Dali, Yunnan🇨🇳 An Enchanting Fairy Tale City in Southern China (4K UHD)

Welcome to this video, which features CC subtitles or auto-translation options! Hello everyone, I’m Duck! I’m thrilled to take you on a journey to explore China’s beautiful ancient cities today! We are now at Dali Ancient City (大理古城), one of the most iconic historical towns in Yunnan! Dali Ancient City (大理古城) was built during the Tang Dynasty and has a history of over a thousand years. It was the political and cultural center of the Nanzhao Kingdom. This ancient city is surrounded by walls, and inside, you’ll find well-preserved old streets and traditional architecture. Walking into the city, you’ll notice stone-paved streets lined with unique shops and restaurants. Here, you’ll find exquisite handicrafts and famous local snacks like rushan cheese and Dali hotpot fish! Strolling through the narrow alleys of the city, you’ll experience the rich Bai culture. This is a main settlement for the Bai ethnic group. The traditional attire of the Bai people is stunning, especially the embroidered outfits worn by women, which are vibrant and full of ethnic charm. Now we’ve arrived at Wuhua Tower (五华楼), one of the most significant landmarks in Dali Ancient City. Wuhua Tower was first built during the Ming Dynasty. This historic building witnessed the prosperity of Dali’s golden age. This towering structure once served as a gathering place for merchants and travelers, a key hub for ancient trade. Climbing up Wuhua Tower, you can enjoy a panoramic view of Dali Ancient City, with its stone streets and ancient architecture. The architectural style of Wuhua Tower combines Han and Bai cultural elements, making it both majestic and elegant. If you’re interested in history, every brick and tile here tells a story of the past. Wuhua Tower is not only a viewpoint but also a window into Dali’s rich culture. Standing here, you can feel the blend of past and present — this is the charm of Dali. We’ve now arrived at Foreigner Street (洋人街), one of the most cosmopolitan streets in Dali Ancient City. This street is known for its international vibe and is a popular spot for tourists and locals to gather and relax. Foreigner Street earned its name due to its popularity among travelers from all over the world, creating a fusion of cultures. The street is lined with traditional Bai-style buildings, but inside you’ll find various cafes, bars, and restaurants. Walking along, you can enjoy local snacks while immersing yourself in music and art from around the world. Foreigner Street blends Dali’s traditional and modern elements, offering a serene morning and lively nightlife. For shopping enthusiasts, there are many boutique shops selling handicrafts, jewelry, and local specialties. Foreigner Street (洋人街) is a perfect representation of Dali’s cultural diversity and inclusiveness, making it a must-visit destination. Now we’ve arrived at Chongsheng Temple (崇聖寺), one of the most iconic Buddhist sanctuaries in Dali. Chongsheng Temple was built during the Tang Dynasty and served as an important religious center during the Nanzhao Kingdom, with a history spanning over a thousand years. The temple is best known for its Three Pagodas, which symbolize the Three Jewels of Buddhism: Buddha, Dharma, and Sangha. The tallest of the Three Pagodas, known as Qianxun Pagoda, stands 69 meters high and is one of the tallest ancient pagodas in China. Inside Chongsheng Temple, you can feel the profound religious atmosphere and witness its deep cultural heritage. The temple’s architecture is exquisite, blending traditional Bai and Han styles with intricate designs. In addition to its religious structures, the courtyards and gardens here are beautifully designed, offering picturesque scenery. Chongsheng Temple is also an ideal place for meditation, where you can escape the noise of daily life and find inner peace. If you’re interested in learning more about Buddhist culture or admiring grand architecture, this temple is well worth your time. Chongsheng