Xizhou Ancient Town 1-Day Highlights: Must-See & Must-Eat Guide!

Just returned from Xizhou - this Bai ethnic town just 30 minutes from Dali Ancient City perfectly balances local charm and commercial convenience. One day is enough to explore, here's the ultimate guide: 📍 Transportation * Taxi/Ride-hailing: 30min from Dali Ancient City, ~¥40-50 * Shuttle Bus: Catch "Xiaguan-Eryuan" or "Xizhou" bus at 📍Cangshan Gate (Dali Ancient City), ¥7-10, 40min to town entrance (wave to stop). 🔥 Must-Visit Spots 1. Yan Family Compound: Bai-style mansion masterpiece (¥20 ticket) with exquisite wood/stone carvings - don't miss! 2. Corner Tower: Iconic rounded yellow building - prime photo spot! Best light at dawn/dusk with fewer crowds. 3. Xizhou Yellow Wall + Rice Fields: Photogenic yellow walls against seasonal views (rapeseed flowers in Mar/green rice in Jul/golden rice in Oct). Cafe inside for scenic breaks. 4. Alley Exploration: Discover quiet old houses & unique shops at Shiping Street/Dajie Lane for authentic Bai life. 5. Tie-Dye Workshop: Hands-on experience at "Lanxu" etc. (~¥100) - fun and meaningful. 🍜 Must-Eat * Xizhou Baba: Get authentic ones at 📍Sifang Square old shops (like Fuxing Posu), savory/sweet versions (¥10 each = meal!). * Qingliang Xiaowu: Traditional milk popsicles (¥6-8), pure dairy flavor. * Bai Cuisine: Try sour-spicy fish, stir-fried aquatic vegetables, fried rushan cheese (¥50-80/person). Shengpi (raw pork skin) for the brave. 💤 Accommodation Options * Linden Centre: High-end heritage stay, prime location. * Ancient Town Inns: Converted old houses, great value. * Rice Field B&Bs: Stylish outskirts properties with views. ⚡️ Pro Tips * Best seasons: Mar (rapeseed) / Jul-Aug (green rice) / Sep-Oct (golden rice)! * Timing: Full day enough! Best photos before 9am/after 4pm (avoid midday sun). * Wear: Comfy shoes + serious sun protection (hat/sunglasses/sunscreen)! * Lazy Route: Sifang Square baba → Yan Family Compound → alleys → Corner Tower → yellow wall fields → tie-dye/cafe → Bai dinner. Xizhou's charm lies in slow wandering - don't rush!