Foreigner Street

洋人街

Originally named "Huguo Road," it was named after the Yunnan people who rose up in the early Republic of China to protect their country against Yuan Shikai's declaration of emperorship. The street runs east-west, is 1,000 meters long and 7 meters wide, and is paved with bluestone slabs. Both sides of the street are lined with shops and eateries, including cafes, restaurants, jewelry stores, antique shops, tie-dye shops, galleries, and more. The dazzling array of shops and eateries is truly dazzling.

Introduction

  • Attraction Location: "Dali Ancient Town, Dali Bai Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan Province, China (云南省大理白族自治州大理古城)"

  • History: Dali Foreigner Street emerged in recent decades as Dali became a popular destination for both domestic and international tourists. It is located in the heart of Dali Ancient Town and became a cultural hub where Western travelers settled, bringing cafes, bars, boutique shops, and international cuisine.
  • Architecture: The street combines traditional Bai-style architecture with modern and eclectic elements influenced by foreign tastes. Whitewashed walls, wooden doors, stone pathways, and carved window frames coexist with contemporary shop fronts, art galleries, and colorful signage.
  • Cultural Value: Foreigner Street is a center for cultural exchange, showcasing the blending of Bai traditions with international influences. It reflects Dali’s cosmopolitan side and serves as a platform for local artists, musicians, and craftsmen to interact with global visitors.
  • Other Information: The street is lively, especially in the evening, with live music, street performers, and a variety of shops selling crafts, clothes, and souvenirs. It’s a popular nightlife destination in Dali.

Visiting Information

  • Opening Hours: "10:00–22:00"

  • Ticket Price: "Free entry"
    No ticket required for walking street access; individual attractions along the street may have separate charges (20–50 CNY)"
  • Best Photo Spots: Street murals, Bai-style wooden windows, sunset lighting along the street, cafes with terraces, evening lanterns.
  • Time Reference: Late afternoon to evening for nightlife, sunrise or morning for quieter photography and fewer crowds.

Where to Sleep (Nearby Hotels & Stays)

  • Luxury: "Amandayan Hotel (大理阿曼达酒店)
    Artyzen Habitat Dali (大理艺宿酒店)"
    Mid-range: "Dali Old Town Boutique Hotel (大理古城精品酒店)
    Dali Foreigner Street Inn (洋人街客栈)"
    Budget/Boutique: "Local guesthouses along Foreigner Street (洋人街民宿)
    Backpacker hostels in Dali Ancient Town (大理古城青年旅舍)"

What & Where to Eat

  • Must-Try Dishes: "Baba (粑粑, local flatbread)
    Bai-style sour fish soup (酸鱼汤)
    Er Kuai (饵块, rice cake)"
    Famous Spots: "Foreigner Street Café (洋人街咖啡馆)
    Blue Papaya Restaurant (蓝木瓜餐厅)
    Local Bai-style street snacks along Foreigner Street (大理白族小吃)"

What Souvenirs to Buy

  • "Handmade jewelry, Bai embroidery, traditional hats, postcards, local teas, handicrafts from local artisans, art prints, street-performer CDs"

Transportation

  • "Foreigner Street is located in Dali Ancient Town; walking is the easiest way. Taxis from Dali Railway Station or bus station (approx. 15–20 min). Bicycles or e-bikes can be rented in the Ancient Town. Most visitors explore the street on foot."

Nearby Attractions

  • "Dali Ancient Town (大理古城) – 0 km, walking distance
    Three Pagodas (崇圣寺三塔) – 1.5 km, taxi or bicycle
    Erhai Lake (洱海) – 2 km, taxi or bicycle
    Wuhua Tower (五华楼) – 0.8 km, walk"

Tips for Visitors

  • "Wear comfortable shoes for walking cobblestone streets
    Evening visits are lively with music, but mornings are quieter for photos
    Cash is preferred for small shops and street vendors
    Respect Bai customs; some shops or houses may be private
    Try local snacks from street vendors for an authentic experience
    Bring sunscreen and a hat for daytime walking
    Evening lanterns make for excellent photography opportunities"

