#dalitravel

#springitinerary #龙龛码头 #LongkanWharf #ErhaiLakeViews #DaliTravel #YunnanScenery #ErhaiShore #HiddenGemDali #DaliSunset #SlowTravelChina As part of my spring itinerary in Dali, I visited Longkan Wharf (龙龛码头) — a peaceful lakeside spot along Erhai that felt far from the crowds yet full of quiet beauty. Arriving in the late afternoon, I found a wide, open view of Erhai Lake, framed by soft reeds and mountains in the distance. There were just a few locals and travelers enjoying the calm. The breeze from the lake was gentle, and the reflection of the sky in the still water created a dreamlike atmosphere. Compared to other busier spots around Erhai, this place was calm and photogenic. The golden hour light made it perfect for photos, quiet moments, or simply watching the waves roll in. Travel Tips: • Best time to visit: Late afternoon for warm light and peaceful ambiance. • Ideal for photographers: Wide-angle lake views and minimalist landscape shots. • No crowds: A great alternative to the more commercial areas around Erhai. • Bring water/snacks: Limited shops or vendors in the area. • Wear comfortable shoes: Some uneven stones and gravel paths near the lake edge. • Optional: Rent an e-bike from Dali Old Town and ride here along the lakeside. How to Get There: • By car or Didi from Dali Old Town: About 10–15 minutes. • By bike or e-bike: A scenic and easy ride along Erhai’s western shore. • Public transport: Limited; better to use a taxi or private vehicle. • Combine with: A stop at Three Pagodas of Chongsheng Temple, or a ride around Erhai’s lakeside roads.

#springitinerary #苍山感通索道 #CangshanCableCar #DaliTravel #SpringInYunnan #DaliScenery #GantongTemple #CangshanMountain #YunnanSpringItinerary #NatureViewpoint #MountainAdventure #SlowTravelChina As part of my Spring Itinerary in Dali, taking the Cangshan Gantong Cable Car (苍山感通索道) was one of the most scenic and refreshing moments of the trip. This cable car lifts you gently up the slopes of Cangshan Mountain, offering sweeping views of Erhai Lake, Dali Old Town, and the rolling green of the springtime hills. The ride itself is peaceful, with each second offering new angles of natural beauty. When I reached the top station, I took a short walk to Gantong Temple, a quiet and historic site nestled against the mountain. The spring flowers were beginning to bloom along the trail, adding color to the fresh mountain air. It’s a great activity whether you’re looking for views, light walking, or just a chance to escape the city buzz and enjoy nature from above. Travel Tips: • Perfect for spring: Clear skies, blooming flowers, and mild weather make this the ideal time to visit. • Go on a clear day: You’ll get the best lake and mountain views. • Wear comfortable shoes: While it’s not a long hike, there are some gentle trails near the top. • Bring a light jacket: Even in spring, mountain air can be cool. • Come early or late: Avoid midday crowds and enjoy softer light for photos. • Photography tip: Sit on the lake-facing side of the cable car for the best views going up. • Suitable for all ages: Great for travelers who want stunning scenery without strenuous hiking.

