[2025 Dali Attraction] Travel Guide for Archway in Xizhou Ancient Town (Updated Jul)

It is suitable for walking slowly and looking at the wheat fields without being too crowded.

#喜洲古镇 #大理旅行 #云南旅行 #慢生活 #古镇风光 #田园风光 #小众旅行 #自然之美 #文艺旅行 #旅行日记 #XizhouAncientTown #DaliOldTown #YunnanHiddenGem #TravelYunnan #ChinaHeritage #AncientTownCharm #CulturalExplorer #HalfDayAdventure #HistoricChina #BeautifulDestinations #TravelInspiration #WanderTheWorld #AsiaTravel #HiddenGems #ExploreChina During my trip to Dali, I spent half a day exploring Xizhou Ancient Town (喜洲古镇), and it was absolutely worth it. Compared to the more touristy parts of Dali, Xizhou feels much more authentic and laid-back, offering a glimpse into traditional Bai culture. The town is famous for its beautifully preserved Bai-style architecture — white walls, intricate carvings, and colorful paintings. Walking through the narrow alleys, I could feel the rich history and vibrant local life all around. There were small family-owned shops, local markets, and charming cafes tucked into old courtyards. One highlight was visiting the Yan Family Compound (严家大院), an old mansion showcasing the wealth and artistry of Bai merchants from the past. Another must-see is the iconic Corner Tower (转角楼), a stunning historic building that perfectly represents Xizhou’s traditional charm — its unique architecture makes it one of the most photogenic spots in the town. When it comes to food, make sure to try the local snack Xizhou Baba (喜洲粑粑) — a freshly baked, crispy flatbread that’s both savory and slightly chewy. I also highly recommend the famous 鲜花饼 (flower pastry), delicately sweet with a light floral aroma — a true taste of Yunnan’s unique flavors. Both snacks made perfect companions while wandering the town. After exploring the ancient streets, I found a beautiful café right next to the rice fields. Sitting there with a cup of coffee, looking out over the endless green paddies with the Cangshan mountains (苍山) in the background, was incredibly peaceful. It was the perfect way to slow down, enjoy the breeze, and take in the natural beauty of Xizhou. A half-day was just enough to soak in the atmosphere, have a relaxed walk around, try some local food, and enjoy a quiet moment by the fields. If you want a quieter, more authentic side of Dali without the crowds, Xizhou Ancient Town (喜洲古镇) is a wonderful choice. Quick Tips Before You Go: •. Best Time to Visit: Morning or late afternoon for cooler weather and softer light for photos. •. How to Get There: About a 30-minute drive from Dali Old Town (大理古城) — easy by car, taxi, or bike. •. Must-See: Yan Family Compound (严家大院) and Corner Tower (转角楼). •. Must-Try Snacks: Xizhou Baba (喜洲粑粑) and 鲜花饼 (flower pastry). •. Café Tip: Look for cafes near the rice fields for the best view which is perfect for a coffee break and photo ops. •. What to Bring: Sunscreen, a hat, and comfortable walking shoes The sun (UV) can be strong even if it’s cool! •. Travel Vibe: Relaxed and photogenic — ideal for slow travel lovers.

