2025 Xizhou Town Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in July)

When traveling to Dali, skip the old town and head straight to Xizhou Old Town for a better experience. When in Dali I stopped by both towns, Dali Old Town was swarming with people and very touristic, full of the typical souvenir shops and drink shops you find everywhere. We left pretty quickly. In contrast Xizhou was a much prettier and more diverse town. There are plenty of nice restaurant and artisan crafts. It's less busy and more relaxed than the old town. A lovely place to stay! #summervacation#yunnan#celebratewithtrip#urbanexplorer#tripblazers

Yunnan is famous for its clouds which makes for very beautiful sunsets. Make it part of your Yunnan itinerary to watch the sunset each evening. Make sure you're on the correct side of the lake to enjoy the sunset. We made our way over to Xizhou Old Town to get the best view of the sunset. Interesting buildings, loads of restaurants and wide open rice fields makes this a great place to enjoy the sunset. #tripblazers #passionpassport#awesomepic#yunnan#summervacation

Tucked just 18km north of Dali Old Town, Xizhou (喜洲) is a hidden gem that blends history, Bai culture, and charming countryside vibes. Unlike the more commercialized old towns, Xizhou offers a slower, more authentic rhythm of life. Stroll along cobblestone alleys lined with well-preserved Bai-style courtyard homes, and don’t miss the intricate wood carvings and tiled rooftops that whisper stories of a prosperous trading past. 🌅 I also visited the morning market, where locals sell everything from fresh vegetables to handcrafted snacks. It’s lively, colorful, and the perfect way to start your day like a local! 🎨 Spot artisans hand-dyeing cloth with natural indigo. ☕️ Enjoy a rooftop coffee with a view of Cangshan mountains. 🌾 Cycle or hop on the adorable “有风号” mini train through rice paddies and sunflower fields. 💡 Travel Tips: • Come in the morning to catch the best market scenes and soft light. • There’s a bus at Xizhou that brings you back to Dali Ancient town. 10人民币 per pax that departs on a rolling basis once the bus is filled. • Don’t leave without trying a Xizhou baba (喜洲粑粑) — it’s crispy, savory, and addictive! Xizhou isn’t just a town — it’s a feeling. A gentle reminder to slow down and let life surprise you. 💛 #summervacay #喜洲古镇 #BaiCulture #SlowTravel #HiddenGem #XizhouMorningMarket #喜洲早市 #XizhouBaba #DaliTravel #喜洲粑粑 #喜洲稻田 #中国古镇

I came to 喜洲 with one main goal — to admire the peaceful padi fields. But to my surprise, we passed by a stunning sunflower field in full bloom 🌻 and it totally stole the show. Bright, golden, and cheerful, it made for a dreamy detour I wasn’t expecting! 🚂 To soak in the pastoral charm at a relaxed pace, we hopped on the adorable “有风号” small train, which does a scenic 15–20 min loop around the area. 🎟️ RM 35 per pax, with three cabins and cozy compartments (6–8 pax per section), it’s a laid-back, breezy way to enjoy the countryside views. 📍Board from East Gate of Xizhou Ancient Town. 📸 Don’t forget your camera and your mood for wonder — you never know what little surprises you’ll encounter in 喜洲! #summervacay #喜洲古镇 #云南旅行 #SunflowerFields #有风号 #小火车 #DaliTravel #slowtravel #稻田风光

🗺️Destination Overview 📍Itinerary: 2Days in Dali/ 3Days in Lijiang/ 3Days in Shangrila/ 2Days in Kunming 👉Day 1 to 2 : Kunming to Dali ✈️Transportation : Flight to Kunming, Car from Kunming to Dali (5hrs) 🏖️Must-Visit Attractions : Erhai/ShuangLang/Xizhou/Panxi S-Curve 🏠Accommodation : San Se Yun He (Erhai Branch) 👉Day 3-5 : Dali to Lijiang ✈️Transportation : Book car to Lijiang (3hrs) 🏖️Must-Visit Attractions : Lijiang Ancient Town/ Yulong Snow Mountain/Blue Moon Valley/Lijiang Impression/Baisha Ancient Town 🏠Accommodation: Panoramic view of snow mountain in Shanye Rizhao Jinshan (Lijiang ancient city branch) 👉Day 6 to 8 : Lijiang to Shangrila ✈️Transportation : Book Car to Shangrila (3hrs) 🏖️Must-Visit Attractions : Dukezong Ancient Town/Guishan Park & Temple & Prayer Wheel/ Tiger Leaping Gorge/ Songzanlin / Napahai/ Zaya Tushi performance 🏠Accommodation : JinWuShe Friendly Air BnB 👉Day 9 to 10 : Shangrila to Kunming ✈️Transportation : High speed train to Kunming (6hrs) 🏖️Must-Visit Attractions : Kunming old street city walk/western hill/ shilin 🏠 Accommodation : Kunming Yilinlin Hotel