#cherryblossom25 #ChongshengTemple #ThreePagodas #DaliTravel #YunnanViews #SpringInDali #CherryBlossomSeason #TempleAndBlossoms #HiddenGemsChina #HistoricalChina #NatureAndCulture #崇圣寺 #三塔 #大理旅行 #云南风光 #大理赏花 #大理樱花 #春游大理 #樱花季 #古迹与花海 #打卡中国 Nestled at the foot of the Cangshan Mountains and facing the tranquil Erhai Lake, Chongsheng Temple and the Three Pagodas (崇圣寺三塔) is one of Dali’s most iconic historical and cultural landmarks. But if you visit in spring, you’ll witness an even more breathtaking side of this ancient site — a sea of cherry blossoms in full bloom that softens the centuries-old architecture with nature’s delicate touch. The moment you step into the temple grounds, you’re greeted by the striking sight of the Three Pagodas, standing tall and elegant against the sky — a testament to Dali’s rich Buddhist heritage. But it’s the cherry blossoms lining the path through the temple complex that truly steal the show. The walkway from the top of the temple down to the entrance is flanked by rows of cherry trees, their branches arched overhead like natural canopies of pink. As you walk beneath them, it feels like stepping into a painting — the ground lightly dusted with fallen petals, the air sweet with the faint fragrance of spring. With each breeze, blossoms flutter down like snowflakes, creating a soft, almost surreal atmosphere that makes you slow down and savor every step. Some sections of the path open up to wider viewing areas, where you can see the entire slope dotted with cherry trees, interspersed with temple roofs and stone stairways. It’s a harmonious blend of nature and architecture — tradition wrapped in bloom. Locals and visitors alike pause along the way for photos, quiet reflection, or just to sit on a bench and take it all in. There’s a quiet, meditative vibe that settles over the temple in this season. I took time to just sit and absorb the atmosphere — the scent of blossoms in the air, the soft hum of nature, and the distant toll of a temple bell. It’s the kind of peace that lingers with you long after you leave. For photography lovers, Chongsheng Temple (崇圣寺) in spring is a dream — every angle offers a harmonious blend of color, texture, and light. And for those seeking a deeper cultural experience, the temple’s history and spiritual ambiance make it more than just a scenic spot. Travel Tip: The temple complex is quite expansive and built along an uphill path. To make your visit more enjoyable, buy a one-way shuttle bus ticket to the top, then take your time walking downhill through the entire site. This lets you enjoy the best views — especially the cherry blossoms — at a relaxed pace. If you’re planning a trip to Dali, I highly recommend timing your visit with the cherry blossom season. Chongsheng Temple and the Three Pagodas (崇圣寺三塔) is not only a place to explore Dali’s past — it’s a perfect place to appreciate its natural beauty in full bloom.

Dali is an ancient city located in the plains between Erhai Lake and the Cangshan Mountains, which has the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain to the west of the city. With an elevation of 1,900 meters above sea level, the climate here is comfortably cool throughout the year. —Tourist Attractions in Dali— : Dali Ancient Town (大理古城) was once a prosperous capital of the Nanzhao and Dali Kingdoms. It has now become an important tourist city. : The Three Pagodas of Dali (大理三塔) are considered a symbol of the city. The Three Pagodas are located within the Chongsheng Temple complex. : Erhai Lake, also known as Nongsa by the Tai Lue and Tai people, is situated on the high plains of Dali, Yunnan, in the southwest of the People's Republic of China. It is the second-largest highland lake in China, after Lake Dianchi.

A Slice of Santorini in Dali, China - A Hotel Experience Like No Other Who said you need a Greek passport to experience the magic of Santorini? Welcome to this dazzling hotel in Dali, China, where you'll feel like you've stepped into a postcard from the idyllic Greek island! ## Stunning Santorini, No Flight Required! Just like in Santorini, the hotel is a delightful maze of white-washed buildings with rounded edges, cobalt blue domes, and balconies overlooking breathtaking views. It's a sight for sore eyes! You'll be pinching yourself to make sure you're not actually in Greece. ## A Room With A (Greek) View The rooms are just as charming. They're cozy and filled with natural light, just like those cute little houses dotting the cliffside of Santorini. ## Affordability Meets Luxury Now, you might be thinking, "All this sounds wonderful, but I bet it costs a fortune." Well, guess what? This hotel offers all the beauty and charm of Santorini without the hefty price tag. It's the perfect option for those who yearn for a Greek getaway but are on a budget. In short, if you've been dreaming about Santorini but your wallet is saying "not now," then this hotel in Dali is your answer. It's a place where dreams come true, Greek-style! So pack your bags, put on your best vacation outfit, and get ready to say "Yassas" to an unforgettable stay. Trust me, it's so much like Santorini, you may just forget you're actually in China! #staycation #travelinchina #dalitravel #dali

There are so many hidden gems we wouldn’t have found if we didn’t rent a car! Our local driver stopped at many places that weren’t full of tourists, took us to the picture perfect flower fields, scenic lake spots, and the villages where locals still share so much of the Bai culture. We also wanted to bring back some souvenirs, tie dye, Dali silver, tea etc. He was able to help us find more authentic places to buy and bring back our favorites! You have the car for 9 hours, to enjoy the drive through the mountains, forest and fresh air. We covered so much, and we’re able to see so much than we bargained for! If you’d like to add the driver his wechat ID is: ab51668899999 #summervacation #celebratewithtrip #dali #dalitravel #daliyunnan