1. Xizhou Ancient Town Wheat Fields 📍Location: Around Xizhou Ancient Town, near the Xilin Yuan Homestay 📸Highlights: The wheat fields complement the Bai ethnic houses in the ancient town. The tender green wheat fields with red walls and gray tiles create a super atmospheric vibe! ✨Best Time to Shoot: Morning or evening, the light is super soft, and you can easily take great photos! 💡Tips: The architecture of the ancient town is very distinctive, so you can take more photos of the cultural landscape. ---- 2. Langqiao Youfeng Rice Fields 📍Location: Near Langqiao Bridge 📸Highlights: The wheat field area is super large with a super wide view, making it suitable for shooting panoramic views of the wheat waves. It feels great to stand on the ridges! ✨Best Time to Shoot: Around 5:30 pm, the sunlight is stunning! 💡Tips: You can pair it with some retro props, such as a straw hat and a camera, and pretend to be strolling in the fields. ---- 3. Xizhou Wheat Field Train 📍Location: Xizhou Wheat Field Train boarding point, near Xiangli Coffee 📸Highlights: The little train travels through the wheat fields, and the golden wheat waves roll, as if you are in a Miyazaki animation! ✨Best Time to Shoot: The afternoon sun is gentle, and the photo output rate is super high! 💡Tips: You can choose to take photos on the small train, or take photos of the moment when the small train passes by the track, which feels great! ---- 4. Fu Shi Field Coffee Western Restaurant 📍Location: By the rice fields of Xizhou Ancient Town 📸Highlights: You can directly photograph the wheat fields from the outdoor area on the first floor. The view from the second floor is even better, and you can also photograph cherry blossoms, which is super romantic! ✨Best Time to Shoot: The afternoon sun is sufficient, making it suitable for taking pictures. 💡Tips: You can order a cup of coffee, enjoy a leisurely afternoon tea time, and take pictures by the way. ---- 5. Roadside Picnic - Coffee Gallery 📍Location: Next to Dali Line, about 3 km from "Langqiao Youfeng Rice Field" 📸Highlights: There are few people and beautiful scenery, making it suitable for shooting the combination of wheat fields and natural scenery, which is full of artistic sense! ✨Best Time to Shoot: Morning or afternoon, the light is super great! 💡Tips: You can match it with coffee and picnic props, and pretend to have a picnic in the field, which is super atmospheric. ---- 6. Xizhou Wheat Field Coffee Wall 📍Location: In Xizhou Ancient Town 📸Highlights: The coffee wall complements the wheat fields, making it super suitable for taking refreshing photos! ✨Best Time to Shoot: Morning or afternoon, the light is soft, and you can easily take great photos! 💡Tips: You can match it with some retro props, such as a retro camera and a straw hat. ---- 7. Xizhou Wheat Field and Bai Ethnic Houses 📍Location: Around Xizhou Ancient Town 📸Highlights: The combination of wheat fields and Bai ethnic houses is super ethnic, and the contrast between the architecture and the wheat fields is super beautiful! ✨Best Time to Shoot: Morning or evening, the light is super soft, making it suitable for taking photos of cultural landscapes. 💡Tips: You can take more photos of architectural details to show the charm of Bai culture. ---- 8. Xizhou Wheat Field and "Wheat Field Quick Police" Police Station 📍Location: Near the Xizhou Wheat Field Train boarding point 📸Highlights: The unique "Wheat Field Quick Police" police station has become an internet-famous spot, which is super interesting! ✨Best Time to Shoot: The afternoon sun is sufficient, making it super suitable for taking pictures. 💡Tips: You can take a photo with the police station to create a super creative photo. ---- 📸Shooting Tips: • 🌾Pay attention to protecting crops, try to avoid trampling on wheat fields, and choose ridges or designated areas for shooting. • 🎨You can bring props such as coffee, picnic mats, and hats to increase the richness of the picture. • 🚗When shooting scenes on highways or tracks, pay attention to safety and be careful of passing vehicles. ---- Hurry up and check out these super beautiful wheat field spots! 🌸Spring in Dali is really amazing!

Come to Kunming, Dali and Erhai Lake in Yunnan, here is the 6-day travel guide! To have fun in Yunnan, just read this article. Save it and start your trip to Yunnan! -- Itinerary: Day 1: Haigeng Dam - Nanping Pedestrian Street - Yunnan Ethnic Village - Tea Horse Flower Street - Dianchi Lake In Kunming, start from the spectacular Haigeng Dam, stroll to the bustling Nanping Pedestrian Street, deeply experience the cultural diversity of the Yunnan Ethnic Village, taste the special snacks on the Tea Horse Flower Street, and finally come to the beautiful Dianchi Lake to feel the natural charm of Yunnan. Day 2: Stone Forest Scenic Area - Small Stone Forest Scenic Area - Ashima - Lijiang Ancient Town Explore the unique landforms of the Stone Forest Scenic Area and admire the Ashima Landscape in the Small Stone Forest, then head to Lijiang Old Town to immerse yourself in the romance and history of this ancient city. Day 3: Shuhe Ancient Town - Jade Dragon Snow Mountain - Jade Dragon Snow Mountain Cableway Wander through the quaint Shuhe Ancient Town, then challenge the peak of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, take a cable car to appreciate the magnificent scenery of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, and feel the beauty of Yunnan's mountains and rivers. Day 4: Xizhou - Xizhou Archway in the Ancient Town When you come to Xizhou, you can visit the ancient town Xizhou Archway with a long history, experience the unique charm of Bai culture, and enjoy the peaceful time in the ancient town. Day 5: Dali Ancient Town - Foreigner Street - Dali Utopia Tourist Resort - Utopia - Erhai Lake Take a stroll in Dali Ancient Town to feel the charm of the ancient city; stroll along the Foreigner Street to experience the exotic customs; then go to Dali Ideal Tourism Resort Town to enjoy the comfort of vacation; finally come to Erhai Lake to enjoy the beautiful scenery of lakes and mountains. Day 6: Dali - Kunming After a pleasant trip to Yunnan, we returned to Kunming from Dali, full of wonderful memories, and set off on our journey home to our warm home. -- Must-see attractions: 🌟 Jade Dragon Snow Mountain 🌟🌟 Recommendation index: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Address: Xuehua Village, Yulong Naxi Autonomous County, Lijiang City, Yunnan Province Opening hours: 07:30-16:30 Duration: 1 day The sacred mountain of the Naxi people has 13 peaks that roll up and down like flying silver dragons, magnificent and extraordinary. 🏞️ Stone Forest Scenic Area 🏞️ Recommendation index: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Address: Shilin Avenue, Shilin Yi Autonomous County, Kunming City, Yunnan Province Opening hours: 07:30-18:00 Play time: 3-4 hours There are rugged rocks and majestic peaks here, and a new scene at every step, which will make you linger. 🌈 Yunnan Nationalities Village 🌈 Recommendation index: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Address: No. 1310 Dianchi Road, Xishan District, Kunming City Opening hours: 09:00-21:10 Play time: 3-5 hours Want to experience the cultures of Yunnan's 25 ethnic groups in one place? Just come here! 🌊 Dianchi Lake 🌊 Recommendation index: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Address: No. 1318, Dianchi Road, Xishan District, Kunming City, Yunnan Province Opening hours: Open all day Play time: 2-4 hours The lake is rippling with blue waves, and the scenery of lakes and mountains is breathtaking, which makes people feel relaxed and happy. It is a good place to relax. -- Travel essentials: Yunnan Kunming-Dali-Erhai Lake packing list 🧳 👕 Clothing: Bring light and breathable clothes, both long-sleeved and short-sleeved, as well as comfortable sports shoes to cope with the temperature difference between morning and evening. 🎩 Accessories: Sun hats, sunglasses, and rain gear are essential to protect you from both the sun and rain, making your trip more comfortable. 📄 Documents: Be sure to bring your ID card, student ID and other documents with you, so that you can travel and stay conveniently and have a smooth journey. 💊Medicine: Carry cold medicine and painkiller with you, just in case. It is important to travel healthy. 🔋 Other items: Don’t forget your charger or power bank, as they will have enough power to take photos and leave beautiful memories. -- Kunming-Dali-Erhai Lake, the scenery along the way is endless. Don’t forget to use your camera to record these beautiful moments and make the journey an eternal memory! 📸✨

