Some recommendations for traveling in Dali | Updated on November 1, 2024

Written By: Jason

Traveling in Dali is an integrated experience of eating, staying, and going around.

 The purpose of this local guide is to provide you with comprehensive information to help you plan your ideal holiday. Initially, many visitors who were interested in hiking often asked about the local climate, transportation, accommodations, dining, cafes, and places to visit. So, I’ve written down the places I think are good, with reasonable prices, and generally frequented by locals. Some spots that are popular with tourists but not often visited by locals are not included. This guide reflects my personal preferences. Due to time and space limitations, the recommendations may not cover everything but provide a general framework. (This content is open-source, and anyone who finds it useful can modify it to fit their needs. The value of this information lies in helping those traveling to Dali.)

Climate & Clothing Recommendations (November–January)

From November onwards, the rainy season ends and the windy season begins. Dali's windy season lasts from November to April, which is a distinctive season. Sometimes, the wind can be strong enough to make standing difficult, knocking over unsecured sheds and pushing motorcycles off course.

• Temperature: Ranges from 3°C to 22°C, with cooler mornings and evenings. It generally no longer rains, and the weather is mostly sunny, though the wind is often strong, especially in the evenings. The mushroom season ends, and large groups of migratory birds from Siberia begin to arrive, making it a great time for birdwatching, stargazing, and boat tours. Winter cherry blossoms also start blooming in December.

Clothing Recommendations:

• Daytime: On sunny days, a short-sleeve T-shirt is fine, but you’ll still need a jacket because it can get chilly when the sun is not out.
• Nighttime: There is a significant temperature difference between day and night, so it’s important to bring a thin down jacket or fleece and a thicker coat for the evenings. You’ll also need a warmer blanket for sleeping.

Altitude: Dali is at an altitude of 2,000 meters, which is lower than the altitude where altitude sickness generally occurs (around 2,400 meters). Most people won’t experience altitude sickness unless they go higher than 3,000 meters, so altitude is generally not a problem in Dali. However, some individuals may still experience mild discomfort, but this is rare.

Fire Prevention Period: Generally, fire prevention regulations start on December 1st, and most mountain roads require registration.

If you plan to hike, bring sturdy sports shoes or hiking boots, as these will be useful for both daily use and hiking. Dali also has hot springs, and autumn and winter are the best seasons to enjoy them, so don't forget your swimsuit.

Transportation Recommendations

A convenient and inexpensive option for arriving in Dali is to fly into Lijiang Airport, then take a shared ride (costing 80–90 RMB per person) directly to Dali Old Town in about two hours. This is the preferred option for many long-term residents of Dali. In comparison, flying into Kunming involves taking a shuttle to the high-speed rail station, followed by a high-speed train to Dali, and then a transfer to the Old Town, which takes over four hours and costs at least 200 RMB per person (145 RMB for the high-speed train, 25 RMB for the airport shuttle, and 40 RMB from Dali Station to the Old Town). Dali Airport has fewer flights and higher costs, and during the windy season (December to April), delays and cancellations due to low visibility are possible (currently not an issue). The airport to the Old Town also takes about one hour.

Lijiang remains the best option.

Shared Ride Options:

For shared rides from Lijiang or Kunming to Dali, it’s best to book through a platform in advance. If you can’t find a ride, you can contact:

• Liu Sanqi: 18987085657 (WeChat or phone)
• A Jie: 15125176744 (WeChat or phone)

These drivers offer shared rides, and their groups can arrange rides that match your time preferences. Prices from Lijiang Airport to Dali are generally 80-100 RMB per person, depending on factors like fuel prices. However, because this service involves different drivers, the quality of service can vary. You might encounter some issues, like being picked up later than expected or inconsistent service quality, so it’s important to keep expectations in check.

Private Car Hire with driver (For Better Vehicles):

• Ma Shi: 13170759527 (WeChat same number). This car service is reliable. I encountered them when a guest used their service, and it left a good impression. Many people have used their cars without complaints. However, there can be variations in driver service, especially during peak seasons, so be sure to provide feedback if the service isn’t up to expectations.

• Fan Shi: 13987202000. This is another trustworthy car service that I also use.

When renting a car, make sure to use a legitimate platform instead of roadside rental services, as those may come with issues like deceptive vehicle damage claims.

Intercity Travel:

For traveling between cities, use the Dianyuechuxing「滇约出行」 it is a WeChat mini-program. It’s a reliable and affordable option for long-distance travel to cities like Kunming, Baoshan, Tengchong, Yunlong, and Nuo Deng.

Bicycle Rentals:

• Shengkai Bike Rental (Yu’er Road, Old Town): This shop is recommended by a guest named Ejing, and I’ve visited it myself. They offer a variety of bikes, including mountain bikes and road bikes, and provide good service. They also offer professional cycling gear and breakdown assistance. There is also a store in Xizhou, where bikes can be returned. wechat/phone：15331687170

• 917 Rent a Bike (WeChat: xc534628): Rent a regular bicycle for 20 RMB/day.

• 214 Cycling Station: This professional cycling shop located in Caicun is run by Wu Lao Shi, who offers good customer service and even repairs bike damage without overcharging. WeChat: xiaoheizi54999.

Shared Electric Scooters:

The Didi（滴滴） Qingju（青橘） electric scooters are available in the Old Town and surrounding areas. This is one of the most convenient and flexible modes of transport, especially during busy seasons like summer holidays.

Daily Taxi Rides:

Use apps（ie. didi） to get a taxi. This is more convenient and affordable compared to big cities, and you can find taxis quicker in Dali. Taxis in rural areas may not always have fixed addresses, so it’s better to use maps or the specific location provided by your accommodation.

Electric Scooters: Dali's most convenient and flexible form of transportation is electric scooters, especially during busy seasons when traffic is heavy. The “Hello Electric Scooters” service is a reliable option, as it has many pick-up points and offers insurance coverage in case of problems.

Dining Recommendations:

Loacal Dali Bai-Style Food

• Qiumuyuan(楸木园）: Located in a small alley on Yu’er Road in the Old Town, this restaurant is a favorite among locals. The food is simple yet delicious, with popular dishes like “Sour Papaya Fish.”

