Dali Travel Information (Updated on January 23, 2026)

Travel is an integrated experience of "eating, staying, and playing." The original intention of this local Dali guide is to provide you with comprehensive information to complete an ideal holiday. Many hiking guests initially inquire about the local climate, transportation, accommodation, dining, cafes, and self-guided activities, so I’ve listed here what I think is good—prices are generally reasonable, and these are places commonly visited by local residents. Some popular spots among tourists are not included if locals don’t frequent them much, and the following reflects my personal preferences only. Due to limited capacity and scope, this isn’t an exhaustive list but rather a general framework. (This content is open-source; those who need it can adapt, add, or delete according to their situation. It’s helpful for travelers, and that’s the greatest value of this information.)

Foreign TravelersFor information on payments, SIM cards, and train tickets in China, please refer to this article:

Practical Guide for Foreign Travelers in China

Traveling with ChildrenAdditional references:Activities, accommodations, and restaurants suitable for children

Climate & Clothing Tips:

January to March:

Starting from January, the wind season begins, sometimes very strong winds that make it hard to stand, lasting until April. Most weather from January to April is sunny and bright, with rain being rare. Days are warm enough for short sleeves. Mornings and evenings start to get cold, with temperatures dropping to freezing at night, requiring down jackets. After the Spring Festival, the weather begins to warm up.

Temperatures range from 0 to 20°C, with large temperature differences. Cherry blossoms are already blooming in winter but will likely fade around the Spring Festival. You can often see them along roadsides, in neighborhoods, and on distant hillsides. If you want to hike in the mountains, see cherry blossoms, or enjoy a distant view of Erhai Lake, you can join our "Hill and Field Walks" activity. Rhododendrons are just beginning to bloom early in this season—small in scale but adding special interest to mountain and wild landscapes.

Clothing Tips:

During the day, with bright sunshine and warmth, some people wear short sleeves in the sun, but if you’re in shaded areas or indoors, it can feel cool, so bring a jacket. Due to large temperature differences between day and night, carry a thick coat or fleece before heading out during the day to stay warm after sunset. Down jackets, thermal underwear, and hats are generally recommended to handle colder periods. The air is dry and sunny, so sunscreen, lip balm, and skincare/moisturizing products are necessary.

July to August

July marks the start of the rainy season, with daily or every-other-day rain, so be prepared with an umbrella or raincoat. The advantage is that during the rainy season, mushrooms appear in the forests, making it the mushroom season from mid-June to early October. Note:Mushroom Picking ActivitiesThe rainy season also brings more humidity.

Does the rainy season affect travel and activities? Not excessively. Although it rains often, it’s usually brief, and the weather clears up quickly. Rain often brings rainbows, sometimes even double rainbows.

Temperatures eighteen-26°C,early mornings and evenings are still cool.

Clothing Tips:

Clothing tips: During sunny days, it’s warm enough for short sleeves and shorts.T-shirt You can also wear a jacket, especially if you’re in shaded areas or indoors where it’s cooler. Due to large temperature differences between day and night, bring a jacket or fleece before going out during the day. Remember to bring a jacket during daytime outings to stay warm if you return late.

Dali's summer characteristics: The hottest months are April and May. During the rainy season, if it rains continuously, it can get quite cool. In Dali, besides winter, summer is also a season for preparing firewood for heating.

Altitude: Dali's elevation 2000 meters, with some distance to areas where altitude sickness may occur (2400 meters). Most people only experience symptoms at higher elevations. 3000 Altitudes above 3000 meters may cause altitude sickness. Therefore, the elevation in Dali is generally not an issue. Some individuals might experience discomfort, but these are exceptions.

Fire prevention period:After the fire prevention period ends, most natural mountain trails are open. Driving up the mountain is generally not permitted.

Hiking shoes: For hiking, bring sports shoes/hiking shoes, suitable for both daily wear and trekking.

Stream-crossing shoes/sandals: You can bring stream-crossing shoes for canyoning, but it's not mandatory. Fitted sandals are a feasible option for casual canyoning, reducing the need to purchase or carry additional items.

Swimsuit: Dali has hot springs, so bring a swimsuit.Er-yuan rural tourIncludes hot spring experience

Arrival in Dali:

• LijiangChoosing to arrive in Dali (127 km) is an affordable and relatively convenient option. Shared rides (costing 80-90 yuan per person) can reach the ancient city of Dali in under 2 hours, which is a popular choice among many residents. In contrast, arriving via Kunming requires transferring to the airport shuttle to the high-speed train, then taking the train to Dali, and finally from Dali station to the old town, taking over four hours and costing at least 200 yuan per person (high-speed train 145, airport shuttle 25, Dali station to old town 40). Dali Airport has limited flights, higher costs, and during the windy season (December to April, currently not in season), there may be landing difficulties or return delays. The airport to the old town also takes about an hour.
• KunmingAnother good option: Kunming is a transportation hub with many affordable flights and trains. From Kunming Airport, there are direct buses to Kunming Railway Station (20 yuan), usually within an hour. From Kunming Railway Station, take the high-speed train to Dali (about 145 yuan). Then, you can take a shuttle arranged by the inn or a ride-hailing service (preferably avoid illegal taxis, as they often involve persistent sales pitches and may charge higher prices or cause disputes).
• Dali Airport(30 km from the old town): Dali has 'Fengyi Airport,' which offers direct flights but has limited schedules and higher prices. The journey generally takes 45 minutes to 1 hour, as it passes through Dali city. During the windy season (December to April), there are rare cases of landing difficulties or return to Kunming.
• CarpoolingFor travel from Lijiang or Kunming to Dali, it’s best to pre-book shared rides via platforms (preferred). If unable to secure a booking, you can contact Liu Sanqi (WeChat/phone: 18987085657) or another driver at 15125176744. I sometimes arrange rides with them when returning to Dali. They have groups and can schedule the nearest available ride. Currently, the fare from Lijiang Airport to Dali is around 80-100 yuan per person, subject to fluctuations due to fuel prices. Overall, reliable. Since these shared rides involve different drivers, service quality may vary, and common issues include delays or inconsistent service attitudes. Manage expectations accordingly. Additionally, there are drivers waiting at Lijiang Airport for shared rides (usually drivers returning to Dali after dropping off passengers), and if prices are comparable, this can be an alternative option.

Local transportation:

Charter services (recommended vehicle types): Recommended driver Ma: 13170759527 (WeChat same number), part of a fleet. I encountered them when a guest used their service; impressions are good, and many guests have used them without negative feedback. However, driver quality may vary, especially during peak seasons. If you experience poor service, please provide feedback promptly. We cannot guarantee perfect charter services, but they are a good reference to avoid extreme issues or resolve problems if they occur.

Another charter service, Fan: 13987202000,A reliable fleet we also use when needed.

Car rentals: Please use official platforms and avoid roadside rental shops. Trendy cars for social media check-ins (like Beetles, etc.) from unlicensed shops often lead to disputes over malicious damage or fraud, and many cars are problematic (close to scrap or refurbished).

Intercity transportation:Dianyue Travel (WeChat Mini Program)

A reliable way to travel between cities, such as Kunming, Lijiang, Baoshan, Tengchong, Yunlong (Nuodeng), with affordable prices and frequent departures. Ideal for trips to more distant areas. For Shaxi transportation, see the 'Shaxi section' below.

Bicycle rentals:

Shengkai Bicycle Shop(Ancient City Yuer Road, WeChat: S15331687170)

Initially recommended by guest Ejing, with bike models, prices, and shop info available on Dianping. They provide suitable child seats and bikes, with good service. They also offer professional mountain and road bike rentals and roadside assistance. The Xizhou branch allows for one-way rentals. Below is their official WeChat account with a cycling route around Erhai Lake:Shengkai Bicycles | Erhai Lake Cycling Guide

Diary of Randy, the manager of the Xizhou shop, full of life and warmth, showing some admirable aspects of their work:Blooming Diary

We have now jointly launched Cycling routes exploring Dali Cangshan, villages, and Erhai Lake

214 Cycling Station:A professional cycling bike shop in Caicun. One of our guests, He Yuan, rented a lightning downhill bike and damaged some parts. We initially thought he would need to pay several hundred yuan (the actual replacement cost). Teacher Wu offered to repair it himself and only charged him a few dozen yuan for scratches, which moved him greatly. WeChat: xiaoheizi54999. He has an inn upstairs and organizes some cycling activities.

