2025 Jianchuan Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in April)

My dears, if you are also looking for a quiet and poetic ancient town to let your soul rest for a while, Shaxi Ancient Town will not disappoint you. I spent two days in Shaxi. Time passed as slowly as a poem, and the sweetness of life was hidden in every corner. - 📸【Photograph】Internet celebrity camera position Day 1️⃣: 🌉Yujin Bridge: The morning mist in winter is amazing, and the branches of the trees are sprouting tender green buds in this season. The ancient bridge spans the Heihui River, with mountains and water as its backdrop. The river reflects the trees and cattle and sheep on the shore, and any photo taken looks like an oil painting. 🎭Ancient stage: In the morning, the sun shines on the wood carvings, and the upward shot shows their grandeur; in the afternoon, the light and shadows are charming, and sitting on the steps will give you a full sense of atmosphere. 📚 Pioneer Bookstore: In the afternoon, sit by the window in the store, with coffee and books as your companions, and get the same seat as Li Xian. - Day 2️⃣: 🌄Beilong Village Observation Deck: Get up early and overlook the panoramic view of the ancient town, which is shrouded in morning mist and smoke, with scattered houses and a wide-angle view to capture a dreamlike scene. 🛣Sifang Street, Sideng Street: The evening afterglow sprinkles on the cobblestone road, and the center of the street rotates 360° to capture the shops, passers-by, flowers and plants, and the atmosphere is full of fireworks. ☕Youfeng Restaurant: You can check in the words "Shaxi" at the door. 🏡Mountain Breeze Courtyard: A tree house in a fairy tale. - 🛏About accommodation This time we stayed at the "Dao Xiangban Villa" near the ancient town. We could see large areas of rice fields and rapeseed flowers outside the window, as well as scattered villages at the foot of the mountain, which was very photogenic.

"Open a door and cross six hundred years. There are no "attractions" here, only living history. Grandpa sat on the doorstep smoking a pipe. The shavings from the carpenter's shop flew like snow, Time in Jianchuan is much slower than anywhere else. " Jianchuan is located between Dali and Lijiang. It is a well-preserved ancient Bai city with a very low degree of commercialization. The city is full of local residents and there are almost no tourists. Both the ancient town and the new town are very clean and the people are very enthusiastic❤️It's my first time here and I really like it 🌈Game guide: 1. Jianchuan Ancient City City Walk ▫️Route: Ximen Street - Jiama Inn - Zhaozhong Temple - Jianchuan National Museum - Jingfeng Park - Jianyang Tower ✅Ximen Street: There are many ancient buildings and former residences of celebrities ✅Jia Ma Inn: the most photogenic spot on the whole street ✅Zhaozhong Temple: The Ming Dynasty wood-carved caisson is breathtakingly beautiful! Look up and see the "Book Roof" hiding four classics. The romance of Bai craftsmen is hidden in every inch of carving. ✅Jingfeng Park: A secret place with towering ancient cypresses, ancient temples from the Yuan Dynasty and pavilions from the Republic of China, sitting under the eaves at dusk and listening to the wind chimes will heal your soul ✅Jianyang Tower: In the center of the ancient city, the ancient stage is very beautiful when it is lit up at night ▫️The ancient city has a unique blues moment. In the evening, you can climb the ruins of the ancient city wall to overlook the blue tiles, white walls and distant mountains, or you can quietly wait for the lights to come on near Jianyang Tower. 2. Visit the woodcarvers ▫️Jianchuan is the "Hometown of Chinese Woodcarving", recommended: - Diannan Town, visit the woodcarving family workshop and experience carving small objects (appointments must be made in advance) -Zhao's Woodcarving Workshop, the master will tell you about the Bai ethnic totem culture behind the woodcarving 3. Bird watching at Jianhu Wetland ▫️Winter (November-March) is the season for migratory birds. Bring a telescope and you may encounter black storks and red-crested pochards by the lake. It is suitable for photography enthusiasts. ▫️The lakeside scenery is great and you can camp🏕️ 4. Yangcen Township: 30 minutes by car, an undeveloped ancient village with Ming Dynasty garrison relics and old houses with earthen walls. Occasionally, shepherds can be seen walking through the fields. 5. Thousand Lion Mountain: 3,268 stone lions squatting from the foot of the mountain to the clouds! The largest lion king is 25 meters high. Climb to the top and overlook the Jianchuan Basin. The sea of ​​clouds is like a fairyland. 🍜 Local cuisine ▫️Wang Ji Liangfen: Sold for 60 years by three generations! This is the only internet-famous store in the ancient city. It is the only place where you can experience the feeling of being crowded. Pea flour with secret hot sauce, sour and spicy, appetizing, 5 yuan a bowl and you can eat as much as you want! ✅Hand-cut Huagu rice: beautiful and delicious ✅BBQ set meal: includes grilled breast fries, bait cubes, blood sausage, tofu and vegetables, with great value for money. The homemade rose jam is amazing, sweet but not greasy, and you can see large pieces of rose petals, it's real stuff ✅Butter tea: Different from the one in Tibet, the one here should be improved, no strange smell, very delicious ✅You can try other beef patties, thin bean powder, and traditional baba ▫️Shanlaotui Hotpot Restaurant: Recommended ham slices, silver rolls, and buckwheat cakes ▫️Jianchuan Tubawan: Experience Bai ethnic banquet dishes, hot and sour fish and lily dumplings are must-try ▫️Early morning market: Nanmen Market opens at 7am, try the double-capped hat, try butter tea with buckwheat cakes, and buy some wild dried mushrooms, the price is very cheap 💡Tips 1️⃣ The ancient city is full of cobblestone roads, so be sure to wear comfortable flat shoes 2️⃣ Jianchuan is 2,100 meters above sea level, with strong ultraviolet rays, so bring sunscreen; the temperature difference between day and night is large, so bring a thin down jacket 3️⃣Accommodation: The first choice is the century-old Bai ethnic minority old house B&B in the ancient city! Live in a carved wooden building with an average price of 100 per person, and listen to the rain hitting the tiles at night 4️⃣Respect customs: Avoid stepping on the threshold of Bai people’s houses, and do not touch other people’s torches at will during the Torch Festival 🚗 Transportation: - Jianchuan has no airport or train station. It is recommended to drive from Dali or Lijiang (about 1.5 hours drive) or take a bus (there are shuttle buses from Dali Xiaguan Bus Station/Lijiang Bus Station, the ticket price is 30-50 yuan). -Inside the ancient city: Walk or rent an electric bike. The ancient city is not big, so it is suitable for a slow stroll.

