Dali Ancient Town Christian Church

Introducing Dali Ancient Town Christian Church

Located at the intersection of Fuxing Road and Pingdeng Road in Dali Ancient Town, the Dali Ancient Town Church was built in June 1904 and was originally called the "China Christian Chapel." In 1956, it was renamed the "Dali Christian Unity Church," then the "Dali Ancient Town Christian Church" in 1980, and again in 2004, the "Dali Ancient Town Christian Church." It was designated a municipal cultural relic protection site in 2008.

The church, situated north and facing south, is entered through a stone arched gate, followed by two east and west entrances, the chapel, the prayer room, and the rooftop bell tower. Measuring 26 meters long from north to south and 12 meters wide, it can accommodate over 200 worshippers simultaneously. The church exudes a rich religious and cultural atmosphere. A central horizontal plaque reads, "This is God's abode, so be still and quiet." Below the plaque, a square wooden board bears the word "love." Convex wooden couplets adorn the vertical pillars on either side. The upper couplet reads, "God is invisible; consider that the Creator of all creation and humankind possesses a master in their own right." The lower couplet reads, "Jesus, beloved, remembers his sacrifice to save the world, his unparalleled grace throughout history." A large bell weighing approximately 150 kilograms hangs in the church's bell tower. Made in London, it was shipped to Vietnam by ship and then transported to Dali.

Climate and best time to travel

Low-latitude plateau monsoon climate; suitable for travel in all four seasons.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

chapel, prayer room, bell tower;

It is recommended to play for 1-2 hours

Tickets

Free and open

Attraction opening hours

8:00-18:00

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Most Popular FAQs for Dali Ancient Town Christian Church

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

The Dali Ancient Town Christian Church is a key historical site in Dali, Yunnan. It was built by early Christian missionaries and serves as a symbol of the fusion between local culture and foreign religious influence. The church has played an important role in the religious and cultural life of the town, offering a place of worship, education, and community for both locals and visitors.

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

The church is located in the heart of Dali Ancient Town, Yunnan. You can get there by taxi or bus from Dali city center. Once in the ancient town, it is within walking distance from most other key attractions.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The church is generally open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM every day. The best time to visit is early in the morning or late afternoon, when the church is less crowded, and you can enjoy a peaceful atmosphere.

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

There is no entrance fee for the Dali Ancient Town Christian Church. Visitors are welcome to enter freely, though donations are appreciated.

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

No booking is required, as the church is open to the public without reservations. However, if you plan to attend a special event or service, it's best to check the schedule in advance.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

A visit to the church typically takes about 30 minutes to 1 hour, depending on your interest in the history and architecture of the building.

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

• The main hall, with its beautiful stained glass windows and altar, is the focal point of the church.
• The church's surrounding gardens and peaceful courtyard, offering a serene place to relax and reflect.
• The church's architectural features, which combine local and Christian design styles, making it a unique landmark in Dali.

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

Guided tours are available, although they may be in Chinese. It is advisable to check if any English-speaking guides are available, especially during peak tourist seasons.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• The exterior of the church offers a great backdrop for photographs, with its traditional architecture and surrounding gardens.
• Inside, the stained glass windows provide vibrant and photogenic views, especially when lit by sunlight.
• The nearby streets of Dali Ancient Town offer picturesque views of traditional architecture and scenic landscapes, perfect for photography.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by exploring the exterior of the church, then move inside to view the main hall and the altar. Take some time in the surrounding gardens to appreciate the peaceful atmosphere. If you’re visiting during a service, you may also want to stay for a prayer session.

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

Night visits and light shows are not offered at the church. However, special services or events may be scheduled, which could provide a unique experience for visitors.

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

The church can be crowded during weekends and holidays. To avoid the crowds, visit in the early morning or late afternoon on weekdays.

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

Basic facilities such as toilets and rest areas are available. There are no food or shopping facilities inside the church, but you can find restaurants and shops nearby in Dali Ancient Town.

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

The church is generally accessible for elderly and children. However, some areas may have steps, so it may not be fully accessible for disabled visitors without assistance.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

As the church is free to enter, cash is not required for entrance. However, donations can be made in cash, and mobile payments may be accepted for purchases in nearby shops or restaurants.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are several restaurants and cafes in Dali Ancient Town offering local Yunnan cuisine. Some popular spots include restaurants serving Yunnan rice noodles and traditional snacks.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan options are widely available in Dali, particularly in restaurants serving Yunnan’s famous dishes. Halal food options may be more limited but can be found in some restaurants in the area.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are many hotels and guesthouses near Dali Ancient Town, ranging from budget accommodations to more luxurious stays. Many are within walking distance from the church.

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

• Erhai Lake, a beautiful scenic area perfect for a relaxing day trip with views of the surrounding mountains.
• Dali Old Town, with its traditional architecture, local markets, and cultural sites.
• The Three Pagodas of Chongsheng Temple, a famous historical landmark in the region.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops in Dali Ancient Town sell a variety of local crafts, including handmade jewelry, traditional clothing, and ethnic handicrafts. Items related to the church, such as religious symbols, may also be available in nearby stores.

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

Taxis and buses are available to continue your journey to other parts of Dali or nearby attractions like Erhai Lake or the Three Pagodas. Renting a bicycle or scooter is also a popular option for exploring the surrounding areas.