Daily commuting:

Daily transportation taxis: Use ride-hailing apps, avoid black taxis whenever possible. It’s very convenient and fast, with quicker dispatch and more affordable prices than in big cities. For locations sent by merchants (like us), it’s better to use the map to hail a cab directly, especially since many rural areas lack clear house numbers or names, and there are many vehicle options available.

Electric scooters,The most convenient and flexible transportation in Dali is electric bikes,Especially during summer and winter holidays and peak festival seasons, they are unaffected by traffic congestion. In the Old Town and nearby areas, shared electric bikes like 'Didi Qingju' are available. For trips to places like Xizhou, away from the Old Town, renting a scooter is recommended. The most reliable option is 'Hello Electric,' which has many pick-up points, insurance, and guarantees. If issues arise, disputes are unlikely. You can check the app for nearby pick-up locations. Along the route around Erhai, there are also battery swap stations.

Private rentals nearby, approximate. If you want recommendations: try Ride Ride Bike: at the intersection of Hongsheng Road and Xuefu Road near Dali University, the owner is quite straightforward. The convenience store next to Pushi Bakery also has rentals. They are all relatively reliable.

Another one on March Street: "A car rental shop". My friend has used it and found it good. Regular scooters (60 km range) around 40 RMB per day, with monthly rentals available (off-season above 400 RMB, peak season prices vary). WeChat: j166176686, phone: 18987074030. Located near March Street.

Traffic suggestions during peak season:

Based on experience, during peak seasons (winter break, Spring Festival), taxis can be hard to find. Renting a car or electric scooter (shared e-bikes or private shops, with suggestions above) is recommended. If staying in neighborhoods near Dali University (such as Shanshui Jian Phase 1, 2, or 3),Dali Shanshui Jiannot only can you walk to restaurants, cafes, and brunch spots, but also find it easier to get taxis, with generally less traffic congestion. Our activity gatherings are conveniently accessible from here. The southern area of Dali's courtyard is not heavily congested, and taxis are manageable, but dining options within walking distance are quite limited. Most of the old town area can be quite congested. If staying in remote village guesthouses, plan transportation in advance—rent a car, electric scooter, or hire a private driver.

Our activity meeting point:

Most hiking and craft activities are within 5 km of the Old Town, so staying near the Old Town, including areas around Erhai Lake, is convenient. Not recommended to join activities in Shuanglang and Haidong, as the meeting points are over 50 km away, except for those marked "Sunset at Huashan" and "Er-yuan rural tour". The following images (West Lake paddleboarding". The following images (Star-gazing by boat) are illustrative:Small SceneryDrawings:

Some activities extend up to 50 km, such as "Yuanxian Countryside Tour", "West Lake Paddleboarding", "Fengyu Market", and "Huashan Sunset". These will gather near Pushi Bakery close to Dali University, passing through Xizhou (where guests sometimes stay), and can be accessed directly via National Road 214 along the way.

Accommodation:

Regarding lodging, since I am not very familiar with local inns, my information may be limited and not comprehensive or authoritative. I will gradually recommend a few inns that guests have stayed at and given positive feedback. Due to personal differences in price and style, please consider carefully. Dali has a vast number of inns; we can only provide some general recommendations and known references. For those with higher requirements, it’s best to search independently.

If you want to participate in various activities in Dali, it’s recommended to stay mainly within the red box area; staying elsewhere may be inconvenient.

Note: The crosses are based on the convenience of participating in activities, not indicating these places are bad. Shuanglang Town, Wase Town, and Haidong Town mainly feature resort seaside inns, about 50 km from the Old Town, with a driving time of over an hour. Besides that, there are few shops or activities for daily life. The area near the airport (bottom right cross) is also less convenient, as traveling through the city to reach the Old Town takes time.

The red circle area is around Dali Ancient Town, all within a reasonable range suitable for participating in activities.

 

Zone 1: Dali University Area. Dining is very convenient, with nearby restaurants catering to daily life, including local eateries, Halal food street, cafes, snack shops, and Western restaurants. Homestays are all modern residential buildings. Our meeting point for trips is at Puo Shi Bakery in this area.

Zone 2: South of Little Courtyard, Central Area / Gantong Villa. Modern residential communities with many homestays, less convenient for dining, limited shops nearby. Close to Guanyintang Residential Area, a local cuisine street, a market, and cafes.

Zone 3: North of the Old Town to Yinqiao, Wanqiao Town. Mainly rural homestays, quiet and free of traffic jams. However, dining and transportation are less convenient, and there are few modern commercial facilities to consider.

Zone 4: Old Town Area. More commercialized, often congested during peak seasons. Contains traditional courtyard homestays with local特色, and parking may be inconvenient for self-driving. Plenty of dining options, mainly tourism-oriented, but also small daily shops. 

Zone 5: Seaside Homestay Area. Seaside inns with beautiful ocean views, scenic but may be noisy due to many tourists. Shops and restaurants are mostly tourist-oriented and numerous. Roads are narrow, and driving can often be problematic due to lack of regulation. However, the环海路 (Ring Sea Road) is very beautiful.

Zone 6: Three Pagodas Area. During peak season, returning in the evening may result in traffic jams starting at the Three Pagodas Tunnel. Staying near the Three Pagodas is also a good choice to avoid heavy traffic. There are also many dining options nearby.

Other areas: These six zones are general descriptions only; some areas are transitional and may be omitted. Not an exhaustive list, so please confirm carefully.

Some limited recommendations:

Dali University / Shanshui Jian Area:

Libaixi'an, located amidst mountains and water. Many guests stay there; I have picked them up several times, and guests praise it highly. High ceilings, rich in artistic decor, with a comfortable rooftop terrace. Host Xiao Wu is attentive but somewhat introverted. Available on Tujia. WeChat: dalilibai Libaixian @ TujiaLibaixian·West Bank 

Shanshui Jian·No. 5 Courtyard: Recommended by guest Jiao Long. As a guest with high cleanliness standards and extensive travel experience, his expectations are high, and he finds it quite good. No. 5 Courtyard @ TujiaDali Shanshui Jian No. 5 Courtyard

 

Little Courtyard South Area:

The South Area generally has close spacing between buildings.

Xiyuan: I have stayed there myself; there are many options. Single rooms, small suites with courtyards, and multi-room villas. WeChat, phone: 19188132609

HELE He Le | Dali Cangshan Ocean View Homestay

This is our guest Lele's homestay. He was previously a graphic designer. After coming to Dali, he decided to live here and run a homestay. Participated in stargazing, hiking, and many other activities. I visited his homestay through the 'Partner Program' and was pleasantly surprised by its unique features: rooms facing Erhai Lake with floor-to-ceiling windows, unobstructed views of nearby fields and the distant lake. There is a platform on the second floor to watch the sunrise and sunset. The owner maintains high standards, and the inn is very clean. Also affordable. Located in Guanyintang, near Little Courtyard South Area, close to local cuisine hubs with a market. Also near San Nei Kuo Song, Moon Bar, and others. Booking:Hele Hele @ Ctrip

Old Town and Nearby:

Inside the Old Town, there is: Imagination Boutique Inn, Ganguangwu Road. Clean, cozy, not noisy, attentive and friendly. Recommended by guest Minxi.

Alisha Secret Garden: Located just outside the north gate of the Old Town in Shimen Village. The courtyard has cats, turtles, and other small animals. Guests with children find it excellent; hosts are attentive and friendly. Natural rating: 4.9 stars. Alisha Secret Garden 

Fangshe Inn near March Street: A mid-to-high-end B&B hidden in a alley near March Street. Entering feels like a different world. The owner designed and crafted all rooms and furniture using wood and stones from the original structures, carefully restored and numbered. Recently opened, owned by a friend named Honghong. Booking via WeChat: michael751227

 

Countryside near the Old Town:

Daidai Family (Nanyu Time, Wuxiang Village):

Notable for being a family-friendly B&B that offers meals, solving dining concerns. The owner has children, so they consider children's needs. Most guests are likely mothers with children. Located a few kilometers south and north of the Old Town. WeChat: dwenjoyslife Daidai

Yueshan Yiju: Farmhouse B&B, several guests have stayed there with good reviews. Affordable and close to Gucheng in Gushengjiu Village. WeChat: ysyjdl2018Dali Yueshan Yiju Farmhouse B&B Reservations available on Ctrip

Heqian Inn: Located 5 km north of the Old Town in Sanyang Village, our meeting point for some Cangshan hiking trips. Surrounded by fields with great mountain views. A good choice if you want to stay close to the mountains at a mid-range price.

