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Yuji Island, one of the three islands of Erhai Lake, is known as the "First Village of Cang'er." The Bai ethnic minority dwellings on Yuji Island are well-preserved, with flowing water and gardens in every household, rich in the unique fishing culture of this ethnic group. The island boasts attractions such as the Yubo Pavilion, the naval barracks of Du Wenxiu, a late Qing Dynasty peasant uprising leader, the Zhao Clan Ancestral Hall, the Yuji Nunnery where Yang Guixian, wife of Duan Siping, the founding emperor of the Dali Kingdom, practiced as a nun, the National Culture Square, and a thousand-year-old banyan tree. The island also boasts the unique homes of renowned modern dance artist Yang Liping and young painter Zhao Qing.
Yuji Island is part of Erhai Lake in Dali, Yunnan, an area rich in Bai ethnic culture. The island has been historically significant as a local cultural and religious site, offering a glimpse into traditional Bai architecture and lifestyles, while being a natural retreat on the lake.
Yuji Island is located in Erhai Lake, near Dali Old Town, Yunnan Province. Visitors typically reach Dali city by train or flight, then take a taxi or local bus to Erhai Lake. From the lake’s shore, small boats can ferry visitors to the island. Walking around the island is the main way to explore it.
The island is generally accessible daily during daylight hours. The best times to visit are spring and autumn for pleasant weather, or early mornings for sunrise photography. Summer is warmer but may be more crowded.
Entrance fees for Yuji Island are minimal or included in boat tickets. Tickets can usually be purchased offline at the boat docks near Erhai Lake. Some local tour operators may offer combined packages online.
Advance booking is not usually required. However, during peak tourist seasons (May–October), booking a boat ride to the island a day in advance is recommended to secure a spot.
2–3 hours are sufficient to explore the island, enjoy the scenery, visit the main cultural spots, and take photos.
Guided tours may be available through local travel agencies, typically in Chinese. Audio guides are limited, so hiring a local guide or joining a tour group is recommended for cultural insights.
Start from the boat dock, follow the lakeside trails clockwise, visit temples and Bai-style houses, then ascend to the central hill for panoramic views, and finish with a stroll along the lakeshore before returning to the dock.
Night visits are limited as the island is mainly a day-trip destination. There are no regular light shows; visiting during daylight is recommended for safety and visibility.
Weekdays outside major holidays are the least crowded. Peak season (May–October) and weekends can be busy with tourists and boating visitors.
Parts of the island have uneven terrain and stairs. Elderly and disabled visitors may find access challenging; children can generally enjoy the trails under supervision.
Cash is recommended for small purchases, boat rides, and entry fees. Mobile payment options like WeChat Pay or Alipay may be accepted at some docks and cafes.
Several lakeside cafes and restaurants near the docks offer Bai-style and local cuisine. Options include casual snack bars and small restaurants serving freshwater fish and local specialties.
Vegetarian options are available at some local cafes; vegan and halal options may be limited, so planning ahead is advisable.
Nearby Dali Old Town offers a wide range of hotels and guesthouses, from budget hostels to boutique hotels, many within 10–15 minutes by taxi from the Erhai Lake docks.
Souvenir shops near the docks and in Dali Old Town sell local crafts, Bai-style embroidery, handmade jewelry, teas, and small lake-themed keepsakes.
After visiting Yuji Island, travelers can return by boat to the Erhai Lake docks, then take taxis or local buses to Dali Old Town, Cangshan Mountain, or nearby lakeside attractions. Bicycle rentals are also popular for exploring the lakeshore.
