Don't just know about Erhai Lake! Dali East Lake is the hidden gem with breathtaking scenery—save this guide now!

Dali East Lake: A Romantic Encounter with Wind, Flowers, Snow, and Moon Dali, a place brimming with poetry and romance, and Dali East Lake is the shining pearl of this land. Today, we’ll take you to explore the stunning scenery and unique charm of Dali East Lake, along with a super-detailed travel guide! **Pre-Trip Prep** • **Documents**: Bring your ID card and any discount passes. • **Clothing**: Large temperature differences between day and night—pack warm outerwear. Strong UV during the day—prepare lightweight, breathable clothes, sun-protective gear, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a sun hat. • **Other Essentials**: Power bank, camera, and common medications. **Transportation Guide** • **Getting There**: Fly to Dali Fengyi Airport, then take a taxi or airport shuttle to East Lake. Alternatively, take a high-speed train to Dali Station and transfer by bus, taxi, or rental car. • **Local Transport**: ◦ **Car Rental**: ¥200–400/day for flexible exploration and scenic stops. ◦ **E-bike**: ¥50–80/day, ideal for short coastal routes (plan ahead due to limited battery). ◦ **Bus**: Budget-friendly but infrequent—schedule wisely. **Must-Visit Spots** • **Ideal State**: Dali’s "Santorini," with dreamy blue-and-white architecture. Perfect for photos, especially at sunset. Some areas require a purchase for entry. • **Wenbi Village**: A new hotspot with a rainbow road against Cangshan Mountain and Erhai Lake—vibrant and fairytale-like. Cafés on the hillside offer great views. • **Little Putuo Island**: A petite island with a solemn Guanyin Pavilion. In winter, feed seagulls or take a boat (round-trip ~¥15/person). • **Shuanglang Ancient Town**: The best of "Cangshan-Erhai scenery." Visit Yang Liping’s Sun Palace and Moon Palace (book in advance), and explore local shops and food. **Itinerary Ideas** • **Day Trip**: Morning at Ideal State for photos → lunch nearby → afternoon in Wenbi Village → sunset at Little Putuo Island. • **2-Day Trip**: Day 1—Ideal State + Shuanglang Ancient Town; Day 2—sunrise at Little Putuo Island → Wenbi Village → return. **Food Recs** • **Suanla Yu (Spicy Sour Fish)**: Tender fish in tangy broth—a Dali specialty. • **Xizhou Baba**: Crispy pastry with sweet (rose sugar) or savory (scallion-meat) fillings. • **Rushan**: Grilled dairy rolls with rose jam—sweet and fragrant. • **Ersi**: Soft rice noodles, available in chicken or beef flavors. **Stay Options** • **Seaview B&Bs**: Wake up to Erhai views (pricey; book early in peak season). • **Boutique Inns**: Bai-style lodgings in ancient towns—affordable and convenient.