Jianchuan woodcarving reached its maturity during this period. Historical records indicate that Jianchuan carpenters undertook the production of woodcarving components for the Nanzhao Wuhua Tower during the Tang Dynasty, and by the Song Dynasty, Jianchuan woodcarvers had already performed in the capital, causing a sensation. The woodcarving techniques of that time combined the bold and unrestrained style of western Yunnan with the delicate and refined style of southern China, and were widely used in palaces, temples, and residential architecture, laying the foundation for the later flourishing of Jianchuan woodcarving. Buddhist culture also achieved a diverse integration during this period. The sculptures in the Shizhongshan Grottoes, based on Han Chinese Buddhism, incorporated elements of Tibetan Buddhism's Tantric tradition and the Bai ethnic group's Benzhu (local deity) beliefs, forming a religious landscape of "Buddhism, Taoism, and Benzhu" coexisting. (Yunnan Academy of Social Sciences) The construction of temples such as Baoxiang Temple and Haiyunju further promoted the spread of Buddhism in Jianchuan. Xu Xiake, in his travelogue, described Baoxiang Temple as "layered cliffs, with clouds swirling and peaks surging, like twelve lotus pavilions," demonstrating the grandeur of Buddhist architecture at the time. During this period, Jianchuan experienced an unprecedented level of cultural integration. The architectural techniques of the Central Plains, the religious culture of Tibet, and the sculptural styles of Southeast Asia collided and blended with the local Bai culture, forming a unique regional cultural landscape, exemplified by Shizhong Mountain.

Heard you're looking for a quiet, beautiful off-the-beaten-path ancient town? 👏 This little-known spot around Dali is absolutely amazing! 🚗 ✨A pearl left from the ancient Tea Horse Road in western Yunnan✨ Eryuan · Fengyu ancient town 📍How to get there: 1-hour drive from Dali (Dali–Lijiang Expressway) ⏰Recommended visit: one-day trip / relaxed two-day trip This is truly the most authentic ancient town I've ever seen! 📸Every snapshot looks like a healing movie scene ✅Almost no commercialization ✅Locals still live here daily ✅Full of genuine everyday life Why is it quieter than Lijiang? 👵Bai grandmas tie-dye fabric chatting at their doorsteps 👴Elders sitting by the stone bridge smoking dry tobacco and talking 🍵A cup of roasted tea for 6 yuan, perfect for an afternoon of sitting Few tourists, like a privately kept secret! Why is it more pristine than Wuzhen? 🌉Several century-old stone arch bridges span the Fengyu River 🏡Original Bai ethnic courtyards 🦆Locals freely release ducks to fish in the river A truly “living” ancient town! 💯Must-do guide: 1️⃣Morning mist: after rain, the valley is filled with mist, like a fairyland 2️⃣Riverside tea shop: a cup of roasted tea while watching flowing water and distant mountains 3️⃣Stroll ancient bridges: Lingji Bridge and Liufu Bridge are perfect for photos 4️⃣Must-try foods: Fengyu oil chicken mushrooms, Bai-style milk fan sachima, Bai sour and spicy fish Nearby must-visit: 👉Fozhong Mountain (8-minute drive) Ancient temple on the mountain with panoramic views of the Fengyu valley 🚗Alternative recommendations: 1️⃣Yunlong · Nuodeng ancient town Feature: thousand-year-old Bai village, famous nationwide for ham Food: Nuodeng ham and native chicken eggs are must-tries 2️⃣Jianchuan · Shaxi ancient town Feature: last market on the Tea Horse Road Highlight: surrounded by the Heihui River, with a vibrant ancient theater stage atmosphere 💡Travel tips: Self-driving offers more freedom Visit on rainy days for a misty, magical valley Stay in Bai ethnic courtyard guesthouses in the ancient town Be sure to bring your camera to capture the beauty! This summer, head to this hidden treasure of an ancient town Slow down and enjoy the gentle time of western Yunnan~ 🌿

📍Address: Xinzhou Street, Dengchuan Town, Eryuan County, Dali Prefecture, next to National Highway 214. Search "Haisheng Manor" for navigation ⏰Hours: 8:30 AM–7:00 PM ⏳Recommended visit time: 3–5 hours, can spend a full day 🅿️Parking: Free outdoor parking available on site with plenty of spaces 🌤Best season: March–November. Sunny days are perfect for photos on the lawn. Bring a raincoat during the rainy season and a light jacket for cool mornings and evenings 2. Ticket prices (2026 reference) 1. Basic single ticket: Online special 19.9–30 CNY. Unlimited access to 50–60 non-powered attractions. Same price for adults and children 2. Group packages: 4-person group tickets offer better value, ideal for families and friends 3. Additional paid attractions (optional) - Go-karts and bumper cars: charged separately 4. Free admission policy: Children under 1 meter tall enter free 3. Must-try attractions Free with admission (included in the pass) · Popular rainbow slide: the manor’s signature attraction, smooth and exciting, suitable for all ages · Giant panda-themed trampoline and polar bear trampoline area · Climbing frame combo for adventurous climbs and jungle crossing · Infinity swing, popular hanging basket, multi-person swinging seats · Large combo slides, spiral slide, sandpit toys, maze trail The wide open lawn is perfect for bringing your own kite, frisbee, or having a picnic Paid separately Off-road go-karts and electric bumper cars, great for teens seeking speed 4. Transportation 1. Self-driving (recommended) · From Dali Old Town: about 40 minutes, 45 km · From Xizhou Ancient Town: 25 minutes · From Eryuan County (hot spring area): 10 minutes Route: Head north along National Highway 214. The location is easy to spot from the road without needing to take complicated rural paths. 2. Private car/shared ride day tour From Dali Old Town: Old Town → Xizhou Ancient Town → Haisheng Manor → Eryuan Hot Springs, a classic northern route day trip 3. Public transport Take the bus to Eryuan from Dali North Bus Station. Get off at Dengchuan Xinzhou intersection, then walk or take a short tricycle ride. Limited service, not recommended for travelers with young children. 5. On-site dining options 1. Specialty meals Guizhou baked pot and local Dali firewood chicken, suitable for group dining and family gatherings 2. Light snacks: fried potatoes, rice noodles, grilled sausages, drinks, ice cream 3. You may bring your own snacks, fruit, and picnic mats to relax and camp on the lawn 6. Recommended itineraries Family-friendly easy route Enter → check in at the rainbow slide → release energy on various trampolines → climb the combo frame + play in the sandpit → lunch with firewood chicken or baked pot → stroll on the lawn and fly kites → optional go-kart ride → return Northern Dali one-day tour Morning: depart from Dali Old Town → check in at Xizhou Ancient Town Afternoon: family fun at Haisheng Manor Evening: head to Eryuan County for hot spring soak and overnight stay 7. What to wear and bring 1. Clothing: casual sportswear, quick-dry clothes. Avoid white clothing as it stains easily from grass 2. Shoes: non-slip sports shoes only. No high heels or sandals 3. Essentials: sunscreen, sun hat, insect repellent, wet wipes, change of clothes (slides can get dusty) 4. The lawn has strong UV exposure. On sunny days, bring a sun hat and small tent 8. Practical tips 1. Buying tickets online in advance is much cheaper than at the gate. Stock up before holidays 2. Only go-karts and bumper cars have extra fees. Beware of upselling 3. Weekends and holidays are crowded. The rainbow slide may have short lines. Visit on weekdays if possible 4. The ground is mostly lawn and sand. Watch young children carefully to avoid bumps and scrapes 5. Pets are not allowed in the manor