Daji: A high-end B&B with excellent rural environment and design. Highly recommended by our guest Cynde. The attached 'Xitang Restaurant' is also a great dining option, available for separate reservations. The rice paddies in front, distant rural temples, and Cangshan Mountain create a stunning scenic view.Dali Daji Hotel

Adama: An old mountain foot courtyard with a very exotic renovation that blends well. Personally, I think it's the best courtyard so far. Note: No children allowed. Comes with a café open Friday to Sunday (children welcome). Booking via WeChat: xuanzi486574

 

Seaside Inn:

Siddhi: A seaside B&B recommended by guests, but mainly features mountain views, just a few steps from Erhai Lake. White walls and green fields create a clean and delicate atmosphere. Focused on mind-body healing, meditation, and Buddhist themes, so no smoking or drinking, and vegetarian diet encouraged. Located at Yinqiao, 10 km from the Old Town.SIDDHI Seaside B&B

Xianlai Wushi: Seaside inn run by friends, with a café. 8 km from the Old Town. Xianlai Wushi Hotel

Wamao Yunhai View Inn: Opened by Chunsheng, a refined place with a café attached.Dali Wamao Yunhai Scenic Courtyard Inn

Xizhou

Traveler Shangju: Xizhou, a traditional high-end courtyard-style B&B with attentive service. Guests who have stayed there give positive reviews. Dali Xizhou Walker Shangju Hotel

Jia Ke Di Cultural Homestay: Same as above, both are guest accommodations, good reviews iWild·Jia Ke Di Cultural Homestay (Xizhou Ancient Town Branch)

Restaurant:

Local Cuisine:

Qiumuyuan（楸木园）Located on Yuer Road in the ancient city, within Crescent Pond Alley, a popular spot among locals and long-term residents of Dali. They have homemade herbal liquors with high proof. A friend particularly loves their 'Sour Papaya Fish.' Dali insiders recommend: dried bean curd slices, steamed stinky tofu, silverfish omelette, stir-fried beef, stir-fried zucchini strips, bean sprout soup.

A Wang Private KitchenDeep inside Fu'an Lane, not easy to find. Recommended by 'Yiba Huzi' (Xiaohongshu: Yiba Huzi, with more food recommendations for Dali, Kunming, Puer), one of the three top local dishes. He recommends: boiled pork slices, roasted meat, yellow braised chicken, spicy and sour fish. Huzi's side comment: 'Often seen local restaurant owners dining there.'

Guanyintang Food Street: Shengpi, local cuisine. The liveliest place, very down-to-earth. For example: Ruifeng GardenRight at the alley entrance where I used to live. Vendors line up with low tables and small stools, most people sit under the eaves or against the temple wall across the street. Crowded but orderly, lively with everyone eating their own food.Any restaurant on this street is good; all others are also excellent—affordable, delicious, with local特色. Here are some特色 local dishes to try: stinky tofu stir-fried with crown daisy, fried ribs, sour papaya fish, old-style taro, pickled vegetable stir-fried with shredded meat, seaweed and taro soup. After dining, walk a few dozen meters north from Zhangjia Garden to find a small shop where you can try Pao Lu Da (a Burmese sweet dessert, 10 yuan), a place I often visit in Guanyintang. Nearby, not far, is a slightly better local restaurant for hosting guests.Guanyintang now features some new-style shops that blend well with traditional local eateries, mainly along the row of shops at the temple entrance: "Old Man Pea FlourA quality vegetarian restaurant offering breakfast items like fried dough sticks, soy milk, and delicious lunch sets. Sitting by the roadside, very relaxing. Next door is 'Ye Sui' bakery with coffee. Further next door is a shop with a small courtyard, good views and environment. Several shops together create a cozy new atmosphere.Yogurt Purple Rice Pudding

Dou and Dou's Home- Near the Halal Food Street, there is a courtyard-style restaurant. The beef, beef tongue, and steak are all good. If less crowded, you can order half portions. If full, nearby options are also good. For example, their hot pot can also be used for grilling at the same time, with vegetables sold by weight—very flexible when choosing. The mode is quite advanced. Not claiming these are the best, but based on personal experience and recommendations, they are good. Most halal beef restaurants in Dali are of good quality. Clear broth types are more demanding on ingredients; try to choose clear broth when possible.Tihuo Cafe醍醐咖啡馆Halal Clear Soup Beef Hotpot: Dali has many Islamic villages, so halal beef dishes are highly praised and worth trying.

清真清汤牛肉火锅：大理有大量伊斯兰信仰村落，所以清真牛肉菜非常受称道，值得一试。

Zhangjiayuan Copper Ladle Beef- 清真美食一条街街附近，是个庭院式餐厅。牛肉，牛舌，牛排，都不错，人少都可以点半份。如果满了，附近都不错，比如Niuniu，他家还能汤锅同时锅边能烧烤，蔬菜开架称重，你选的时候大为灵活，模式比较先进。不是说这几家最好，而是自己和朋友去过，觉得不错。大理大部分清真牛肉店水准都不错。清汤的，比较考验食材，尽量选清汤，很

Maoduo Li Dai-style Hand Grab RiceNot tried yet but worth a taste, set meals for two, four, or more people, the restaurant will prepare them well, rich and diverse. Can be paired with grilled fish or grilled chicken; add 40 for both. Average per person around 50 RMB. Convenient parking.

Grilled Fish:This Life Has Fate Grilled Fish Restaurant - Guangwu Road Yuyue Road Intersection. Freshly killed and grilled on site, served with plenty of vegetables. Very fragrant, adding a fish ball makes it even tastier. Can request less salt (Dali taste tends to be slightly salty). I really like this grilled fish, and some friends say there are better ones, but everyone agrees this one is the best they've had. So whenever I occasionally invite friends for a meal, they don’t need to guess the restaurant—they choose this grilled fish (they don’t love it as much as I do). Currently quite popular, please reserve by phone 1 hour in advance at 15912633200; just go there directly, otherwise wait times on-site can be long. Parking is available at the open-air lot opposite Laling Pavilion.

Yuguagua Maowei Fish Intestines and Fatty FishThis is a restaurant we visit frequently, located at the entrance of a alley near San Ta. Sichuan-Chongqing style, delicious and affordable. Small hotpot for two or three people costs around 120 RMB. Convenient parking.

Fish Love Wooden Barrel FishRight next to Yuguagua, a very characteristic local fish restaurant, with clear broth and small chili peppers, fragrant and light. Served with cucumber, lettuce, and tomatoes, colorful and refreshing. We go more often now, usually ordering river fish or sturgeon (with crispy bones), which are quite tasty. Located on San Ta Road, parking is easy and not crowded.

Shiyi Korean Cuisine House(Temporarily closed)

This Korean restaurant is located in a village about 15 km from the Old Town, with an open farmyard setting, a large pond in front, facing Cangshan Mountain, surrounded by ancient trees, with jars of soy sauce under the trees—offering a unique scenic view. The grilled meats and side dishes are tasty, 68 RMB per person.Reservation required via WeChat mini program: Shiyi Korean Cuisine House. It can be a rural scenic trip. No limit on group size, suitable for individuals or pairs. Outdoor seating available. During December’s winter cherry blossom season, the courtyard cherry blossoms should be beautiful.

Cangshan Mountain foothill restaurant:

Near Nwu Liqiao and Qingzhen Street. The owner, Da Hai, has been my friend for twenty years. He has traveled extensively (in the true sense), and can farm, do plumbing and electrical work, masonry, welding, photography, birdwatching, mushroom picking, and paddleboard surfing. Someone with such diverse skills is unique I’ve met. His dishes blend flavors from all over—fresh seafood, spicy shredded chicken, clear-braised pork hock—each dish reflects his life experiences. No gimmicks, no conventional rules, creating his own style. You will like it. Also, great value for money. The entire restaurant is self-designed, including most furniture, electrical work, and landscaping.

Shared Dining (a fulfilling meal even for one person):

Traveling alone often makes ordering difficult—ordering too much leads to waste and costs. Just eating rice noodles, rice porridge, or rice dishes can be too monotonous.

Meal Time (Community Group Dining)

Dali community private kitchen restaurant operates daily,Dinner (starts at 6 PM) Group dining, 38 RMB per person, Jiangsu and Zhejiang cuisine. Head chef Panden (WeChat: pd0302) was formerly a chef at a well-known local private restaurant. Customers are mainly local community members. Reservations are made by joining the group chat, with tables of five or six. Self-service pickup. If you're not socially anxious, it's especially good. Add him to the group. Reservations via the KuaTuan WeChat mini-program, search: Meal Time. Announcements are made one day in advance. Besides meals, they also offer desserts, rice wine, hot red wine, fruit wine, and other specialty drinks (additional purchase required).

