Dali Bai Autonomous Prefecture, often simply referred to as "Dali", is located in the western part of Yunnan Province. It is not a city in the traditional sense, but rather a region renowned for its natural scenery and cultural charm. People use the poetic four-word phrase "Wind, Flower, Snow, Moon" – referring to "Xiaguan Wind, Shangguan Flower, Cangshan Snow, Erhai Moon" – to summarize its ever-changing landscapes. For many, Dali is not just a tourist destination, but an "ideal realm" where one can find peace of mind.
Dali's geographical layout is classic: the majestic nineteen peaks of Cangshan Mountains stretch from north to south, resembling a natural barrier; the clear highland lake Erhai, like a crescent moon, lies peacefully to the east of Cangshan. Ancient towns, villages, and vast fertile fields unfold between these mountains and waters. This unique landscape collectively nurtures the natural wonders of "Wind, Flower, Snow, Moon" and a comfortable, pleasant plateau climate.
In Dali, the scenery is not confined within a "scenic area" but is integrated into daily life. You can wander through the cobblestone streets of Dali Ancient City, feeling its vicissitudes through the history of the Nanzhao and Dali Kingdoms. You can also cycle around Erhai Lake, watching the clouds unfurl and the sky merge with the water. The Three Pagodas of Chongsheng Temple, as iconic landmarks of Dali, have stood silently between Cangshan and Erhai for a thousand years, witnessing the rise and fall of this land.
This is the main gathering place for the Bai people, and their rich ethnic culture is its soul. From the exquisite Bai traditional residences in Xizhou Ancient Town, characterized by "three courtyards and one screen wall, four houses and five patios," to the vibrant ethnic costumes worn by locals, and the grand Third Month Fair ethnic festival, everything showcases unique cultural charm. In recent decades, Dali's open and inclusive atmosphere has also attracted countless artists, writers, and artisans to settle here, where new and old cultures blend, forming a free, leisurely, and creative way of life.
Today, while safeguarding its precious natural and cultural heritage, Dali has also become a symbol of a lifestyle. It represents an "escape" from the fast-paced life of big cities and a longing for returning to nature and seeking inner peace. This unique appeal makes Dali a special presence among China's many tourist destinations.
What is there to do in Dali China?
The best time to visit Dali is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November).
In spring, Dali is sunny and pleasant, with flowers in full bloom, especially the "Third Month Fair" ethnic festival starting on the fifteenth day of the third lunar month, which is the best time to experience Bai ethnic customs.
In autumn, the weather is cool, the sky is clear and exceptionally transparent, making it the golden season to enjoy the magnificent scenery of Cangshan Mountains and Erhai Lake.
These two seasons offer pleasant climates, allowing you to avoid the summer rainy season while enjoying the most beautiful natural landscapes and rich ethnic culture.
The Nanzhao Kingdom, established with Erhai Lake region as its center, was a powerful local regime in the southwestern region during the Tang Dynasty. Its capital, Taihe City, and the ruins of Yangjumie City are both located in present-day Dali.
Duan Sipin established the Dali Kingdom, with Yangjumie City as its capital. The Dali Kingdom lasted for over three hundred years, and because 9 of its 22 kings abdicated to become monks, it was known as the "Mystic Buddhist Kingdom".
After the reform and opening up, Dali attracted a large number of domestic and international tourists with its unique natural scenery and cultural history, rapidly developing into a world-renowned tourist destination and backpacker's paradise.
Explore Dali's rich intangible cultural heritage and learn about traditional crafts and cultural essence
2006-05Included
Dali Bai tie-dyeing is a traditional and unique folk dyeing craft in China, mainly prevalent in Zhoucheng Village, Xizhou Town, Dali City. The process involves hand-stitching and tying, followed by repeated immersion in pure plant dyes (Isatis indigotica). The products are not only brightly colored and colorfast but also have anti-inflammatory and health benefits for the skin.
