
The Sha Yi Mother sculpture group is one of the most important attractions on Nanzhao Folk Custom Island. Legend has it that the ancestor of Nanzhao was a woman named "Sha Yi," who became pregnant while fishing when she touched a sunken log and gave birth to ten sons. This legend was embodied by sculptor Professor Ye Yushan, who imbued each of Sha Yi Mother's ten sons with ten primitive meanings related to life and labor, creating a truly lifelike depiction of the divine being.
After taking the ferry to Nanzhao Fengqing Island, the first thing you see is a group of huge stone sculptures. This is the Sha Yimu Sculpture Group, which was carved based on a myth about the Dali area recorded in the "Book of the Later Han Dynasty: Biographies of the Southwestern Barbarians".
The low-latitude plateau has a monsoon climate; the Sha Yimu Sculpture Group is a landscape on the Nanzhao Island, suitable for travel in all seasons.
It is recommended to play for 1-2 hours
50 yuan/person (included in the Nanzhao Customs Island ticket)
Nanzhao Customs Island opening hours: 8:30-17:00
The Sha Yimu Group Sculpture is a renowned landmark in Dali, Yunnan, showcasing the art and cultural traditions of the local Bai ethnic group. The sculptures are an integral part of the area's heritage, reflecting its artistic and spiritual values.
The Sha Yimu Group Sculpture is located in Dali, Yunnan. Visitors can reach the site by taxi or private car from the city center. Public buses may also be available, but they might be less frequent.
The sculpture park is open from 8 AM to 6 PM daily. The best time to visit is early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and to capture the best lighting for photography.
The entrance fee is relatively low. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the entrance. There are currently no online ticketing options for this attraction.
No, advance booking is not required for this attraction. You can purchase tickets directly at the entrance.
A visit to the Sha Yimu Group Sculpture typically takes around 1 to 2 hours, depending on how much time you spend exploring the park and photographing the sculptures.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and they provide detailed information about the sculptures and their cultural significance. Audio guides may also be available for a self-guided experience.
The best photography spots are near the main sculptures, with the scenic background of Dali's natural landscape. Early morning or late afternoon provides the best light for photos.
Start by exploring the central sculpture group, then take a leisurely walk around the park to see other sculptures and enjoy the natural beauty of the area. Finish by visiting the informational displays to learn more about the culture and history behind the sculptures.
Night visits and light shows are not available at this attraction. It is primarily a daytime destination for art and cultural exploration.
The sculpture park is not typically very crowded, especially on weekdays and early mornings. Weekends and public holidays may see more visitors.
Basic facilities are available, including toilets and rest areas. There are no large food courts or restaurants, so visitors should bring their own food and water if needed.
The main sculpture areas are accessible, though some uneven paths may be challenging for visitors with mobility issues. The park is generally suitable for children and elderly visitors with some assistance.
Cash is accepted at the entrance. Mobile payments such as Alipay and WeChat Pay are also available for ticket purchases and small transactions.
There are no restaurants or cafes directly inside the park. However, there are local eateries and restaurants in Dali city where visitors can enjoy Yunnan cuisine.
Vegetarian and vegan food options are available in local restaurants. Halal options may be limited but can be found in certain areas of Dali city.
There are small souvenir shops in the area selling items like traditional crafts, jewelry, and artwork inspired by the sculptures. Visitors can find handicrafts unique to Yunnan.