#chinatrip Xizhou Ancient Town is more than just a historic site; it’s a living cultural hub. From the moment I arrived, the welcoming atmosphere of the Bai people made my visit extraordinary. I explored the intricately carved wooden doors and gazed at the hand-painted murals that told tales of the Bai heritage. The highlight of my trip was watching a live demonstration of tie-dye art. The process, using natural indigo dyes, was mesmerizing. Rows of deep blue fabric drying under the sun created a picture-perfect moment. Walking through the town’s peaceful courtyards and scenic bridges felt like a retreat into another world. 📷Photo-worthy spots: The stone bridges and courtyards surrounded by traditional Bai architecture. 💡Pro tip: Visit during the local market days to experience authentic Bai culture.

Architecture Xizhou Ancient Town is located to the west of Cangshan Mountain and to the east of Erhai Lake. It is home to a large number of traditional Bai buildings from the Ming and Qing dynasties, most of which are laid out in the "three rooms and one screen wall" or "four rooms and five courtyards" style. Yan Family Courtyard, for example, is made up of several quadrangles with exquisite wood carvings and flying eaves, showcasing the unique charm of Bai architecture and telling stories of a thousand years of history. Natural Scenery The scenery here is picturesque all year round. In spring, you can admire the sea of rapeseed flowers, while in autumn, you can enjoy the rice fields. There are also natural attractions such as Wangu Bridge and Yudai Road nearby. With Cangshan Mountain behind and Erhai Lake in front, the beautiful scenery of the lake and mountains makes you feel as if you are in a paradise, fulfilling all your pastoral fantasies. Ethnic Customs As a Bai settlement, Xizhou is rich in ethnic customs. You can see elderly people in Bai costumes and small shops selling Xizhou baba everywhere. Here, you can also taste Bai three-course tea and experience traditional tea culture. Bai tie-dyeing and other intangible cultural heritage also demonstrate the profound cultural heritage of the ethnic group. Food Culture Xizhou baba, a famous local snack, is crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, with a variety of flavors such as salty and sweet. It is a must-try for tourists. In addition, there are other specialties such as rushan, Bai sauerkraut fish, and raw skin, which are unforgettable. Leisure Life Xizhou Ancient Town is not overly commercialized, and life moves at a slow pace. Here, you can sunbathe in Sifang Street or have a cup of coffee by the fields, feeling the quiet flow of time, forgetting the troubles of the world, and enjoying the peace and tranquility.

This was a lovely walk through the old town where we found many stores and markets run by locals who shared their art, handmade products and delicious snacks and drinks with us. You can walk through the rice fields for a beautiful photo with the mountain in the back drop. You can also find many local ladies who will approach you to braid your hair with feathers or colorful strings! You can definitely spend a full half day here walking around through the museums and stores. #dali #dalitravel #xizhou #tripblazers #summervacation