Beyond the celebration, a comfortable place to rest is essential. This hotel is adjacent to the Torch Festival’s main event area, offering a prime location and convenient access. You can walk directly to the bonfire square and folk activity street without rushing, easily enjoying the festival excitement and quickly returning to a peaceful retreat after the fun.

Xizhou isn't just a substitute for Dali Ancient City; it's a unique place steeped in the thousand-year-old spirit of the Bai people! ✨Rice paddies, tie-dye, old houses, the Ancient Tea Horse Road… Don't just rush through! This comprehensive, hands-on guide will teach you how to unlock the most authentic Xizhou in 24 hours, guaranteed to get your social media likes! 📸 🚗 Transportation Tips (Key Points!) By Car/Taxi: Approximately 30 minutes from Dali Ancient City. Navigate directly to "Xizhou Ancient Town Zhengyi Gate". Don't navigate to Dong'an Gate—it's incredibly congested during peak season! Parking costs 10 yuan/day. 🚌By Bus: Take the "Xiaguan-Eryuan" minibus from Cangshan Gate (approximately 7-8 yuan/person). Get off at "Xizhou Health Center". 🚴By Cycling: Highly recommend renting an electric scooter (approximately 50 yuan/day)! Along the way, you'll find covered bridges, the "Couple Trees," and rice paddies—the feeling of the wheat swaying in the wind is absolutely breathtaking! ⚠️Note: Be sure to choose the new national standard tram. The old trams may lose power halfway through the journey. Don't ask me how I know 😭 📸 Must-Visit TOP 5 (100% Photo Guarantee) 1. Corner Tower: A landmark of Xizhou! It's recommended to arrive before 8:30 AM for wide-angle shots and the vibrant atmosphere of the street breakfast stalls. After 9 AM, the queues for photos are unbearable! 2. Yan Family Courtyard (20 RMB): A microcosm of the Bai ethnic merchant guild's legend! Three courtyards and a screen wall + a corner tower, the second-floor wood carvings are considered "unique in western Yunnan." Free guided tours are available. Don't miss the secret door to the underground vault! 3. Xilin Garden Rice Paddy: Rapeseed flowers in March-April / Green rice in May-June / Golden waves in September-October. Don't crowd the main road! Walk 200 meters east to "Keli Village" for fewer people and a wilder view. 4. Jiangzhiji Folk Art Center (30 RMB): The ultimate in intangible cultural heritage experience! Jade horse rubbing + wool felting + indigo tie-dye (reservations required). Wearing plain clothes will make you look better in photos. 5. Haishi Park: Couple Trees + Erhai S-curve + Lonely Bench. Cycling is recommended (return before 5:30 PM for the best lighting!). 🍜 Foodie Radar (Local Certification) Suxiangyuan/Heshangxizhou Baba: Savory and delicious! Freshly baked, crispy on the outside and chewy on the inside, with a burst of brown sugar filling! Cool Hut: 35-year-old handmade fresh milk popsicles, incredibly creamy! Ama Ying Pea Flour: Mixed flour + special plum vinegar, soft, chewy, sweet, and spicy – ​​super refreshing! Pesoa Pastoral Cafe: Grab a spot with a rice paddy view! Best viewed from 3-5 PM with side lighting; the wooden-framed window view is stunning. ⚠️ Lessons Learned (You'll Regret Not Reading This) Don't wear high heels! The cobblestone paths and carriage roads are incredibly bumpy. Yan Family Courtyard closes at 6:00 PM; tie-dye experience starts at 4:00 PM. Use sunscreen and mosquito repellent in the rice paddies! Physical sun protection is the best. Please do not trample the crops while taking photos in the wheat fields! Respect the hard work of the locals. Shops in Xizhou Ancient Town begin to close around 8:30 PM; there is no nightlife, so don't make a wasted trip! 🗺️ Secret Route (No Backtracking) 8:00 Yan Family Courtyard → 9:30 Breakfast at the Corner Tower → 10:30 Intangible Cultural Heritage Experience at Jiangzhiji → 12:30 Lunch → 2:00 Haishi Park → 4:00 Afternoon Tea in the Rice Paddies → 6:00 Return Trip to Watch the Sunset

