Back from Dali, sharing my real experience

Dali is a treasure trove of atmosphere – the breathtaking beauty of Cangshan Mountain and Erhai Lake, the healing slow life in the ancient town, and the unique Bai culture make every snapshot wallpaper-worthy! 🌄

Must-Visit Attractions

1. Erhai Lake: The lakeside road is stunning. Rent an e-bike or car to circle the lake, watch sunrise at Longkan Dock, enjoy coffee with a sea view in Shuanglang Town, and feed seagulls at Xiaoputuo (winter only)! 🛵

2. Dali Ancient Town: Explore artsy shops on Renmin Road, dine on Western food at Foreigner Street, admire panoramic views from Wuhua Tower, and soak up the folk music vibe at bars at night! 🏯

3. Xizhou Ancient Town: Admire exquisite Bai-style houses, snap photos at the iconic Corner Tower, pose with golden/green rice fields against white walls, and visit the traditional "Three Rooms and One Screen Wall" at Yan Family Compound! 🌾

4. Shuanglang Ancient Town: Known as "the first town with Cangshan and Erhai views," Yang Liping's Sun Palace (reservation required) is ethereal, and seaside swings make perfect photo ops! 🌊

5. Cangshan Mountain: Take the Ximatan Cable Car to the misty summit, hike the healing Jade Belt Road, and enjoy vegetarian meals at Jizhao Nunnery (arrive before noon)! ⛰️

6. Chongsheng Temple Three Pagodas: Dali's landmark with awe-inspiring ancient pagodas. Capture reflections at the park and dress in Bai attire for photos! 🗼

7. Shaxi Ancient Town: A hidden gem on the Tea-Horse Road. Watch morning fog at Yujin Bridge, sip coffee at Pioneer Bookstore, and join the lively Friday market for authentic slow living! 🐎

8. Xiaoputuo: Winter seagull hotspot! Feeding them bread is fun, and the tiny Guanyin Pavilion on the island looks straight out of a comic! 🕊️

Food Recs

• Grilled Rushan: Melted milk rolls with rose jam – try "Yangji Rushan" for fragrant 5-yuan treats! 🥛

• Sour-Spicy Fish: Crucian carp with sour papaya – appetite-boosting! "Zaihuishou Liangji Mixian" serves the real deal! 🐟

• Cold Chicken Rice Noodles: Shredded chicken, rice noodles, peanuts in tangy-spicy sauce – perfect for summer! Must-try at "Zaihuishou"! 🍜

• Xizhou Baba: Flaky pastry with sweet (rose) or savory (scallion) fillings – 10 yuan at street stalls! 🥞

• Bai Stone Grill: Sizzling meats/veggies on hot stone – "Old Fisherman Stone Grill" has killer dips! 🔥

• Ersi: Sticky rice noodles with meat sauce, pickles, and chili – warm breakfast! "Weishan Parou Ersi" is the best! 🲸

Transport

• Flight: Dali Fengyi Airport. Taxi to ancient town (~80 yuan) or take airport shuttle to "Dali Ancient Town Bus Station." ✈️

• Train: Dali Station. Take Bus 8 to town (3 yuan) or taxi (~30 yuan). 🚄

• Local: Rent e-bikes for Erhai loop (60 yuan/day), walk in town, take shuttle to Cangshan (10 yuan). 🛵

• Drive: Rent cars for Erhai (200 yuan/day) but expect traffic in peak season. 🚗

Accommodation

• Dali Ancient Town: Nightlife hub. "Dali No.1 Courtyard" offers Bai-style charm! 🏡

• Erhai Lakeside: Shuanglang or Caicun sea-view rooms. "Moonlight Among Pines" has healing views! 🌊

• Xizhou: Stay in renovated Bai houses like "Ji Yi Si Country Art Hotel" – vintage and artsy! 🛏️

• Shaxi: Pick inns like "Shiran Mountain House" for stargazing! 🌌

Tips

✅ Sunscreen! High-altitude UV demands hats, shades, and SPF50+! ☀️

✅ Inspect rentals! Test e-bikes, record car conditions to avoid scams! 📹

✅ Comfy shoes! Cobblestone streets punish heels! 👟

✅ Bring layers! Chilly mornings/evenings by mountain/lake! 🧥

✅ Respect customs! Bai festivals (lunar calendar) are lively but avoid photographing rituals! 🙏

✅ Carry cash! Some vendors/elders in rural areas only accept cash! 💵