Dali, a place that makes you want to settle down!

Erhai Lake in Dali is a shining pearl of Yunnan, China, attracting countless tourists with its lake scenery, Bai culture, and slow-paced atmosphere. The following is the latest Erhai Lake travel guide for 2025, covering must-see attractions, transportation, accommodation, food, and itinerary suggestions: --- ### **I. Must-See Attractions and Experiences** 1. **Cycling/Self-Driving Around Erhai Lake** - **Route**: Dali Ancient City → Panxi Village S-Bend → Xizhou Ancient Town → Shuanglang Ancient Town → Wase Wharf → Xiaoputuo Island → Ideal Land (approx. 130 km in total). - **Recommended Mode**: Rent an electric bike (CNY 50–80/day) or a convertible car (approx. CNY 300/day). The Haixi Ecological Corridor (from Longkan Wharf to Panxi section) only allows cycling or walking. 2. **Sunrise and Sunset Viewing Spots** - **Sunrise**: Longkan Wharf, Caicun Wharf (red-billed gulls can be seen in winter). - **Sunset**: Shuanglang Ancient Town, Wase Wharf (the afterglow sets off Cangshan Mountain, like an oil painting). 3. **Ancient Town Exploration** - **Shuanglang**: Yang Liping's Sun Palace (reservation required), lakeside cafes. - **Xizhou**: Corner Building, wheat waves in the wind (rice fields in spring and summer, rapeseed flowers in autumn), experience Bai tie-dye. - **Zhoucheng**: The hometown of Bai tie-dye in China, where you can make your own blue tie-dye scarf (approx. CNY 50). 4. **Niche Secret Spots** - **Wenbi Village**: Rainbow Road, a Japanese-style photo spot. - **Luwo Mountain**: Cliffside abandoned window frame, an Instagram-worthy photo spot. - **Xin Di Cafe**: Near Caicun, 270° lake view from the window, away from the crowds. --- ### **II. Transportation** - **Plane/High-Speed Train**: After arriving in Dali, take a taxi or carpool to Erhai Lake (approx. 1 hour). - **Erhai Lake Bus**: It is recommended to purchase a 72-hour sightseeing bus pass (CNY 118), covering the east line (Dali Ancient City → Ideal Land) and the west line (Dali Ancient City → Shuanglang), which can be used for unlimited rides. - **Car Rental/Chartered Car**: Flexible and free, suitable for in-depth tours. --- ### **III. Accommodation Recommendations** - **Dali Ancient City**: Suitable for nightlife lovers, recommended for literary and artistic B&Bs. - **Shuanglang**: The first choice for sea view rooms, such as inns near the Sun Palace. - **Caicun/Panxi**: Quiet and close to the ecological corridor, suitable for cycling enthusiasts. --- ### **IV. Food Guide** - **Bai Specialties**: Spicy and sour fish (Erhai crucian carp), milk fan (grilled/fried), Xizhou Baba. - **Recommended Restaurants**: Xizhou Ancient Town snack stalls, Shuanglang seaside cafes. --- ### **V. 3 Days and 2 Nights Itinerary Reference** - **Day 1**: Dali Ancient City → Cycling at Longkan Wharf → Xizhou Ancient Town (accommodation). - **Day 2**: Shuanglang Ancient Town → Wase Wharf → Ideal Land (Haidong B&B). - **Day 3**: Zhoucheng tie-dye experience → Return to the ancient city or go to Shaxi. --- ### **VI. Precautions** - **Sun Protection**: The ultraviolet rays on the plateau are strong, so bring sunscreen and a hat. - **Temperature Difference**: It is cooler in the morning and evening, so bring a coat. - **Environmental Protection**: Do not litter, protect the ecology of Erhai Lake. A trip to Erhai Lake is a relaxing experience for the soul. Slow down and feel the poetic and romantic Cangshan Erhai!