Yunnan’s Dali is famous for its "wind, flower, snow, and moon" (Xiaguan wind, Shangguan flowers, Cangshan snow, Erhai moon) and is the perfect destination to experience Bai culture and a slow-paced lifestyle. In summer 2026, the "One Ticket to Explore Dali" campaign launches. With your boarding pass, you get free entry to attractions like Chongsheng Temple Three Pagodas and Butterfly Spring, plus 15% off the Cangshan cable car and Erhai boat tours. The newly opened Haidong Stone Art Village offers free access to five art spaces. Ticket guides are ready—start your trip now! 📍 Highlights Dali ancient town: Stroll the bluestone streets, visit Wuhua Tower and Foreigner Street, and soak in the Bai local life and folk songs. Erhai lake scenic route: West Erhai cycling section (Longkan pier sunrise → Panxi village S curve → Xizhou ancient town wheat fields), Haidong self-driving section (Shuanglang ancient town → Wenbi village rainbow road → Ideal Village). About 130 km total, with a stunning sunset. Cangshan mountain: Take the Ximatan cable car up to see the sea of clouds overlooking Erhai; in the afternoon, visit Jizhao Nunnery succulent garden for a vegetarian meal—peaceful and healing. New in 2026: Haidong Stone Art Village (open April, free); Chongsheng Temple Three Pagodas night light show and one-day Zen retreat; intangible cultural heritage workshops for Bai tie-dye and silver jewelry forging. 🎫 Practical info Tickets: Chongsheng Temple Three Pagodas 75 yuan (free with boarding pass); Cangshan Ximatan cable car about 120 yuan (15% off); Butterfly Spring, Tianlong Babu film city, and Eryuan West Lake free with boarding pass "One Ticket to Explore Dali" campaign: valid until August 31, 2026, enjoy the above discounts with your boarding pass Opening hours: usually 8:00 AM–5:30 PM at each attraction Transport: renting a car or self-driving around the lake is recommended; West Erhai corridor is for cycling or walking only Best time to visit: April–May and September–November for comfortable weather; July–August for summer cooling, with student discounts 💡 Travel tips 3-day streamlined itinerary: Day 1: Dali ancient town → Chongsheng Temple Three Pagodas → Foreigner Street/People’s Road Day 2: Erhai lake day tour (West Erhai cycling + Haidong self-driving) Day 3: Cangshan mountain → Jizhao Nunnery → return trip Accommodation recommendations: Stay in Shuanglang/Longkan for lake views (300–500 yuan per person); stay in the ancient town for easy shopping (150–250 yuan per person); stay in Xizhou for a quiet slow life Must-try foods: Xizhou crispy baba, grilled milk fan, cold chicken rice noodles, Bai sour and spicy fish, wild mushroom hot pot Key reminders: Wear light-colored clothes; temperature varies greatly between morning and evening, bring a light jacket UV rays are very strong; sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses are essential Watch your electric bike battery around the lake; avoid climbing Cangshan on rainy days Beware of aggressive sales in the ancient town 💡 In summary Dali is not just a destination; it’s a way of life. The grandeur of Cangshan and Erhai, the lively alleys of the ancient town, the healing wheat fields of Xizhou—once here, you won’t want to leave. Free entry to multiple attractions with your boarding pass in 2026. Now is the perfect time to go!

Who would have thought! Dali hides a pristine karst cave that 99% of travelers can’t find. This is the same spot Xu Xiake visited. A sapphire-blue underground lake so stunning it leaves you speechless. Off the beaten path and perfect for photos💎 📍Location Located halfway up the mountain in Beiya Village, Xiyi Town, Heqing County, Dali Prefecture (also called Yaolong Cave or Taiji Cave). It’s hidden in the deep ravine southwest of Beiya, secluded and full of wild, natural charm. 🚗 Getting there (important! Can’t be found by direct search) ▫️Self-drive (recommended): About 2 hours from Dali Old Town, about 1.5 hours from Lijiang. Navigate to “Heqing Beiya Mining Co., Ltd.” Do not search directly for “Yaolong Cave”! 1. After arriving at the mining company, look for the blue sign “Eryuan County Jiaoshi Wangjiagou – Jinmao Concentrator”; 2. Park at the end of the red dirt road, then hike 15–20 minutes through cornfields and up small hills; 3. When you see the wooden sign for “Yaolong Cave,” you’ve arrived. No signal along the way, so download offline maps in advance. ▫️Group tours/local guides: The mountain roads are hard to find. For first-timers, it’s best to go with others or hire a guide. 👕 What to wear (comfortable + practical) ▫️Top: Quick-dry long sleeves + light windbreaker. The cave stays around 12℃ year-round, so dress for temperature changes; ▫️Bottom: Durable long pants to protect against branches and insects; ▫️Shoes: Non-slip creek shoes (a must! The cave floor is wet and rocky. No sandals or regular shoes allowed); ▫️Accessories: Hat + sunglasses + sunscreen (strong UV in the mountains), plus a backpack for essentials. ✨ Highlights of the secret spot ▫️Karst wonders: Stalactites millions of years old cover the cave, with unique stalagmites and stone curtains. Xu Xiake praised it as “a brilliance unmatched by any other water”; ▫️Blue lake spectacle: A crescent-shaped pool at the cave bottom, with water colors shifting from light green to deep blue depending on the light, crystal clear; ▫️Pristine experience: No commercial development, no lighting, no boardwalks, preserving the most original natural scenery. ⚠️ Complete precautions 1. Safety first: This is an undeveloped site with no rescue facilities! Always go with others. Solo entry is strictly prohibited. The cave floor is slippery, so walk carefully; 2. Essential gear: The cave is completely dark. Everyone must bring a headlamp or waterproof flashlight plus spare batteries. The water is very cold. Limit time in the water to under 15 minutes to avoid cramps; 3. Prohibited activities: No diving, swimming, or snorkeling. There are hidden reefs and currents underwater connected to an underground river; 4. Weather warnings: Avoid the rainy season (June–August). Even light rain can cause water levels to rise and flash floods inside the cave. Check real-time weather before your trip; 5. Be respectful and eco-friendly: No trash bins, so take all your garbage with you to protect the pristine water source. Do not climb on stalactites or damage the natural scenery. Escape the crowds and explore the same sapphire-blue underground lake Xu Xiake visited. This raw and breathtaking healing experience is worth the journey over mountains and valleys💙

Recommended by a friend, I visited this hot spring boutique hotel while traveling in Eryuan, Dali. The experience was amazing! I stayed in Eryuan for three days and can only say that Gantong Jintang Hot Spring Boutique Hotel is truly well hidden. There are seven rooms in total, each connected to natural hot spring water. Soaking in the Gantong Jintang pool at night, with the mountain breeze slipping through the window cracks, your whole body relaxes down to the bone. This isn’t boiler-heated water; it’s rare iron-rich golden spring water, a genuine natural hot spring you seldom find even in Yunnan. The guesthouse is located in the old town of the county, so quiet you can only hear insects and birds. It’s also very close to Huabi Lake, easy to bike there during the day. Walking by the lake or taking a boat ride is very pleasant. There are no tourist spots or trendy backdrops, just a peaceful courtyard, perfect for those who want to turn off their phones. If you just want a place to soak in hot springs for a few days, Gantong Jintang Hot Spring Boutique Hotel is more than enough. Gantong Jintang Hot Spring Boutique Hotel Community Creation Center