Brunch / Breakfast

Pu Shi Bakery

Relax and sit on the sidewalk near Dali University, sometimes just to enjoy a moment with a cup of coffee. American coffee 12 RMB, quite aromatic. The bread is baked very well (European-style, large portions, natural yeast). A serving of Ciabatta sandwich (braised beef), a cup of coffee makes for a great meal. Their chicken liver pâté sandwich is also good. Pizza and desserts are also nice. They have homemade specialty ice cream, wine, and cocktails, all quite good. I'm not an expert in Western cuisine, but I feel the quality of ingredients and textures is excellent. Located near Hongsheng Road and Dali University, often our meeting point for activities.

Fly to the Moon

The two branches on Gucheng Guangwu Road and Cangshan Avenue are the most popular casual Western brunch spots in Dali. They feature Western dishes with a Chinese twist, offering excellent value for money and are very popular among local residents. Opens early at 8:30 AM, American breakfast with coffee and juice costs 32 RMB. The French-style baked eggs in a hot iron skillet are hearty, with vegetables, meat, and eggs. The thin-crust pizza is also delicious. It tends to be crowded, especially in peak season, but also a good spot when friends visit. Very suitable for families with children, offering many options. Note that during peak season, there may be a wait of over 30 minutes, and parking can be inconvenient. Recently, a new branch opened next to Cangshan Avenue San Nei Croissant, where parking is easier.

Bings

A refined brunch and dessert shop offering Gelato ice cream. Bings is owned by Bing Bing, a top pastry chef. She previously operated well-regarded brunch and ice cream shops separately. The latest location on Xinmin Road combines both. Many customers have visited and given high praise.BING'S

Mushroom Hotpot

A well-reviewed wild mushroom hotpot restaurant, typically serving chicken soup base with mushrooms. Wild seasonal mushrooms are available from June to October.

Qinghong Private KitchenWenxian Road. This private chef restaurant is highly acclaimed for its wild mushroom dishes and other cuisine. It’s a good choice for more refined Bai ethnic dishes. Reservation required. Phone: 15368999288.

If you want to enjoy rustic farm-style mushroom dishes, try during the rainy season (June to October):Foraging mushrooms in the mountains, farm-style mushroom cuisine

Late-night Barbecue:

Gold RoseNear Wenxian Building, Gold Rose is loved by locals. The signature dish is fresh beef. Sitting on the street and enjoying a meal is very relaxing. The barbecue is professional, clean, and well-organized. Cold dishes like ice edamame are delicious. There is a wide selection of beers and beverages.

Xiao Xuan'sNameless Yakitori(Japanese style): Late-night snack stall at Erhai Gate. Xiao Xuan was once our partner at Mountain Ridge Restaurant. He has studied Chinese, Western, and Japanese cuisines. His yakitori stall is also a favorite spot for many locals. Next to it is a Cantonese-style rice noodle shop, also very popular. Booking via WeChat: vim8181318

Late-night DinerAt the intersection of Huguo Road and Guangwu Road, open until 4 a.m., a quiet place for late-night snacks and chats. Whether it's main dishes like braised pork rice, beef brisket noodles, or light snacks like French toast, sweet rice balls, steamed egg custard, or drinks like Thai milk tea and coffee, there's plenty to choose from. This was our shop before opening the 'Cangshan Hiking House.' Currently managed by our partner Hanhan. Many of our team leaders, including Xiaochun, Cailong, He Chen, and Honghong, have worked there as managers, sharing many fond memories. If you live in the south area of the small courtyard, you can visit.Dali Late-night Diner (South Courtyard Branch)

Qiqi RestaurantNo. 165 Renmin Road. Qiqi Restaurant also stays open late, famous for fried rice and ginger duck rice. Qiqi is a very kind girl. About Qiqi's story:Qiqi Restaurant,

Fusion Cuisine Restaurant

Community Jazz BandNear Dali University, in a quiet alley off Xuefu Road. Fusion dishes include squid ink spaghetti, Tom Yum soup, Sichuan/Korean-style side dishes. The owner, Joy, is from Sichuan and the flavors are generally fusion. The environment is cozy, with a wide variety of wines at affordable prices. Our guests Charcy and Alu especially love her unique wines that are hard to find elsewhere, so they visit often. Most customers are long-term residents of Dali and are regulars; every visit feels familiar. Joy studied wine in France. Suitable for solo dining or small groups. There are daily (since every Friday) performances, and Joy is a band member. It creates a relaxed atmosphere. Chinchin can be considered a community highlight.Cheng Chang's 'Taoxianren' Small BarChinchin Small Bar

Our good friend Cheng Chang opened a bar near Dali University. The most meaningful aspect is that we now have a place to go at night, even if we don't drink. It will be our future 'Late-night Diner.' His dog Leica is also a good friend of mine. Whether it's grabbing a bite, having a drink, or just chatting somewhere, it's all suitable.

Daji Xitang Restaurant:

A refined rural setting, with carefully crafted dishes and friendly service, are probably the key factors.

大吉最早还没有被本地人所知晓的时候，我们一位建筑师 Cynde偶然看到，住过之后力荐的。附设的「喜塘餐厅」也是相当不错的用餐选择，门前的稻田，远处的乡村庙宇和苍山，组合成非常美的画面。Currently auspicious; often, friends from Dali will invite you to dining spots. In a short period, two friends have called to invite me to eat, which shows the genuine popularity and the scrutiny of locals who are often more discerning than tourists.When Daji first became known to locals, our architect Cynde happened to see it and highly recommended it after staying there. The attached 'Xitang Restaurant' is also a very good dining option. The rice fields in front, the distant rural temples, and Cangshan Mountain combine into a beautiful scene.

Private Kitchen (Reservation Required):

Hunter & Rou 598 per person

Hunter used to be a chef at a five-star hotel. He and his wife Rou live in Dali and run this private kitchen. In an affordable city like Dali, several local residents have found it worthwhile. I’ve also visited and liked it, especially for the overall experience: a beautiful traditional rural courtyard, clean, tidy, and full of life. Hunter is busy in the courtyard and kitchen, which are bright and well-organized. There are dogs and cats in the yard, and microgreens are cultivated. If interested, you can chat with the couple. Reservation via WeChat: hunterrou

Trout Restaurant Around 500 per person

Reservation via WeChat: the_trout_dali

It has long been quite renowned in Dali. I first experienced it in January 2025 when Sun Yu invited me to dine there. My impression was: a nice environment, near the end of the village, with a vegetable garden and some chickens, ducks, and sheep. The view northward overlooks the village and Erhai Lake. The staff are friendly and attentive, a young and energetic team. The dishes are creative and carefully prepared, evident even in small details like the dipping sauces. Pet-friendly; the chef Monkey finished cooking and played with the dog. I’m not someone who visits such restaurants often or an expert in fine cuisine, but I thought it was worth recommending to friends and clients. Such a restaurant deserves to be shared.

Vegetarian

I don’t have a detailed understanding of vegetarianism myself, but many friends and guests are vegetarians and have given me some recommendations:

Yiran Hall: At Jiulongju in the Old Town, a simple self-serve vegetarian meal, 5 yuan per person. Operated by a non-profit Buddhist organization. The taste is quite good.

SuLe: On Sanda Road, clean and fresh, very modern, liked by many friends.Dali SuLe Vegetarian RestaurantThere are several vegetarian restaurants nearby, all look good, along with cafes.

SuFangZhou: Vegetarian restaurant and activity spaceSuFangZhou Future Space

ZhaiShu: The new store has opened on Cangshan Avenue. Offers a variety of dishes at affordable prices. The fava bean braised rice is very special. The new store is cleaner, more spacious, with more options; the previous older store was more homey.

Jizhao An: Usually quite busy, long lines during peak season; please be prepared. Polos Temple also offers vegetarian meals around 11:30 am, 20 yuan per person, no reservation needed.

Zhonghe Temple: Good vegetarian meals, volunteers are gentle and enthusiastic. You can hike or take the cable car to reach it (about 2 hours), reservation required (Mobile: 18725419447), or try your luck.

 

Organic vegetable and fruit shop:

Jingwu Grain & Oil: A local organic and healthy produce shop where locals often shop for fruits, vegetables, meats, and natural hotel products. Also has many local specialties. Near Dali University. I sometimes buy fresh farm milk, vegetables, and free-range eggs. The tomatoes grown by Da Xiong taste like childhood memories—especially delicious (not just psychological effects). I often buy a bag to eat. Prices are reasonable.Stationery and Grain Oil Shop

 

Coffee Shops:

The density of Dali coffee shops rivals that of Shanghai.