Recommended itineraries

  • "D1: Dali Ancient Town (大理古城) morning walk – lunch at a local Bai-style restaurant – explore Dali Foreigner Street (大理洋人街) in the afternoon and evening for shops, cafes, and nightlife
    Transportation: Walking within Ancient Town"
  • "D1: Dali Foreigner Street (大理洋人街) morning coffee and street exploration – walk to Wuhua Tower (五华楼) – continue to Three Pagodas (崇圣寺三塔) by bicycle or taxi
    D2: Erhai Lake (洱海) bike ride around lakeside – stop at small villages along the way
    Transportation: Walking in town, bicycle or taxi for longer distances"
  • "D1: Foreigner Street (大理洋人街) morning visit – Bai-style craft workshops – afternoon tea at terrace cafés – evening street performances
    D2: Lijiang day trip via taxi or bus (optional)
    Transportation: Walking in town, local taxi for day trips"

User Reviews

By kkmo |

But when we actually arrived, the first thing that struck a chord with us was the endless rows of ginkgo trees lining Foreigner Street. Having been accustomed to lush greenery, it was the first time I truly witnessed such a captivating sight. To this day, whenever I think of Dali, the ginkgo trees here linger in my mind. I imagine such precious memories are a cherished aspiration for modern travelers. Walking slowly along the ginkgo trees, we encountered a variety of small stalls selling various goods. Foreigner Street in the afternoon was a delightful place. We spotted the first silver jewelry shop and went in to look at bracelets. We were met by a very friendly-looking woman, and the whole conversation was delightful. It seemed like fate again. My friend and I both bought silver bracelets here as gifts for our mothers. We left feeling completely relieved, convinced that she would be delighted to receive the bracelets we personally selected. As we continued walking forward, we found that the entire street was basically filled with silver jewelry shops. We were glad that we had bought ours at the beginning, otherwise the more we looked, the more dazzled we would be, and the more choices we had, the more confused we would be.

By Eighteen Sons Tour |

Foreigner Street, originally named Huguo Road, commemorates the Yunnan people's uprising against Yuan Shikai's imperial claim in the early Republic of China. Paved with bluestone, Huguo Road is one of China's earliest and most renowned foreigner streets, a Dali "ideal land" and a reflection of the city's inclusive culture.

In the early 1980s, Dali's beauty attracted a large number of foreign friends, and it became a foreign cultural street. It is a gathering place for foreigners and a model of the perfect fusion of Dali's local culture and Western culture.

By Snowball Dance |

As a new tourist attraction, Foreigner Street has attracted a large number of tourists and also attracted some foreigners in Chongqing to start businesses here. Therefore, on Foreigner Street, you can taste the most authentic European coffee, the most authentic RB sushi, delicious pizza, and of course, you can also see the wonderful Indian flatbread tossing performance.

By Dust on the edge of the rock |

I happened to meet a few foreign tourists in the Foreigner Street of Dali Ancient Town

By Zhang Hang |

A pedestrian street in Dali Ancient Town with many shops, bars, and coffee houses

By MILO |

There are no foreigners in the foreigner street, just a memorial archway and a commercial street. There is really nothing special. Let's take a photo and check in.

By Big Bad Wolf |

These are all very stylish shops and buildings, very famous

By Swirling Water |

Compared to Fuxing Road, I feel that there is not much to visit in Yangren Street, as it is mainly composed of bars.

By Skinny Fat Cat |

There are still many people here late at night, and many shops are open, and every place is filled with the atmosphere of the ancient city.

By Andy.Bohu.Tang |

The foreigner street is not big, it is full of small shops selling things.

You can go and have a look

By Justin-D |

It is recommended to take some photos and pass through quickly, but the section of Foreigner Street closest to the west is the distribution center of Dali's specialty souvenirs, and the prices are relatively reasonable. If you want to buy gifts, you can go shopping here.

By MIKA |

Foreigner Street is not very popular. It's all on Fuxing Road.

By Qingxue Tingting |

Here, a series of Chinese and Western restaurants, cafes, teahouses, and craft shops, with signs and advertisements often in foreign languages, attract blond-haired, blue-eyed "foreigners" who linger here, seeking the ancient charm of the East, gradually forming a unique landscape. Having visited the Foreigner Street many times before, I didn't find it particularly new. I still prefer the cobblestone streets.

By orange |

Foreigner Street is located in the middle of Dali Ancient City. It is almost assimilated with the ancient city and is also a place for eating and playing.

By Wang Xiaopang |

Foreigner Street is actually the ancient town. It is too commercialized and crowded. I bought two skirts in the ancient town, which are more retro in style. I personally recommend going a little further inside when buying skirts, as you can bargain there.