This was a lovely walk through the old town where we found many stores and markets run by locals who shared their art, handmade products and delicious snacks and drinks with us. You can walk through the rice fields for a beautiful photo with the mountain in the back drop. You can also find many local ladies who will approach you to braid your hair with feathers or colorful strings! You can definitely spend a full half day here walking around through the museums and stores. #dali #dalitravel #xizhou #tripblazers #summervacation

Spending the Chinese New Year Holidays in Yunnan, and cane across this beautiful area in Dali, known as the Santorini Town of Dali, “Santorini Dali” 😍 This particular area over sees Erhai Lake, which is the most popular destination in Yunnan and i i dont see why not.. The area comprises of several Greek style villas and hotels with outdoor swimming areas which overlooks the the whole lake and trust me the views are spectacular 😍😍 You can take a shuttle bus up the town which costs 10 yuan per person and drops you off at the main attraction area where there is dozens of coffee shops and cafes overlooking the lake alongside hotel resorts..😍😍 Various alleys ways reminds you of when your traveling around Santorini as majority of the area is clean white and some parts are bricked walled and pebbles 😍😍 📍环海东路北50米 #newyearadventure #dalitravel #yunnan

Walk the streets and small alleys of the ancient city in Dali to find the best cocktails, delicious Italian food, rose flavored pastries, key lime pie, the tastiest street food and drinks and many handmade market goodies. We went in the afternoon and ended up staying all night, bar hopping listening to live music!#summervacation #passionpassport #dalitravel #dali

Location - Near Qili Bridge, Dali Town, Dali City, Yunnan Province, China. Getting There - Located approximately 5km away, it’s advisable to take a local didi from Dali Ancient City to reach Zhang Family Garden. Opening Hours - 8:00-19:00(daily) Entrance Fee - RMB90/adult Attractions - Known as the first park of Yunnan Province, Zhang Family’s garden is the typical Bai residential house(an AAAA scenic location😊). The garden consisted of Bai ethnic residential style courtyard with 3-side houses and a screen wall and a central yard with 4-small patios on each corner. Advisable to spend 3-4 hours exploring and admiring the Bai ethnic architecture history. #asiatrip #travelwithgeo #travelphotography #chinatravel #travelinspiration #yunnantravel #architecture #dalitravel #wanderlust

Location - Situated about 3.2km east of Dali covering an area of 250 square kilometers. Getting There - Grab a local taxi or didi to travel to Erhai Lake from Dali Ancient City(fees would be around RMB12). Attractions - Known as ‘sea shaped ear’ in chinese, Erhai is the second largest lake in Yunnan province. There are few activities that can be carried out; cycling around the Erhai lake, enjoying Erhai Lkae Cruise, visiting Erhai Park and exploring Little Putuo Island at the east of Erhai😊. #asiatrip #travelwithgeo #travelphotography #travelinspiration #dalitravel #chinatravel #yunnantravel #erhailake

Location - Cangping Street, Fuxing Road, Dali, Yunnan Province, China Getting There - Via Dali Airport(30km away from Dali Ancient City) or Dali Railway Station(approximately 17km away from Dali Ancient City). Attractions - A town full of historical culture which was first built in Ming Dynasty; also the ancient capital of Nanzhao Kingdom and Dali Kingdom. Less crowded and best time to visit would be within March to November(spring time). Food & Restaurants - Plenty of modern cafes and bars can be found within the ancient architectures in Dali Ancient city. Shopping - Able to find lots of local handmade products but be careful with the pricing(differs every shops😊) #asiatrip #travelwithgeo #travelphotography #yunnantravel #dalitravel #chinatravel #ancientcity