• A Wang's Private Kitchen（阿汪私厨）: Located deep in Fuan Alley, this is a hidden gem recommended by local food critics. Recommended dishes include white-cut meat, roasted meat, yellow-braised chicken, and sour-spicy fis

• Guanyintang（观音塘） Dining Street: Fresh Pig’s Skin and Local Dishes

  This is the liveliest and most down-to-earth place, especially bustling with energy. For example, Lao Guan Pea Powder（老倌豌豆粉） is located at the entrance of the alley where I once stayed. The vendor sets up a row of low tables and small stools, with most people sitting under the extended eaves of the house, or by the wall of the temple across the street. The place is crowded but orderly, with everyone eating their own food in a lively yet calm atmosphere. Other nearby eateries are also great, affordable, and offer local specialties. There are a few standout dishes you should try: stinky tofu stir-fried with chongcao (臭豆腐炒茼蒿）a type of vegetable), fried pork ribs（炸排骨）, sour papaya fish（酸木瓜鱼）, old-fashioned potato (老奶洋芋), stir-fried shredded pork with pickled vegetables（酸腌菜炒肉）, and seaweed and taro soup（海菜汤）.

  After the meal, if you walk a few dozen meters north from Zhangjia Garden（张家花园）, there is a small shop serving yogurt and purple rice porridge. Try the Paoluda 泡鲁达(a Burmese dessert, priced at 10 RMB). It's one of the places I often visit to relax in Guanyintang.

  Old brands like Xuehua Shengpi Guan (Snowflake Pig’s Skin Restaurant) and the new Xiliujing branch（细流井分店） are regular spots for us. Nearby, Ruifeng Garden（瑞丰园） is a slightly fancier restaurant where locals tend to take guests for meals.

  New Dining Places Around Guanyintang

  There are now some new shops that blend well with the traditional local eateries, mainly around the row of shops near the temple entrance. For example, Dou He Dou’s Home（豆和豆的家） is a high-quality vegetarian restaurant, offering soy milk and fried dough sticks for breakfast, and delicious lunch sets. It's a pleasant place to sit by the roadside. Next door is Ye Sui（野穗）, a bakery that also serves coffee. Further along, there's a café with a small courtyard that offers a great atmosphere and view. Together, these places create a relaxed new vibe.

• Clear Soup Beef Hotpot

Dali has many Islamic villages, so halal beef dishes are highly recommended and worth trying. Zhangjiayuan（张家园） is a courtyard-style restaurant serving beef, beef tongue, and steak，you can order half portions. If it's too crowded, nearby places like Niu Niu（牛牛） also serve great hotpots with the option for grilling. You can pick vegetables from an open self-service display. While these aren't the absolute best, they’re good choices based on my experience with friends. Most of Dali’s halal beef restaurants offer great standards, with clear soup being the best choice to highlight the taste of the ingredients. 

• Maoduoli（猫哆哩） Thai Style Hand-grabbed Rice

A must-try if you haven’t had it before. They serve in portions for two, four, or more people, and will pair it with grilled fish or chicken (adding 40 RMB for both). It's convenient for parking. 

• Grilled Fish: Jinsheng Youyuan（今生有缘烤鱼）

Located at the intersection of Guangwu Road（广武路） and Yuer（玉洱） Road, this restaurant offers fresh fish grilled on the spot with a generous amount of vegetables. The fish is delicious, and adding fish belly makes it even better. You can request for less salt (the local flavor tends to be a bit salty). This grilled fish is one of my favorites. Although friends of mine say there are better grilled fish spots, they always prefer this one when we go out together. It has become so popular that I recommend calling an hour ahead for a reservation (Phone: 15912633200) to avoid long waiting times. You can park at Lanlingge（兰陵阁酒店）.

• Yuguagua（渔呱呱）: Fish with Frog Legs and Pork Intestines

• Yu Zhi Lian Wooden Barrel Fish（鱼之恋木桶鱼）

Food from other part of China

• Japanese Cuisine: Xiulou（绣楼三文鱼）

Xiulou is highly recommended for Japanese food, which might seem unusual for Dali. However, this restaurant offers great quality and a cozy setting. They serve a set menu based on the number of people, including salmon sashimi, fried fish fillets, sushi, vegetable salad, and miso soup. Friends who often go to Japan for sushi say the quality here is high and the portions are generous. Even though the chef trained for over twenty years in Japan, the atmosphere is very humble and welcoming. The restaurant is located in an old traditional courtyard on Pingdeng Road. You can book via WeChat (Nisdeg-Tavag) or call 15147969989 (the owner is a long-time friend). The restaurant also serves Sukiyaki Hotpot in winter.

• Shi Yi Korean Cuisine（石弋朝鲜餐厅）

This Korean restaurant is located about 15 km from the Ancient Town in a village with a large pond in front of the courtyard, facing Cangshan Mountain. The scenery is unique, with ancient trees surrounding the area. The small dishes served with barbecue are delicious, and at 58 RMB per person, it’s a great value. You can enjoy the rural scenery while having your meal. The outdoor seating area is perfect for sunny days. During the December cherry blossom season, the cherry blossoms in the yard should be beautiful.

• Cangshan Lu Restaurant（苍山麓）

• Communal Dining 社区饭店 (Solo Dining Made Richer)

Brunch/Coffee

• Pushi Bakery（朴石）: Located near Dali University, this bakery offers great American-style coffee and delicious bread (e.g., European-style bread, naturally leavened). You can enjoy a sandwich with coffee for a perfect meal. They also serve pizza and desserts. The food quality is high, and it's a great spot to relax.

• Flying to the Moon（向月球飞去）: Located on Guangwu Road in the Ancient Town, this place offers affordable American-style breakfast with coffee and juice for 32 RMB. Their French-style eggs and pizza are also tasty. It’s especially great for families with children. However, be prepared to wait 30 minutes during peak times.

• Huanque（欢雀）: A good brunch place at Erhai Gate. The owner Huan Huan, who used to manage Flying to the Moon, opened this place with a great atmosphere, affordable prices, and excellent quality. You can enjoy coffee, freshly squeezed juice, and great food under 40 RMB. It's perfect for a relaxing brunch, and Huan Huan is also our hiking guide.

• Bings

  A refined brunch and dessert shop that also offers Gelato ice cream. The owner, Bingbing, is a Le Cordon Bleu-trained pastry chef who has previously run well-reviewed brunch and ice cream shops. The new location on Xinmin Road combines both into one. Many customers have been and given it high praise. 

  Mushroom Hotpot:

  My friends recommended the following places:

  • Qinghong Private Kitchen
  • Aishan Mushroom at Xiguan
  • Huayijian
  • E Yue Xiaochu

  Late-Night BBQ:

  • Gold Rose near Wenxian Lou is a local favorite. The raw beef is the standout dish. It’s a street-side eatery with a pleasant vibe. The BBQ is professional, clean, and well-organized. Cold edamame is a great snack to accompany your drink, and they offer a wide selection of beer and beverages.