Did a ton of research before coming to Dali, but once I arrived, I realized the best experiences were all unplanned🫣 First, about where I stayed, because it was truly amazing 🏔️ The guesthouse is located halfway up Cangshan Mountain in Fengyangyi Village. It’s about a five-minute walk from the village entrance along a stone path. Turn past a big green tree and you’re there. The whole village is a well-preserved ancient post station on the Tea Horse Road, with stone houses and stone roads, full of atmosphere 🪟 The room is on the second floor with windows on three sides—the front is a floor-to-ceiling glass wall facing the panoramic view of the nineteen peaks of Cangshan. On one side, a small round window frames an old walnut tree in the village. Opening the back window lets you hear the sound of the mountain stream. Lying in bed watching clouds roll over the top of Cangshan is an experience photos can’t capture 🍵 On the balcony, there’s a rattan lounge chair and a small tea table. In the afternoon, I brewed a pot of Xiaguan Tuocha tea, watching the mountains, clouds, and shifting light on the opposite hill. Before I knew it, two hours had passed · ————————— 📍 2026 Dali summer travel guide 🚄 High-speed rail is the top choice! Kunming to Dali takes 2 hours, Chengdu to Dali 5.5 hours, Chongqing to Dali 6 hours, Guiyang to Dali 4.5 hours Taxi from the station to the old town costs about 25 yuan, to Fengyangyi Village about 30 yuan ✈️ More flights are available to Dali Huangcaoba Airport, with several new direct routes added for summer 2026. Taxi from the airport to the old town costs about 60 yuan and takes 40 minutes 🚗 Self-driving tips: → The section of East Ring Road from Shuanglang to Wase is heavily congested during summer vacation. Avoid driving between 10 AM and 3 PM if possible → The entire Haixi ecological corridor prohibits motor vehicles. If driving, park only in the outer parking lots → Renting a car at the high-speed rail station or airport is recommended. The full ring around the lake is about 120 kilometers and can be done in one day · ————————— 🗓️ Four-day in-depth itinerary [Day 1 Fengyangyi Village + Cangshan Ximatan cable car] Fengyangyi Village is a living fossil on the Tea Horse Road and remains free to visit in 2026! You can still see traces left by horse caravans on the stone walls. There are a few handmade pottery and silver workshops to explore. Few tourists come here, so no waiting for photos👏 In the afternoon, take the Ximatan cable car halfway up the mountain👇 🎫 Halfway round-trip ticket (to Qilongnü Pool): 190 yuan per person, includes Cangshan Geological Park admission ⏰ Recommended to arrive before 1 PM. Clouds often roll in during the afternoon, offering a chance to see a sea of clouds 📍 Near Qilongnü Pool is a section of the Jade Belt Cloud Trail at about 2,600 meters elevation. Walking here, the left side is the Cangshan cliff, the right side offers a panoramic view of Erhai Lake. It’s cool and refreshing in summer ⚠️ Note: The full Ximatan cable car ticket is 320 yuan (includes Geological Park and Tianlong Babu Film City admission), but it goes all the way up to 3,900 meters elevation. In July, the mountaintop temperature may be only in the teens Celsius, so bring a warm jacket. If you don’t want to go that high, the halfway ticket is enough for a great experience [Day 2 East Erhai self-driving loop] The west side of the lake faces Cangshan, the east side offers sunrise and lake views—two completely different vibes 🚗 Route: Old town → Wase Town → Xiaoputuo → Shuanglang → return, about 80 kilometers total 📸 Key stops: ① Wase Pier—where water meets sky. After 3 PM, the light softens, and telephoto shots have a cinematic feel ② Xiaoputuo—a tiny island in Erhai Lake. You can just shoot from the shore; no need to spend 10 yuan to take a boat (it’s really small and can be toured in two minutes) ③ Shuanglang viewing platform—In 2026, Shuanglang has an "electronic consumption map" mini program. Search "Love in Dali Shuanglang electronic consumption map" to find hand-drawn recommendations for hidden shops. The roadside viewing platform offers the best panoramic shots of Shuanglang, with the whole ancient town nestled in the crescent of Erhai Lake [Day 3 Fengyu Town day trip (free!)] Fengyu was newly added to the "Beautiful China check-in spots" in 2026. Not many people know about it yet, so go before it gets popular! 📍 About a 50-minute drive from Dali old town to Fengyu Town 🎨 Fengyu is one of the best-preserved Bai cultural plains, with vast rice fields, Bai-style houses, and snow-capped Cangshan in the distance—like a summer scene from a Studio Ghibli film 🏛️ Sky rice field theater—a wooden viewing platform built in the middle of a rice field with 360-degree unobstructed views. At sunset, golden light spreads over the rice waves, making every photo wallpaper-worthy 🍃 Dishi Mountain ancient temple group—hidden in the back hills of Fengyu, these thousand-year-old temples see almost no visitors. Ancient trees line the stone steps, and climbing up offers a panoramic view of the entire Fengyu plain [Day 4 Dali old town + outskirts of Chongsheng Temple and Three Pagodas] The old town is free to explore, but don’t just stick to the main street! 👣 Recommended route: enter from the south gate → Wuhua Tower (free to climb for a city view) → walk along the upper section of Renmin Road → turn into Honglong Well → exit via Bo’ai Road The upper section of Renmin Road is where the artsy crowd gathers, with independent bookstores, handmade workshops, and vinyl record shops. It’s ten times more interesting than the commercial lower section The Three Pagodas at Chongsheng Temple are beautiful just to photograph their reflections📸. The Three Pagodas Reflection Park (free) is recommended. The pagodas’ reflections on the water are even more stunning than the real thing, especially in the early morning mist when it feels magical · ————————— 💰 Four-day cost breakdown (per person) Round-trip high-speed rail: 290 yuan Local transportation (2 days car rental + taxis): about 450 yuan Accommodation (3 nights at hillside villa): about 1,800 yuan (900 yuan per person for a double room) Cable car ticket: Ximatan halfway 190 yuan Meals: about 500 yuan Other (tie-dyeing/handicraft experiences, etc.): about 200 yuan Total about 2,530 yuan per person · ————————— ⚡ Practical tips → Dali is about 2,000 meters above sea level. Avoid strenuous exercise on the first day to let your body adjust → July is rainy season with frequent showers, but they usually last less than half an hour. The air is clearer after rain, making photos even better → Use waterproof sunscreen! Sweat and rain can easily wash off regular sunscreen → Signal is weak on Cangshan, so download offline maps in advance → Many small shops in the old town exchange small change, so carry some cash for snacks → Restaurants in Shuanglang are generally 30%–50% more expensive than in the old town. It’s better to explore Shuanglang and then eat back in the old town Honestly, Dali is not a place you visit just once. Every visit brings different light, different clouds, and a different state of mind. Cangshan is still the same Cangshan, Erhai is still the same Erhai, but that afternoon watching clouds from the hillside villa is a one-of-a-kind moment in the world✨