By 3ha |

I met a very nice girl in the youth hostel who took me around Dali Ancient Town. I am older than her, but I feel like she is more caring.

By Cotton is warm |

It's similar to Yangshuo's West Street and Lijiang's Bar Street. It has a strong commercial atmosphere, and the shops along the street are beautifully decorated. I didn't see any foreigners while strolling around. Perhaps it's only in the evening that foreign tourists come to Foreigner Street for coffee and drinks.

By Carrot No. 1 |

Dali Old Town is huge, and Foreigner Street is just one of its many streets. However, the atmosphere and surroundings are similar, making it a great place to explore and take photos. Dali's streets are larger than Lijiang's, and there are more scenic views and streams. Lijiang Old Town is entirely a commercial district, full of shopping.

By Mars User |

Historical relics, full of characteristics, prominent officials, a combination of local and foreign

By R7raul |

It has local characteristics and is a must-visit place in Dali.

By Forgetful |

Huguo Road, running east-west within the ancient city, is known as "Foreigner Street." Here, a network of Chinese and Western restaurants, cafes, teahouses, and craft shops line the streets, with signs and advertisements often written in foreign languages. This attracts the attention of the blond, blue-eyed "foreigners" who wander the area, seeking the ancient charm of the East, creating a unique landscape.

By Bao Gaishi |

This is a tourist street that is common in ancient towns all over the world. It has no special features, but it is a must-see for everyone who comes to Dali.

By 100-pound fat man |

After Wuhua Tower, you’ll find Foreigner Street, the first street you see when entering the ancient city. You absolutely must visit it.

By Haihe River |

The buildings are distinctive and there are many shops, but it feels like they were built later.

By little fat cat |

A very short street, mainly catering and bars, which is still inferior to Lijiang.

By ♠️K |

The first stop in Dali was the Ward Hotel where I stayed on Foreigner Street. The street was very lively and was a commercial street for food, clothing, entertainment and sightseeing. The retro buildings were also unique and worth a visit.

By Rourou |

Foreigner Street is pretty much the same as Dali Ancient Town, not much different. They're both in the same place, but not as crowded as the Old Town. Did anyone come here alone? If you're in need of a companion, taking photos would be best. 😜 (The photos of Foreigner Street and the Old Town are a bit mixed up. 🌝)

By Wind Array Fox |

I went on May 8, 2017, which should be the off-season, but it was surprisingly quiet. After all, it was the first time I saw so many shops closed. According to reviews, Foreigner Street seems to be the second most bustling and prosperous place in the entire Dali Ancient City. However, my experience was a little different. Apart from the two newly built white marble Foreigner Street archways, there was no traffic, let alone tourists, whether going east or west. There were not many shops open, especially the east side, which was a large area surrounded by construction sites. The shops that were open were not very interesting, mostly selling homemade snacks like milk fan. The entire Dali Ancient City was disappointing, and Foreigner Street was just one of the reflections.

By The wind blows far into the summer |

Foreigner Street is inside the Dali Ancient Town. When we went there, the tour guide took us very quickly and we finished the tour before we had much time to see it.

By Big Hairy Spider |

I feel that there is nothing special about the Foreigner Street, and it is no different from other places in the ancient city. Or maybe I didn't play carefully enough.

By Sleepy Pig |

This is a bustling street in Dali Old Town, lined with shops and bustling with tourists. Here you can see how the Dali people make silverware using traditional methods, or pick up some of their favorite ethnic costumes.

By light rain |

A street in the ancient town. In fact, the shops in the ancient town are similar. You can just walk around and have a look. Now the goods are all over the country. In fact, I am afraid that the ones I buy back are made in Yiwu. Now I feel that there are no special products to bring when traveling. I just feel the local customs and culture.

By Edwin |

A gathering place for Dali's unique ethnic jewelry, souvenirs, and tie-dyeing shops

By Fan Nini |

It's okay, not as crowded as the one on Renmin Road, but it's a must...

By The Master of Shizizhai |

Foreigner Street, December 24, 2013, Dali.

By Green pepper corn |

Foreigner Street is a street in Dali Ancient Town. There are all kinds of interesting little things sold on the street. It is also a must-visit place in Dali.

By Lotus_Gu Xiaomu |

I ate some snacks, the taste was average, but the foreigner street was really lively. ~~ It's worth a visit.