  Xiaoxuan’s Japanese Yakitori:

  A late-night snack place near Erhai Gate. Xiaoxuan was once our event partner. He has studied both Western and Japanese cuisine, and his yakitori stand is loved by many locals. There’s a Cantonese-style rice noodle shop nearby that’s also very popular. To reserve, contact via WeChat: vim8181318.

  Midnight Snack Shop（深夜食堂）:

  Located at the intersection of Huguo Road and Guangwu Road, this place operates until 4 a.m. It's the perfect spot for a quiet late-night meal and chat. Whether it’s braised pork rice, beef noodle soup, light meals like French toast, or drinks like Thai milk tea and coffee, there's something for everyone. This is a shop we ran before starting the “Cangshan Hiking Home,” and now it’s managed by our friend Hanhan. Many past leaders (Xiaochun, the tailor, He Chen, and Honghong) also worked here, creating many wonderful memories. If you're staying in the south area of the small courtyard, you can visit the Dali Midnight Snack Shop (Hilton Small Courtyard branch).

  Qiqi Restaurant（奇奇饭店）:

  Located at 165 Renmin Road, Qiqi Restaurant stays open late. Their fried rice and ginger duck rice are famous, and Qiqi is a wonderful person. read a bit about her story here: QiQi restaurant

Fusion Cuisine Restaurants:

Some discerning guests (in a positive sense) were disappointed by well-known restaurants but left impressed by a newer, refined fusion cuisine restaurant.

• Xiaolou（晓楼）: Chef Lee of Xiaolou has considerable culinary experience overseas. They promote a sustainable and healthy lifestyle and dining philosophy. The menu is designed to support sustainable agriculture rather than catering to the diner’s preferences. The restaurant's theme is "multi-element, multi-culture" cuisine. To book, contact via WeChat: xiaolou17387278751
• Chinchin Tavern（Chinchin小酒馆）: Located near Dali University on a quiet alley next to Xuefu Road. They serve fusion dishes like squid pasta, Tom Yum soup, and Sichuan/Korean-style appetizers. The owner, Joy, is from Sichuan, and the overall flavor is a fusion of many styles. The atmosphere is cozy, with a wide selection of wines at affordable prices. Our regulars, Charcy and Alu, love the special wines Joy serves, which are hard to find elsewhere, so they visit often. Most customers are Dali locals who return regularly. Joy studied wine in France. It’s a great spot for solo dining or enjoying with a few friends. 

Private Western Cuisine:

• Hunter & Rou: 598 RMB per person. Hunter, a former five-star hotel chef, and his wife Rou run this private kitchen in Dali. Several of our local friends highly recommend it. I’ve been there and loved it for the overall experience: a beautiful traditional countryside courtyard, clean and filled with life, and a kitchen where Hunter works in an orderly and bright space. There are dogs and cats in the yard, and they grow microgreens. If interested, you can chat with the couple. To reserve, contact via WeChat: hunterrou.

Vegetarian:

I don't have an in-depth understanding of vegetarian food, but many of my vegetarian-loving friends and guests have shared these recommendations:

• Wuxiang Song（无相颂）: Located on Yeyu Road in the ancient town. Many long-time vegetarian hikers rave about it. It’s a buffet with many exquisite small dishes. 
• Yiran Hall（一然堂）: Located in Jiulongju, Ancient Town. It’s a casual self-service vegetarian restaurant run by a non-profit Buddhist group. The food is great. 
• Sule（素乐）: Located on Santalu Road. It's clean, modern, and many people love it. Dali Sule Restaurant. There are several other vegetarian restaurants in the area that look good, and there are also coffee shops nearby.
• Sufangzhou（素方舟）: A vegetarian restaurant and event space. Sufangzhou Future Space.
• Zhai Shu（宅蔬）: A new restaurant on Cangshan Avenue with a wide variety of offerings at affordable prices. The fava bean stew rice is unique. The new location is clean, spacious, and offers more choices, while the previous location had a more homely feel.
• Jizhao An（寂照庵）: This temple is usually crowded, especially during the peak season, so be prepared for long waiting times. They offer vegetarian food around 11:30 a.m. at 20 RMB per person, with no need for reservations.
• Zhonghe Temple（中和寺）: The vegetarian food here is good, and the volunteers are friendly and welcoming. You can either take the Zhonghe cable car or hike up (2 hours). It’s by reservation (Phone: 18725419447) or by luck.

Organic Fruit and Vegetable Stores:

• Jingwu Grain & Oil（静物粮油）: This is a local store where people buy organic fruits, vegetables, meats, and many local specialties. It’s near Dali University, and I also buy fresh local milk, vegetables, and eggs here. Daxiong’s homegrown tomatoes taste especially fresh and delicious (not just psychological effect), and I often buy a bag. The prices are reasonable. Jingwu Grain & Oil Store.

Cafés:

The density of coffee shops in Dali is comparable to Shanghai.

In the Ancient Town:

• Cat Three Café（猫三咖啡）: Located at Yueyatang in the ancient town, this is a warm little courtyard, a community café mostly frequented by locals. The rooftop offers a view of the ancient town and Cangshan. Currently, Ruining and friends are running it and are friendly to customers. They took over from Sister Cat and have been very considerate to her.
• Xiaonong Zao Wu（小浓造物）: A café with exquisite decoration, good coffee, and a relaxing vibe. It’s a popular local spot. Next door is "Yiduo Café," another beloved local community café.
• Autumn Mountain Café（秋山）: A community café near Chunlu Tavern. The owner, Tang Tang, is also a barista and has a warm and friendly personality.
• Moderate Eating Café（饮食有度）: A very small community café where I’ve been twice, both times with familiar faces. It’s a relaxed atmosphere, and the owner, Damao, is a unique and unlabelable person. I first learned about it when a coffee roasting friend said: "The dirty (probably a latte) at Moderate Eating Café is the best I’ve had."

Dali University Area:

• Pushi Bakery（朴石烘焙）: Our daily café, more of a community café. It’s very comfortable to sit outside.

• Shouhuo Café（收获咖啡）: Spacious, with outdoor seating, and has received great reviews from many customers.

• Fuyu Café（福与咖啡）: If you're looking for a quiet café, this is the place. Everything from coffee to desserts is exquisite, and it’s located in a peaceful residential area. If it weren’t for Li Zhenhao's recommendation, I would probably never have found it even though I live here.

Other Notable Cafés:

• SomeCoffee: Located at the entrance of the Dali Wang Palace, it’s a tidy and spacious café with outdoor seating. It’s clean and offers a wide range of coffee beans and related items for sale.