Old Town District:

Xiaonong Creations: A delicately decorated and comfortable coffee shop, located in Yueya Tang, popular among local regulars. Nearby is 'Yiduo Coffee,' also a well-loved local community coffee shop.

Moderate in diet: An absolutely small community coffee shop; I’ve only been twice, both times meeting acquaintances. The atmosphere is relaxed, the owner Damao is a distinctive young woman (hard to label, hard to describe). I first heard about it from Xiao Hua, who bakes coffee; he said: 'Moderate in diet, dirty (perhaps a latte), is the best he’s ever had.'

Xiangmu Coffee: A new coffee shop opened by Xiao Hua, located downstairs from the handmade building. You can enjoy a cup while doing crafts there.

Mengwang Coffee: Opposite Yizhong, a somewhat lively ancient city with a quiet, independent space. The entrance is a car-free square, opposite a historic building (now Yizhong Middle School).

Dali University Area:

Pu Shi Bakery:OurDailyCoffee Shop,More community-orientedand very relaxedoutdoor seating is quite comfortable

Shouhuo Coffee: Spacious, with outdoor seating, many customers give positive reviews.

Fuyu Coffee: If you’re looking for a quiet coffee shop, this is the right place. From coffee to desserts, everything is exquisite, located in a quiet residential street. If it weren’t for Li Zhenhao’s recommendation, even locals might not know about it to this day.

SomeCoffee

At the entrance of Dali Wang Palace, neat, exquisite, and spacious, with outdoor platform seating. Plenty of space, with many coffee beans and related products for sale.

Seaside Coffee Shops:

If you want a good coffee by Erhai Lake, go to Xianlai Wushì • Xun Coffee. Located at Fumeiyi Seaside, it’s also a wonderful high-end guesthouse. The owner has been running a coffee shop in Dali for many years. Xianlai Wushì • Xun Coffee Guesthouse 

Fengyangyi Coffee Shop

Qiu Yuan Coffee (Qiu Yuan Cafe) in Fengyangyi Ancient Village. Location: next to Bianke Mountain Residence. A very natural and cozy old house, beautifully renovated, with a lovely courtyard and great views from the second floor. The owner, Bingbing, is gentle and hospitable, sincere in her hospitality.Qiu Yuan Coffee CAFE

Shanxia Coffee | Nature Studio

This is the coffee shop run by our team leader Li Zhenhao. The reason I recommend it is because it’s a coffee + studio located at the foot of Wuwei Temple Mountain in a village. You can enjoy coffee while facing Cangshan Mountain, and the cafe itself is a museum of various plants from Yunnan, all collected by her from different parts of Yunnan, used to create plant decorations and mushroom nightlights. They also offer related experiential activities. Li Zhenhao is a wonderful young woman, kind, loves nature, and passionate about creativity.Create natural plant decorative paintings and Make mushroom nightlights

Yinqiao:

Yizhi Coffee: Closed on Wednesdays and Thursdays

In the village ten kilometers from the Old Town, I visited Yinqiao for the first time and felt it was my favorite personal coffee shop in Dali. The sign at the entrance reads: 'May all encounters be sincere.' The cafe offers coffee, juice, desserts (like brownies), and also burgers for simple meals. Very affordable prices (Americano 11, Dirty 14). Ideal for quiet reading (the shop has some good books) and for travelers working on the go. Each seat is a cozy corner. The tables and chairs are comfortable and natural, not deliberately styled. Located along the road leading into the village, with a well-maintained large courtyard inside, where you can sit under the porch. Further inside is a kitchen. It’s a local courtyard, but with a different atmosphere. The overall feel of the cafe is quiet and refined, yet simple and unpretentious.One Coffee

The most special old courtyard coffee shop, in my opinion, is "ADAMA," located on Yinqiao and Yincun. The cafe is only open from Friday to Sunday, 11:00 AM - 10:30 PM, with affordable prices, for example, American coffee is 18 RMB. It is also a unique guesthouse with three rooms (note: the guesthouse does not accommodate children, but you can enjoy coffee), I really want to stay there. I learned about it through guest/friend Yusi. Owner Xuanzi WeChat: xuanzi486574

Sanwenbi Village:

Another cluster of cafes is located in Sanwenbi Village, which is an independent little world. Due to narrow alleys and no car access, the shop owners have a strong sense of self-protection, so it has preserved a traditional backpacker-style residential and cultural area. For example, Liuchi Coffee, Xiaolu Book House. Additionally, many new shops have opened. Suitable for independent backpackers and short-term residents. There is a hamburger Western-style fast-food shop called "He Hou" in an alley, which many customers visit repeatedly.Liuchi

Liangshan Camp: If you seek views and scenery, this cafe on the hillside offers excellent vistas overlooking Dali and Erhai Lake. Compared to its location, the prices are moderate and affordable.Liangshan Camp

 

Bars:(This part is based on a general impression from friends, not personally experienced, and not familiar with drinking)  

Quiet Mountain Forest and Wildflower Bar:

A cocktail bar without performances, located in a small alley in the Old Town, focusing on quality. It is a place where locals and friends go to chat. Famous for cocktails, but various infused liquors are also said to be particularly excellent and unique.Mountain Forest and Wildflower Tavern WOODS and Weeds

September Music Bar: A folk and diverse music performance bar emphasizing musical quality, located in a Bai ethnic courtyard on Xinmin Road. For those seeking quietness and music appreciation, it’s a good choice. A place where local musicians often go to play.September

abababar: Renmin Road, a popular live performance bar, lively and energetic, favored by local young residents.ABaBaBar Bar

Agan Town 404: Frequently hosts live music performances, quite popular.Agan Town Night Market (formerly Siji Street Market Front Yard)

Chun Road Tavern (Whisky Bar): Located on Yeyu Road. Xiao Chun (our team leader, a partner from the late-night eatery era), is currently said to be Dali’s most professional whisky bar. Besides alcohol, if you want to find someone to chat with and share life experiences, he’s a great choice. His activities include:Huoshan Sunset Hike  A Day in Xipo Mountain

Shuangyan Bar (Cocktails): Located on Huguo Road Guangwu Road, a quiet cocktail bar run by our team leader Xiao Yang, a passionate, sincere, and straightforward girl. If you want a peaceful place to enjoy a drink and chat, especially for our guests, it’s very suitable. She usually plays baseball, so there’s an activity:Playing baseball on the grass with Xiao Yang and more:Learning to mix cocktails Experience.

 

Books and other resources about Dali

‘Dali Outsider’ by British author Jason Pym, documenting local customs, history, and cultural sites through text and illustrations. A comprehensive introductory book that enhances understanding of Dali.

Outdoor gear shopping:

Options locally are limited; buying online in advance is the best choice.

If you need gear urgently, you can visit ‘Deep Outdoor Flagship Store’ in Shenkou, about 15 km from Gucheng, which carries some professional outdoor brands like Arc'teryx.

Shopping for outdoor gear online, sharing my purchase experience:

WeChat Store: YEBA野. WeChat: yebajia02. Factory direct, very affordable prices, good quality, but don’t expect products priced several times higher to be of the same quality.

Items available for purchase: hiking shoes, knee pads, waterproof jackets and pants, softshells, socks (not limited to these, many other categories as well).

Tents: Currently, we mostly use NuoKe YunShang (coated silicone 20D), lightweight, rainproof, generally sufficient for outdoor use. Can be purchased from the flagship store; no specific store recommendation, all similar. 

Sleeping bags: Seller on Xianyu: Warm Earth 666888, down sleeping bag, G1300, approximately 340 RMB, comparable to the price of a cotton sleeping bag, but suitable for most winter conditions. If budget allows, consider better sleeping bags, such as Sea to Summit ultralight sleeping bags, Marmot, etc.

Advice for solo hikers and explorers:

One of the best tools for self-exploration is: maps.me (iPhone/Android; Android users can also use OrganicMaps, which I use—cleaner and more compact).

Download offline maps in advance (e.g., Yunnan, a few dozen MB). The biggest advantage is that all hiking routes in the area will be displayed, including Cangshan’s 19 peaks. This app uses OpenStreetMap data, so it works worldwide. You can use it for hikes in other countries as well, such as Thailand and Iran, which I have used. Compared to other apps like Two Steps, which only show popular routes, this app offers more comprehensive coverage. It can run in airplane mode, consuming very little power (important for self-exploration). Also, prepare backup power sources, clothing, food, and a headlamp. If you are careless, underprepared, or overly confident, you might not be suitable for independent exploration.