For self-driving or hiking on the Dali west route, this Eryuan hot spring guesthouse is a must-book! Its location is perfect for the Shaxi ancient town + Niaodiaoshan itinerary, situated at the core transfer point between attractions. It’s on the way both ways without detours. Whether you’re exploring Shaxi ancient town or hiking Niaodiaoshan, staying here makes resting easy and worry-free. It’s a hidden gem for the west route trip. The guesthouse features a simple and cozy design with great taste, avoiding flashy influencer styles. It feels high-end, clean, and comfortable. The courtyard pool and terrace garden have a layered scenic layout, each spot perfect for photos. Natural light fills the space, creating a soothing vacation vibe. Every snapshot feels healing, and the stay is especially pleasant. The most relaxing part of the entire trip is the private hot spring in the room! Authentic natural mineral hot springs with excellent privacy and a private soaking pool, so you don’t have to share or crowd with others. Spend the day strolling Shaxi ancient street, soaking in the quiet charm of the Tea Horse Road, or immerse yourself in hiking the Niaodiaoshan meadows, encountering mountain clouds and lake views. After a busy day, return to your room and soak in a warm pool. All fatigue disappears instantly, and relaxation is maximized. The room setup is thoughtful and comfortable, equipped with smart Xiaodu switches for easy voice control. Paired with Aimeikain high-quality mattresses, the bed feels soft and stable, ensuring good sleep even after a long journey. In your free time, turn on the Nut projector to binge-watch shows and relax with a great atmosphere. The guesthouse also offers exquisite afternoon tea, perfect for sitting in the courtyard and slowly enjoying the mountain slow life. Overall, it’s quiet and peaceful, with attention to hygiene details and warm, considerate service. It balances aesthetics, comfort, and practicality. If you’re traveling the west route in Dali and want both convenience for sightseeing and hot spring relaxation, this guesthouse is highly recommended.

July around Erhai is so refreshing you won’t even want to take off your sun hat! The aftereffect is so strong that when I got home and lay in bed, it still felt like riding a little electric scooter for a breeze😭✨ Who understands! In July, Erhai just escapes the peak season crowds. The wind carries the lake’s mist and the scent of Eryuan milk curd from the courtyard into your collar. The dazzling blue lake surface along the way doesn’t even need a filter. A week after returning, I still keep looping the water wave animations in my photo album, with the sweet taste of the cold shrimp sold roadside filling my mind! · ----- 🛤️1. Longkan dock water cypress trail The water cypresses are half-submerged in the clear shallow lake. Water birds flap their wings and dart out from between the leaves. The orange sunrise slants across the water in the early morning, even the small waves are edged with warm gold! 👉Tip: Ride a little electric scooter there at 7 AM, stand at the end of the boardwalk and shoot silhouettes against the backlight. No one competes for the spot, so you get a Korean drama seaside vibe right away! 🧱2. Xizhou ancient town rice field ridge path The continuous green rice sways with young ears. White Bai-style blue tile courtyard walls peek out from behind clusters of bougainvillea. The cool breeze blows the rice ears, creating layers of green waves. Even the air smells like rice! 👉Tip: Wear a light-colored long dress and stand in the middle of the ridge. Shoot from a low angle to frame the rice fields and the Cangshan mountains behind. The composition is so perfect it can be your wallpaper! 🪨3. Shuanglang ancient town seaside rocky beach Dark brown rocks are embedded along the Erhai shore. Yang Liping’s Sun Palace with its upturned eaves reaches over the sea. Waves gently splash over the rocks, spraying fine white water droplets. In the distance, the shadows of clouds drift slowly over Cangshan! 👉Tip: Go around to the north side of the town to a deserted beach. Sit on the rocks and shoot the sea from the side. Avoid the crowds at popular shops. Every shot looks like a cool seaside blockbuster! 🌾4. Haizhi park camphor forest shallow beach Large crooked camphor trees lean toward the sea. Shallow water plants float like green ribbons with the current. On sunny days, you can see the fine sand patterns half a meter underwater, like stepping into a secret green wilderness! 👉Tip: Go at 3:30 PM. Sunlight filters through the leaves, casting dappled light. Stand in the shallow water to shoot. Even the floating water plants by your feet seem to glow! 🛖5. Panxi S-bend coastal bike path The blue sea follows the road’s gentle curve slowly. White tables and chairs line the roadside with blooming bougainvillea. Ride a little electric scooter forward, and the wind blows your hair all over your face—it feels amazing! 👉Tip: Choose a non-weekend day at 9 AM to ride. No need to dodge passing electric scooters. The sense of depth and road extension in your photos will fill the screen! 🌅6. Caicun dock sunset viewing platform The whole Erhai lake spreads before your eyes. The orange-red sunset sinks behind Cangshan. White tin fishing boats moored on the shore sway their masts. The smoke from grilled milk curd sellers drifts slowly! 👉Tip: Bring half a bottle of cold beer and sit on the steps waiting for the sunset. When the sky burns red, every shot looks like a still from an old movie! · ----- 🍜 must-try list ▪️Hardcore experience: freshly baked milk curd with condensed milk! The milk skin is crispy and pulls apart with strings. The sweet creamy flavor goes straight to your head. You won’t get tired even after eating two. ▪️Local favorite: cold chicken rice noodles in an alley! The sour and fragrant broth coats the chewy noodles. The coolness instantly blows away the summer heat. ▪️Mountain specialty: freshly cooked rose cold shrimp! Smooth rice shrimp mixed with rose honey fragrance. After shopping, slurp a bowl and feel completely refreshed! · ----- ✅ cautionary tips 1. The UV rays at noon in July are so strong you’ll peel. Don’t ride a little electric scooter around the lake with bare arms. You can get a sharp tan line in half an hour. 2. Booking a lakeside guesthouse in advance is half the price of booking on site. Last-minute bookings in peak season are either expensive or far away, wasting your trip. 3. The shallow rocky areas are covered with slippery green algae. Don’t step into unfamiliar deep spots. Falling means soaking your dress and looking very awkward. 4. Rent a little electric scooter with a 100 km range around the lake. Don’t go cheap on a low-range model. Breaking down halfway and pushing for kilometers will exhaust you! Erhai in July really gathers the softest sea breeze in the world. Before leaving, I leaned on the boat railing staring at the waves for a long time, wishing I could fill my pockets with the cool sea breeze scented with milk curd to take home🥹!