Seaside Coffee Shops:

If you’re looking for a great café by Erhai, head to 寻咖啡 at Fumeiyi Seaside, a high-end guesthouse. The owner has run coffee shops in Dali for many years. 

Fengyang Yi（凤阳邑） Coffee Shop:

• Qiu Yuan Café（楸园）: Located in the ancient village of Fengyang Yi. This natural and cozy old house has been tastefully renovated. The yard is beautiful, and the second floor offers a great view. The owner, Bingbing, is gentle and hospitable.

Yinqiao（银桥）:

• Zhi Yi Café（之一咖啡）: Located in a village 10 km from the ancient town, I went for the first time and found it to be my personal favorite in Dali. The sign outside says, "May all encounters be sincere." The café offers coffee, juice, desserts (like brownies), and burgers. It’s simple yet affordable (Americano 11 RMB, dirty 14 RMB). It’s great for quiet reading or working during your travels. Every seat feels like a personal corner, and the furniture is comfortable and inviting. The café is along the village road, set in a well-maintained yard with a porch for seating. Inside, there’s a kitchen. The vibe is peaceful, yet refined, with a simple, earthy atmosphere. Zhi Yi Cafe is one of them

• One of the most special cafes is ADAMA, located in Yin Bridge（银桥）, Silver Village. This cafe is open only from Friday to Sunday, from 11:00 AM to 10:30 PM, and offers affordable prices, such as an Americano for 18 yuan. It's also a unique guesthouse with three rooms (note that the guesthouse does not accept children, but coffee can be enjoyed). I heard about it through a friend, Yusi. You can contact the host, Xuanzi, via WeChat: xuanzi486574.

•  

  Zou Kong Book Market （走空书市）is located on a slope, surrounded by fields, and the two large trees here are the soul of the place. Sitting under the trees, with a view of Erhai Lake and the fields, must be amazing. Simple coffee is available, but the owner mainly wants to create a reading space. Currently, most visitors come for photos and check-ins, but the atmosphere is still quite comfortable. The price is 38 yuan per person.

  Sanwenbi Village（三文笔村）: Another cluster of cafes is found in Sanwenbi Village, a small world with narrow streets and no cars. The store owners here are protective of their space, which has allowed it to retain a traditional backpacker style of living and culture. Notable places include Liushi Coffee（六尺咖啡）, Xiaolu Bookstore（小路书店）, and Xi Bookstore（喜书）. There are also some emerging shops. This area is perfect for independent backpackers and those on short-term stays. There's a Western-style snack shop called "Hei Hou（嘿吼）" that many visitors return to.

  Liushanyingdi（两山营地）: If you're looking for a great view, this cafe on the mountainside has an excellent vantage point, offering a panoramic view of Dali and Erhai Lake. The location makes the price quite reasonable. Liushanyingdi is a good choice.

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  Bars:

  (These impressions of bars come from friends since I don't drink or am familiar with this scene.)

  • Woods and Weeds Bar（山林草木）: This is a quiet cocktail bar located in a small alley in the ancient town. It's known for its cocktails, but their infusions and other drinks are also highly praised. It's a gathering place for locals and friends who enjoy conversations.

  • September Music Bar（九月）: If you enjoy folk and diverse music performances, this bar is a great choice. It’s located in a Bai courtyard on Xinmin Road and is frequented by local musicians. It's ideal for those who want to enjoy quiet moments with music.

  • ABaBaBar: Located on Renmin Road, this bar is quite popular for its live performances. It's energetic and a favorite of the local young crowd.

  • Agan Town 404（阿干镇）: This bar often hosts music performances and is well-loved by locals. It's a vibrant spot in the Agan Town night market (formerly the Siji Street Market's front yard).

  • Chunlu（春路） Bar (Whiskey Bar): Located on Yeyu Road, this bar is run by a former deep-night food hall partner, and it's known for its expertise in whiskey. Aside from drinks, the owner is also a great conversationalist if you’re looking to share life experiences.

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  Accommodations:

  As I don’t often stay at local inns, I’m not an expert in this area, but I’ve gradually learned about some places from customer feedback. The prices and styles of accommodations vary greatly, so please refer to this list cautiously. There are a vast number of inns in Dali, and we can only provide general recommendations. For more specific needs, it's best to search for options on your own.

  If you plan to participate in various activities in Dali, it's ideal to stay within the red-circled area. Staying further out will be less convenient.

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  General Overview of Areas:

  • Ancient Town: This area is lively and commercialized. Some people find it noisy, but it’s also convenient with both vibrant and tranquil courtyards. Expect traffic congestion during peak season.

  • Dali University/Sanshui （山水间）Area: This is more residential, with community cafes and restaurants. It’s the best area for guests who want to participate in our activities, as it’s close to our main gathering point, Pushi Bakery, and not far from the Cangshan hiking trail.

  • South of Xiaoyuan（小院子南区）: This area has more villas and suites, with a good environment, but it's less convenient for eating and shopping. It’s best if you have a car.

  • Xiaguan（下关） and Airport Area: Some guests stay near Xiaguan, as it’s close to the airport, but it’s less convenient for visiting the ancient town or Yizhou. It’s a good option for those with a car, as there are economic hotels and light luxury chains in this area.

  • Shuanglang（双廊）, Wase（挖色）, Haidong（海东）: Ideal for staying in resorts and hotels by the sea for a peaceful rest. However, there aren’t many unique activities nearby.

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  Dali University/Sanshui Area（山水间）:

  1. Hanju (憨居): This is a guesthouse run by our team leader Michael. The place is equipped with Xiaomi smart home products. It’s located near the ancient town, in a small courtyard with a modern style. You can find it on Tujia. WeChat: dalihanju Dali Hanju Shanyu Apartment (Hongsheng Road Branch), booking: on tujia（途家）

  2. Libai • West Bank（里白西岸）: Located in Sanshui, many guests have stayed here, and it’s highly praised for its artistic decoration and spacious rooms. It also features a comfortable rooftop. The host, Xiao Wu, is thoughtful and a bit introverted. You can book via Tujia. WeChat: dalilibai  booking on @Tujia（途家）

  3. Sanshui 5th Courtyard（山水间五号院）: Recommended by a guest with high standards of cleanliness, this place is a great choice for guests seeking a neat, well-maintained stay. Booking: Sanshui 5th Courtyard@Tujia Dali Sanshui 5th Courtyard.