Yunnan Shaxi Ancient Town Stepping into Shaxi Ancient Town feels like entering a small world forgotten by time. There are no large crowds of tourists here, only the quietly flowing Heihui River, the mottled bluestone roads, and the Sifang Street that bears witness to history. Walking in the ancient town, you can see well-preserved caravan stations, stages and old houses, and you can almost hear the sound of horse bells from the former caravans echoing in the alleys. There are no overly commercialized shops here. Instead, there are handicraft shops, teahouses and lazy cats, exuding a leisurely and relaxed atmosphere everywhere. The most surprising thing is the slow pace of Shaxi. Sit down in any cafe and watch the sunlight shining on the roofs of the ancient town, and time seems to become softer. In the evening, the setting sun casts a golden glow on the old street, and the whole town is as beautiful as a painting. Shaxi is not just a travel destination, but also a place where people can really slow down and savor time. #2月好地方2025 #Shaxi Ancient Town #Yunnan Travel #Ancient Town #China Travel #Tourism #Cultural Heritage #Photography Check-in #Niche Attractions #Slow Life #Rural Scenery #Ancient Tea Horse Road #Travel Photography #Travel Diary #travel

#2024TravelReview ☕️Because I went to Shaxi Ancient Town, I wanted to check in at the same coffee shop as Li Xian. 🌹When I was reading Xiaohongshu, there was a lot of green outside the window. It is indeed located halfway up the mountain. Sitting in the cafe, you can see the entire view of Shaxi. Now it's yellow. 😘Suggestion: If you want to check in, you can wait until August, it may be more beautiful~ ✨But the environment in other places is still very good when you go there. 🍃The overall style is antique There are a lot of 🌵succulents inside, and 📷a lot of camera positions for checking in~ ☕️At the window, order a cup of coffee and look at the scenery outside the window, it's quite relaxing. Of course, you can't miss such a place, it also has a great atmosphere. 🚗Suggestion: Drive there by yourself, it's a long walk. ✨Or you can take a 3-wheeler to get there, and you can bargain for 10 yuan per person ❤️Advantages 1⃣️Comfortable environment, large location, and every seat is a camera position 2⃣️On the halfway point of the mountain, you can see the whole view of Shaxi 3⃣️Not many people, suitable for daydreaming and taking good photos 4⃣️Same as Li Xian! ! Fans rush~ 🚫Disadvantages 1⃣️It’s not so beautiful if you go there now, you can wait a little longer 2⃣️The transportation is very troublesome 3⃣️The price is high and the taste is very ordinary. 🆕Summary: If you just want to experience the atmosphere, you can go. If you want to take pictures or eat the food, it is not recommended. You can wait until August to September to take pictures. 📍Location: Hualong Village, Shaxi Town 💰Per capita: 50

#100waysoftravel Explore the breathtaking countryside of Shaxi by bike, a perfect way to experience this historic town’s scenic landscapes and rural charm. Pedal along peaceful paths lined with rice paddies, grazing cattle, and traditional farmhouses. Stop by ancient temples, cross old stone bridges, and marvel at the majestic mountains framing the valley. The journey offers a rare glimpse into the daily lives of local farmers and shepherds, as well as Shaxi’s centuries-old heritage on the Tea Horse Road. Tip: Rent a bike from one of the town’s local shops, and start early to enjoy the cool morning air. Pack water and snacks for the ride, as well as a camera to capture Shaxi’s stunning landscapes.

#100waysoftravel Uncover the timeless beauty of Shaxi Old Town, a hidden gem along the ancient Tea Horse Road in Yunnan. Unlike the bustling tourist hubs, Shaxi remains a serene village with traditional wooden buildings, cobblestone streets, and a vibrant local market. Wander around Sideng Square, a UNESCO-restored area, and visit the ancient Xingjiao Temple for insights into the town's history. Don’t miss the Friday Market, where villagers from surrounding areas gather to sell produce, handicrafts, and local delicacies.