By 丨Ye Xianglun |

Bar Street is full of bars next to each other. Nothing special. "Love is by the Erhai Lake" http://www.mafengwo.cn/i/6632990.html

By Komaki |

Walking along Erhai Gate, you will pass by the famous Foreigner Street, where the flow of people will increase. Now this place is not much different from other places. Maybe it is because it was more famous before and now it is a more prosperous area. Maybe it has developed better in the ancient city.

By Drowning in the water for three thousand |

Foreigner Street is actually not much different from other streets in Dali, so just think of it as a place for shopping.

By China-TravelNote users |

I walked around and had a look, the key point was that I didn’t see any foreigners, hehe!

By Peng & Mai |

When you look for "Foreigner Street" on a map, it's usually labeled "Huguo Road." Actually, the two are the same: the broad stone paved road is lined with well-preserved, classic Bai ethnic architecture. The China Post Office at the intersection is even more quaint. While it's called "Foreigner Street," it's actually a street where many Chinese and Western cultures blend together, offering both Western and Chinese influences. It seems to be a popular spot for international tourists, too.

By chen05266 |

Located in the ancient city of Dali, I basically think this place is a tourist street specially designed to attract foreigners who come here from afar looking for the bustling and decadent atmosphere, haha.

By Pathfinder |

I say, all the strong liquors are not as good as you."

By Still today |

I feel like there is nothing much left now, but there are indeed foreigners selling things.

By egret |

A 5-minute walk from the inn leads to the bustling pedestrian street, Foreigner Street/Bar Street. Along the way, you'll find a variety of restaurants, local snacks, and bars, perfect for a delicious meal. Walk through Bar Street to the West Gate/Cangshan Gate, and continue north to Chongsheng Temple, located beside the Yunnan-Tibet Highway, to admire the Three Pagodas. Alternatively, head straight up from the West Gate to March Street to admire camellias, climb Cangshan National Geopark, visit the Tianlongbabu Film Studio, climb to the Seven Dragon Maidens Pool, race horses along the Jade Belt Road, and play in the Qingbi Creek. From the summit, you'll be greeted by a breathtaking view of Ximatan Lake, where clusters of Bai ethnic minority dwellings nestle amidst the azure Erhai Lake and emerald green fields. It's a breathtaking experience, like a glimpse into paradise on earth. Don't forget your camera; strolling through the ancient city will always be filled with surprises: beautiful flowers you can't name, the radiant sunlight that can't be blocked by lush leaves, the age-old clumps of flowers and plants growing on the ancient city walls, or the golden trumpet creepers spreading across the courtyard roofs. For those who love to eat, the snacks near the North Gate are cheap and delicious. It is a favorite place for locals. There are also some restaurants nearby. The "Zai Hui Shou" halal restaurant on Renmin Road where the inn is located specializes in cold chicken rice noodles and is always crowded with customers.

By Senri no Sato |

There are many Western restaurants, cafes, bars, and small shops in the ancient city, which are quite artistic and petty-bourgeois.

By Zyx~YaYa |

Pedestrian street in the pedestrian street~~~~~~~

By laucheungkin |

Most of them are small shops selling handicrafts; the buildings have some characteristics

By A gray rabbit 🐰 |

so-so so-so so-so so-so so-so

By Silent Valley Facing the Wind |

This street's nickname, "Foreigner Street," is a relatively recent development. After Dali opened to tourism in the 1980s, most foreigners stayed at the Dali City Second Guesthouse (now the Red Camellia Hotel) on Huguo Road, creating a hub for foreigners. In March 1997, the Dali Municipal Government invested in and transformed this area into "Foreigner Street." Traditional Bai architecture has been preserved, and bars, restaurants, and leisure facilities are available, creating a rare blend of Eastern and Western elements.

By ☂ Anyway~ |

There weren't many people when I went there. There were some barbecue stalls around, but it wasn't as lively as I imagined! I wonder if it would be better at night!

By rzhyangyang |

Foreigner Street is located in Dali Old Town. It's even more beautiful at night than during the day. The Industrial and Commercial Bank of China, located nearby, has a quaint atmosphere.

By Walking leisurely |

Actually, it is a street in Dali Ancient City. Don’t be fooled by the name. There are not many foreigners on this street. It is similar to other streets in the ancient city. It is mainly filled with shops selling things.