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  South of Xiaoyuan Area（小院子南区）:

  1. Huashang（花裳）: A friend, Qi Zhang (Vancy), recently stayed here. This guesthouse has four rooms, which can be rented individually or as a whole. It has a rooftop and a small courtyard on the first floor. The place is clean and offers delicate amenities, priced economically. The host’s WeChat is yyhyyh_994 (Yang Yihong). Booking: @Ctrip

  2. HELE He Le | Dali Cangshan Seaview Guesthouse: A guesthouse run by Lele, a former graphic designer who moved to Dali. It features stunning views of Erhai Lake and fields from its large windows. The guesthouse is clean and priced affordably. Located in Guanyintang, it’s close to local markets and eateries. Booking: hele@Ctrip.

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  Ancient Town and Surroundings:

  1. Kongxiang Mei Su（空想美宿）: A cozy and peaceful guesthouse in the ancient town, recommended by guest Minxi for its warmth and friendliness.

  2. Alisha Secret Garden（Alisha的秘密花园）: Located outside the North Gate of the ancient town in Shimen Village, this guesthouse is great for families with children. There are small animals like cats and turtles in the courtyard, and the host offers thoughtful service. The place has a rating of 4.9. WeChat: Alisha Secret Garden.

  3. Fang She Inn（芳舍）: A mid-to-high-end guesthouse hidden in an alley near March Street. The owner personally designed and crafted the rooms and furniture from salvaged wood and stone. It just opened and is a great choice for those seeking something special. WeChat: Michael751227.

  4. Dai Dai Jia（黛黛家）: A child-friendly guesthouse near the south of the ancient town, providing meals to guests. The place caters well to children and families, with an attentive staff. WeChat: ludan-xjn (Customer Service of Dai Dai Jia).

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  Seaside Guesthouses:

  1. Siddhi（悉地）: A guesthouse in Silver Bridge with a peaceful atmosphere, mainly focusing on body and mind healing, meditation, and Buddhist themes. The environment is clean and simple, with a green and white aesthetic. It’s located 10 km from the ancient town.

  2. Xian Lai Wu Shi（闲来无室）: A seaside guesthouse with a coffee shop, located 8 km from the ancient town. This place offers a tranquil retreat by the sea.

  3. Wa Mao Yun Hai View Guesthouse（瓦猫云）: Run by Chunsheng, who’s very particular about the guesthouse's design and quality. It also has a café and offers a relaxing environment with good views.

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  Xizhou（喜洲）:

  1. Xingzhe Shangju（行者上居）: A high-end, traditional-style guesthouse in Xizhou. It’s popular for its excellent service, with guests providing positive feedback.

  2. Jia Ke Di Culture Guesthouse（甲科第）: Another guesthouse in Xizhou with great reviews from guests, offering a charming stay.

• Books on Dali and Others

  Dali Miscellaneous（大理外传） by Jason Pym (a British author) is a comprehensive book with both written and illustrated records about Dali’s folklore, history, and local culture. It serves as an excellent entry-level guide to better understanding Dali.

  Outdoor Gear Shopping:

  There aren’t many local options, so buying in advance online is the best choice. If you need something urgently, you can visit the “Deep Outdoor Flagship Store” （深度户外）in Xiaguan, about 15 km from the ancient town, which carries professional outdoor brands like Arcteryx.

  Online Shopping for Outdoor Gear - My Shopping Experience:

  • Weidian (Micro Shop): YEBA Wild. WeChat: yebajia02. Factory prices are very affordable, and the quality is good, though don’t expect products that cost several times the price.
    You can buy: hiking shoes, knee pads, jackets, soft shells, socks (and many other categories).

  Tents: We often use the Nuoke Yunshang（挪客云尚） (Silicone-coated 20D). It’s lightweight, waterproof, and generally sufficient for outdoor use. You can buy it from flagship stores, though no specific shop is recommended.

  Sleeping Bags: A seller on Xianyu（闲鱼） (second-hand market): 温暖大地666888, down sleeping bags, G1300, about 340 RMB, which is the price of a cotton sleeping bag but can handle most winter conditions in Dali. For those with a bigger budget, you can opt for higher-quality bags like SeatoSummit lightweight sleeping bags, Marmot, etc.

  Advice for Self-guided Hiking Travelers:

  One of the best tools for self-exploration is Maps.me (available on both iPhone and Android), or OrganicMaps (Android only). These apps are easy to download and provide offline maps (e.g., Yunnan’s map is just tens of MB). The biggest advantage is that all the hiking routes, including the 19 peaks of Cangshan, will be displayed. This app uses OpenStreetMap data, so it works globally. I’ve used it in Thailand and Iran. Compared to other apps like “Two Steps Road,” which only show single routes from other people, Maps.me is more comprehensive. Plus, the app works in flight mode and uses minimal battery, which is crucial for self-exploration. However, always remember to carry spare power, clothing, food, and a headlamp. If you are unprepared or overconfident, it’s not a suitable exploration situation.

  Dali has many hiking trails in Cangshan, including several short routes or summit trails. Some recommended trails include Lan Peak / Sanyang Peak, which pass by beautiful alpine lakes like He Longtan. The highest peak, Malong Peak, is harder to access (requires climbing another peak). If you wish to traverse multiple peaks, it’s extremely challenging, especially during the rainy or windy seasons.

  The Lian Tai Mountain to Jizu Mountain route is a classic Buddhist pilgrimage route, with clear tracks. Niao Diao Mountain is scenic but has become somewhat of an internet celebrity spot, and the trail is also quite clear. Other options include Shibaoshan in Shaxi and Weibaoshan in Weishan. If you go to Baoshan, the wild hot springs hike in Gaoligong Mountain’s Baihua Ridge is also worthwhile.

  You can find these routes on Maps.me or OrganicMaps.

  Special Activity Experiences:

  Activity Public Account:

  The “Dali Hao Zai”（大理好在） public account（微信公众号） releases a weekly list of activities in Dali, including various markets, cultural events, and niche activities. It’s an excellent source for timely and comprehensive Dali information. This public account serves as a platform for the development of unique small events in Dali. One guest commented, “I thought about leaving Dali, but after checking out Hao Zai, I decided to stay for two more weeks.”