Yunnan has always been a popular tourist destination, but if you think Dali Ancient Town and Shuanglang Ancient Town are too crowded, then you must know this ancient town in Dali, Shaxi Ancient Town, and see the real windy place. ♥️About Shaxi Ancient Town⬇️ This is an ancient town with a history of over 2500 years. 20 years ago, Shaxi was listed as "the only surviving ancient market on the Tea Horse Road" in the "World Heritage List of Endangered Buildings". With the help of the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology, the ancient market and village have been well restored and protected. ♥️How to get there⬇️ Self-driving Car rental Chartered car Public transportation is not very convenient Take a bus from Lijiang or Dali Bus Station to Jianchuan Bus Station (1.5-2 hours) Then take a rural green minibus from Jianchuan Bus Station to Shaxi Ancient Town (40 minutes-1 hour) 【Must-see in Shaxi Ancient Town】📷 ✅Ancient Stage It is the center of Shaxi Ancient Town and the most distinctive building on Sifang Street. There are also several ancient trees in the middle. ✅Temple Deng Street Listed by the World Monuments Fund as one of the 101 World Endangered Sites Worth Attention ✅Yujincheng Bridge In autumn and winter, in the morning, sunlight shines through the treetops, and you can see the morning mist rising from the water surface. ✅Grandma Arui's Shop Next to the ancient stage, there is a local grandma's handicraft workshop, the persimmon cake is delicious ✅Pioneer Bai Nationality Bookstore It is the "most beautiful rural bookstore" transformed from the former village granary. Behind it is the [Pioneer Poetry Tower] ✅Half Mountain Coffee Take the sightseeing yellow car from [Yujincheng Bridge] to get here, located on a hillside

🍋Day 1 Arrive Kunming 📍Stay - Lavende Hotel - Night Market 🍋Day 2 Kunming To Dali (2.5hrs High Speed Rail - HSR) 📍Stay - Mu Yun Flower House) 🛵 Rent Electric Scooter/car Go Ard City - Butterfly Spring Park - Dali ancient old town 🍋Day 3 - Cangshan mountain (3 pagodas & Chongsheng temple ) - Visit Lake Erhai Must Try Food 🤤Wild mushroom hotpots 🤤Grilled yak cheese 🤤Cross Bridge Noodle 🍋 Day 4 Dali to Shaxi Old Town (2hrs Taxis) 📍Stay : Shaxi Chenjia Homestay - Shaxi ancient old town (Square street, Sidend street,Yujin bridge, the ancient stage) 🍋Day 5 - Shibaoshan mountain - Buddhist temple Grottoes (20mins taxi) 🍋Day 6 -Shaxi To Lijiang (2hrs taxi) 📍Stay -Nilv Inn - Visit Friday Market of tea horse road in the morning at Shaxi -Black dragon pool park -Lijiang Dayan old town 🍋Day - 7 - Jade dragon mountain(10-11:30) - Blue moon valley (lunch 11:30-1:30) - Watch impressed lijiang show (2 -3pm) 🍋Day 8+Day 9 To Tiger Leaping George (2hrs bus to entrance) 📍Stay - Tea Horse Guest House -Hike & overnight at guesthouse 1ND -Take 3:30 bus to Shangri-La (3hrs bus) 🍋Day 10- Shangri-La 📍Stay - Yun Yue Yard -Pudacuo national park - Tortoise hill with - Buddha temple & largest prayer wheel at Dukezong ancient town -Songzanlin monastery Check out my another post to find out what are the must try food in Shangri-la!! (🛵 Can rent bike/car or taxi to go around ) 🍋Day 11- Day trip to Balagezong (Book tour) -Balagezong Grand Canyon & Glass bridge view point 🍋Day 12- Back To Kunming with HSR ( 4:30 hours ride) 📍Stay - Fairyland hotel - Kunming Night life near hotel 🍋Day 13-Kunming -Stone forest -Yuantong temple 🍋Day 14- Fly Home 🏠 #shangrilachina #kunming #dali #dalifood #china #yunnantravel #shangri-la #shaxiancienttown #yunnan #chinatrip

The winter Shaxi has morning fog and dusk. Every early winter, it becomes even more beautiful like a painting~ The temperature is comfortable, and the scenery is beautiful. In the winter of Shaxi, there is an unpredictable wind. Every day you can see a grand sunrise and sunset, and the villagers who are busy sowing in the fields. In another month, you can see the colorful auspicious clouds every day. Shaxi Ancient Town is the only surviving market on the Ancient Tea Horse Road, a truly living secluded ancient village, simple, pure, half worldly, half paradise! When you come here, you will unconsciously slow down. ⛰【Attractions Guide】 📍Detailed address: Shaxi Ancient Town, Jianchuan County, Dali Prefecture, Yunnan Province 🚗Traffic guide: Self-driving or group tour 🕙Opening hours: All day 💰Ticket price: Free 🌟Highlights: Temple Street, Sifang Street, Yujin Bridge, Ancient Stage, Pioneer Bookstore

