Healing Blue Waters

Little Erhai typically refers to the scenic areas around Erhai Lake in Dali, Yunnan, or regions with similar landscapes (such as Eryuan County). Below is a classic 2-3 day travel route for an in-depth exploration of Erhai Lake, covering both must-see attractions and hidden gems:

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📅 Recommended Itinerary (2-3 Days)

**Day 1:** Dali Ancient Town → West Erhai Loop (Ecological Corridor)
1. **Dali Ancient Town**
◦ Stroll along Renmin Road and Foreigner Street in the morning, and try Bai-style breakfast (recommended: grilled erkuai and rushan cheese).

2. **Caicun Pier**
◦ Cycle or take an electric cart from the ancient town to the starting point of the Erhai Ecological Corridor, perfect for photos.

3. **Panxi Village (Instagrammable S-Bend)**
◦ Cycle or walk along the most iconic S-curve of Erhai Lake—best visited early to avoid crowds.

4. **Langqiao (The Lonely Tree)**
◦ A hidden photo spot featuring a solitary ancient tree and a retro arch bridge by the lake.

5. **Xizhou Ancient Town**
◦ Lunch recommendations: Xizhou baba (savory cake) and pea jelly. Don’t miss the iconic Corner Tower and golden rice fields (seasonal).

6. **Haishu Park**
◦ A peninsula surrounded by water on three sides, with photogenic "Couple Trees" and wetlands.

**Day 2:** East Erhai Loop (Self-Drive/Private Car)
1. **Shuanglang Ancient Town**
◦ Visit Yang Liping’s Sun Palace Art Space (reservation required) in the morning, then relax at a lakeside café.

2. **Luwang Mountain (Lu’e Mountain)**
◦ Descend to the lakeside for photos at the abandoned window frame and seaside cave.

3. **Wase Town**
◦ Observe local fishermen and boats—ideal for capturing the lake’s shimmering reflections in the afternoon light.

4. **Xiaoputuo Island**
◦ Spot seagulls in winter (November–March); admire the tiny island from afar in other seasons.

5. **Wenbi Village**
◦ Rainbow Road and white wedding venues offer panoramic views of Erhai Lake.

6. **Ideal State (Dali’s Santorini)**
◦ Arrive by evening for sunset photos of white architecture against the lake. Stay overnight or enjoy afternoon tea.

**Day 3:** Eryuan/Niche Experiences
• **Option 1:** "Little Erhai" in Eryuan County
◦ 1-hour drive north of Dali—visit Cibi Lake and Pear Orchard Village (tranquil and untouched).
• **Option 2:** Shaxi Ancient Town
◦ 2-hour drive from Dali—a Tea Horse Road town ideal for slow living.
• **Option 3:** Zhemo Mountain
◦ A hidden gem near Dali with sweeping views of Erhai Lake and city nightscapes (reminiscent of Hong Kong’s Victoria Peak).

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🚗 Transportation Tips
• **West Loop:** Cycling (bike/e-bike) recommended—motor vehicles are prohibited in the ecological corridor.
• **East Loop:** Hire a private car (~¥300–400/day) or self-drive; roads are well-maintained.
• **Eryuan/Shaxi:** Arrange private transport or take a bus (available at Xiaguan Bus Station).

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📌 Important Notes
1. **Sun protection!** Erhai’s UV rays are intense—hats and sunglasses are essential.
2. Book accommodations early during peak seasons (summer/National Day)—Shuanglang and Xizhou fill up quickly.
3. Protect the environment: No littering, and motor vehicles are banned in the ecological corridor.