  Outdoor Activities:

   

• ”Dali Experience Community“ We offer a variety of activities, including Cangshan Hiking, Cangshan Wild Mushroom Hunting, Night Star Gazing by the Lake, moderate intensity forest hiking, and Erhai Lake activities like small boat rides and mountain village walks. We also offer farm visits for focaccia bread making, sailing, rural hot springs, pottery making, beekeeping, bird watching, tea picking, and tea-making experiences. Activities are steady, with most happening every day, and there’s no need to join a group—many activities can be done solo. Booking website：dalitrip.com

•  

  Children’s Outdoor Camps:

  Though I haven't personally attended, customer feedback suggests that Teacher Xiao Wang（小汪老师） and Teacher Banana’s（香蕉老师） outdoor camps are quite good. The teachers are responsible, patient, and connect well with the children. There are also various kindergartens such as Xigu Valley（溪谷学堂）, Youyou（幼幼）, Maomao Guo’er（猫猫果儿）, and Zhiyou（稚游）, each with its own reputation and features.

  Other Outdoor/Travel Guides with Stable Experience and Services:

  • High-intensity hiking:

    • Yan Zi（燕子）: A local professional outdoor guide and an excellent trail runner. WeChat: dream5621. Public account: Dali Yuebu Outdoor (offers various local outdoor activities).
    • Green（格瑞）: WeChat: kosiuoston. Cangshan Niao Diao Mountain / Cangshan Summit guide, recommended by guests.
    • Yu Bo（于博）: WeChat: bluesky7dm. Public account: Walk to the End. Yu Bo primarily leads deep travels in Yunnan, such as in Nujiang, and is dedicated to local culture walks.

  • Water Sports:

    • Ga Zi（嘎子）: A long-time friend who founded an organization offering professional paddleboarding and rafting, as well as other outdoor activities.

  Botany Classroom | Mountain Gathering（山间集）: A unique activity for children involving insects, plants, wildlife watching, and animal tracks. Very special. Mini-program: Group Join Activity | Dali Mountain Gathering. WeChat: meisi-dali (Xiao Niu).

  Xi Hua Hua Farm（喜花花农场）: Run by Dong Dama, a local who is warm and attentive. Xi Hua Hua Farm offers Bai ethnic three-course tea, local dining, and traditional dance performances. It’s suitable for groups and creates a strong local atmosphere. Activities include Yi ethnic embroidery（彝绣）, Jia Ma （甲马）(traditional craftsmanship), and flower cake making. She is well-versed in local culture and knows how to organize authentic local tours. WeChat: DDM801113.

  Campsite: 200km Campsite

  Sun Juan runs a camp called “200km Transformation Studio,” which is ideal for RVs and cyclists. It’s currently one of the most suitable campsites for travelers in Dali and includes a café. WeChat: s248405449200km Campsite.

  Professional Cycling Guides:

  • Xiao Ma Ge: WeChat: ZD-Xiaoma. I met him over ten years ago when he repaired my bike during a trip to Tibet. Now settled in Dali, he’s a reliable and professional cycling guide.

  A Ge’s（阿格） Bread Baking Days:

  Every 1st, 8th, 15th, and 22nd of the lunar month (the day before the March Street Market), A Ge opens his brick oven in the courtyard near March Street from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM. Community bread enthusiasts gather to buy fresh European-style bread, and sometimes, you can even get a pizza baked in the oven’s residual heat. A Ge is originally from Shanghai, and after learning to bake European bread post-pandemic, he’s become a popular baker in Dali. His specialties include butterfly pastries. WeChat: find_hugo.

  Indigo Dyeing:

  Zhi Bai（植白） Indigo Dyeing is located in an old courtyard in Fengyang Yi Village. My guests have had great feedback, praising the owners for their effort and kindness. WeChat: CMY10180227. Zhi Bai Indigo Dyeing Handcraft Studio.

• Bian Ke（边客） Weaving and Dyeing Studio: Located in Fengyangyi Village. It offers a deeper level of learning about indigo dyeing. The owner, Roland, graduated in fashion design and took a tie-dye course during university. After working for a few years, she moved to Dali and visited Bai ethnic villages like Zhoucheng and Weishan that preserve traditional Bai tie-dye techniques. She then began systematically learning about ancient indigo dyeing and traditional tie-dye techniques, continuing to study for more than five years. Here, you can learn in-depth knowledge of plant dyeing and handcraft skills. WeChat: siyuexiaoyu Roland Bian Ke.

  Lan Xu（蓝续） Indigo Dyeing: A well-known brand in Dali’s indigo dyeing industry, with stores in the Ancient Town, Zhoucheng, and Xizhou. The brand has received high praise from customers. Our guide Li Zhenhao particularly enjoys the Zhoucheng store, but customer Minxi also recommends the Ancient Town store as a good option due to its convenience.

  瓦猫 (Wamao): Jingtian Village is Dali’s traditional kiln village. In the Ancient Town, there's a place called "Jingtian Kiln Fire（敬天火窑）" which makes Wamao and also creates Jia Ma prints (recommended by customer Minxi).

  Woodworking Experience:

  • Xingmu（醒木工坊） Workshop: Check their WeChat official account: Xingmu Camp. It is currently the most popular woodworking camp in Dali, with good customer reviews. In the videos posted by customers, you can see the carefully set up games for kids in the yard, as well as group cooking and fire-building activities. It creates a great atmosphere. Xingmu Commune.

  • Muye（木野） Woodworking Camp: Xiao Jun has rich woodworking experience and a passion for it. He is gentle and enthusiastic. He can do outdoor woodworking, build treehouses, and make traps. He now runs his independent woodworking experience studio, "Muye Camp," offering professional woodworking courses for both children and adults, as well as summer camps. He is a partner of some popular kindergartens in Dali. I first met him more than a decade ago when he was a serious leather craftsperson. Xiao Jun’s WeChat: xs20240221 Muye Camp Booking: Muye@GroupBooking.

  Dali Road Extreme Go-Kart（大理路极）: Located in Manjiang, 20 km from the Ancient Town. Both my friends and customers, including He Yi, have strongly recommended it. It’s a great place for families with children to enjoy.

  Jia Ma（甲马） Production: Shuli Library（书理图书馆） has received good reviews. Jia Ma is a local cultural tradition. They offer drawing, carving, and printing experiences of Jia Ma, as well as other diverse cultural activities.

  Crafts Center – Jiangzhi Ji • Folk Arts Center（匠志集民艺中心） also offers Jia Ma woodblock printing experiences. Reservation WeChat: bojizai Jiangzhi Ji Folk Arts Center.

  Handmade Paper Experience: Jiangzhi Ji • Folk Arts Center offers a traditional paper-making experience from Heqing. Reservation WeChat: bojizai.

  Zhi Yu Pottery: A pottery workshop recommended by customers, offering pottery-making experiences, including Wamao pottery. Zhi Yu Pottery (Ancient Town Store).