Longkan Gudu 龙眼古都 is located in Dali Longniche Village, Longniche Ancient Dudu is one of the landmarks of Longniche Pier. The Dragon Niche Ancient Du is a round arch with a historical architectural style, and it is also a scenic spot. It’s a place to gather after 3:00 pm rent a bike and enjoy the views. You can ride along the bike path , you can rent a beach style bike with flowers. Or a mountain bike, Children bikes are available. Cafes surround this street, you can grab a coffee and snack and see the sunset. 📍20 minutes from the ancient town going towards the lake. 🚕 Did type Longkan Gudu. You will have to walk , as cars can’t go in. 🚲 cost varies. #bikeridedali #summervacation #dalitravel #

We drove to Xizhou, and joined in the Three-course Tea Ceremony, the most popular among Bai people which is served for distinguished guests. They have a small theater and they serve three types of tea to their audience which represents the bitterness, sweetness and mixed-flavors taste of life. At the end of the show, people are free to join the performers on stage and dance with them. Guests can also walk around the place and learn about their culture and tradition. #couplestrip #dalitravel #yunnantravel #summervacation #summertrip

Dali Old City is such a wonderful place. You can walk around the place and check different restaurants (Western or Chinese). Cars aren’t allowed to enter in the vicinity and so do not bring lots of things. Our hotel is located in the area and so it was perfect for us to enjoy the entire night at Dali Old City. You can also try to wear their traditional costumes and take pictures but it is expensive. You have an option to choose with the package inclusion such as make up and official photographer. If you’re planning to go to Shangri-La, costume rentals there are cheaper. #couplestrip #dalitravel #yunnantravel #dalioldtown

Dali is a perfect destination for summer. The weather is so perfect but still, put on your sunblock for skin protection. You have lots to see in this place. They have the famous Erhai lake which is one of ghe seven biggest fresh water lakes in China. We also visited the 3 pagodas. We also went to Xizhou, and joined the Three-course Tea Ceremony, it is most popular among Bai people which is served for distinguished guests. They even invited the guests to dance with them. We had a local Tie Dye Workshop in Zhoucheng. We learned and made one by ourselves using natural dying solution (indigo leaves, flowers, tree barks). Our hotel was located in the old town. Cars are not allowed to enter the area so we called the hotel to pick up our luggages using toktok vehicle. At night, you can walk around the old town and try different food. Also, don’t miss to try Pu’er tea. It’s one of the best teas in China. #couplestrip #dalitravel #awesomepic #yunnantravel #yunnanethnicvilliage #oldtown #oldarchitecture

One of the seven biggest fresh water lakes in China, Erhai Lake. It’s a crystal clear lake with edible water flowers. The weather is perfect even in summer. Tourists can rent a bike or bring your own if you have to cycle halfway around the lake and back. Lots of people also jog or just enjoy the scenery along the lake by walking. Lots of prenuptial photos going on, nice cafes and area to explore. #couplestrip #dalitravel #yunnan #erhailake #summervacation

In Yunnan between the mountains and the great weather , one needs to enjoy the beauty from the top. A friend recommended this cafe inside Dali town , you can find it in Dianping. This coffee shop has several floors you can enjoy a cup of coffee and a treat. Of course the rooftop is the highlight. Over looks the entire Dali from its mountain to the Lake , a beautiful sight. Tangka· Bread Coffee (Dali Ancient City Renmin Road Branch) | 唐咖·面包咖啡(大理古城人民路店) 📍Location : Type of apple map Tangka 🕰 9:00 am - 9:30 pm #dalitravel #coffeeshop #expatravel

When you speak to the local people Dali Ancient Town is the city , it’s one of the must do when in Dali. You will find a unique mix of Bai People culture , modern Chinese thinking and a selection of cafes and shops. As I explored the ancient town I was in disbelief of the beauty around and mostly the mountains in the backdrop. You can enjoy the tie die clothing , and the local artisans. From grabbing a bite to eat , and sipping on some lemon tea this town has charm. 📍Location : You can enter through a few gates , note that the Nanmen Gate you will need to check your health code and Itinerary. I entered via the west gate no need. it’s about 25 minutes from Dali station. 🧋🥗Food / Drinks : Eating and Drinking in the city. I use Dianping for all these options. 📌Tanga · Bread Coffee (Dali Ancient City Renmin Road Branch) | 唐咖·面包咖啡(大理古城人民路店) ( Roof Top Cafe View ) 📌一杯大理 | Your Dali X Only Dali Dali drink 📌囍仓·Joy Ware | Shrimp Salad and Pumpkin Soup Many places to eat and western options in small alleys #dalitravel #dalifood#dalireview