Temple (崇聖寺) is a must-visit stop on any Dali journey, offering a cleansing experience for the soul. We’re now at March Street (三月街), a bustling traditional market full of lively energy and cultural charm. The history of March Street dates back to the Nanzhao Kingdom and served as an important trade and cultural exchange center for the Bai people. This market is held annually in the third lunar month, attracting merchants and visitors from far and wide. March Street is not just a place for trading but also a grand showcase of Bai culture. Here, you can enjoy traditional performances, horseback riding competitions, and even thrilling bullfights! Of course, the market features countless stalls selling unique local products and handicrafts. If you’re a food lover, this place is heaven, offering an array of Bai ethnic snacks and Yunnan delicacies. March Street (三月街) is a fantastic place to experience Dali’s traditions and vibrant energy, perfect for the whole family to visit! Walking through March Street, you’ll deeply feel the warmth and cultural diversity of this place, leaving a lasting impression. Now we’ve arrived at Xizhou Ancient Town (喜州古鎮), a treasure trove of Bai culture. Located north of Dali, Xizhou Ancient Town is a place steeped in history and cultural richness. The town preserves many traditional Bai-style buildings, characterized by blue brick walls and intricately carved wooden doors and windows. It was once a key stop along the Southern Silk Road, a prosperous trading hub for the Bai people. Strolling through its stone-paved streets, you can feel the historical traces and cultural heritage all around you. In Xizhou, don’t miss tasting the famous Xizhou Baba, a traditional Bai delicacy. Whether you prefer sweet or savory, Xizhou Baba is a must-try treat when visiting this town. The town also features many craft shops selling embroidered goods, silver jewelry, and other Bai-style handicrafts. You can even visit local homes to learn about the Bai people’s way of life and architectural ingenuity. Xizhou Ancient Town (喜州古鎮) is a place where history, culture, and cuisine come together seamlessly. Everything here seems to tell a story of the past, leaving visitors mesmerized and reluctant to leave. We are now at Panxi S Bay (磻溪S湾), a stunning scenic spot along the shores of Erhai Lake. Panxi S Bay is named for its winding shoreline, which forms a natural “S” shape. This is one of the most popular photo spots along the Erhai cycling route, with many visitors stopping to capture its beauty. Cycling along Erhai Lake is a relaxing experience, with the breeze on your face and picturesque views surrounding you. At Panxi S Bay, you can admire the clear waters of Erhai and the lush greenery along its shores, a scene that captivates the heart. This spot is perfect for taking a break, soaking in the tranquility, and enjoying the beauty of nature. Many people come here to photograph the lakeside sunset, where the interplay of light and shadow is simply breathtaking. Panxi S Bay (磻溪S湾) is not just a highlight of the cycling route but also a place to unwind and forget your worries. When visiting Erhai Lake, don’t forget to bring your camera or smartphone to capture this serene and stunning scenery! Now we’ve arrived at Zhoucheng Village (周城村), the cultural heartland of the Bai ethnic group in Dali. Zhoucheng Village is known as the “Hometown of Bai Tie-Dye,” with centuries of tradition in handmade dyeing techniques. As you walk through the village, you’ll find many family workshops crafting exquisite blue-and-white tie-dye fabrics. These fabrics are famous for their unique patterns and use of natural dyes, making them highly sought after by visitors. Besides tie-dye, Zhoucheng Village preserves the traditional Bai architectural style, with blue-brick walls and intricately carved wooden gates. Here, you can also experience Bai traditions, such as participating in local temple fairs or ethnic festivals. The villagers are incredibly welcoming, and if you’re interested, they’ll