  Farms:

  • Red Pine Farm（红豆杉农场）: It has a children’s play area, small streams, restaurants, and hosts various activities for children and families, such as butterfly and insect observation and making flower cakes. Red Pine Canteen WeChat: hongdoushannongchang. Check the latest events on: Kuaituantuan: Red Pine Canteen.

  • Rainbow Farm（彩虹农场）: Focuses on understanding the relationship between plants, spices, and the food they produce, including tea and food experiences. The experience includes:

    1. Herb picking and making herb-based drinks and food.
    2. Sharing farm philosophy and fermented products.
    3. Organic snacks and tea.
    4. A 10,000-square-meter tranquil space.

    It's not a place for photos or quick check-ins; they welcome guests who appreciate nature and have a sensitivity to it. Reservations are required. Reservation link and introduction: Rainbow Farm Experience.

  Tourist Spots Around Dali:
  If you find the Ancient Town too noisy and don't know where to go, consider the following places:

  • Fengyangyi（凤阳邑）: 7 km from the Ancient Town. A village on the ancient Tea Horse Road, situated at the foot of the mountain. It used to be old and full of life, with beautiful scenery. It’s great for a walk. Many guests who have visited love it, but since the show "Windy Days" aired, it has become a tourist check-in point, with stalls lining the old road. In the village, there are still interesting places like a blue dyeing studio called Zhi Bai, which many visitors have praised. Our hiking tour passes through this village. There's also an old brewery where you can experience brewing your own beer or enjoy wine. For coffee, Qiu Yuan Cafe is a great choice—an old, beautiful courtyard with wonderful views. Roland’s Bian Ke Weaving is also located at the entrance of Fengyangyi Village.

  • Wuwei Temple（无为寺）: 5 km from the Ancient Town. A quiet temple (compared to Jizhao An). You can take a taxi to the parking lot at Chenjiabao, then walk up the mountain for 30 minutes. This is the best way to visit Wuwei Temple.

  • Jizhao An（寂照庵）: A famous spot known for its succulent plants and vegetarian meals (lunch at 11:30 AM, dinner at 5:30 PM, 20 RMB for buffet). However, it’s quite crowded.

  • Erhai Lakeside Walk/Bike Ride（洱海廊道）: The lakeside wetlands are beautifully done and can only be explored by foot or bicycle. It's a great place to walk, and it’s very safe for children. The area offers stunning views of the lake and Cangshan Mountain.

  Stream Trekking:

  • Qingbi Creek（清碧溪）: Near Dali Ruby Inn（红宝石客栈）, suitable for children and adults alike. There are streams, waterfalls, and even jumping pools. I often take my dog there to play. The stream is not deep, and the waterfalls are plentiful.

  • Heilong Creek（黑龙溪）: Also easy to reach, located near Dali University. It's a good spot for stream trekking, and the creek offers many scenic spots.

  • Cable Cars:

    There are three cable cars:

    1. Zhonghe Temple（中和寺） Cable Car: This is an old-style seat cable car that takes you to Yudai Road at an altitude of 2,600 meters. It’s one of the rare types left in the country, and many people specifically go to try it.

    2. Cangshan Zhonghe Cable Car (Xima Tan洗马潭): This large cable car reaches an altitude of 3,800 meters, the highest point. On clear days, you can have a panoramic view of Dali, and in winter, you can enjoy the snow. Locals also go to see the snow after it falls each year, but it’s closed when the wind is strong, and on cloudy days, you might not see anything.

    3. Cangshan Gantong（感通索道） Cable Car: This cable car also goes to Yudai Road, which is close to Gantong Temple and Jizhao An. The endpoints of both the Gantong and Zhonghe cable cars are at Yudai Road, where you can take a walk and enjoy the scenery.

    Local Parks:

    • Yuer Park（玉洱园）: This park is a lively place for locals. Yuer Park, located at the South Gate of the Ancient Town, is often visited by Dali residents and serves as a great space for them to relax and enjoy nature.

    March Market（三月街）:

    • Held on the 2nd, 9th, 16th, and 23rd days of each lunar month. It’s a bustling market with food, drinks, fruits, pottery, brooms, and pet-related items. It offers an authentic local atmosphere, and the prices are very affordable. New immigrants now also sell coffee, handmade goods, and bread at the market.

    Nearby Towns' Markets:

    • Xizhou Town（喜洲镇）: The Nanmen market (Long Street) is open on the 2nd, 9th, 16th, and 23rd days of the lunar month.
    • Yinqiao Town（银桥镇）: The Lingquan Avenue market is held on the 5th, 13th, 20th, and 28th days of the lunar month.
    • Wanquiao Town（湾桥镇）: The market is held around the Agricultural Market on the 4th, 11th, 18th, and 26th days of the lunar month.

    Local Farmers’ Markets:

    • North Gate Agricultural Market（北门菜市场）: The largest farmers' market in the Ancient Town, offering a variety of items, including fresh produce and cooking tools. It tends to be more touristy.
    • South Gate Luyu Agricultural Market（南门绿玉路菜市场）: I visit this market more often as it feels more local with an abundance of fresh vegetables, fruits, and ready-to-eat foods.

    Xizhou Ancient Town（喜洲古镇）:

    • Xilin Yuan（喜林苑）: This area near Xizhou is usually very crowded, so I suggest walking further out into the fields. Xizhou has become more touristy, but don’t miss the Crafts and Folk Art Center（匠志集), which showcases the traditional crafts and history of Dali as well as modern artworks. I highly recommend it even for locals. You can buy various local handmade crafts here, and there are experiences like traditional Jia Ma (a type of local printing technique) and handmade paper-making. Reservations via WeChat: bojizai.

    Shuanglang Jiwo Cafe（双廊鸡窝咖啡馆）:

    • Located 60 km from the Ancient Town, with 12 km of mountain roads, Jiwo Cafe sits on a hill with one of the best views of Erhai Lake. The cafe is attached to a farmer’s painting society and is worth visiting. You can also take a walk around the area. It’s an ideal stop if you're touring around Erhai Lake. (Note: requires self-driving). We have a light hiking route passing by Jiwo Cafe, as part of the Cangshan Hiking Club.

    Shaxi Ancient Town（沙溪古镇）:

    • Located 130 km from the Ancient Town, it’s a town along the Ancient Tea Horse Road, well-preserved by a Swiss foundation, maintaining its authentic charm. Outside the town, there’s a river called Hehui River, where you can take a relaxing walk surrounded by fields. You can find a place called Banshan Cafe (as a landmark), from where you can overlook the town and the valley. If you have time, Shibaoshan is a nearby scenic spot with many rock carvings and cliffside Buddhist statues, perfect for hiking. You can search for the "Shadingqing Stone Cave Area," which has a hiking route (recommended for experienced hikers; use apps like maps.me for tracking).