Escape the summer heat with this must-see! Eryuan, this summer resort, is absolutely amazing! Our first stop after landing was Huatang Private Kitchen, a favorite among locals – you won't believe it! They really know how to eat! 😍 💫【Highlights】 ✔️Wild mushroom hot pot, a rainy season exclusive 🍲 ✔️A wide variety of broth options: Chongqing red broth, wild fruit sour soup broth... ✔️Average temperature in this summer resort is 23°C ☁️ ✔️July and August are the best time to eat wild mushrooms 👉Must-visit for foodies: 🌟Huatang Private Kitchen🐾 This is truly a hidden gem tucked away in an alley! The owner is a local, and they use freshly picked wild mushrooms and various fresh ingredients – the aroma was irresistible as soon as I got off the plane! Coming to Eryuan during the rainy season and not eating wild mushrooms is a wasted trip! Here you can enjoy matsutake, porcini, chanterelles, and many other local seasonal mushrooms, paired with a delicious broth – a perfect match! 🤤 Highly recommend the wild fruit sour soup hot pot! It's tangy, spicy, and uniquely appetizing, and the combination with fresh wild mushrooms is absolutely divine! Embark on a culinary adventure! Tip: Make sure to cook the wild mushrooms long enough for safety! ⏳

Ahhh, this is seriously the most amazing restaurant I've had in Dali recently! Don't fall for those trendy internet-famous restaurants in Dali! Today I'm recommending this authentic local restaurant that even locals love! Every dish is a hit! Every single dish delivers the most genuine Dali flavor 🌶️ ✨【Must-Try Signature Dishes】✨ 🐟Dali Bai Ethnic Sour and Spicy Fish The soul of Yunnan cuisine! The fish melts in your mouth. The sour and spicy broth is incredibly appetizing. Paired with the various side dishes, it's absolutely divine! I could easily eat three bowls of rice by myself 💦 🍖Lemongrass Fried Ribs This combination is divine! The ribs are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. The lemongrass's fragrance balances the richness. The peanut powder and pea powder are perfect complements. You just can't stop eating it 🤤 🍄Wrapped and Grilled Wild Mushrooms Seasonal! Yunnan's Favorite Mountain Delicacies: Mushrooms soaked in spices, incredibly fresh, tender, and bursting with juice! A true paradise for mushroom lovers! 🌶️ Bai Ethnic Traditional Black Three-Chop Dish: A local favorite, a perfect accompaniment to rice. Salty, savory, and slightly spicy—I could easily eat three bowls of rice with it! Full of wok hei (wok aroma), the smell alone is mouthwatering. 🍗 Dali Erkuai Spicy Chicken: This dish is a must-try! Explosively delicious! The chicken pieces are fragrant and spicy, incredibly satisfying. The key ingredient is the Dali Erkuai (rice cake), fried to a crispy exterior and soft, chewy interior—absolutely amazing! A divine combination you must try when visiting Yunnan! 🥰 🥘 Hydrangea-Scented Tofu Casserole: A steaming hot, freshly cooked tofu casserole. The tofu is so tender it melts in your mouth, bursting with juicy filling when you bite into it. The broth is also amazing with rice! 🥔Grandma's Potatoes A taste Yunnan people have grown up with. The potatoes are so soft they can be eaten like mashed potatoes. Paired with special pickled vegetables, it's savory, slightly spicy, and incredibly satisfying! 🍜Seven-Color Cold Rice Noodles A real showstopper! Refreshing and not greasy. Seven colors of shredded vegetables, drizzled with a secret sauce. Sweet and sour, perfect for summer. 🍶 Eryuan Plum Wine. Enjoy a glass after your meal. The sweet and sour plum aroma is incredibly soothing. Not too strong, even girls can enjoy it! 📌【Shop Information】 🏠 Taohong Restaurant - Specialty Yunnan Cuisine 📍 Lvyu Road Branch: No. 36 Lvyu Road, Dali Old Town 📍 Renmin Road Branch: 300 meters west of Erhai Gate, Dali Old Town, Dali City ⏰ Opening Hours: 11:30-22:30 This was truly the most satisfying meal of my trip to Dali! Affordable, only 50+ RMB per person for a full meal. My mouth is still watering just thinking about the dishes! 🤤 A must-try when visiting Dali!

Tired of the crowds in Dali Old Town, I made a special trip to Niujie to soak in natural mineral hot springs and discovered this Xiangnan hot spring guesthouse, which made planning the trip much easier. The entire house uses underground sulfur mineral hot spring water. Each room has a private hot spring, so there’s no need to compete for public pools. Water flows 24 hours a day. The faint sulfur scent helps relieve full-body soreness and tightness, leaving the skin feeling smooth. The guesthouse is very new, with mattresses that are just the right firmness, equipped with a projector and separate wet and dry bathrooms. The toiletries are high quality. The courtyard is full of greenery, the top floor has a scenic soaking pool and tea room, and there’s a swimming pool on the first floor. After soaking, you can sit in the courtyard to drink tea and enjoy the breeze in peace and quiet. Free parking is available on site, so no worries about parking when driving. The best part for travelers: the host can help arrange car rides and rentals! It’s especially convenient for hiking Niaodiaoshan and visiting Shaxi Ancient Town. The Niusha route goes directly to Shaxi, so you don’t have to worry about finding transportation or negotiating prices yourself. The host handles everything, saving you a lot of trouble. Here’s a suggested itinerary for the area: Wake up early to visit the Niujie Bai market to buy rushan cheese and local snacks. Spend a day on the Niusha route to Shaxi, exploring Anjing Temple and Deng Street. If you like hiking, head straight to Niaodiaoshan, with its alpine meadows and Heart Lake—perfect for photos. Return to the guesthouse in the evening to soak in your private hot spring and watch the sunset over the mountains. The guesthouse serves authentic Bai home-style dishes. For breakfast, you can choose between er si or rice noodles. The service is down-to-earth and responsive to any needs. It’s ideal for those who want to relax in hot springs and conveniently visit Shaxi and Niaodiaoshan without backtracking.