By November's Sorrow |

There are foreigners on the foreigner street...they look like sheep and are masculine.

By Zhao Weiyi |

In Dali Ancient Town, there are several streets that you must visit, Renmin Road, Foreigner Street, and Fuxing Road. There are more bars on Foreigner Street, and the decoration styles are very unique. When passing by, I really have the urge to rush in. It’s a pity that my husband doesn’t let me go, what a pity.

By Peach Fairy |

Despite being called "Foreigner Street," there aren't many foreigners here. It's said that this street got its name from the foreign tourists who visited Dali in the 1980s and 1990s. There are many inns along this street, and while it's convenient, it can be quite noisy due to the numerous bars surrounding it. The inn owners charge exorbitant prices, but the value for money is low, and most have subpar hygiene.

By Cylvia |

If you come and don't leave, you won't feel like a tourist. So I just took some photos here, and p.s. I didn't meet many foreigners.

By The night is long and you don't know the dawn. |

As its name suggests, there are still many foreigners on this road. Not only on the road, but also when you walk into a Western dessert shop, you may see a family of foreigners.

By Pipi Hide |

When I arrived at Yangren Street, the weather wasn't particularly good, it was damp and not very bright! But there were still a lot of people. I braided my hair on the side of the road for 19 yuan, 10 yuan for four braids, and added an extra colorful braid. The price of bait was about 10 yuan for three. "Yunnan's 18 weird things, milk is sold in slices" 😝

By Time is singing |

Foreigner Street seems to have nothing to do with foreigners...In fact, it is also one of the most lively pedestrian streets

By Yuki Snow & Qingqing |

A good place to stroll around, it is part of the ancient city of Dali.

By iris-Ming |

Foreigner Street is part of Dali's Old Town. It's lined with small shops, many of which sell silk scarves—secretly, they're all wholesaled from Suzhou and Hangzhou. When I went there, I saw women frantically buying at least ten scarves, and I couldn't bear to see them. So, friends, beware: when you're in Yunnan, it's best not to spend money on silk scarves, especially if they're made of cotton or linen. It's a rip-off. Personally, I don't think the snacks in Foreigner Street are very good, considering it's a tourist destination.

By Pirate |

It is very lively, and friends who like to visit ancient cities and towns should not miss it.

By Qian Sansan |

Very nice and lively!!! The buildings are also very unique

By mortal |

In Dali Ancient City, there are many places with foreigners.

By seventeen1328 |

It is a relatively central place in Dali Ancient Town, with many shopping stores.

By tiramisu |

I don't know how lively it is in Dali Ancient Town at night. During the day, it is just like other streets. People say that many foreigners live here.

By Small fish sauce |

This is a must-visit street in Dali Ancient Town, and it is also a street where bars are concentrated. You can go there to broaden your horizons.

By Doudou's photos of millet |

Foreigner Street is too noisy! It's just a bar street, which I personally don't find interesting. If you want to go to a bar, why not go to the bars in Lijiang Old Town? They're more stylish and more relaxed! It feels better!

By Gina Song |

It's actually a commercial street that sells some local specialties.

By Baby |

Very good, it is worth a visit and a stroll in the small street!!!

Looking for a hotel near Dali Ancient Town!!

Go strolling around the ancient city every night!!

By Landscape of Pompeii |

As night fell and the lights began to come on, we bought some small clay figurines and then headed north from Renmin Road to Yangren Street. It's said this place used to be a hive of foreigners, but today, we saw very few. The rain gradually subsided and stopped, and the number of tourists gradually increased. We walked to the Yangren Street archway and saw a shop selling Yunnan specialty flower cakes with free shipping. We tried the freshly made flower cakes and found the crust to be crispy and the filling to be just the right amount sweet. Flavors included rose and Yunnan ham, and we paid and filled out the express delivery form on the spot. Unfortunately, the cakes were smaller and had less filling when they arrived, but the taste was okay. I recommend buying the upscale Jiahua Flower Cakes at a specialty store. As with everything else, compare prices and bargain. Generally, the prices in the middle of the main street are higher, while the prices at the edges and side streets are cheaper.

By shyjms |

The ancient town is generally the same. There are more Western restaurants near the Foreigner Street, and the Chinese restaurant environment is better.

By Mo Xiaoli |

If you visit the ancient city, Foreigner Street is one of the must-see attractions, with its own characteristics.


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