Dali Photography Guide: Niche Ways to Explore Shaxi Ancient Town That 99% of People Don't Know

Shaxi Ancient Town is located in Jianchuan County, Dali. It's not a large town. The TV series "Meet Yourself" was filmed in many locations within the ancient town. A two-day, one-night experiential trip is ideal, allowing you to witness the sunset over the hills and the morning mist at Yujin Bridge. If you have more time, consider staying for a week to fully unwind.

📸[Photography Guide]
▪️ Sifang Street/Ancient Stage
The heart of the ancient town, featuring stone-paved roads, an ancient stage, Xingjiao Temple, and centuries-old houses, exudes the historical charm of the Tea Horse Road.
▪️ Sideng Street
The only remaining market on the Tea Horse Road and the center of Shaxi Ancient Town.
▪️ Yujin Bridge Morning Mist
Shaxi's landmark ancient bridge spans the Heihui River. The bridge itself is simple and elegant, surrounded by idyllic fields and distant mountains.
▪️ Ouyang Courtyard
A former horse caravan's courtyard on the Tea Horse Road, showcasing traditional Bai architecture, exquisite wood carvings, and a tranquil atmosphere.
▪️ Pioneer Bookstore Poetry Tower
A literary bookstore converted from a granary, blending traditional and modern aesthetics. The top floor offers panoramic views of the ancient town.
▪️ Grandma Rui's Shop
A grocery store made famous by the TV series. The storefront decoration is attractive, but they don't allow photos unless you buy something. Prices are high, and Grandma Rui occasionally suns dried persimmons at the entrance.
▪️ East Gate
The gate that Xu Hongdou walked through with her luggage when she first arrived in Yunmiao Village.
▪️ South Gate
The gate that Xu Hongdou and A Yao walked through with their horses.
▪️ Mint Cafe
Also known as Youfeng Cafe, this is the cafe run by A Yao in the TV series, where Nana worked.
▪️ Banshan Cafe
▪️ Shanfeng Courtyard
💡Tips: Wear cotton and linen/light-colored clothing for better photos! Use a telephoto lens to capture the depth of field in the alleys' old walls.

🗺️ Shaxi Ancient Town Itinerary
Sideng Street → Ouyang Courtyard → Mint Cafe (Youfeng Cafe) → Ancient Stage → Grandma Rui's Shop → Xingjiao Temple → Nanguzong Alley → Big Tree → South Gate → East Gate → Yujin Bridge → Fanghe Inn → North Gate → May Nian Inn. Banshan Cafe and Shanfeng Courtyard are optional.
🍜 Ancient Town Restaurants
Chujian Shaxi, Peter's Restaurant, Love and Old Food, and Zuozuo Bistro offer a variety of Yunnan cuisine and Western food to satisfy your taste buds.
☕️ Ancient Town Cafes
Youfeng Cafe, Raven Cafe, Match Cafe, Trinity Cafe, Wusu Cafe, and Banshan Cafe are must-visits for coffee lovers.
🏨 Ancient Town Accommodation
The ancient town offers a wide range of accommodations to suit different budgets and preferences, ensuring a comfortable stay.

📍 Address: Shaxi Town, Jianchuan County, Dali Bai Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan Province
🚗 Transportation:
▫️ From Dali: 2-hour drive (the Niusha Highway is incredibly scenic).
▫️ From Lijiang: 80 RMB/person by shared car (look for the blue scenic express bus).
▫️ Without a car: Dali/Lijiang Passenger Station → Jianchuan County (transfer to a green rural minibus).
💌 Random Thoughts: Shaxi has avoided excessive commercial development. The echoes of horse hooves on the flagstones are the true soul of Shaxi. Stay for a night after the tourists leave, and you'll encounter a fairytale town under the starry sky✨