Once again, I marvel at the beauty of Dali, which was generated after watching the TV series 'Go to the Place with Wind'. Every location in the drama makes people yearn for, and the guesthouse opened by Xu Hongdou in the last episode is the reason why I came to Dali specifically. This place is surrounded by mountains and rivers, as if it is isolated from the outside world. If you come to Dali, don't miss Xilinyuan Hotel (Dali Shaxi Store). Hotel environment: The hotel is located in the Shibaoshan Park, facing the Shilong Village across the lake. It is nestled in a secluded paradise by the mountains and waters, providing a rare rural vacation experience. This is the quiet time and golden exterior building I yearn for. The hotel uses a traditional rammed earth structure, occupying a hilltop, but only has 10 villa rooms. Their appearance presents a Morandi sunset yellow, which is very suitable for taking pictures and gives a sense of grandeur. I particularly like the restaurant and library because they can enjoy the entire lake view, which is simply breathtakingly beautiful. Even if you live in seclusion in the mountains and forests, you need a high-quality life. The rooms are not only spacious but also equipped with floor heating throughout the house and L'Occitane bath products. Welcome fruit, free mini bar, and goodnight hot milk are the highlights of the spare parts. Every day there are butlers leading guests to participate in various activities, the service is very meticulous and thoughtful. Every staff member is very enthusiastic, making people feel at home. There are some attractions worth checking in nearby: 1. Shibaoshan Forest Park: You can hike and meet monkeys on the way. 2. Stroll in Shilong Village: This Bai ethnic village is a low-key treasure. 3. Shaxi Ancient Town: An old and charming small town. Such a secluded secret realm is really worth a special visit! If you come to Dali, you must come here to explore! Detailed address: Inside Shibaoshan Park, Jianchuan County, Dali Bai Autonomous Prefecture Travel strategy: It is recommended to drive by yourself (about 2 hours drive from Dali, about 35 minutes drive from Shaxi Ancient Town). Weekday price: About more than 2000.

The dreamland of camping🌌✨||| Brilliance blooms Here, you can feel The twinkling stars The rippling lake The lush forest The soft lawn And the colorful autumn No camper can resist The moment when you open the tent in the early morning You will be shocked by this beautiful scenery! So beautiful that it takes your breath away! The bright moonlight illuminates the solitary boat! Step out of the house, surprises are waiting for you😊 Dali Jianhu Camping Site Just 1 hour and 40 minutes drive from Dali Ancient City

During the trip, record the small moments of happiness in life📸 The old couple taking pictures of each other in the Begonia Sea in Guizhou📷 The little friends playing in the cherry garden in Pingba, Guizhou The cartoon tree house in Shaxi, Dali and the lazy dog lying under the tree house🐶 The Shaxi Chaplin dancing alone in front of the ancient stage in Shaxi, Dali Grandma A'Rui in Shaxi has been sitting outside the shop sewing for ten years The Yujin Bridge in Shaxi under the clear sky The eye-catching moment waiting for the torch festival in Dali Ancient City People sitting under the trees by the Erhai Lake to cool off Or the people returning by the Erhai Lake in the sunset. The small moments of happiness in ordinary life are all those memorable moments✨

A decade ago, the tranquility and allure of Shaxi left a profound mark on me❤️. This year, I returned to this beloved place with my family in tow. Every day, strolling the ancient streets with rich coffee in hand☕, time seemed to stand still. However, this trip wasn’t all easygoing. Bringing Sienna here ignited many debates. Some believe that traveling with children might disrupt their routines and isn’t suitable for them. Yet, we believe that travel can offer children unparalleled experiences and perspectives🌍. In Shaxi, Sienna had the chance to connect with nature🌱 and experience a life distinct from the city. Seeing the curiosity and excitement in her eyes, we felt it was all worth it. But we also faced challenges, such as ensuring Sienna’s safety and comfort. It really got me thinking about the balance between travel and family life. What do you think? Is traveling with children a good idea, or should we wait until they’re older? Eager to hear your views and comments! #timetotravel

It may be a little out of the way but I can't stress how lovely Shaxi Ancient Town is. Full of handicrafts, cafés, bakeries, restaurants and bars it's a wonderful place to spend a day or two. I stayed for 2 days and wished I'd stayed longer！There are even vegan restaurants. It is midway between Lijiang and Dali so visit on the way between either two. Getting there is a little difficult, it takes a train and then a bus, but once you're there ask about local minibusses or drivers. They'll drive you directly to Dali for ¥80. #passionpassport#summervacation#tripblazers#awesomepic

Shaxi is commercial, but still in a nice way. People are relaxed and happy. Nice restaurants and small bars abound. Of course there are handicraft shops, but there seems to be no connection with local crafts people. The streets are small and car free. There’s a river and water area. For foreigners and locals alike, there’s Peter’s Kitchen - an absolute gem of a bakery, that was always jam packed when I visited. Hungry Buddha is a super vegan option, near the large tree. Be careful, the pizzas are quite large. The trip recommended to me was Shibaoshan temples and grottoes. Again, I recommend Komoot hiking maps and further, to do my route in reverse. Start near Shaxi and hike steeply upwards, marvelling at the rock formations and occasional sculptures until you reach the temple and grottoes. From there, cross the valley to more sculptures and rock features. Then find the paths towards Jinding temple area with craggy grottoes and a lot of monkeys. Down the road to the exit, the nunnery up to the side provides food by donation. It was pretty tasty too! Overall Shaxi, is a fantastic place to chill and hike for a couple of nights. Highly recommended! #yunnan #grottoes #chilled #relaxed

Only 2 hours drive from Dali or a little bit less from Lijiang and you are in the most beautiful ancient town of Yunnan. It’s small, not as commercial as Lijiang, with many beautiful spots within the ancient part and beyond. History is very interesting, let me only mention that Shaxi served as a stop along the Tea and Horse Caravan Trail (between Tibet and Yunnan) for several centuries until mid 1900’s. You can easily enjoy here during 1-2 days trip, or stay for a week and peacefully recharge yourself. I recommend to cycle to couple of places like Mountain Café (great coffee and the view!), Shaxi Bai Ethnic Book Store (for books, obviously, and souvenirs) - or hire tuktuk if you’re a bit… lazy:) #yunnan