If your in Dali, you surely need to visit the Arcadia Hotel & Cafe which is located in “Shuanglangzhen”, 1 hour didi ride from the city center 🤩 This area is know as the Greek Village of China, and I’m telling you words don’t do it justice, this cafe is an ideal place to go before the sunset as you can enjoy the variety of food and drink options they have on the menu. 🤩 The cafe has two floors each with its unique views and picturesque scenery, especially during the sunset with the sky turns into tones of pink and purple with dark clouds and the reflection pictures you can take just makes the evening a lot more exciting 🤩🤩 The minimal and modern design of this place makes you feel your not in china anymore as the staff are friendly and attentive and the whole atmosphere is just breathtaking and relaxing.. If your in Dali, you have to spend atleast 2 nights in this area so you can spend one of your evenings at this Cafe/Restaurant 🤩🤩🤩 📍Arcadia Hotel & Cafe 🕰 10:00 - 00:00 #staycation #lakeview #dalitravel #dali #sunset #holidayvacation

Address - Weidu Inn- Dali (by the lake-only 10mins drive to Dali ancient town) Ambiance/Facilities - Coffee shop, all white interior cafe, chill summer vibes Highlights - coffee shop, right by the water, lovely seating, chill live music in the street, bikes, and waffles Avg. Price per Person - $25/room-$75/room Rating - #dali #dalitravel #travelwithkids #familytravel #lake #chillandrelax

This mostly plant based restaurant is located in the old town of Dali next to foreigners street. The chef - Lee, is very motivated and passionate about gathering THE best ingredients! I had the chance to hang out with him for a while and he is great! The food - I had cauliflower patties and gnocchi with spinach and celery sauce. It was beyond delicious!!! The location- Next to foreigners street. (look at the we chat location photo I took). The restaurant is located in an old yellow watchtower. The view - After your meal, do yourself a favor and go upstairs for THE best view of Dali’s old town. Enjoy your meal !!! #deliciousrestaurant #deliciousfood #ThisIsChina #vegetarianfood#vegan #dalitravel #china

How to get there - I took a DiDi from my hotel located in the old town of Dali. It took about 6mins. It’s definitely walkable from Dali’s old town but that day was a rainy day so I decided to go with a DiDi. Location- It is located next to Canshan National Geopark’s cableway. (I didn’t have the chance to go there because the weather wasn’t good) Hours - Open everyday from 8:30 to 17:30. I recommend going to Tianlongbabu for about an hour and a half. There isn’t that much to see but it’s still a cool place. I wanted to try some of the VR stuff but no one was working there at the time of my visit which I thought was very disappointing and strange. You also get to see staff members wearing costumes! #urbanexplorer #solotravel #dali #dalitravel #china #chinalife #yunnan #yunnantravel #exploreasia #movie #themepark #ThisIsChina

The Foreigner Street is located in Dali’s old town. There are plenty of nice restaurants serving western style food as well as many little shops! There’s an amazing mostly plant based restaurant located right next to Foreigner Street. (I have a separate post about that restaurant). Hotels - TONS are located in Dali’s old town! The street is very short so you’ll only stroll around for about 15-20mins. There are also very good pictures opportunities! #dalitravel #solotravel #ThisIsChina #dali #oldtown #china #yunnan #yunnantravel #urbanexplorer #chinatravel #exploreasia #yunnanbestdestination

Getting There - Three Pagodas are located in Chongsheng Temple (About 1 km northwest of the Dali Ancient City.) It was raining that day so I took a DiDi from my hotel located in the Ancient City (it took about 10mins). Attractions - Three Pagodas are made of three ancient independent pagodas forming a symmetrical triangle. There are also some temples and the area is beautiful! Hotels - You can get a hotel nearby. Strongly recommend getting a hotel in the Ancient City. Food & Restaurants - There’s a restaurant next to the tourist site serving traditional Chinese food. There are also a few snacks stand in the tourist area. If you’re visiting Dali City, this site is a MUST! #dali #dalitravel #china #exploreasia #ThisIsChina #solotravel#chinadestination #ancientarchitecture#historicculture#culturalattractions#nationalpark

