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🏛️ History · Tang dynasty · 618–907
🌍 Around the time Charlemagne was crowned Emperor in Europe.
The Kingdom of Nanzhao
Explore the ancient Buddhist heritage of the Nanzhao and Dali kingdoms that once dominated this mountain-ringed basin. Stand before iconic architecture that has withstood centuries of dynastic change.
Three Pagodas三塔
The Three Pagodas are iconic landmarks of Dali, symbolizing the rich Buddhist history of the area. They are set against the backdrop of the Cangshan Mountains.
Chongsheng Temple Three Pagodas Cultural Tourism Area崇圣寺三塔文化旅游区
The Chongsheng Temple Three Pagodas Cultural Tourism Area in Dali is centered around three ancient pagodas forming an equilateral triangle, with the tallest, the Qianxun Pagoda, da
Bring your passport (real-name entry)
Nanzhao Romantic Island南诏风情岛
Nanzhao Romantic Island is a scenic spot located in Erhai Lake, Dali. The island is known for its rich history, beautiful landscapes, and vibrant cultural heritage. It was once the
🎬 On screen · Modern era
Cinematic Legends and Martial Arts
Step into the fictional universe of Jin Yong's sweeping wuxia (martial arts fiction) epics and the beloved classic cinema of mid-century China. These iconic stories immortalized Dali's dramatic peaks and serene waters for global audiences.
🎬 Five Golden Flowers (五朵金花) · 1959🎬 Demi-Gods and Semi-Devils (Jin Yong) (天龙八部（金庸）) · 1963
Dali Old Town大理古城
Cangshan Mountain苍山Bring your passport (real-name entry)
Erhai Lake洱海
🏮 Culture · Centuries-old traditions
The Bai Heritage of Xizhou
Wander through exceptionally preserved courtyard residences belonging to the Bai ethnic minority, known for their distinctive white-walled architecture. Experience a living culture where traditional crafts and local customs remain deeply rooted in daily life.
Xizhou Village喜洲古镇
Xizhou Village is known for its well-preserved Bai architecture and local traditions. Visitors can experience the authentic rural lifestyle, including traditional crafts and the fa
Zhoucheng Village周城村
Zhoucheng Village is an ancient Bai ethnic village just north of Dali’s Xizhou Ancient Town. Renowned as the “Hometown of Bai Tie‑Dye,” nearly every household continues the traditi
Zui Xizhou Bai Ethnic Specialty Restaurant醉喜洲白族特色餐厅
Tucked right within the timeless lanes of Xizhou Ancient Town, Zui Xizhou Bai Ethnic Specialty Restaurant is like stepping straight into a warm local family feast. Housed in a clas
✂️ Crafts · Traditional craft
The Art of Tie-Dye
Watch master artisans fold, stitch, and immerse indigo-dyed fabrics into vibrant botanical patterns in historic villages. Take part in hands-on workshops to create your own traditional textile souvenir.
Zhoucheng Village周城
Dali & Lijiang 4-Day Intangible Cultural Heritage & Leisure Tour
Savor tangy, spice-infused chicken rice noodles and crispy local pastries baked with fresh edible flowers. These comforting dishes reflect the cross-cultural culinary history of the ancient Tea Horse Road.
Pang Ding in Dali is a charming bakery that specializes in fresh flower cakes, a beloved local delicacy. These flower cakes are made with a thin, crispy pastry filled with fragrant
Looking Back – Chicken Rice Noodles再回首 鸡肉米线
Looking Back is a restaurant specializing in chicken rice noodles, a comforting and flavorful dish popular in the region. The rice noodles are served with tender, juicy chicken, an
⛰️ Nature · Every morning
Mirror of the Sky
Bicycle along the winding ecological corridors flanking the vast expanse of Erhai Lake, where distant peaks cast flawless reflections on the water. Pause at quiet fishing piers to watch local life unfold against breathtaking sunrises.
Erhai Lake洱海
S BayS湾
A poetic lakeside spot where a winding S‑shaped road hugs the western banks of Erhai Lake near Panxi Village in Dali, Yunnan. From elevated viewpoints, this ‘S Bay’ frames shimmeri
Longkan Pier龙龛码头
⛰️ Nature · Ancient monastic tradition
Sanctuaries in the Clouds
Hike up the mist-shrouded slopes of Mount Cangshan to discover hidden Buddhist nunneries surrounded by thriving succulent gardens. These tranquil sanctuaries offer a profound sense of peace far above the bustling modern towns.
Cangshan Mountain苍山Bring your passport (real-name entry)
Jizhao Nunnery寂照庵
Dali, Lugu Lake, Lijiang: 5-Day Leisure Tour of Ancient Towns, Lakes, and Snow Mountains
Dali Ancient City · Highland Lugu Lake · Jade Dragon Snow Mountain
Many passports can now enter China visa-free for short stays, and many nationalities can transit visa-free for up to 240 hours when flying on to a third country. Rules depend on your passport — check yours before you book.
📱 Paying
China runs on Alipay and WeChat Pay. Both accept foreign Visa and Mastercard after a passport check — set one up before you fly, and carry a little cash as backup.
🎫 Booking sights
Many major sights must be booked in advance under your real name. Foreigners book with their passport number and must show the same passport at the gate. Popular ones sell out.
🌐 Internet
Google, WhatsApp and Instagram don't work on Chinese networks. Most visitors use their home roaming or a travel eSIM.
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Three Pagodas 三塔The Three Pagodas are iconic landmarks of Dali, symbolizing the rich Buddhist history of the area. They are set against the backdrop of the Cangshan Mountains.
Chongsheng Temple Three Pagodas Cultural Tourism Area 崇圣寺三塔文化旅游区The Chongsheng Temple Three Pagodas Cultural Tourism Area in Dali is centered around three ancient pagodas forming an equilateral triangle, with the tallest, the Qianxun Pagoda, daBring your passport (real-name entry)
Nanzhao Romantic Island 南诏风情岛Nanzhao Romantic Island is a scenic spot located in Erhai Lake, Dali. The island is known for its rich history, beautiful landscapes, and vibrant cultural heritage. It was once the