On this short trip to Dali with my bestie, I was truly amazed by this guesthouse! Finally understand why they say Lijiang has Wu Yulan, and Dali has Pushan!! Hidden deep in the mountains of Niujie, Eryuan, it’s definitely a secluded paradise 🌿 Escaping the crowded city with my sister, coming here to unwind is so healing! The guesthouse is halfway up the mountain, backed by a whole forest, with clouds and mountains right above Standing in the courtyard, you can overlook the entire Niujie town, the view is breathtaking! Three years of perfecting the Song dynasty–style decor, elegant and sophisticated Every photo looks like a classic ancient-style masterpiece, my bestie can’t stop taking pictures 📸 My favorite is the private hot spring!! It’s a natural underground spring Full of trace elements that are great for the skin Soaking in a super soothing lemon bath with my bestie, the atmosphere is just perfect! The entire guesthouse has only 5 standalone villas, each with its own private hot spring Privacy is unbeatable! Chatting and soaking with my bestie without any interruptions The public infinity pool overlooks the morning mist and layered mountains, the scenery is stunning The front desk guy from the Bai ethnic group is super gentle and attentive, always there if you need him The service is simple and comfortable, completely non-commercial Soak in the hot springs, breathe fresh air, and relax—this is the top choice for a girls’ getaway!  

📅 2026 Torch Festival Date Bai Ethnic Torch Festival 🔴 Lunar June 25 → Gregorian August 7 (Friday) Core Torch Celebration: Approximately 19:30–22:00 Recommended Places to Visit 🔸 Xizhou Ancient Town Rice fields + fire dragon 🐉, lively and photogenic, immerse yourself in the authentic village atmosphere. Traditional ancestor worship and fire-fetching ceremony start at 6 PM, with households setting up small torches. You can learn to pray and sprinkle pine resin with the locals. Less crowded compared to the ancient city. 🔸 Zhou Village If you prefer staying near Dali Ancient City and don’t want to travel to Weishan, Zhou Village offers a Bai ethnic torch festival experience. It’s a local Bai village square without excessive commercialization. Although smaller in scale compared to Weishan, it retains its authentic charm. 🔸 Eryuan The most authentic torch festival. Compared to other locations, Eryuan’s festival is more diverse, featuring multiple celebration venues such as the West Lake Water Torch Festival. Local Bai people navigate small wooden boats, holding torches, weaving through lakes and villages under a starlit sky. It’s a unique experience among torch festivals in Yunnan Province. 🔸 Dali Ancient City San Yue Street Square San Yue Street is a celebration for visitors, featuring a 10-meter giant main torch, thousands joining hands for bonfire dancing, Bai ethnic Bawang Whip performances, and a vibrant photo atmosphere. Besides torch activities, there’s a black-smearing ritual (not part of traditional torch festivals). The downside is the large number of tourists. 🏨 Accommodation Recommendations To avoid crowds and experience the authentic Bai ethnic torch festival in Dali without inconvenient transportation, consider staying at Taoyuan Village Dali Bodu Seaview Cultural Inn. It’s close to Xizhou Ancient Town and Zhou Village, allowing you to participate in celebrations at both locations. The next morning, enjoy an unobstructed view of the sunrise over Erhai Lake. The inn features floor-to-ceiling windows facing the lake, offering tranquility during the day and vibrant festivities at night, unlocking the authentic Bai village lifestyle. 🔍 About the Torch Festival Originating in the Tang Dynasty, Bai and Yi ethnic groups commemorate heroes and pray for blessings with blazing torches every year on Lunar June 24–25. The festival embodies a profound understanding of "celebration of life and remembrance of death." Each flame symbolizes love and reverence for life. · This summer, immerse yourself in the fiery nights filled with torches, dances, and the scent of pine resin, and experience the most vibrant human spirit in Dali 🔥