A magical ancient town full of wonder and incredible beauty where there is a clear stream flowing down the center and all the aged design house owners take incredible care and pride in their gardens to add a rainbow of colors and personality. It’s long been called the Switzerland of China and after our trip to see this with our own eyes - I can confirm it’s really a special must see destination when wishing to explore ancient beauty outside of the big cities. Within the city there are cute little coffee shops, traditional food, original and immaculately designed home stays / boutique hotels which are a must try, to absorb yourself in the atmosphere. It you a fortunate to visit in Spring you will be able to admire the river surrounded in flowers on both sides hugging the river. Take some time to admire the old arched stone bridge that is perfect during golden hour in the afternoon and also great for photos. Make sure to pass by the old souvenir shop in the main square where a friendly little old lady who might just be as old as the town, helps you buy little mementos and strawberries. Whether you are a tourist or a local, Shaxi Ancient Town should be on your travel list. This really was one of the most beautiful places I have visited so far. You will not regret it.

Getting There - Shaxi Ancient Town is a pleasant surprise sitting between Dali and Lijiang. It’s easy to find local mini bus that takes you either from Lijiang or Dali straight to the town for a reasonable price. It is a famous attraction among Chinese as once it played an important role as a bustling trade point on the Tea Horse Caravan Road. My friend and I rode motorcycle all the way from Lijiang to Shaxi and stayed at a local guesthouse that provides a nice view of the entire area. Be warned that prices for everything are slightly higher than Lijiang or Dali but a visit is definitely worth it. Many people fall in love with how tranquil this town is as my friend and I did as well. In the town, the ancient stage, temples, alleyways, houses, village gates, bridges, and traditional fairs all remain intact.

We started our trip in the morning from Dali with the direction Lijiang. Somewhere in the middle between Dali and Lijiang is an ancient town of Shaxi. Shaxi was an important stop on the old tea route, which lead from Yunnan to Burma and Tibet. Just after we got off the highway, there was a police filter, where they checked our travel codes and temperature. Beware that you still have mountain road ahead and it is quite whirly. Also the road to Shaxi is not in great shape. Although I think they are working on an alternative way to get there. When we arrived in Shaxi, we were grated by a town, which is still waking up. The pavement, the houses, the shops, the temple... Everything seemed to be out of a fairytale. And the elderly people were really eager to get to talk to you. I stopped to look for directions and a man came to tell me where I can find a toilet and also asked about where I am from, if we were already engaded in a discussion. Xingjao Temple was decorated with red lampions. Sideng market square too, and all shops had red stripes of blessings, door gods and red lampions. Everything was dressed up nicely for the new year, but there was no sight of the firecrackers in the old town. I think they all got cleaned up already. I really liked the town. I think next time we should stay at least overnight there. #tigeryear2022 #yunnan #shaxi #tearoad #familyholiday

Getting There - I cycled and the route is fantastic from Lijiang. there are also busses from Lijiang and Dali. Attractions - a stunning ancient town with amazing cobbled streams and rivers. the beat ancient town I’ve visited. Hotels - a great range of home stays and hotels. Food & Restaurants - some amazing choices from local foods to vegan pizzas at Hungry Buddha. Shopping - lots of shops for souvenirs and clothing. a couple of shops for food and toiletries in the center #summervacation

When I first saw Shaxi came in from the ancient town of Shaxi, I saw a yellow-yellow wall with the first sight of Shaxi I thought the name was good. I took a picture at the door, and then I realized that this is a net red in Shaxi Ancient Town. Restaurant environment is simple, very taste of Shaxi, the boss is very literary, the raw materials in the store are all pollution-free products specialties Bai trio, bacon, sausage, ham, good-looking, favorite Ham signature musk beef, a bit like the taste of Sichuan cuisine, beef tender fried bean skin, a big one, suitable for children overall, the experience is good, next to a small bar, In the evening, there are singers singing. Name: First see Shaxi private kitchen per capita consumption: about 60 yuan

Shaxi is like Lijiang more than ten years ago. Neat stone road, there is a clear stream on both sides of the street, the water is unbelievable. Rows of shops are also old houses, wooden carved doors and windows, some are snack bars, some sell clothing, some are hardware department stores, there are also one or two bookstores, coffee shops, cute shops, neither People feel too commercial, and they don't make tourists feel too primitive. It maintains a proper balance between old and simple tastes. Ancient stage is Shaxi is also the landmark building of the temple on the street. The tree on the open space in front of the stage is old, and it has its appearance in the old photos of the last century. At that time, the tree was still relatively Fine, not as leafy as it is now, standing on the ground. The opposite of the ancient stage is the Xingjiao Temple built in the Ming Yongle period. It and the ancient stage form the center point of Shaxi. In the early years of the information picture, the people here come and go, the horses shuttle constantly, than Qingming Shanghe map will be a bit more lively. The world is changing, the flow of years is like a white pass, and the bustling market of the bustling city has now vanished, leaving only the bluestone board to tell the silence of the land. Shaxi's inn, all of them are exquisite and have a mood, the flowers and trees are sparse, and the public space has comfortable and interesting couches. When people see it, they want to go in and have a cup of tea and spend a long time. I hope that I am an innkeeper, guarding a yard of flowers, boil water, cooking tea, watching the clouds.