gladly show you the entire tie-dyeing process. There are also several specialty restaurants offering traditional Bai cuisine, such as cold chicken noodles and sour-spicy fish. Zhoucheng Village (周城村) is an ideal place to deeply explore Bai culture, and it’s definitely worth spending a whole day here. If you’re looking for a meaningful souvenir, a piece of handmade tie-dye fabric is the perfect choice! We’ve now arrived at Shuanglang Ancient Town (双廊古镇), often referred to as a jewel along the shores of Erhai Lake. Located on the eastern shore of Erhai, Shuanglang is one of the best places to enjoy the lake’s breathtaking views. This ancient town attracts countless visitors with its tranquil atmosphere and unique Bai ethnic charm. Walking along the stone-paved streets, you’ll find beautiful Bai-style houses seamlessly integrated with modern boutique inns. There are also many cafes and restaurants where you can savor local delicacies while admiring the majestic scenery of Erhai Lake. One of the most famous landmarks in Shuanglang is Yuji Island (玉几岛), home to art exhibitions and luxury inns. Another highlight is Nanzhao Island (南诏风情岛), showcasing the artistic and architectural charm of Bai culture. In Shuanglang, you can rent a bike and cycle along the lake, immersing yourself in the endless beauty of the landscape. If you enjoy photography, the sunrises and sunsets here make for stunning compositions that look like paintings. Shuanglang Ancient Town (双廊古镇) is a place to slow down, relax, and truly enjoy life. Whether you’re here for culture, food, or nature, this town will exceed your expectations! Now we’ve arrived at Little Putuo (小普陀), a small island situated in the middle of Erhai Lake. Little Putuo is famous for its unique location and mesmerizing lake views, making it a landmark of Dali. Though the island is small, its temple holds great religious and historical significance. The temple on Little Putuo is dedicated to Guanyin, the Goddess of Mercy, and is an important pilgrimage site for Bai believers. The name Little Putuo is derived from the famous Mount Putuo, symbolizing the continuity of Buddhist culture. Visitors usually take a boat to reach Little Putuo, enjoying the vast beauty of Erhai Lake during the journey. Once on the island, you’ll feel its peaceful and sacred ambiance, as if escaping the chaos of the world. The mornings and evenings at Little Putuo are particularly stunning, with the interplay of lake and sky creating a breathtaking palette. If you love photography, this spot offers countless perfect angles to capture the beauty of the lake and the island. Little Putuo (小普陀) is a highlight of any Erhai journey, perfect for unwinding and embracing nature’s purity. Whether you come to pray or simply admire the scenic beauty, this small island will leave a lasting impression. We’re now at Shaxi Ancient Town (沙溪古镇), a historic town brimming with charm. Shaxi Ancient Town was once an important trading hub on the Tea Horse Road, embodying a rich history of commerce. Sideng Street, known as the “Living Tea Horse Road,” is the cultural and historical heart of Shaxi. Walking along the stone-paved streets of Sideng, you’ll see buildings reflecting the traditional Bai architectural style. These include ancient shops, inns, and a theater stage, transporting you back hundreds of years. Shaxi Ancient Town not only preserves its historical streets but also boasts unique natural landscapes. Surrounded by mountains and idyllic countryside, it’s a serene escape from the bustle of modern life. For history and culture enthusiasts, the town’s museums and exhibitions offer an excellent way to learn its stories. Shaxi is also famous for its warm local residents, who welcome you to join traditional Bai activities and immerse yourself in their culture. Shaxi Ancient Town (沙溪古镇) is a perfect destination combining history, culture, and natural beauty. If you’re looking for a place to relax and uncover fascinating stories, Shaxi is undoubtedly worth exploring!