Fengyu ancient town is located at the source of Erhai Lake, beneath Yunong Peak of Cangshan Mountain. The famous traveler Xu Xiake made a special visit and wrote a 3,000-character travel journal. It is one of the few ancient Bai towns in Dali with no entrance fee, no trendy shops, and a thousand-year-old original Bai culture. The entire valley is surrounded by rice fields, combining ancient architecture, rice field art, intangible cultural heritage crafts, and natural hot springs. It’s perfect for escaping the crowds in Dali and enjoying a slow trip for 1–3 days.   1. Basic travel information 1. Location and tickets Location: Fengyu town, Eryuan county, Dali Tickets: All streets, ancient buildings, rice fields, and viewing platforms are free; only Lingjiu Temple tower has a 15 yuan climbing fee Altitude about 2,100 m. Large temperature difference between day and night. Be sure to bring a light jacket and high SPF sunscreen. 2. Best time to visit · March–April: Tens of thousands of acres of rapeseed flowers cover the valley, creating a full spring atmosphere ​ · June–August: Green rice fields, cool and quiet, with stunning mountain mist after rain ​ · September–October: Golden rice waves, rice field theater sunsets are legendary, ginkgo trees turn yellow at Fengxiang Academy ​ · The 1st, 4th, and 7th of each month are the town’s street market days, with the strongest local customs and lively atmosphere Best photo times: early morning 7:00–9:00 with misty fields; evening 5:30–7:00 with sunset over rice fields 3. Transportation guide (3 options) ① Self-driving (recommended) From Dali old town → Dali–Lijiang Expressway Dengchuan exit → S311 provincial road toward Eryuan → Fengyu town. Total 1.5 hours. Road conditions are good. The last section is a winding mountain road, slow down and drive carefully. Navigate directly to "Tuibu Zhai Art Space." Free roadside parking in town. ② Public transport (budget option) 1. Take a bus from Xiaguan North Bus Station to Eryuan county seat, 15 yuan/1 hour; ​ 2. Transfer at Eryuan bus station to a township shuttle to Fengyu, 10 yuan/30 minutes; Total 25 yuan. Limited schedules. No return buses after 4 PM. ③ Carpool/charter Carpool round trip from Dali old town 120 yuan per person. Charter for 4 people 300 yuan all day, suitable for groups visiting Eryuan West Lake and hot springs. 2. Must-visit core attractions (in order) 1. Fengxiang Academy | the soul of the ancient town’s culture The Qing dynasty Confucian temple in the town center is free to visit. Inside is a 300-year-old ginkgo tree. Bai elders sell handmade cloth decorations and mugwort sachets. The courtyard has bluestone slabs, red walls, and wooden windows. You can get a stamp here. Nearby are well-preserved Ming dynasty Bai old houses and the Yang family ancestral hall with painted rammed earth architecture. 2. Fengyu bluestone slab old street A short century-old Tea Horse Road street with no chain stores: · 5 yuan for a pot of Bai roasted tea. Sit in the century-old tea house all afternoon ​ · Intangible cultural heritage Jiama woodblock printing experience 20 yuan. Make your own print as a souvenir ​ · Street stalls: Fengyu cold noodles, white sugar candy, and milk fan cheese. 10 yuan per person fills you up On both sides are Bai residences with three courtyards and a screen wall, featuring wood-carved doors and screen wall murals everywhere. 3. Tuibu Zhai art gallery (rice field photo hotspot) A minimalist white art building in the middle of rice fields. The same rice field location featured in Jay Chou’s music video. Surrounded by water on all sides, perfect for healing photos. Tip: Occasionally closed on Mondays. Check before you go. Wearing a light-colored long dress makes photos better. You can stroll on the rice field boardwalk. 4. Tianma Mountain rice field open-air theater An open-air art installation in the fields with terraced rice paddies spreading out. At sunset, the distant mountains, rice fields, and village appear in one frame. The best sunset spot in town, free and unobstructed. 5. Lingjiu Temple tower (Nanzhao ancient tower) A Tang dynasty ancient tower with dense eaves in the mountains outside town. The tower body has carved Buddha images. 15 yuan to climb to the top for a panoramic view of the Fengyu valley. Sunset light and shadow from the tower are excellent. 6. Foding village / Jiming Mountain viewing platform Two free high points reachable by a 20-minute hike. See morning sea of clouds and mist over rice fields. Different scenery in each season. Entirely natural with no artificial development. 7. Fengyu hot springs (off-the-beaten-path relaxation) Eryuan’s natural geothermal resource. Affordable public hot springs in town 15 yuan per person. Private hot springs at guesthouses about 100 yuan. Relax in the hot springs after exploring the ancient town. Hot springs are refreshing and help remove dampness even in summer. 3. Classic 1-day / 2-day itinerary [One-day light trip | same-day round trip from Dali] 10:00 Arrive by car. Visit Fengxiang Academy and old street, try local snacks 12:00 Lunch with Bai traditional eight-dish set and rice field fish 14:00 Tuibu Zhai art gallery and rice field boardwalk photos 16. 00 Leisurely walk at Tianma Mountain rice field theater 17. 30 Sunset at Foding village 19:00 Return to Dali [Two-day in-depth slow travel | recommended] Day 1 Culture and rice field art Arrive at noon and check in to a Bai courtyard guesthouse Afternoon: Fengxiang Academy → Jiama woodblock printing on old street → Tuibu Zhai rice fields Evening: Watch sunset at Tianma Mountain rice fields Night: Eat eight-dish set at guesthouse and soak in private hot springs Day 2 Mountain views and ancient temple secrets 7:00 AM: Hike Jiming Mountain to see morning mist over fields Morning: Climb Lingjiu Temple tower for valley views Noon: Eat cold noodles and local snacks at market Afternoon: Stroll in Dajian ancient village, an original Bai village Evening: Optionally visit Eryuan West Lake before returning 4. Local must-try foods 1. Fengyu cold noodles: 5 yuan per bowl, sour and spicy Bai flavor, available everywhere on old street ​ 2. Bai sour liver: local specialty appetizer, fermented dried meat with unique flavor ​ 3. Rice field fish: live water farmed, steamed for 58 yuan per serving, fresh and sweet ​ 4. White sugar candy: handmade malt sugar sweet, loved by elders and children ​ 5. Eight-dish set: standard guesthouse meal, banquet specialty with meat and vegetables ​ 6. Three-stage roasted tea: bitter, sweet, and aftertaste. 5 yuan with unlimited refills ​ 7. Extras: freshly baked Xizhou baba bread, fresh milk fan cheese 5. Accommodation recommendations (150–300 yuan range) The town mainly has century-old Bai houses converted into guesthouses with quiet waterside courtyards and no noisy bars: 1. Baimicang guesthouse: creative youth style, great value, right on the old street ​ 2. Tuibu Tang art guesthouse: next to rice fields, strong courtyard aesthetic, includes breakfast and dinner, perfect for a laid-back vacation ​ 3. Ordinary local Bai courtyard: about 150 yuan, some include breakfast and dinner, immersive native experience Alternative: Eryuan county hotels have better facilities, 40 minutes from the ancient town, suitable for guests seeking shopping malls and KTV 6. Intangible cultural heritage souvenirs 1. Jiama woodblock print (starting at 20 yuan, handmade intangible heritage) ​ 2. Fengyu inkstone: local stone carving, a niche stationery gift ​ 3. Bai handmade cloth decorations and mugwort sachets (made by elderly women at the academy entrance) ​ 4. Homemade white sugar candy and dried sour liver 7. Practical tips to avoid pitfalls 1. No large restaurants in the ancient town. For meals, book the eight-dish set at guesthouses in advance. Street snacks offer better value. ​ 2. Mountain roads have poor visibility at night. Avoid driving down after dark. ​ 3. Rice field boardwalk is soft soil. Wear flat, non-slip shoes. Avoid flooded sections during rainy season. ​ 4. Few supermarkets in town. Buy drinking water and snacks in Eryuan county in advance. ​ 5. Locals are simple and kind. Greet elderly locals before taking photos for a friendlier experience. ​ 6. Large temperature difference between day and night, even in summer. Bring a light jacket for mornings and evenings. Strong UV rays require hats and sunglasses. ​ 7. Street market days (1st, 4th, 7th) start at 8 AM and end at 1 PM. Get up early to visit. 8. Nearby linked activities 1. Eryuan West Lake: 20 minutes by car from Fengyu. Take a boat to see the wetland Bai fishing village. ​ 2. Niaodiaoshan hike: half-day easy hike with alpine meadows and sea of clouds with cattle and sheep. Great for outdoor lovers. ​ 3. Xiashankou hot springs: large open-air hot spring cluster, 30 minutes away. ​ 4. Dali old town / Xizhou: stop by on the way back to combine off-the-beaten-path and popular spots