The 10 Best Experiences in Yunnan's Charming Ancient Town
Dali Old Town is one of China's most atmospheric ancient towns — a maze of cobblestone streets, white-washed Bai houses with painted gables, flowing streams, and the dramatic backdrop of Cangshan Mountain and Erhai Lake. Here are the best things to see and do in and around this beloved Yunnan destination.
Start by exploring the town's Ming-era layout. Enter through the iconic South Gate (Cheng'en Tower) and walk north along the main thoroughfare. Climb to the top of the Wuhua Tower for panoramic views over the old town rooftops toward Erhai Lake. The walls and towers are most atmospheric at dusk when they're illuminated.
Renmin Road and Huguo Road (Foreigner's Street) are the liveliest lanes, lined with cafes, craft shops, and live music bars. Browse for tie-dye textiles, silver jewelry, and handmade instruments. Stop at a local cafe for Yunnan coffee — the province is one of China's premier coffee-growing regions. The vibe is relaxed and international.
Just outside the old town, the Three Pagodas of Chongsheng Temple are Dali's iconic landmark — three graceful pagodas dating from the 9th-10th centuries. The reflection pond at the entrance offers the classic photo. The temple complex and its gardens are worth 2-3 hours. For the best view, climb the stairs behind the pagodas for a panorama of town, lake, and mountain.
Dali is the heart of Bai ethnic cuisine. Must-tries: 'Three-course tea' (a bitter-sweet-aftertaste ceremony), chenggan (pickled vegetables), steam-pot chicken, and milk fans (crispy dairy snacks). Head to the food street in the evening for grilled fish from Erhai, Dali-style barbecue, and the famous 'rushi' (goat's milk) dishes. The night market buzzes with local flavor.
Rent a bicycle or e-bike and ride along the eastern shore of Erhai Lake. The route from Caicun Pier past Xizhou and to Shuanglang offers spectacular lakeside scenery, Bai villages, and photogenic piers. A full loop is about 120 km (1-2 days); a half-day ride to Xizhou and back is a perfect outing. Sunrise along the shore is magical.
Beyond the town: Xizhou Village (famous Bai courtyards and the three-tea ceremony), Zhoucheng (the tie-dye capital), Xizhou market (mornings), and the more remote Fengyangyi. The Cangshan cable car offers mountain views and temple visits. For history, the nearby Gantong Temple and the ancient Tianlong Babu film town (for 'Demi-Gods and Semi-Devils' fans) are options.
1. Dali is at 1,972m — mild year-round but cool at night; pack layers. 2. The old town is pedestrian-friendly; bikes and e-bikes are best for longer distances. 3. Book accommodation early during Chinese holidays. 4. The Three Pagodas are most photogenic at sunrise or sunset. 5. Bargain politely at markets. 6. Dali connects easily to Lijiang (2h by high-speed train), Kunming, and Shaxi — ideal for a multi-day Yunnan itinerary.
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