Dali offers several nearby Cangshan trails suitable for hiking—wander freely or summit if you like. Recommended: Lanfeng/Sanyang Peak, the most beautiful, both passing by HeLongTan alpine lakes, very natural. The highest peak is Malong Peak (hard to reach, requires traversing the ridge), or the smaller Cengfeng Peak, which most people visit. If you want to connect multiple peaks, do so with extreme caution—the ridge routes are difficult to identify during the rainy season and dangerous in windy conditions, not suitable for most people.

Traversing from LianTai Mountain through MuXiangPing to Jizu Mountain’s Golden Summit is a classic Buddhist pilgrimage route with a clear trail.

Bird吊山 offers nice scenery, but it’s somewhat popular and the trail is quite clear.

Shaxi's Shibao Mountain and Weishan's Weibao Mountain are both accessible by hiking.

If visiting Baoshan, hiking to the Wild Hot Springs at Baihua Ridge in Gaoligong Mountain is also a good option. Arrival point by vehicle: Hànlongzhài, with trails available.

The above trails are available on both map.me and OrganicMaps.

Special activity experiences:

Hiking, camping, mushroom picking, paddleboarding, and other outdoor activities:

Our 'Cangshan Hiking Home'. Light hikes around Cangshan, wild mushroom foraging, stargazing at night on the lake, moderate forest hikes, hiking from Jiwokou Café & Huoshan across Erhai Lake, rural trips in Yanyuan: boat rides on the lake & village walks, farm picking and Focaccia making experiences, sailing, rural hot springs, pottery, beekeeping experiences, birdwatching, nature journaling, tea picking and processing, Kintsugi, beaded jewelry, Jia Ma (horse-shaped amulets), metalworking. Activities are steady, almost daily, suitable for solo participants, no group minimum required.Cangshan Hiking & Photography House

Children's outdoor camp organizations:

Since I haven't participated myself, feedback is based on guest reviews: Teachers Xiao Wang and Banana's outdoor camps receive good feedback. They are responsible, patient, get along well with children, and are quite low-profile. Kindergartens like Xigu, Youyou, Maomao Guoer, and Zhiyou have their own reputation and特色. Also, a reminder: any organization that promotes itself under others' posts (mainly on Xiaohongshu), criticizes competitors as greedy or untrustworthy, or uses exaggerated titles on their own pages to boast, is generally not reputable. Narrow-mindedness (though everyone has cognitive limits), combined with overconfidence and aggressiveness, is problematic.

Other outdoor/travel team leaders with relatively stable experience and service:

High-intensity hikes:

Yan Zi: A local professional outdoor guide and an excellent trail runner. WeChat: dream5621 Official account: Dali Yuebù Outdoor. Regular local outdoor activities.

Green WeChat: kosiuoston Cangshan Bird Rope Mountain / Cangshan Summit Hiking Guide, recommended by clients

Yu Bo: join_trip Official account: Northwestern Yunnan Niche Travel. Yu Bo specializes in in-depth tours of Yunnan, such as Nujiang. Also dedicated to local cultural city walks. A travel organizer in the style of Lonely Planet.

Bowu Activities: Mountain Gathering WeChat: meisi-dali Niuniu 

Xihua Hua Farm: Aunt Dong, a local, is enthusiastic and attentive. Xihua Hua Farm offers Bai ethnic three-course tea, local meals, ethnic singing and dancing, suitable for groups, creating a rich local atmosphere. Also provides experiences like Yi embroidery, Jia Ma (horse-shaped amulets), flower cakes, etc. She is familiar with local culture and how to arrange authentic local tours. WeChat: DDM801113

Camping site: 200km Camping Site

Sun Juan has a place called '200km Car Modification Workshop', which is also a campsite that accommodates various RVs and cyclists. Currently the most suitable campsite for travelers in Dali. Includes a café. WeChat: s248405449200km Campground

 

Professional Bicycle Leader:

Xiaoma WeChat: ZD-Xiaoma

Xiaoma was introduced to me during a cycling trip to Tibet over ten years ago. At that time, he was running a professional bicycle repair shop in Nyingchi. He rode 200 kilometers to Bomi to repair my bike (visiting friends along the way). Now settled in Dali, he is reliable and professional.

Blue Dyeing:

White plant dyeing, in an old courtyard in Fengyang Yicun. My clients give good reviews; the host is attentive after a single bait silk, and the flying girl behind is also very nice. WeChat: CMY10180227White Plant Tie-Dye · Handmade Blue Dyeing Studio

Bianke Weaving and Dyeing Studio: Also located in Fengyang Yicun. In-depth blue dyeing courses. The owner, Roland, graduated in fashion design and took tie-dye courses during university. After working for several years, he moved to Dali, visited Zhoucheng and Weishan, traditional Bai ethnic villages known for their tie-dye techniques. Since then, he has systematically studied ancient blue dyeing methods and traditional tie-dye techniques for over five years. Here, you can learn more advanced plant dyeing knowledge and craftsmanship. WeChat: siyuexiaoyu Roland Bianke

Lánxù Blue Dyeing: A well-known brand in Dali's blue dyeing industry, with shops in the Old Town, Zhoucheng, and Xizhou. Highly praised by customers. Our leader, Li Zhenhao, prefers the Zhoucheng shop, but Minxi says the Old Town shop is also very good and convenient.

Wamao: Jingtian Village is a traditional kiln village in Dali. There is a shop called 'Jingtian Kiln Fire' that makes Wamao (tile cats) and also features Jia Ma seal painting. (Recommended by customer Minxi)

Woodworking Experience:

Xingmu Workshop, see official WeChat account: Xingmu Camp. Currently the most popular woodworking camp in Dali, highly praised by visitors. Watching videos, the courtyard also has thoughtful setups for children’s games, and they cook over open fire together. Very atmospheric.Xingmu Community

Mùyě Mùgōng Camp: Xiao Jun has extensive woodworking experience, enjoys the craft himself, and has a gentle, enthusiastic personality. Capable of outdoor woodworking, building treehouses, and making traps. Now runs his own independent woodworking experience studio, 'Mùyě Camp,' offering professional woodworking courses for children and adults, summer camps. Also partners with some popular kindergartens in Dali for woodworking projects. I first met him over ten years ago; he was a dedicated leather craftsman. WeChat: xs20240221Mùyě Camp Booking:Mùyě @ Group Chat

Dali Lujike Go-Kart: Located in Manjiang, Dali, 20 km from the Old Town. Highly recommended by visitors and my friend He Yi. Suitable for children.Dali Lujike Theme Park

Jia Ma Craftsmanship:

Shuli Library, good customer reviews. Jia Ma is a unique local folk culture. They offer drawing, block printing, and printing experiences. Also various multicultural activities.

Jiangzhi Collection · Folk Art Center also offers Jia Ma printmaking experiences. Reservation via WeChat: bojizaiCraftsman Art Center

Handmade Paper Experience: Craftsman Art Center • Traditional Paper-Making in Heqing. Reservation via WeChat: bojizai

Zhiyu Pottery: A highly recommended pottery studio offering experiences like making ceramic cats and other pottery crafts. Zhiyu Pottery Studio (Dali Old Town Branch)

Farm: Rainbow Farm, mainly focused on understanding plants, spices, human connections, and the final presentation of food and tea drinks. They offer this kind of experience.

