Dali Huadianba

【Introduction】: Overview of Dali Huadianba Location: Huadianba is located in Xizhou Town, Dali City, Dali Bai Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan Province, nestled between Yunlong Peak and Canglang Peak at the northernmost end of the Cangshan Mountain's nineteen peaks. With an altitude of 2,900-3,200 meters, it features alpine meadow terrain. Stretching about 20 kilometers north-south and 2 kilometers east-west, it covers a total area of approximately 40 square kilometers. Comprising areas like Dahua Dian, Xiaohua Dian, Jici Ba, and Ertaipo, it serves as an important traditional Chinese medicine cultivation base and natural pasture in western Yunnan. Notable Features: - **Four-Season Flower Sea**: In spring, azaleas stretch over 20 kilometers, interspersed with irises, peonies, and other wildflowers, creating a vibrant floral tapestry. Summer brings lush green grass and grazing livestock, autumn showcases colorful forests, and winter offers serene snow-capped mountain views. - **Alpine Meadows**: Dahua Dian features flat, open terrain, while Xiaohua Dian is a picturesque grassy plateau surrounded by peaks. - **Historical Sites**: Ancient trees, the Huangxiongwo ruins, and the "General Route Stele" (Red Stele) document the area's history, from Jin Dynasty villages to Ming Dynasty literati visits and the Great Leap Forward reclamation era. Related Stories: - Villages existed here as early as the Jin Dynasty, later abandoned due to war. Ming Dynasty scholar Li Yuanyang wrote *Travels to Huadianba* after visiting. - The azalea varieties at the UK's Royal Botanic Gardens were introduced from here, earning Huadianba the title "First Meadow of Western Yunnan." - In 1958, the state-owned Huadian Farm was established for herb cultivation and livestock, inspiring the setting of the film *Five Golden Flowers*. 🕘【Opening Hours】 Open year-round with no fixed closing time. Recommended Visit Duration: - **Day Trip**: 8:00–18:00 (ideal for hikers; start early to avoid midday heat). - **Two-Day Trip**: Hike to the herb farm on Day 1 for overnight stay, explore Dahua Dian and Xiaohua Dian on Day 2. Notes: - Landslides and mudflows are common during the rainy season (June–August); avoid visiting during heavy rain. - Wildlife like bears, leopards, and wild boars inhabit Cangshan; hike in groups and stick to main trails. - Trails lack signage; download offline maps or hire a guide. 💴【Ticket Price】 Free (some areas like the herb farm may charge a management fee). No recent price adjustments; confirm via Xizhou Town Tourist Information before visiting. ⛺【Activities】 **Hiking Adventures** Recommended Routes: - **Day Hike**: Xizhou Martyrs' Cemetery → Dahua Dian → Xiaohua Dian → Zhoucheng Village (~15 km, 800m elevation gain). - **Two-Day Trek**: - Day 1: Xizhou Fengyang Village → Pass → Red Stele → Herb Farm (overnight). - Day 2: Herb Farm → Jici Ba → Xiaohua Dian → Zhoucheng Village (~20 km, 8–9 hours). Highlights: Alpine meadows, azalea blooms, and historical sites like the Red Stele and mining caves. **Photography Spots** - Dahua Dian: Frame grasslands with snow-capped peaks at sunrise/sunset. - Xiaohua Dian: Colorful flower fields and terraced meadows for portraits. - Red Stele: Blend of history and nature, a popular Instagram spot. **Ecology & Culture** - Flora/Fauna: Rare yellow peonies, free-ranging livestock, and possible wildlife sightings. - Herb Farming: Learn about traditional cultivation of cloud-costus and angelica. - Bai Culture: Try tie-dyeing in Zhoucheng Village and local delicacies like Xizhou baba. - History: Explore the Red Stele, mining caves, and Great Leap Forward relics. 🚌【Transport】 **Public Transit** - Dali Old Town → Xizhou: Take a minibus to Xiaguan North Bus Station, then transfer to Xizhou (~¥10, 40 mins). - Xizhou → Huadianba: - Hike: Start at the trailhead near Xizhou Auto Repair (~6 hours). - Private Car: Book via the herb farm’s tourist station (~¥200–300/car). **Self-Drive/Taxi** - Navigate to Fengyang Village or the herb farm. - Parking: Limited free spots at the herb farm; arrive early. 👉【Itinerary】 **Day Trip** - AM: Depart Dali Old Town, hike from Xizhou Martyrs' Cemetery to Dahua Dian. - Noon: Lunch at the herb farm (try local fried rice or chicken soup). - PM: Hike to Xiaohua Dian, return to Zhoucheng Village, taxi back to Dali. **Two-Day Trip** - Day 1: Hike from Fengyang Village to the herb farm; explore Dahua Dian. - Day 2: Trek to Jici Ba and Xiaohua Dian; return via Zhoucheng Village. **Accommodation** - Herb Farm: Basic beds (¥60/night), no Wi-Fi (backpacker-friendly). - Xizhou: Stay at Delinju Inn or Jiyisi Art Hotel for Bai-style lodgings. 🧡【Packing List】 **Essentials** - ID card - Gear: Quick-dry clothes, windbreaker, trekking poles, knee pads, headlamp, raincoat, power bank. - Food: 2–3L sports drinks, energy snacks (Snickers, nuts), thermos. - Lodging: Sleeping bag (herb farm has basic hygiene), toiletries. **Tips** - Safety: Avoid solo hikes; steer clear of unmarked trails in rain. - Eco-Friendly: Pack out trash; respect herb farms. - Cultural Etiquette: Observe local customs; ask before photographing villagers.