Dali (大理), located in Yunnan Province (云南省), is a charming city that blends stunning natural landscapes with rich cultural heritage. Nestled between the Cangshan Mountains (苍山) and Erhai Lake (洱海), Dali has long been a haven for travelers seeking tranquility, history, and a taste of Yunnan’s unique traditions.

One of the highlights of Dali is the Ancient City of Dali (大理古城). This well-preserved historic town is characterized by its cobblestone streets, traditional Bai-style architecture, and vibrant markets. Walking through its bustling alleys, visitors can explore local shops, sample delicious snacks like fried goat cheese (乳扇), and admire the ornate city gates that stand as symbols of its storied past.

The iconic Three Pagodas (三塔) of Chongsheng Temple (崇圣寺) are a must-visit for anyone coming to Dali. Dating back to the Tang Dynasty, these majestic structures rise against the backdrop of the Cangshan Mountains, creating a breathtakingly serene scene. The temple complex itself offers a glimpse into the region’s Buddhist heritage and provides spectacular views of the surrounding area.

For nature enthusiasts, Erhai Lake (洱海) is an unmissable destination. This sprawling, crystal-clear lake is perfect for a leisurely boat ride or a bike trip along its shores. Small villages like Shuanglang (双廊) and Xizhou (喜洲) dot the lake’s edges, each offering its own unique charm. Xizhou, in particular, is famous for its traditional Bai ethnic houses and the fragrant “Xizhou baba” (喜洲粑粑), a local baked pancake.

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💥ℹ️Turn ON the Closed Captions (CC) for info about Attractions !

📷Date of shooting
January 15, 2024

🗺️Interactive map
https://www.google.com/maps/d/viewer?mid=1kXyZDZSmTa-rTjVSaCgzmeciX-JZM3M

📍Attractions and routes
Dali Ancient City (大理古城)
https://maps.app.goo.gl/4FnpwmaEKH9NY6ku5
Chongsheng Temple (崇圣寺)
https://maps.app.goo.gl/BJ3amjPvne97Sf7w8
Xizhou Ancient Town (喜州古镇)
https://maps.app.goo.gl/chngaPukG15cdA4k6
Shuanglang Ancient Town (双廊古镇)
https://maps.app.goo.gl/jVeujAuVShCJyTd47
Shaxi Ancient Town (沙溪古镇)
https://maps.app.goo.gl/FZoX1qhEk1xV9ePF9

🎬Itinerary
00:00 Dali Ancient City (大理古城)
24:04 Wuhua Tower (五华楼)
40:22 Foreigner Street (洋人街)
1:01:21 Chongsheng Temple (崇圣寺)
1:16:07 March Street (三月街)
1:41:45 Xizhou Ancient Town (喜州古镇)
2:20:04 Panxi S Bay (洱海S湾)
2:29:17 Zhoucheng Village (周城村)
2:40:17 Shuanglang Ancient Town (双廊古镇)
3:29:32 Little Putuo (小普陀)
3:38:47 Shaxi Ancient Town (沙溪古镇)

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21 Comments

  1. I like to see the ancient places with modern improvement. The thoughts of the people of that times please me very much. After gigantic and mammoth tasks they had completed the structures the houses the temples. They had done that without modern sophisticated tools. I pay my respects to them.

    Thanks a lot for showing us the nice content. Take care.
    (from India)

  2. ดู….ให้เพลินๆๆๆๆที่เที่ยวระดับโลก…..

  3. The ancient buildings are so beautiful and the pedestrian walkways so clean and need. The locals across China should visit these tourist spots too.

  4. 중간중간 삽입된 음악좀 안나오게좀요. 갑자기 요즘 음악을 넣으시네

  5. Wish this video was shot before I visited Dali on 12 Jan 2024. There are a few places I was not aware of. Have to go back to Dali again.

  6. 動画ありがとう。春節に中国から多くの人々が日本を訪れていますが、中国にこんな素敵なところがあるのだから、日本に来る必要ないのではないかと思ってしまいます。

  7. 「目からうろこ」とはこのこと!住民は貧しくて、暑苦しく、汚い服を身に着けていて、蛇がうようよいて、、、。四六時中警察に監視され、弾圧され、、、。
    ああ、恥ずかしい!なんという偏見、無知。日本のマスメディアに騙されていた。日本の支配勢力の悪質な宣伝に今更ながらに怒り心頭です。
    素晴らしい!庶民的、ゆったりとした生活の息吹が感じ取れます。豊富な食材、歴史を感じさせる建物。よく手入れされながらも、古きよきものを大切に保存し
    ていこうとする都市計画も感じ取れます。

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