The ancient town of Shaxi is different from Wuzhen. It is popular in the ancient town of Jiangnan. It still retains its original features due to inconvenient transportation. Although it has been a lot of prosperity since four years ago, there are still not many people. Ancient temples, ancient stage, ancient shops, ancient red sandstone streets, centuries-old trees, ancient lanes... all of which fascinate us. Sifang Street is the most characteristic place in Shaxi. Under the blue sky and white clouds, the uneven stone road, occasionally there will be puppies walking. The Shaxi without the tour group is more free. Everyone who comes here seems to be distracted. They played chess on the street, or bought some pine mushrooms on the street, or just wandered aimlessly, and we did the same, taking pictures while walking, stopping and stopping.

Shaxi Ancient Town is a place that is not particularly commercialized. It is located in the middle of Lijiang, Lijiang, and it is also a place of paradise. Because it is not so commercial, the popularity is not so high, so visitors are not too much. However, because the tourism industry has been vigorously developed in recent years, there are many hotels and hostels built. This stay at the hotel is one of the best inn in Shaxi. Inn is a courtyard pattern, the old building has been remodeled, both local characteristics and unique style. The layout of the hotel is still the local residential mode, facing the lobby. When the business is not busy, the waiters are sitting in the yard and enjoying the sun. If you come here, it is very lively. On the right hand side of the lobby is a sofa and tea table. Reading tea here, reading Chinese calligraphy and calligraphy on the wall. The overall decoration of this inn is very Chinese, and the decoration from the exterior to the interior is the keynote. I am especially fond of this place, probably also love the style here.

🍱Food Recommendations: Must-try Shaxi Rice Cakes🍥, Braised Chicken🐓, Grilled Milk Fan, Free-range Chicken Soup Hot Pot🥘. The sweet Shaxi Rice Cakes have a rose fragrance, while the savory ones are full of meat flavor🍣; Braised Chicken uses local free-range chicken🐔 with rich broth; Grilled Milk Fan is creamy and delicious; Free-range Chicken Soup Hot Pot offers authentic flavors 🚦Transportation Guide: 🚍External Transportation: First travel to Dali or Lijiang. Both Dali and Lijiang bus stations have direct buses to Shaxi, taking about 2 hours and 1.5 hours respectively. 🚖Internal Transportation: The ancient town is small and walkable. Take a taxi or tricycle to visit surrounding attractions 📸Photo Spots: 🏠Ouyang Mansion: 200 meters from Sideng Street, full of historical traces, with photo spots featured in "A Chinese Ghost Story." ☕️Mint Cafe: Take photos at the Shaxi wall outside; it's the "Youfeng Restaurant" in the drama. To take photos inside, order a coffee for about 30 yuan. 📼Ancient Stage: Facing Xingjiaoxi Temple with a prominent old locust tree. Next door is Grandma A-Rui's shop where you need to make a purchase to take photos. 🌉Yujin Bridge: Most beautiful at sunrise and sunset. If you're lucky, you might encounter street musicians in the morning mist. 📚Avant-garde Bookstore: Converted from an old granary with wooden structure, where sunlight streams in creating a warm atmosphere. 🎙Poetry Tower: Located behind the cafe opposite the Avant-garde Bookstore. The top of the tower offers sunshine and gentle breeze, very relaxing. 💈Tie-dye Workshop: Take photos with your colorful tie-dye creations for vibrant pictures. 🗃Travel Preparations: 🌈Documents: Remember to bring your ID card and any discount cards. 🌈Clothing: Large temperature differences between morning and evening, so bring a thick jacket; arrange light clothing and sun protection for daytime. 🌈Skincare & Sun Protection: Pack high SPF sunscreen, sun hat, sunglasses, and moisturizing skincare products - UV rays are no joke here. 🌈Medications: Prepare insect repellent, digestive medicine, and motion sickness pills as needed. ⚠️Notes: 💞Weather changes quickly, carry an umbrella⛱ 💞Many stone-paved roads, wear comfortable flat shoes.

In recent years, Shaxi has become popular due to the TV show "Where the Wind Blows" starring the "Fairy Sister." Actually, I had known about this ancient town long before, but because of the long journey and lack of other attractions nearby, I gave up visiting. This time, I was driving through Yunnan from Kunming to Lijiang, and made a special detour to this ancient town. Unlike the ancient towns of Dali and Lijiang, even though Shaxi has become famous, there aren't too many tourists here, which adds to the tranquility of the ancient town. The uneven stone-paved roads with deep and shallow cart tracks everywhere showcase the once bustling prosperity of the ancient Tea Horse Road; the dark yellow adobe houses and weathered wooden walls silently tell stories from long ago; while the stylish cafes scattered around and rows of advertising signs at street corners inject new life into the ancient town... I regret not coming to Shaxi earlier, a place with peace and harmony etched into its very core. Walking on Yujin Bridge in the early morning, both people on the bridge and the curved arches form reflections, creating harmonious and peaceful images on the river surface. The ancient town hasn't yet awakened, with just a few pedestrians strolling along the streets, very leisurely and relaxed. I love this slow-paced lifestyle, walking around casually, not rushing for time, free from the burden of paperwork. It's quite nice to let time pass slowly while doing nothing.

