Baofeng Ancient Town

Introducing Baofeng Ancient Town

Baofeng Ancient Town is one of the birthplaces of the ancient Yunlong ancestors. It is located in the county seat of Yunlong County, Dali Bai Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan Province. It was the seat of Yunlong Prefecture in the Qing Dynasty. Like Lijiang Ancient Town, Dali Baofeng Ancient Town is also an old town with a long history.

Baofeng's dwellings are all typical Bai dwelling styles, featuring structures like three courtyards and a screen wall, four courtyards and five patios, a main hall and an annex, or six equal parts courtyard and spring. Some are towering, while others are compact and exquisite. Located in the lower reaches of the Bi River, a tributary of the Lancang River, the terrain is high in the north and low in the south, forming a long and narrow shape along the Bi River. The area is characterized by "high peaks and iron ridges, with mountains beyond the mountains; the Lancang River and the Jin River, with water within the water." This high and cold mountainous area is characterized by continuous mountains and deep canyons, and the Bai people live in clusters along the Bi River.

Today, strolling through the streets of Baofeng Ancient Town, one can still vaguely see the bustling cityscape of its past. The impression of Baofeng is of Ming and Qing dynasty-style buildings, built in a winding, orderly pattern, following the mountain's contours and nestled alongside the water. The mountain is Elephant Trunk Hill, the water is the river. Dizhu Bridge, like a rainbow, stretches across the waves, while beneath it flows the tranquil river. The riverbanks reveal jagged rocks and washed-out sand, while the river water, clear and warm, shimmers in the sunlight.

Climate and best time to travel

Temperate monsoon climate; Baofeng is a town with a long history. Tourism is mainly based on cultural relics and is suitable for travel in all seasons.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Baiyi Pavilion, Daluomayou Pavilion (Chating Temple), Fulong Temple, Xiufeng Tower, etc.

It is recommended to play for 4-5 hours

Tickets

Free and open

Attraction opening hours

Open all day

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Most Popular FAQs for Baofeng Ancient Town

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

Baofeng Ancient Town is a historic town in Dali, Yunnan, known for its well-preserved Bai ethnic culture and architecture. The town has a long history and is an important cultural center for the Bai people. It offers visitors a chance to explore traditional Bai architecture, local customs, and historical landmarks that date back to the Tang and Song dynasties.

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

Baofeng Ancient Town is located in Dali, Yunnan, about 20 km from Dali Old Town. It is accessible by taxi or private car, and there are also buses that connect Dali Old Town to the ancient town. Walking from Dali Old Town is not recommended due to the distance.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Baofeng Ancient Town is open year-round, with the best times to visit being in the spring and autumn (March to May and September to November), when the weather is mild and the town is less crowded. It is best to visit in the morning to avoid the peak tourist crowds and to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.

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

The entrance fee to Baofeng Ancient Town is approximately 30-40 CNY. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance to the town. Some online platforms may offer ticket sales in advance, but it is also possible to buy tickets on-site.

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

It is not necessary to book tickets in advance for visiting Baofeng Ancient Town. However, during busy seasons (Chinese New Year, National Holidays), it is advisable to book tickets a few days in advance to avoid long lines.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

To fully explore Baofeng Ancient Town, you will need about 2-3 hours. This will give you enough time to wander through the streets, visit the local temples, and take in the scenic views along the river.

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

• The central Baofeng Cultural Square, which highlights the town’s traditional architecture and culture.
• Local temples and pagodas, such as the ancient Baofeng Temple, where you can learn about the town's spiritual heritage.
• The picturesque riverside area that offers opportunities for peaceful walks and photography.

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

Guided tours are available at Baofeng Ancient Town. These are typically conducted in Mandarin, but some tour guides may offer services in English. Audio guides may be available in multiple languages, including English, for those who prefer a self-guided experience.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• The river that runs through the town provides several scenic spots for photographs, especially at sunrise or sunset.
• The central square and surrounding streets offer great opportunities to capture traditional Bai architecture and local life.
• From the top of some of the town’s temples or pagodas, you can enjoy sweeping views of the town and the surrounding mountains.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by entering through the main gate and exploring the cultural square. From there, walk along the river, stopping to visit the local temples. End your visit by walking through the town’s streets and shopping for souvenirs in the local shops.

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

Currently, Baofeng Ancient Town does not offer night visits or light shows. However, the town is peaceful in the evenings, and visitors can enjoy the quiet ambiance and evening strolls along the river.

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

Baofeng Ancient Town can get crowded during weekends and national holidays, especially in the summer. To avoid large crowds, it is best to visit on weekdays, particularly in the early morning hours or during the off-season (autumn and spring).

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

Basic facilities such as toilets, food stalls, and water fountains are available. There are also a few shops selling local handicrafts and souvenirs, but food options within the town may be limited, so consider bringing your own snacks or meals.

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

Baofeng Ancient Town is relatively accessible for elderly and children, with paved streets and wide walkways. However, some areas may involve stairs or uneven paths, which could be challenging for disabled visitors. It’s advisable to check with the local management if you have specific accessibility needs.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Both cash and mobile payments (such as Alipay and WeChat Pay) are widely accepted in Baofeng Ancient Town. Credit cards are less commonly accepted in smaller shops, so it’s recommended to carry some cash or use mobile payment options.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are a few small cafes and local restaurants in and around Baofeng Ancient Town, offering traditional Yunnanese dishes. For a wider selection, Dali Old Town (about 20 km away) has many restaurants and cafes.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan options are available in local restaurants in and around Baofeng Ancient Town. Halal food options are limited, but some restaurants may offer alternatives for Muslim travelers.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are several guesthouses and hotels in Dali Old Town, which is a short drive from Baofeng Ancient Town. Options range from budget accommodations to more luxurious boutique hotels.

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

• Erhai Lake, a scenic area ideal for boat rides and nature walks.
• Dali Old Town, known for its ancient architecture and vibrant culture.
• Three Pagodas of Chongsheng Temple, one of the most famous landmarks in Dali.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes, there are several souvenir shops selling traditional Bai handicrafts, such as embroidered textiles, pottery, and silver jewelry. You can also find local tea, which makes for a great souvenir.

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

After visiting Baofeng Ancient Town, you can take a taxi or bus to Dali Old Town, Erhai Lake, or the Three Pagodas. Private tours or rented cars are also popular options for continuing the trip.