Dali

Dali, located in Yunnan Province, China, is a charming city steeped in history and culture, renowned for its stunning natural scenery and rich heritage. The Ancient City of Dali, once the capital of the Nanzhao Kingdom and the Dali Kingdom, preserves a wealth of ancient architecture and traditional dwellings, reflecting a strong ethnic vibe. Erhai Lake, often referred to as the "pearl of Dali," features serene waters and picturesque surroundings, making it an ideal spot for relaxation. The Cangshan Mountains form a natural backdrop with their mist-covered peaks and lush vegetation, offering great opportunities for hiking and photography. Dali is also home to the unique Bai culture, where visitors can savor authentic Bai cuisine and enjoy traditional Bai music and dance performances. Whether you're seeking historical insights or breathtaking landscapes, Dali is a destination that promises unforgettable experiences.

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Popular Attractions

  • Dali ancient city

    Dali ancient city

    Dali Ancient City, also known as Zicheng (the “Purple City”), lies to the east of Erhai Lake and rests against the Cangshan Mountains to the west. It is one of China’s 24 famous cities of historical and cultural significance. The city’s history dates back to the Tianbao era of the Tang Dynasty, when King Geluofeng of the Nanzhao Kingdom built Yangqiemie City as his new capital. The fortified city had a gate on each of its four sides—east, west, south, and north—each topped with a gate tower, while corner towers stood at the four corners. The two Chinese characters for “Dali” above the South Gate are rendered in calligraphy by Guo Moruo. Designated as a National AAAA-level tourist attraction, Dali Ancient City was included in the inaugural list of “Model Towns of Aesthetic Excellence” in October 2019. Its main attractions include the South Gate Tower, Wenxian Tower, Wuhua Tower, and the North Gate Tower, among others.

  • The footprints temple tower

    The footprints temple tower

    The Three Pagodas of Chongsheng Temple are a national 5A-level tourist attraction in Dali City, Yunnan Province, China. Originally constructed during the Nanzhao Kingdom period of the Tang Dynasty, the site now features the main Qianxun Pagoda along with two smaller pagodas to its north and south. As an iconic historical monument, it integrates Buddhist culture, historic architecture, and natural scenery. Once a renowned royal monastery of the Nanzhao and Dali Kingdoms, it witnessed nine kings of the Dali Kingdom renounce their thrones to become monks and practice Buddhism there. The temple also served as the inspiration for the Tianlong Temple in Jin Yong’s martial arts novel “Demi-Gods and Semi-Devils,” offering visitors the sensation of stepping into the wuxia world crafted by the celebrated author.

  • The double gallery

    The double gallery

    Shuanglang Town sits on the northeastern shore of Erhai Lake, hugging its shimmering waters and offering distant views of the nineteen peaks of Cangshan Mountain. It brings together the finest scenery of both Cangshan and Erhai in one place, earning it the well-known title of “the premier town for Cangshan–Erhai vistas.” The town’s eclectic architecture is another major draw, featuring landmarks such as Dancer Yang Liping’s Sun Palace and Moon Palace, and Painter Zhao Qing’s Qinglu Residence. When visiting Shuanglang, it’s recommended to stay overnight. On sunny days, sunlight filters through the clouds and reflects off the lake, creating a sparkling, serene atmosphere that’s deeply relaxing.

  • Butterfly Spring

    Butterfly Spring

    Butterfly Spring, the spring water is as clear as a mirror. Every year, when the Butterfly Festival comes, thousands of butterflies fly from all directions and fly around the spring. The butterfly is as big as a palm and as small as a copper coin. Countless butterflies are also hooked on their feet and connected to their whiskers, and they hang from the big acacia tree to the water. Colorful and spectacular. Butterfly Spring is one of the famous tourist attractions. It has beautiful scenery and clear spring water. It is unique to a rare spectacle in the world (Butterfly Festival). With the spread of the film "Five Golden Flowers", which reflects the life of the Bai people, the strange landscape of Butterfly Spring has become even more famous at home and abroad.

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