2006-05Included
"Raosanling" is a prayer activity performed by the Bai people in the fields before the busy farming season, and also a folk entertainment activity with religious overtones. It is held annually from the 23rd to the 25th day of the fourth lunar month. Participants wear festive attire, sing and dance, parade and worship the "Benbu" deity, creating a grand and lively scene.
2008-06Included
Also known as "Guanyin Market," it is the most grand traditional festival of the Bai ethnic group, held annually from the 15th to the 21st day of the third lunar month outside the west gate of Dali Ancient City. It is a grand event integrating commodity trading, cultural entertainment, sports competitions, and ethnic festivities, with a long history and profound influence.
2011-05Included
Jianchuan wood carving is a traditional craft of the Bai ethnic group, originating from Jianchuan County in Dali Prefecture, known for its exquisite carving techniques and elegant artistic style. The works are mostly used for architectural decoration and furniture making, with a wide range of themes, full compositions, and high artistic value and cultural connotations.
Transportation you must know when visiting Dali
Dali Huangcaoba Airport (DLU) is located in Huangcaoba, east of Dali City, approximately 30 kilometers from Dali Ancient City.
The airport offers flights to and from major domestic cities such as Kunming, Chengdu, Beijing, and Shanghai.
Upon exiting the airport, you can take an airport shuttle bus to Xiaguan urban area or Dali Ancient City. The fare is approximately 25-30 Yuan.
Dali Railway Station is located in Xiaguan, Dali City, serving as an important railway hub in western Yunnan.
Bullet trains are available, with the fastest journey from Kunming to Dali taking only 2 hours, and to Lijiang about 1.5 hours.
Upon exiting the station, you can take the No. 8 bus or a taxi to Dali Ancient City.
Dali city's bus system connects Xiaguan New Town and the Ancient City.
Among them, the No. 8 bus is the main route connecting the railway station, Xiaguan urban area, and Dali Ancient City, with a fare of 3 Yuan.
Additionally, there are special tourist bus lines around Erhai Lake, making it convenient for visitors to explore in sections.
The starting fare for taxis in Dali is approximately 8 Yuan (within 3 kilometers), with subsequent charges based on mileage.
Ride-hailing services are also very popular; apps like "Didi Chuxing" can be conveniently used to hail a car, especially between the Ancient City and major attractions.
In Dali, renting an electric bicycle is one of the best ways to explore the Ancient City and cycle around Erhai Lake.
Rental points are available both inside and outside the Ancient City, with daily rental fees ranging from approximately 50-80 Yuan depending on the model.
You can freely cycle along the Erhai Lake Ecological Corridor, enjoying the lake and mountain scenery.
Taking a cruise ship is a classic way to experience the scenery of Erhai Lake.
Large cruise ships typically include visits to attractions such as Nanzhao Fengqing Island and Xiao Putuo, with fares around 140 Yuan.
You can also find small iron boats operated by local fishermen at piers along the lake, and negotiate prices for short trips.
What to eat in Dali, you need to know
Rushan (Milk Fan)
A unique dairy product of the Bai ethnic group, with a distinctive shape and rich nutrition. It can be grilled, fried, or eaten raw, offering crispy or chewy textures and a rich milky flavor.
Xizhou Baba (Xizhou Pancake)
A famous snack from Xizhou Ancient Town in Dali, available in savory and sweet flavors. It has a crispy crust and distinct layers, a must-try delicacy to experience local pastry culture.
Grilled Erkuai (Rice Cake)
One of the most common street snacks in Dali, made by grilling rice-based Erkuai over charcoal until soft, then spreading with sauce, simple yet delicious.
Sour and Spicy Fish
A signature dish for entertaining guests by the Bai ethnic group, with a sour and spicy flavor that is appetizing. The fish is tender, the broth is rich, and it's highly characteristic of the local cuisine.
Cold Chicken Rice Noodles
One of the most beloved fast foods among Dali locals, offering a refreshing taste with rich seasonings, combining sour, sweet, numbing, spicy, and aromatic flavors, very suitable for the local climate.