Haidong Town

Introducing Haidong Town

Haidong Town, located on the east coast of Erhai Lake in Dali City, Yunnan Province, has a long history. The area is mainly karst landforms. Roads have been built to every village and it has rich tourism resources. It is a semi-mountainous town inhabited by the Bai people and a traditional agricultural town.

Jinsuo Island, the largest island in Erhai Lake, is a typical fishing village. Surrounded by the sea, it boasts stunning scenery and was historically the summer residence of the king of the Nanzhao Kingdom. The Yulong Palace karst caves offer a variety of unique landscapes, and the fishermen are hospitable, singing and dancing. The majestic Tianjing Pavilion, with its soaring eaves and brackets, stands majestically on the Luoquan Peninsula, which is surrounded by the sea on three sides, echoing the Three Pagodas of Chongsheng Temple across the sea. Nearby are the Luoquan Temple and the Stone Mule, both mentioned in the legendary poem "Waiting for Husband Cloud." The cliffs of the pier are inscribed with poems and writings by literati throughout the ages. The area has been designated a National AA-level scenic spot.

Haidong Town boasts abundant tourism resources. Along its 19.5-kilometer Erhai Lake shoreline, from south to north, lie the three shallow bays of Xiahe, Nancun, and Xiangyang, as well as the provincial-level tourist resorts of Yinsuo Island and Tianjing Pavilion. Jinsuo Island boasts the ruins of the Nanzhao King's summer palace and the 3-kilometer-long Dragon Palace Cave. Tianjing Pavilion is home to the captivating legend of the "Waiting for Husband Cloud." The annual Lunar New Year Buddha Reception Festival and dragon boat races are magnificent spectacle. Haidong residents are known for their hospitality, preserving the custom of slaughtering the New Year pig in the twelfth lunar month and welcoming the Buddha wheel in the first lunar month. Traditional hospitality features "Eight Earth Bowls," pickled raw hides, hot and sour fish, stewed native chicken, and three courses of tea.

Climate and best time to travel

Subtropical monsoon climate; Haidong Town is a must-go place around Erhai Lake, with beautiful scenery, suitable for travel in all seasons.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

It is recommended to visit for half a day to a full day

Tickets

Free and open

Attraction opening hours

Open all day

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Most Popular FAQs for Haidong Town

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Haidong Town in Dali is a historic town that blends traditional Yunnanese culture with scenic rural landscapes. It is an important area for exploring the local Bai ethnic culture and offers a glimpse into rural life in the region.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Haidong Town is located east of Dali city. It can be reached by a short taxi ride or private car. Public buses may also be available depending on the time of year. It is a rural area, so walking and cycling are great ways to explore once you arrive.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Haidong Town is a public area and is accessible year-round. The best times to visit are during spring and autumn, when the weather is mild, and the area is less crowded. It is ideal for a peaceful getaway during weekdays.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

There is typically no entrance fee for visiting Haidong Town. However, some specific attractions or activities in the town (like farm tours or boat rides) may have a small charge. These can be paid on-site.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

For most activities in Haidong Town, there is no need to book tickets in advance. However, if you're planning to visit specific farms or tours, it's advisable to book a day or two in advance.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

You can explore Haidong Town in about 2 to 3 hours. However, if you want to visit specific farms or engage in outdoor activities, plan for a half-day trip.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

• The peaceful rural areas with traditional Bai architecture.
• The scenic landscapes surrounding Haidong, including mountain views and riverside areas.
• Local farms and cultural sites where you can experience the traditional Bai lifestyle.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours may be available on request, typically in Chinese. English-speaking guides may be rare, so it's advisable to book in advance if you require an English-speaking guide.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best photography spots in Haidong Town include the riverside areas, the traditional Bai homes, and the elevated viewpoints offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by exploring the town center and walking through its traditional streets. Then, visit a local farm or cultural site. Finish with a peaceful walk along the river or a boat ride if available.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Haidong Town is a rural destination and is primarily a daytime attraction. Night visits or light shows are not common, but you can enjoy evening strolls if you're staying nearby.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

The town is generally not very crowded. The best time to visit for a quieter experience is during weekdays, especially outside the peak tourist season (summer and holidays).

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

Haidong Town offers basic facilities including public toilets and a few small shops and food stalls. For more dining options, Dali city center is just a short drive away.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Haidong Town is mostly accessible for elderly and children, though some areas may have uneven terrain. Disabled accessibility could be limited in certain parts of the rural town.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is accepted, but mobile payments via WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely used. Credit card acceptance may be limited, so it's best to have cash on hand for smaller transactions.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are small local eateries and tea houses within Haidong Town. For more options, head to Dali city center, where you can find a variety of restaurants and cafes serving local and international dishes.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available at local eateries, as many dishes in Yunnan are vegetable-based. Vegan and halal options are more readily available in Dali city center.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• There are guesthouses and small hotels in Haidong Town, offering basic amenities.
• For more luxurious stays, head to Dali city, which has a wide range of hotels and resorts.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

• The Erhai Lake is nearby, offering boat tours and cycling around the lake.
• Dali Ancient Town, with its historic sites and vibrant market, is another great nearby attraction.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Local souvenir shops in Haidong Town offer handmade crafts, traditional Bai clothing, and Yunnan teas. Dali city center has more variety, with many options for souvenirs like silver jewelry and ethnic handicrafts.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

From Haidong Town, taxis or private cars are the best options to continue your trip. Public buses can also take you to Dali city or nearby attractions such as Erhai Lake.