Xizhou, Dali

Xizhou is a town under the jurisdiction of Dali City, Dali Bai Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan Province. Here's a detailed introduction: Geographic Environment - Location: Located in the northern part of the Dali basin, 32 km from Xiaguan. It borders the coast of Erhai Lake to the east, leans against the three peaks of the Cangshan Mountain to the west, connects with Wanqiao to the south, and adjoins Shangguan to the north. - Topography: The terrain slopes from west to east, with an altitude of approximately 2,096 meters. The basin area is about 60 square kilometers, and flat slopes account for 36.8% of the total area. - Climate: Xizhou has a low-latitude plateau monsoon climate, characterized by mild temperatures year-round, small temperature differences, moderate rainfall, an average annual temperature of 15°C, and a frost-free period of 217 days. History and Culture - Historical Evolution: Xizhou's history dates back to the Han Dynasty. In 109 BC, Emperor Wu of Han established Yizhou County in the Erhai area, which governed Yeyu County. The former site is located in present-day Xizhou. Through the Nanzhao, Yuan, Ming, and Qing dynasties, its name and administrative system changed. In 1987, it was established as a town. - Cultural Heritage: Xizhou is one of the core areas of cultural integration in the multi-ethnic regions of southwest China. It boasts national intangible cultural heritages such as Bai tie-dyeing techniques and Bai embroidery. Tourist Attractions - Bai Residential Architecture Complex: Xizhou is said to have more than 88 Bai courtyards. Famous residential buildings from various historical periods can be found here, such as the "Seven-Foot Book House" of Yang Shiyun from the Ming Dynasty, the Zhao Tingjun Courtyard from the Qing Dynasty, and the Yan Zizhen Courtyard from the Republican era. - Sifang Street: The heart of Xizhou Ancient Town, Sifang Street is home to numerous traditional shops and snack stalls. Visitors can savor local delicacies and purchase unique souvenirs. - Xizhou Rice Paddies: The rice paddies offer different scenery in different seasons. In spring, the canola flower fields are fragrant; in summer, the wheat fields are lush and vibrant; in autumn, the rice paddies turn golden; and in winter, the fields are bare, creating beautiful landscapes together with the Bai residential buildings. Local Specialties - Xizhou Baba: A traditional local pastry with sweet and savory options. It has a crispy crust and a soft filling. - Clay Pot Rice Noodles: Rice noodles, meat, and vegetables are cooked in a clay pot with rich broth, resulting in a delicious and flavorful dish. - Fried River Shrimp: Fresh river shrimp are coated in batter and fried until golden. Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, it's a common street snack.