Cangshan Hides Its Secrets, Erhai Catches the Tears

In the hustle and bustle of life, we often feel like machines wound up tightly, running endlessly, accumulating countless worries and fatigue deep in our hearts. It wasn’t until I set foot on the land of Dali that the majestic Cangshan and the vast Erhai gave my tense heart a chance to breathe. At dawn, as the first ray of sunlight pierced the horizon, I stood at Longkan Pier. Before me, the surface of Erhai was painted in golden-red hues, shimmering like a dream. Flocks of seagulls soared above the water, sometimes skimming the surface, sometimes darting into the sky, their cheerful cries seemingly expressing their love for this lake. In the distance, Cangshan was shrouded in mist, revealing only a hazy silhouette, like a mysterious giant silently guarding this land. At that moment, all my troubles vanished into thin air, and I immersed myself in the breathtaking scenery of the lake and mountains, finding an unprecedented sense of peace. Cycling along Erhai, the gentle breeze carried the freshness of the lake and the fragrance of flowers and grass. Passing through Xizhou Ancient Town, I couldn’t resist stopping by a café nestled by the wheat fields, ordering a cup of rich coffee and savoring a bite of crispy-on-the-outside, soft-on-the-inside Xizhou Baba. Here, the unique slow pace of life in the Bai ethnic town was palpable. Time seemed to slow down, and every corner exuded tranquility and harmony. Walking into Dali Ancient Town, the smooth cobblestone streets bore the marks of time, and the buildings along the way were steeped in history. Sunlight filtered through the gaps in the eaves, casting patches of light on the ground. The aroma of tea wafted from old tea houses, mingling with the indigo scent of tie-dye fabrics. Artisans meticulously crafted silver jewelry, pouring their heart and soul into every detail. As night fell, lanterns lit up the ancient town, resembling stars scattered across the sky. Folk singers performed on the streets, their heartfelt melodies carried by the breeze, touching the hearts of every passerby and immersing them in the charm of this earthly paradise. During my stay in Dali, the most heartwarming and comfortable experience was at the Dali Haitian Taji Homestay. Located at No. 78, Group 13, Caicun Village, Dali Town, Dali City, it’s just a few steps away from Erhai’s Caicun Pier, boasting an exceptional location. The rooms at the homestay are cozy and inviting, with soft mattresses and high-quality bedding ensuring sweet dreams every night. The rooms are well-lit, with morning sunlight gently waking me up as it streams onto the bed. Thoughtful amenities for children, such as kids’ toiletries and small slippers, make it especially family-friendly. The common areas are full of delightful surprises, with a tea area featuring exquisite tea sets for brewing a cup of hot tea to unwind, and a book lounge stocked with a wide range of books, from literary classics to travel guides, allowing me to immerse myself in the world of knowledge during leisure moments. The homestay owner is warm and hospitable, like an old friend. Every day, they offer complimentary delicious yogurt, sweet flower cakes, and freshly brewed coffee. Sipping aromatic coffee, enjoying tasty flower cakes, and sharing stories with travelers from all over the world made for a truly pleasant and beautiful time. In Dali, embraced by Cangshan and Erhai, and surrounded by the cozy atmosphere of Dali Haitian Taji Homestay, I entrusted my worries to the mountains and waters, letting fatigue drift away with the Erhai breeze. This place felt like a haven for the soul, helping me rediscover inner peace and a renewed love for life.