Tired of the May Day holiday crowds? Then come to Shaxi! This hidden ancient town in Dali features well-preserved ancient theaters and temples where time seems to slow down, allowing you to fully enjoy peace and comfort. Accommodation recommendation: • Shaxi Qingye Holiday Inn. Located in Changle Village, experience comfortable vacation living amidst the fields. The inn provides pickup and drop-off service within the ancient town, which is very convenient. The room quality is excellent, and I love the overall design style—you can take great photos everywhere! The breakfast is abundant and tastes amazing. 📸 Must-visit attractions: • Ancient Theater: Built during the Qing Dynasty, it's the cultural landmark of the ancient town. Sometimes you can watch Bai minority whip dance performances and experience the unique charm of Bai culture up close 💃 • Yujin Bridge: Early birds catch the best views! Arrive at 7:30 AM when the morning mist spreads across the landscape. With incredible luck, you might even see the silhouettes of horse caravans—every photo will be stunning 📷 • Xingjiao Temple: A Ming Dynasty architectural treasure with exquisite murals and the marvel of male and female cypress trees. The rich historical atmosphere will make you marvel at the wisdom and craftsmanship of the ancients 🧐 • Pioneer Bookstore: Converted from an old granary, it's full of artistic atmosphere. Order a coffee, immerse yourself in books, and enjoy a leisurely time 📖 • Halfway Coffee: Offering a 270° panoramic view of Shaxi basin with excellent visibility. Order a latte, daydream by the window, and enjoy a relaxing afternoon—so therapeutic ☕ • Market day: A perfect opportunity to experience local life. From 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM, the market is filled with specialty snacks and handicrafts, creating a lively atmosphere full of local flavor 🎈 🚶‍♀ 3-day in-depth tour itinerary: • DAY 1: Arrive at Shaxi Ancient Town → Experience the historical charm of the Ancient Theater → Visit Ouyang Mansion to appreciate the exquisite Bai architecture → Visit Grandma Arui's shop in the evening → Listen to wandering musicians at Sifang Street and experience the ancient town's nightlife 🎶 • DAY 2: Early morning sunrise at Yujin Bridge → Experience horseback riding along the Tea Horse Road, becoming a "caravan trader" for a day → Visit Pioneer Bookstore in the afternoon → Enjoy the scenery at Halfway Coffee and relax 🌄 • DAY 3: Experience Bai tie-dye in the morning and feel the charm of traditional crafts → Browse the Friday market in the afternoon and hunt for special souvenirs → If you have energy, hike to Shadengqing Grottoes → Return in the evening, concluding your wonderful journey 🧳 💡 Travel tips: • Best season: March to May is ideal, avoiding the rainy season while enjoying the beautiful spring farming scenery 🌱 • Outfit suggestions: Cotton and linen clothes or Hanfu look great in photos. Remember to wear flat shoes as the stone paths can be difficult to walk on 👟 • Souvenirs: Black pottery tea sets and handmade leather goods from the horse caravans are excellent choices 🎁 In Shaxi, you can set aside your fatigue and rediscover inner peace and beauty. Come enjoy a leisurely time here during the May Day holiday~

