Back from Erhai Lake, honestly wouldn't recommend visiting in July, because...

N must-go reasons for Erhai Lake in July (Trust me, just go for it!) 🌞 Summer-exclusive romance: July's Erhai presents the ultimate "sky-mirroring waters" spectacle. Rain-washed lake surfaces sparkle like scattered diamonds, with rainbows often arching between Cangshan Mountain and the lake at dusk—every shot looks cinematic. 🌿 Seasonal summer views: Xizhou Ancient Town's rice fields glow emerald green, swaying like waves; Longkan Wharf's lotus leaves carpet shallow waters where egrets occasionally skim by—less crowded than peak season, more serene. 🎈 Off-peak perks: Though summer break, weekdays at Panxi S-bend cycling paths mean having the ecological corridor to yourself at 7am. Some B&Bs offer "midweek stay discounts" for better value. July prep "hacks" ⚠️ Sun & rain protection combo: - SPF50+ waterproof sunscreen (waterplay-proof), breathable UV jackets (sweat-free cycling) - Pack foldable umbrella + disposable poncho (sudden showers; ponchos better for biking) 👗 Outfit formula: - Daytime: Tank + denim shorts + cover-up (photogenic & removable when hot) - Mornings/evenings: Light cardigan (lake breezes add cozy vibes) 💡 Hidden gear: - Portable fan (restaurant queue lifesaver) - Ziplock bags (for wet shoes/umbrellas to protect backpacks) July lakeside "pitfall-avoiding + easter egg" route 1. 6:30-8:00am Longkan Wharf - Must: Catch mist-draped sunrise—July's softer fog makes redwoods peek through with 90% fewer crowds - Easter egg: Wharf-side café opens at 7am—sip rose latte watching fishermen in wooden boats 2. 9:00am-12:00pm Xizhou Ancient Town - Must-eat: Freshly baked Xizhou baba (savory! aroma fills streets) - Hidden gem: Walk past rice fields to "Haishe Ecological Park" for secluded photo spots in reeds 3. 2:00-5:00pm Shuanglang Ancient Town - Avoid: Skip main street souvenirs—head to Yuji Island alleys for grandma-sold fresh yellow plums (sour-sweet, $0.7/bag) - Must-do: Rent electric boat ($14/hour) toward Nanzhao Island—water so clear you'll see weeds 4. 6:00-8:00pm Ideal State - Timing: Post-6pm! Sunset gilds blue-white buildings—skip harsh noon light for soft-glow photos July "heat-beating" food list 🍜 Cold must-tries: - Dali Old Town's "Zhaoji Meizi Well": Iced sour plum drink + rushan pastry (tart-meets-creamy) - Shuanglang's "Muxi Dali": Lemongrass chicken feet (fiery chili-lemon kick) 🦐 Seasonal catch: July's plump Erhai shrimp—try "steamed shrimp" at Caicun Wharf farmhouses with local chili dip (finger-licking sweet) July's "best-value" stays 🏡 Front-row lake views (secret discounts): - Shuanglang's "Awaiting Wind" B&B: Weekday stays include breakfast; third-floor terrace faces sunset 🏡 Secluded courtyards (local favorites): - Yinqiao Town's "Streamside Joy": Bai-style yard by rice fields—homemade rose jelly, fall asleep to frog songs Final tip: July's Erhai is "minor hassles, major rewards"—beat crowds by early starts + smart routes. Those post-rain rainbows, morning mists, and evening breezes? Exclusive prizes for savvy travelers~