    • Recommended local restaurants: Dazhong Restaurant (great fish soup), Lihua Restaurant (beef and local dishes), and Longfeng Ruiying Restaurant (affordable and delicious). Cafes include Crow Cafe and Eat Tea Go (desserts).

    • Transportation: You can rent a car (suggested route: Niu Sha Line, which is less crowded and beautiful). Alternatively, take a bus from Dali to Jianchuan, then change to a rural bus in Diannan Town. There’s also a daily round-trip shuttle bus from Yuer Road Lanlinge Hotel in Dali to Shaxi (confirm the schedule via phone: 18887265969 or 17387207019, Xiao Yang, about 80 RMB per person)

Nuodeng（诺邓）:

Yunnan Specialty Souvenirs:

Dali Mountain Residence（大理山居） focuses on Yunnan specialties. They carefully select products, with most customers buying for daily family use. The prices are reasonable, and the packaging is simple yet elegant, making it a great choice for souvenirs from your Yunnan trip. Good options include red tea, raw pu-erh tea, milk fan (a traditional snack), rose flowers, brown sugar, mushroom combinations for stews, rose jam, and plum wine. You can purchase them on Taobao.

Coffee Beans:

Roaster Xiaohua（小花） (WeChat: EndlessAzaleas) is a reliable supplier of coffee beans. Many of our friends, whether individual buyers or coffee shop owners, buy from him. No frills, just good quality.

Local Living Information (gradually being added):

• Rental Agent（租房中介）: Fang Fang (WeChat: Right-13944086268) is an intermediary that offers house rental services in Dali. He’s known for his honesty, clearly outlining both the advantages and disadvantages of properties. I looked at a house with him, and although I didn’t rent it in the end, the process was very pleasant. His clients often also ask him for help with renovations and post-rental services. Rarely do you find such a trustworthy intermediary.

• Printing Shop: Changhui Printing Shop（昌汇打印店）, 58 Luyu Road. The most professional, efficient, and quiet printing shop I’ve been to. The owner has a special aura, not your typical chatty shopkeeper, and works well.

• Motorcycle/Electric Bike/Tricycle Repairs: Guanyintang（观音塘）, 214 Roadside. This repair shop is the best I’ve found in Dali—reliable and affordable. The repairman is calm and organized. Navigation: Hao Niu Dao Tongpiao Beef, located in a hidden open yard along the road.

• Renovation and Design: Fang Fang (WeChat: fangfang-floristpark). Fang Fang has designed several stores in Dali, including Big Bowl Island, Xun Guang Farm, Ba She, Huan Que, and Tiao Fang Zi Café, as well as our late-night food stall. I’ve had clients who sought her design and construction services. She has fresh design ideas and, more importantly, works with a reliable team, so you don’t have to worry too much.

• Swimming: Hilton Swimming Pool. Clean environment, towels provided, sauna available, pool size is just right, not crowded, and there’s no time limit. You can buy a pass through Douban’s Love Dali group or Xiaohongshu, ranging from 40–60 RMB (original price 150 RMB).

• Community Sports:

  • Crossfit: Dali Dfly Crossfit at Cangshan Avenue, near the Croissant. This is a community gym with good trainers and a great atmosphere. Whether you’re just dropping in or looking for a long-term gym, it’s a great choice. For more details, you can reach out to Hong Hong via WeChat: zhanghuili002.

  • Pickleball: Pickle County near San Yue Jie（三月街）. Pickleball is a new sport gaining popularity. Kylie and Kuang are promoting it in Dali, and most participants are locals or short-term travelers. Contact them on WeChat: Kylie____.

Our Team’s Shops/Work:

After joining activities, you can also check out other sides of our team members!

• Aruna: “Zayaa Camping Café” in Xiao Cen Village, a nice spot with fields around the entrance. It’s a great place to hang out, and we often go there. 

• Jing (Pick Team Guide): Nature photography/ If you don’t want the usual staged travel photos but prefer natural, candid shots in nature, you should contact her. She has a unique aesthetic. WeChat: mogujingling.

• Yanzi (Pick Team Guide): Selling second-hand books and ethnic fabrics at San Yue Jie markets. She always picks the books herself, and her fabric products have distinct ethnic characteristics. WeChat: zxy749432080.

• Old Li (Paddleboarding Team Leader): His girlfriend Xiao Yang runs a bar, Shuangyan Two Stone Bar, at 192 Huguo Road (near the Vienna Hotel). They just opened and specialize in cocktails. The bar is near our Late Night Food Stall.

• Late Night Food Stall (Huguo Road): Our team members (He Chen, Xiao Chun, Tailor, Hong Hong, Xiao Xi, Jason) used to work here, and it’s now managed by our friend Han Han. Phone: 18487492116. You can also visit the Late Night Food Stall at the Hilton Courtyard Branch if you’re staying there.

• Xiao Chun: Runs the Chun Lu Tavern at the intersection of Ye Yu Road and Yin Cang Road, specializing in whiskey. WeChat: fengxiaochuner.

• Hong Hong (Hiking Team Leader): Offers Western-style cold dishes for birthday parties, weddings, and opening events. She is one of the main suppliers in Dali Old Town, with excellent presentation and taste. She also rents out a beautifully decorated loft apartment in the South Courtyard area. WeChat: zhanghuili002.

• Huan Huan (Hiking and Creek Team): Owns Huan Que Café, one of the best Western brunch spots in Dali.

• Wang Yue (Tianqiao Frank, Hiking Team Leader): Has two apartments for rent in Cangshan Courtyard. WeChat: wangyue6899867wy.

• Chun Yu (Bee Keeping): Sells authentic honey. WeChat: shouji132149033530.

• Michael (Paddleboarding Team Leader): Runs a quality guesthouse called Han Ju, which you can book through Tujia.

• Luo Tingwen (Community Hiking Leader): Runs Dali Mountain Residence, a Taobao store selling high-quality Yunnan mountain goods.

• Wan Wan (Pick Team): A photographer and makeup artist. She used to be Xiao Jing’s photographer and is
  highly skilled. She was invited to join the pick team. She’s an excellent makeup artist as well. WeChat: Wuqudr_.

• Xiao Ke Bin: His wife runs Qi Lu Guesthouse in the South Courtyard area. The guesthouse is clean, and the service is attentive. Qi Lu Anjing.

• Phoebe: A freelance translator for Japanese and French. You can find her works on Douban: Lyu Lingyan. WeChat: oldphoebefromyk