Getting There - I took a DiDi from Dali railway station. It took about 30mins or so. You can also easily do a day trip from Kunming. The train ride is a little over one hour so it’s very convenient. I do suggest you stay for a night or two but a day trip is also possible! Attractions - Ancient and historic buildings are one of the highlights in Dali Old Town. I suggest you just walk around and take in the beauty and great atmosphere of the old town! Hotels - I stayed at T-Dali in the old town. I strongly recommend this hotel. Although I was traveling with the PSB receipt, check-in was very quick and easy! Food & Restaurants - There are TONS of restaurants and cafes! I had lunch at a mostly plant based restaurant and it was delicious. (Check my other post about that restaurant- Worth a try)! Shopping - Many shops where you can buy souvenirs and little snacks. There is a Yunnan coffee store that is very amazing! #ThisIsChina #dali #dalitravel #solotravel #china #chinatravel #exploreasia #oldarchitecture #oldtown #daliphotos #ancientarchitecture#historicculture#café#culturalattractions

Address - No.3, Fukangli, Yincang Road, 610000, Dali Ambience/Facilities - The hotel was gorgeous and had a wonderful courtyard in the middle. Breakfast was available and it also had a small rooftop overlooking Dali. Highlights - we loved the courtyard, and the staff were brilliant! They helped us to organise a car from Dali to Lijiang. There weren’t many guests when we were there so we also got a free upgrade from a double room to a suite. The beds were super comfy compared to others we have experienced within China. It was centrally located in Dali and a 5 minute walk from lots of great restaurants. Starbucks also delivered - an extra bonus! Avg. Price per Person - 4 nights was ¥1,495. Rating - we really enjoyed it! 8/10. #summer #summervacationtravel #dali #daliantravel #dalitravel #yunnan #café#naturalwonders#roadtrip#hotelstay#urbanexplorer

Nothing can be perfect, as the saying goes 📖. Perfection is objective and all our life we just keep trying to attain that; a never ending goal. But when it comes to numbers and math 🤓, it is perfect. Be it the size, scale and calculation 🧮 to make something work; math has always has to be perfect. Otherwise, we wouldn't have achieved the success of packing our stuffs to 🤖Mars. Somehow our ancestors has realized and started this way long ago, in the name of buildings and architecture. These temples in three Pagodas monastery where the main Buddha is resided, is embraced by the small temples. As I took the picture 📸 from the very last Temple top. I can clearly see the symmetry in how this is built. It is a human wonder to be such precise even back in the days when no computer was there. This temple is such a marvel🤩 #dalitravel #pagoda #summervacation#hikingtrails#urbanexplorer

It has always been a retrospective look, when it comes to history. And so standing in front of this AAAAA rated UNESCO cultural heritage site, made me connect different things from Chinese history🍜🎎. First of all, the number of layers are 16 for the middle one and 10 for the side ones. But most of the Pagodas in China has an odd number of layers, except in here. That's because the Bai minority people built this under the 苍山 （Cangshan) mountain, and making a huge civilization once upon a time, with Erhai lake🏞️ on the other side. The perfect spot of the Pagoda is also that it's in the center of the Cangshan mountain at the highest point. The total view looks like a king seated on his throne 🤴 #dalitravel #couplestrip #maydaytrip#urbanexplorer#happylaborday

I have to share our day around erhai lake. while traveling Dali we heard about a possible day trip to the lake nearby, and that exactly what we decided to do! we rented bicycles and started to cycle around the lake. the lake is amazing, perfect blue color and the mountains around it make the scenery so beautiful 😍 there is a very convenient bicycle road that circles the lake. we did a part of this trail and cycled ack to where we started. we had a wonderful time and I definitely recommend anyone who is in Dali to visit Erhai lake for a day #cycling #lake #dalitravel #bluesky #chinesearchitecture