Xizhou Ancient Town

Introducing Xizhou Ancient Town

Xizhou Ancient Town is located in the north of Dali City, leaning against Cangshan Mountain in the west and facing Erhai Lake in the east. It is the hometown of the movie "Five Golden Flowers".

This is a famous historical and cultural town of the Bai ethnic group with a thousand-year history. The costumes, language, food, music, dance, etc. represented by the Bai ethnic group have a strong ethnic style and historical and cultural atmosphere.

Bai ethnic minority dwellings are a major feature of Xizhou. The dwellings here have gone through the Ming Dynasty, Qing Dynasty, the Republic of China and various contemporary periods. The Yan and Yang families are the ones that people often visit.

Xizhou Posu Baba is a famous snack in Xizhou. It has great color, aroma and taste. Don’t forget to try it.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

1 day

Tickets

Admission to Xizhou Town is free, but admission to scenic spots within the town is charged.

Attraction opening hours

08:30-17:30 (Yanjia Courtyard) (Monday-Sunday) 08:00-18:00 (Yanjia Residence) (Monday-Sunday)

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Most Popular FAQs for Xizhou Ancient Town

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

Xizhou Ancient Town is a historic Bai ethnic town in Dali, Yunnan, known for its well-preserved architecture, traditional Bai customs, and vibrant local culture. It has a history of over 1,000 years and served as an important trade and cultural hub.

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

Located about 15 km north of Dali Old Town. Visitors can reach Xizhou by taxi, rideshare, or local bus from Dali city center. Walking and cycling are popular ways to explore the town itself.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The town is open to visitors year-round, 24 hours for streets and shops. Best times are spring and autumn for comfortable weather and festivals.

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

There is no general entrance fee to explore the town. Some specific historical houses or museums may charge small fees, which can be paid on-site.

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

For general town visits, booking is not needed. For special attractions or cultural performances, booking 1–3 days in advance is recommended.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

2–4 hours for a casual walk; half a day to explore museums, residences, and nearby scenic areas.

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

• Bai-style traditional houses and courtyards
• Local markets with handicrafts and fresh produce
• Temples such as Sanqing Temple
• Erhai Lake viewpoints nearby

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

Guided tours are available, usually in Chinese and sometimes English. Audio guides are limited; private guides can be arranged through local travel agencies.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• Erhai Lake edges near the town
• Courtyards with traditional Bai decorations
• Main street for cultural and street photography
• Roofs of guesthouses offering panoramic views

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

• Start at the central square or main street
• Walk through markets and Bai residences
• Visit a local temple or museum
• Finish with lake viewpoints or a traditional café stop

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

The town is lively at night with cafes and restaurants open. Special cultural performances may be held during festivals, but there are no permanent light shows.

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

Weekdays are less crowded. Weekends, public holidays, and festival periods see more visitors.

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

Basic facilities include public toilets, cafés, restaurants, small shops, and seating areas. Drinking water may need to be purchased.

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

Streets are mostly flat but cobblestone paths may be uneven. Elderly and children can explore with care; wheelchair accessibility is limited.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Both cash and mobile payments (Alipay, WeChat Pay) are widely accepted in shops and restaurants.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Numerous cafés, tea houses, and local restaurants serving Bai and Yunnan cuisine are found throughout the town.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available; Halal options may require asking local restaurants or visiting nearby Dali city.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Guesthouses, boutique hotels, and hostels are available in and around Xizhou Ancient Town, some offering traditional Bai architecture stays.

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

• Dali Old Town
• Erhai Lake
• Three Pagodas

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops sell local handicrafts, embroidery, silver jewelry, Bai-style paintings, and postcards.

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

Taxis, rideshare, or bicycle rentals can take visitors to nearby attractions like Dali Old Town or Erhai Lake.