1. Herb picking and herbal food and drink making
2. Farm philosophy and fermentation products sharing
3. Organic snacks and tea drinks
4. A peaceful space of 10,000 square meters

This isn’t just a photo spot or check-in place; they welcome guests who love and appreciate nature. Reservation required. Link and introduction for booking:Rainbow Farm Experience

Tourist Attractions Around Dali:

If you find the Old Town in Dali too noisy or are unsure where to go, consider the following places:

Fengyangyi: 7 kilometers from the Old Town. It is a village on the Tea Horse Road, located at the foot of the mountain. Originally rustic and full of local life, with beautiful scenery, it’s worth taking a walk and exploring. Many visitors have visited and enjoyed it. However, since the show "Windy Days" aired, it has become a check-in spot, with quiet old paths filled with stalls. In the village, there are also interesting spots, such as nearby indigo dyeing experiences (there’s a place called Zhibai, which many visitors attend and give good feedback). Our hiking tour will pass through this village. There’s also a courtyard of West Seven Distillery where you can experience brewing your own beer or tasting wine. The café options include Qiu Yuan Cafe (a very charming old courtyard, personally my favorite), offering coffee, homemade desserts and cakes. The old courtyard is very beautiful with great views. Roland’s Edge Weaving and Dyeing is also at the village entrance.Fengyangyi Village

Wuwei Temple5 kilometers from the Old Town, it’s a peaceful temple (compared to Jizhao An). You can take a taxi to the parking lot below (map marker: Chenjia Bao), then take a leisurely 30-minute walk along the mountain road to visit Wuwei Temple. This is the best way to visit. While you can go directly to Wuwei Temple’s parking lot, it’s less interesting.Wuwei Temple Parking Lot 

Jizhao An: This is quite famous, with succulent plants and vegetarian meals (lunch at 11:30, dinner at 17:30, buffet for 20 yuan). It tends to be crowded (very crowded).Jizhao An

Walking or cycling around Erhai Lake near the Old Town: The wetlands by Erhai Lake are now beautifully developed, and access is limited to walking and cycling, making it very suitable for a stroll. It’s safe for children. There are wild ducks and some migratory birds passing through. The lake offers expansive views of Cangshan Mountain, enough to spend half a day. The环海路 (Ring Lake Road) is long; you can search for the landmark "San Sheng Island" and reach it by car or Didi. That area is one of the best sections. A walk around here is enough to appreciate the beauty of Erhai Lake. If you stay by the lake, the nearby corridors are also very nice, making it hard to pick the most beautiful spot. The corridors are equipped with many shared bikes and electric scooters. Fanju·Dream House (Dali Erhai Branch)This location is not far from San Sheng Island, less crowded, and better. Or here:Dali City Dazhuang Primary School Parking is available nearby, or at JiyiDali Qishan Seaside View Homestay This corridor is quite beautiful overall, with lawns, lakeshores, and forests.

Explore the stream yourself:

Dali Ruby InnHere at Qingbi Stream, suitable for children and adults of all ages to play. It has streams, waterfalls, and even jumping pools. I live nearby and often take my dog to play. It can meet most people's needs. Easy to access, shallow streams, many waterfalls, long walking distances, and safe.

Cable cars: three routes. 1. Zhonghe Temple cable car to Yudai Road (altitude 2,600 meters) is an old-style chairlift, which is rare nationwide, and many people specifically go to try it. Cangshan Zhonghe Cable Car 2. Xima Tan is the largest cable car, reaching an altitude of 3,800 meters, the highest. On clear days, you can overlook Dali; in winter, you can see snow. Local friends go to see snow after it snows, but strong winds may suspend operation, and bad weather means nothing can be seen.Cangshan Xima Tan Cable Car3. Gantong Cable Car (near Gantong Temple, Jizhao An), also to Yudai Road.Cangshan Gantong Cable Car Parking LotBoth Gantong and Zhonghe cable car terminals are at Yudai Road, where you can walk and enjoy the scenery.

Local parks:Yuer Garden,Parks are often vibrant places for local life.Yuer Garden in Dali Ancient Town is one such example.Yuer Garden - South Gate

Dali Folk Festivals:

Fengyi 'Spring Festival' in DaliAlso known as 'Welcoming Spirit Official,' 'Royal Altar Ceremony,' or 'Receiving the Marshal,' with a history of over 200 years, it is a traditional festival that evolved from ancestral worship, natural worship, and other rituals, gradually integrating entertainment elements for the public. The 'Spring Festival' is hosted annually by the East, South, West, and North Streets of Fengyi District, featuring traditional music, stilt walking, acrobatics, dragon and lion dances, lanterns, opera masks, folk songs and dances, and more, creating a lively atmosphere.

Local markets:

• March Market is the closest market to the ancient city, with some tourist elements but mainly serving local needs.
• Yinqiao Town is outside March Market, about 10 km from the ancient city, and is also a lively local market,a recommended choice.

March Market (Dali Old Town Cangshan Gate outside Sanjie Street): the closest to the ancient city. Held four times a month on the 2nd, 9th, 16th, and 23rd days of the lunar calendar. Very lively, with food and drinks, fruits, clay pots, brooms, flowers, birds, fish, and insects. Full of local life. Prices are very affordable. Now new immigrants also set up stalls there, selling coffee, handmade crafts, and bread.

Markets in nearby towns:

Yinqiao Town (10 km):Toupou Farmers MarketLunar dates 5th, 13th, 20th, 28th.

Wanquan Town (15 km):Wanquan Farmers MarketLunar dates 4th, 11th, 18th, 26th.

Xizhou Town (25 km):Zhen’nan Vegetable Market (Long Street)Lunar dates 2nd, 9th, 16th, 23rd.Note: Long Street is in Zuoyi; Xizhou Old Town is 3.5 km south.

Shangguan Town (35 km):Jiangwei Farmers Market Every Saturday ( and cycling through villages with Brother Ding event includes a market in Jiangwei),

Fengyu Town, Eryuan County (85 km):Fengyu Market DayIf visiting Fengyu, market days are Tuesdays, which are a bit remote—about a 2-hour drive. We have an activity there, also exploring surrounding ancient villages.Local vegetable markets:Fengyu Farmers Market

Markets are great places to observe local produce and daily life, and are often affordable. The main markets in the Old Town are: Beimen Farmers Market (Main Market), the most diverse with the most shops. Most people buy vegetables, stoves, and tools there, though it’s somewhat touristy. Nánmén Lüyù Farmers Market is where I go more often; it has abundant produce and prepared foods, more local and practical.

Beimen Vegetable MarketNánmén Lüyù Farmers Market Xizhou Old Town:

Near Xilin Garden, it can be crowded; it’s recommended to go further out into the fields. While Xizhou is somewhat commercialized for tourism,

喜林苑附近一般人满为患，建议继续往外到远处的田野。喜洲旅游化较为明显，但Craftsmanship Collection • Folk Art Center: A must-visit, highly recommended. Although located in Xizhou, it showcases the craftsmanship and traditional history of Dali as a whole, with many modern works as well. Very recommended, even for locals. You can purchase a variety of fine Dali handicrafts, and there are professional horse mask and handmade paper experiences. Reservation via WeChat: bojizai Craftsman Art Center

Jiwow Coffee near Shuanglang:

Jiwo Coffee near Shuanglang: About 60 km from the Old Town, with a 12 km mountain road section. Offers one of the most beautiful views of Erhai Lake, situated on a hillside. An affiliated café of the Farmers Painting Society. Worth a visit, with nearby walking opportunities. A place worth making a special trip to. Along the way, you can enjoy views of Erhai Lake, perfect for a boat tour. Note: Self-driving required. We have a light trek route passing by Jiwow Coffee.

Shaxi: 130 km from the Old Town. Visitors often say they like it more than expected. It’s a Tea Horse Road town, maintained by a Swiss foundation, preserving its original appearance without any overdevelopment. A few steps outside the town is Heihui River, ideal for a walk, surrounded by fields, offering a peaceful experience. Look for a place called Banshan Coffee (used as a landmark), walk there to overlook the old town and valley. If you have more time, Shibao Mountain nearby is also worth visiting, with many cliff Buddha statues and hiking routes. Search for “Shadeng Jing Stone Cave Area” for hiking trails upward (exploration routes, caution advised for most people; using an app like maps.me to see the trail). I’ve only visited three good local restaurants: a popular fish soup place, Lihua Restaurant (beef and local dishes), and Longfeng Ruiying Restaurant—affordable and tasty. Coffee shops include Crow Coffee and Eat Tea (desserts). You can rent a car to go (recommended via Niusha Line, less crowded and scenic; turn up Niushajie to go uphill, the road to Niushajie village is narrow and may seem like the wrong way). Alternatively, take bus 214 from Cangshan Gate to Jianchuan, transfer at Dian’nan Town to a rural bus. Also, every morning at 9:00, there is a shuttle bus from Old Town Yueri Road Lanlin Pavilion Hotel to Shaxi Lanlin Pavilion. Call ahead to confirm: 18887265969 or the daily bus to Shaxi at 17387207019 (Xiao Yang), approximately 80 RMB per person.

Anaguo: 200 km from Dali, technically part of Lijiang, but a great hiking destination accessible from Dali. I have visited twice, and it is indeed beautiful—a canyon with alpine meadows. Anaguo manages village tourism collectively, offering one-stop services for hiking, accommodation, and dining. Prices vary based on group size, with a four-person group being more economical. Service quality is good. For inquiries, WeChat: wuranyibu1992 Anaguo Reception Station

Nuodeng: Famous for Nuodeng ham, 180 km from Dali. An ancient hillside village with a history of salt production, prosperous economy, and the Salt Road crisscrossing the area. Due to its remote location, it generally sees fewer tourists. The village is rustic, and nearby mountain villages are suitable for hiking and strolling. Along the way, you can visit Yangchi Miye Hot Spring. Now with a highway, transportation is more convenient. I recommend a guesthouse I stayed at: Xin Ke Lai Guesthouse, Phone: 15087295015. Although not famous, it is affordable, with homestyle living, ham and free-range chicken cooked on traditional stoves, and good hosts.Xin Ke Lai Guesthouse in Nuodeng Stay at local guesthouses, walk around nearby villages, enjoy homemade dishes, and relax. If you don’t drive, transportation can be arranged via 'Dian Yue Travel' to Yunlong, and a taxi from there to Nuodeng village is just a few kilometers.