As the May Day holiday approaches, while most people flock to popular tourist spots, Shaxi Ancient Town in Yunnan quietly awaits those who truly appreciate it. This sole surviving ancient market town along the Tea Horse Road has no noisy shops or over-commercialized development—only weathered stone paths, a solemn ancient theater stage, century-old horse inns, and a slow-paced lifestyle where the echoes of horse hooves may have faded but remain vibrant. Here, you can escape the crowds, experience authentic Western Yunnan culture, and feel the healing power of a place "forgotten by time." 1. Few Tourists, Beautiful Scenery: A Perfect Hideaway Unlike the shoulder-to-shoulder crowds in Dali Old Town and Lijiang, Shaxi receives fewer than a thousand visitors daily. During the May Day holiday, while Cangshan Mountain and Erhai Lake may be overcrowded, Shaxi's mornings and evenings still belong to elderly horsemen and sunbathing cats and dogs. 2. A Living Fossil of the Tea Horse Road Once an important salt and tea trading post on the Tea-Horse Road between Yunnan and Tibet, Shaxi still preserves its ancient market, old gates, and temples. Horse hoof prints embedded in the stone slabs continue to tell the legendary stories of the horse caravans. 3. Beautiful in All Seasons, Spring Special Early May marks the end of Shaxi's rainy season, with wildflowers blooming everywhere, newly green rice fields, willows swaying by Yujin Bridge, and morning mist intertwining with cooking smoke—every casual photo becomes a film-worthy pastoral scene. II. 2-Day Immersive Itinerary: Unlocking Shaxi's Hidden Corners Day 1: Time Travel, Touching Caravan Memories • Morning: ◦ Pioneer Shaxi Bai Nationality Bookstore: Take a high-speed train from Kunming to Jianchuan Station (2 hours), then a 40-minute taxi to Shaxi. Head first to "China's most beautiful rural bookstore," converted from a century-old granary. Enjoy coffee and browse books about horse caravans, experiencing the artistic atmosphere where old meets new. ◦ Ancient Theater & Market: Walk 10 minutes to Sifang Street, admire the ornately carved theater stage, and imagine the Yunnan opera performances during caravan homecomings. The stone-paved ancient market still retains grooves from caravan trading days—look for horse hoof prints for photo opportunities. • Noon: ◦ Shibaoshan Grottoes (15 km from Shaxi): A World Cultural Heritage site featuring peak Buddhist rock carvings from the Nanzhao Kingdom. Avoid tour groups and have a private moment with thousand-year-old Buddha statues, feeling the weight of history. • Afternoon: ◦ Yujin Bridge Sunset: Shaxi's landmark and an important post on the Tea Horse Road. After 4 PM, the setting sun gilds the ancient bridge, with the Heihui River sparkling below and rice fields and villages creating beautiful silhouettes on the opposite bank. Bring a tripod for "long exposure water flow + ancient bridge" shots. • Evening: ◦ Night Reading at Pioneer Shaxi Bai Nationality Bookstore: Join the bookstore's "Fireside Talks," listen to the owner's stories about Shaxi's horse caravans, or spend the mountain evening with a good book by the gentle light of the fire pit. Day 2: Deep Experience, Be a "Horse Caravan Leader" for a Day • Early Morning: ◦ Heihui River Cycling: Rent a bicycle (30 yuan/day) and ride along the Heihui River to Shibaoshan. Along the way, you'll pass rice fields, Bai villages, and shepherds—truly feeling like "walking in a painting." • Morning: ◦ Ouyang Mansion Exploration: The best-preserved Qing Dynasty Bai residence in Shaxi, with "Eight Immortals Crossing the Sea" stone carvings at the entrance and poetic paintings on the screen wall, hiding mysteries everywhere. Ask locals quietly, and you might hear secrets about "the Ouyang family once having horse caravan leaders." • Noon: ◦ Stone Pancakes & Free-range Chicken Hot Pot: Enjoy an authentic lunch at "First Sight Shaxi" guesthouse. Stone pancakes are crispy outside and soft inside, while the chicken hot pot, simmered with mountain spring water, is incredibly delicious. • Afternoon: ◦ Shaxi Surroundings Hiking: Choose the "Changle Village—Hualong Village" route, passing through terraced fields and walnut forests. Visit a tie-dye workshop to experience Bai tie-dyeing firsthand (about 80 yuan/person). III. Must-Do Experiences in Shaxi: Insider Tips to Avoid Tourists 1. Attend an Authentic Rural Market Every Friday is Shaxi's traditional market day, when local Bai and Yi people bring mountain goods and herbs to trade. Buy wild mushroom dried goods, ham, or try freshly grilled rushan cheese (5 yuan/skewer). 2. Stay in a Century-Old Horse Inn Recommended guesthouses include "Jixia Shan" or "Wuyue Nian," converted from Qing Dynasty horse inns that preserve stable relics, with rice fields just outside your window. Fall asleep to insect sounds at night and wake up to folk songs sung by descendants of horse caravan leaders. 3. Participate in Bai Folk Customs If you happen to visit during the Third Month Fair (lunar calendar), join in making Jiama paper or learning Bawang Whip Dance. Intangible cultural heritage inheritors will teach you to use carving knives to print blessing patterns on wooden boards as souvenirs. IV. Practical Guide: Transportation, Accommodation, and Tips Transportation • Main Routes: ◦ Kunming → Jianchuan Station (2 hours by high-speed train, 145 yuan), then taxi to Shaxi for about 40 yuan. ◦ Dali → Shaxi (200 yuan for private car round trip, 60 yuan/person for shared rides). • Surrounding Areas: Shibaoshan and Jianchuan Ancient Town are within 1 hour by car. Accommodation • High-end: Jixia Shan SUNYATA Hotel (converted from stables, pool overlooking Yujin Bridge, about 1,500 yuan/night) • Value for money: Wuyue Nian · Jixia Shan (horse caravan-themed guesthouse, about 400 yuan/night) Food • Must-eat List: ◦ Free-range Chicken Hot Pot (Shibaoshan farmhouse restaurants, 60 yuan/person) ◦ Shaxi Rice Noodle Rolls (A-Peng Snacks, 5 yuan/bowl) ◦ Matsutake Chicken Rice Noodles (limited supply during May Day, 20 yuan/bowl) • Warning: "Bai Eight-Course Meal" restaurants in scenic areas are overpriced. Better to find private kitchens recommended by locals. Important Notes 1. Shaxi has large temperature differences between day and night. For May Day, bring light jackets and sun protection clothing, plus a folding umbrella for the rainy season. 2. Respect local customs: Don't step on thresholds when entering Bai courtyards, and ask villagers before taking photos. 3. For morning photography at Yujin Bridge, arrive before 6 AM, or the best spots will be "occupied" by locals doing morning exercises. V. Why Shaxi Is Worth a Special Trip In Shaxi, time isn't meant to be chased but to be "wasted." You can spend half a day squatting by Yujin Bridge watching ants work, listening to elders tell stories about their horse-driving youth; or you can sit on the second floor of Pioneer Bookstore, watching farmers working in rice fields through floor-to-ceiling windows, unable to tell whether you're in 2024 or in the horse caravan era a century ago. There's no anxiety about "must-see attractions" here, only authentic life itself. When you share a pot of Pu'er tea with sunbathing elders under the old locust tree in Sifang Street, you might suddenly understand: true travel was never about checking off coordinates on a map, but about letting another way of life take root in your heart. Pre-departure Checklist: • Documents: ID card (prepare Yunnan health code in advance) • Equipment: Comfortable hiking shoes, folding umbrella, camera (even smartphones can take great photos) • Mindset: Slow down, and be ready to be "healed" by Shaxi.