Dali

Dali Ancient City, a UNESCO-listed gem, is a 1,400-year-old Bai ethnic town in Yunnan. Built in 1382 during the Ming Dynasty, it was once the capital of the Nanzhao and Dali Kingdoms. Today, its cobblestone streets, white-walled Bai houses, and tranquil vibes make it a must-visit cultural hub.

Erhai Lake, a shimmering highland gem in Yunnan’s Dali Prefecture, is China’s seventh-largest freshwater lake. Nicknamed "Yunnan’s Emerald," this crescent-shaped lake (136 km circumference, 1,972m elevation) has nourished Bai ethnic communities for millennia. Designated a National Scenic Area in 1994, it’s famed for its azure waters, seabird colonies, and Cangshan Mountain views.

Cangshan Mountain, a 4,000-meter-high range south of Dali, Yunnan, is a UNESCO Global Geopark. With 19 peaks and 18 creeks, it forms a dramatic backdrop to Erhai Lake. Famed for marble peaks, alpine meadows, and rare flora (like the azure Cangshan gentian), it’s sacred to the Bai people and a hiker’s paradise.

The Three Pagodas of Chongsheng Temple, a UNESCO-listed Buddhist complex in Dali, Yunnan, stands as one of China’s most iconic historical and architectural treasures. Built during the Nanzhao and Dali kingdoms (8th–13th centuries), the pagodas symbolize the region’s rich Buddhist heritage and enduring cultural legacy. The site spans 25,000 square meters and features three pagodas, a grand temple hall, and serene gardens, attracting millions of visitors annually.

Shuanglang Ancient Town, nestled along the shores of Erhai Lake in Dali Bai Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan Province, is a picturesque destination renowned for its serene beauty, Bai ethnic culture, and traditional architecture. Established during the Tang Dynasty (618–907) and later thriving as a maritime trading hub, the town retains its charm with cobblestone streets, whitewashed dwellings, and breathtaking lake views. Spanning 3.6 square kilometers, it offers a harmonious blend of natural landscapes and cultural heritage, attracting travelers seeking tranquility and authenticity.