Qifeng Pear Blossom Village:Located in Heqing, 120 km from Dali, accessible by self-driving. Around late March each year (if you visit then, you’ll catch it), pear blossoms bloom. My first visit was stunning. It’s no longer just a village; it’s a sea of flowers covering thousands of acres. The village itself is beautiful.

Yangchi Miye Hot Spring:120 km from Dali, in a mountain valley of Yunlong County. It’s worth visiting together with Nuodeng Ancient Village (50 km away). It’s a fantastic wild hot spring with clear, bubbling water. WeChat location: Yangchi Miye Hot Spring (not Yangchi Miye Village), the location is accurate. Since vehicles can reach directly, be prepared for crowds. Camping is recommended; the best time to enjoy the hot springs is after 9 PM when it’s less crowded and the water temperature is ideal.Yangchi Miye Hot Spring

Hot Spring Hotels:Want a comfortable hot spring experience with hotel amenities? Most visitors go to XiaShanKou, with Pu Tuo Quan Hotel being the most popular—large pools, good facilities. Some prefer smaller, modern hot spring hotels like XiaShanKou Qianhe Hot Spring Resort.XiaShanKou Qianhe Hot Spring ResortThe hot springs in XiaShanKou are great, but the surrounding fields along Mie River and the Dian Hehuan Forest offer the most stunning pastoral scenery, perfect for walks. About 20 km away in Niu Jie, there’s Ye Cao Quan and Xun Yun Mountain Villa, both highly rated.

 

Yunnan Local Products, Souvenirs:‘Dali Mountain Residence’ specializes in Yunnan local specialties, carefully selected ingredients. Most products are suitable for daily family use, reasonably priced, with simple and attractive packaging, making them excellent souvenirs for Yunnan trips. Good choices include black tea, raw Pu-erh tea, milk fans, rose flowers, brown sugar, mushroom and herb mixes for chicken stew, rose jam, and plum wine. You can purchase these on Taobao stores.

Marble Painting:Marble paintings are created by selecting stones with natural veining, resembling a painting. This was introduced to me by a friend, Ichiro. The cost is generally between 200-300 RMB, offering great value. It’s a unique gift or a personal keepsake. Not from a gift shop, but from a roadside workshop.Marble Painting Workshop 13608823938 Apeng

Roasting Bean Specialist: Xiaohua WeChat: EndlessAzaleas. Many of our friends personally buy beans from him or open coffee shops. Reliable, straightforward, no fuss.

Living and travel information for residents(Gradually expanding):

Find courtyard agents: Fangfang, WeChat: Right-13944086268. As an intermediary, Fangfang is one of the more trustworthy ones. He describes the pros and cons of properties honestly, without hiding anything you might not know. I viewed properties with him; although I didn’t rent finally, the process was very pleasant. When tenants rent the property, they also seek his help with renovations and ongoing living arrangements. Rare to find such an agent.

Printing shop: Changhui Printing Shop, Lvyu Road, No. 58

The most professional, efficient, and quiet printing shop I’ve visited, for visa printing, photo printing, copying, scanning. The owner has a demeanor uncommon in typical print shops, speaks little, and does quality work.

Phone repair: iPhone Resurrection Doctor, also repairs Android phones. Xiao Shen, phone/WeChat: 15187235509, a reliable young man, can be trusted with repairs. Map location:Here

Motorcycle/electric bike/tricycle repair:

Guan Yin Tang, 214 Roadside CourtyardThis repair shop is the best I’ve encountered in Dali—trustworthy and affordable. The repair technician is refined and quiet, tools are neatly arranged. Navigation: Haoniu Road, Copper Pot Beef, in a hidden roadside open courtyard. Map location,Here

Renovation and remodeling design: Fangfang, WeChat: fangfang-floristpark

Fangfang has designed shops in Dali such as Big Bowl Island, Light Seeking Farm, Basha, Huanniao, Hopscotch Coffee, including our late-night eatery courtyard shop. I also have clients who seek her design and construction services. She has new design ideas and is a very responsible designer. The construction team she works with is reliable, making cooperation worry-free. She will continue to oversee the project afterward, not abandoning it.

Swimming: Hilton’s swimming pool, clean environment, towels provided, sauna available, appropriately sized pool, usually not crowded, no time restrictions. Transfer of a membership card available on Douban Dali Group or Xiaohongshu. 40-60 RMB, original price 150 RMB. 

Community sports:

Crossfit: Dali Dfly Integrated Fitness Center. Located near Cangshan Avenue San Nei Croissant, it’s a community-oriented training gym with good coaches and atmosphere. Our team leaders Honghong and Lizi train there. Whether for drop-in or regular membership, it’s a good place. For inquiries, contact Honghong: zhanghuili002. She’s very enthusiastic and a proactive ambassador for the gym.

Pickleball: Pickle County. Located near March Street. Pickleball is an emerging sport. Kylie and Kuang promote this sport in Dali. Most participants are community members, as well as short-term travelers. Contact them: (WeChat: Kylie____)

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Our team leaders' shops/activities:

After participating in activities, you can also contact them to see another side of them~

Wildflower Scenery (Picking Group Guide): Nature Photography / Portraits

If you don't want traditional staged photos, travel shoots, or ethnic costume photography, and just want to be candidly captured and recorded in nature, then find her. She has a unique aesthetic. WeChat: mogujinglin Public Account: Cangshan Mushroom Spirit

Swallow (Picking Group Guide): March Street Market, mainly second-hand books and ethnic fabrics. She usually attends each March Street Market; the books are personally selected, and the fabric products are very folkloric. WeChat: zxy749432080

Old Li (Stand-up Paddleboarding Leader): Old Li's girlfriend Xiao Yang is at No. 192 Huguo Road (next to Vienna Hotel), running her own bar 'Shuangyan Two Stone Bar,' recently opened, mainly serving cocktails. Near Deep Night Canteen. Shuangyan Two Stone Bar

Deep Night Canteen Huguo Road Branch: Several of our team leaders (He Chen, Xiao Chun, Tailor, Honghong, Xiao Xi, Jason) have worked here before; it is still operated by our friend Han Han. Phone: 18487492116 Deep Night Canteen (Huguo Road Branch)If you stay in the South District of the Courtyard, you can visit Dali Deep Night Canteen (Hilton Courtyard Branch).

Xiao Chun: Runs 'Chun Road Tavern' at the intersection of Yeyu Road and Yincang Road, specializing in whiskey. WeChat: fengxiaochuner

Honghong (Hiking Leader): Western-style cold buffet service | Birthday, wedding, opening parties. She is a main supplier in Dali Ancient Town for this industry, with excellent craftsmanship and aesthetic. Her family also has a loft-style guesthouse apartment in the South Courtyard, decorated with tasteful furniture, fixtures, and layout. WeChat: zhanghuili002

Huan Huan (Hiking and Canyoneering Group): Operates 'Huanque Café,' one of Dali's best Western-style brunch and casual dining spots, highly renowned.

Wang Yue (Frank on the Bridge, Hiking Leader): Has two apartments/guesthouses in Cangshan Courtyard for rent. WeChat: wangyue6899867wy

Spring Rain (Spring Rain Beekeeping): Authentic honey for sale. WeChat: shouji132149033530 

Michael (Stand-up Paddleboarding Leader): Operates quality guesthouses: Han Ju (bookable via Tujia)

Luo Tingwen (Community Hiking Leader): Operates 'Dali Mountain Residence' mountain produce and Taobao store, selling genuine and high-quality Yunnan mountain goods.

Wanwan (Picking Group): Photography and makeup artist. Wanwan was previously Xiao Jing's photography and makeup artist, highly skilled and attentive, which led to her being invited to join the Picking Group. Besides, she is generally an outstanding makeup artist. WeChat: Wuqudr_

Fibi: Japanese and French freelance translator. Douban search: Lü Lingyan, where her translations can be seen. WeChat: oldphoebefromyk Official account: Fibi's World Tour