#summervacay 📅 Itinerary Day 1 : Dive into the Art of #tie-dye in #xizhou 喜州 is a haven for traditional tie-dye art, with numerous charming shops lining the streets. 🎨🎨 You can choose your favorite dress 👗 or shirt and design you own unique tie-dye patterns. It’s a fun, hands-on experience that lets you connect with Yunnan’s rich cultural heritage. Pro Tip: Give yourself ample time — the design options can be overwhelming (in the best way). Scrolling through Xiaohongshu for inspiration beforehand can help you decide faster.📕 In the evening, have a walk in the Town Centre The heart of xizhou comes alive with gentle melodies from local performers. Grab a seat, unwind, and let the soothing music🎤🎸, cool evening breeze🍃🍃, and vibrant scenes. Don’t miss the serene lotus 🪷🪷🪷 lake nearby. It’s ideal for snapping photos or simply enjoying a peaceful stroll 🚶♂️🚶♀️ surrounded by nature’s beauty. 🍴 Restaurants Try some local snacks such as #粑粑. They offered both sweet and salty flavour 🏨 Dali Molv #dalimolvshanhe Beautiful of the #cangshanmountain mountain and wonderful service from the host! Have fun playing with the siba inu!!!

#springitinerary #travel Visiting Xizhou Ancient Town is like stepping into a vibrant, living museum—full of history, color, and unexpected delights. The traditional Bai-style architecture, with its intricate carvings and whitewashed courtyards, gives every street a timeless charm. As you wander through the alleys, you’ll find local markets buzzing with energy, friendly vendors offering handmade snacks, and quaint cafés tucked into historic buildings. The town feels lively but not crowded, making it the perfect place to explore at a relaxed pace. What makes Xizhou truly fun is the mix of culture and spontaneity. One moment you might be tasting fresh flower cakes from a street stall, and the next you’re watching a traditional tie-dye workshop in action. Locals are warm and welcoming, often sharing stories about their heritage with a smile. Whether you're taking a bike ride around the countryside or just soaking in the peaceful vibes, a visit to Xizhou Ancient Town is the kind of adventure that leaves you smiling all day.

#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.

#discoverchina Stepping into Xizhou feels like entering a tranquil moment in time—it brings a deep sense of comfort. Unlike the bustling Dali Old Town, Xizhou is quieter and more authentic. With its white-walled, gray-tiled houses, intricately carved wooden doors, open fields, and distant mountains, every corner exudes the charm of a slower pace of life, creating a relaxing atmosphere. As you wander through the ancient alleys of Xizhou, your heart is gently embraced by a sense of peace and serenity. Here, you can truly experience the essence of Bai culture and find a rare inner calm—it's truly a wonderful place to be.

#discoverchina Don't miss the golden waves of wheat in Xizhou – this chill destination is perfect for busy bees looking to unwind! If you're planning a trip to Xizhou, here's your lazy-friendly guide! ✨ 🗺️ Xizhou One-Day Route Zhengyi Gate – Yan Family Courtyard – Wood Carving Workshop – Sanshui & Bai Courtyard – Xizhou Old Street – Jiaqiangji – Xiqiang Wall (next to Dong Jinhan Courtyard) – Corner Tower – Xitang Café – Rice Field Railway – Chuntang Restaurant – Big Banyan Tree 📸 Must-Visit Photo Spots in Xizhou Roadside Picnic Gallery Café – A cozy cottage café in the middle of rice fields. The walls are covered in poems – every photo looks like a scene from an indie film 🎬. Orange Wall by the Rice Fields – The most Instagrammable spot in town! Vast rice fields with a bold orange wall – perfect for daydreaming or a quick snap. Xitang Café – A stylish café with a modern black-and-gray Xizhou sign on brick walls. Chuntang Café & Restaurant – Offers one of the best views in Xizhou. Sit by the window and watch the little train roll past the rice fields. Pure serenity ☕🚂. "Tree with the Wind" Banyan Tree – Yes, that iconic tree where Xu Hongdou cried in the drama Meet Yourself. So cinematic! Dong Jinhan Courtyard – Famous for fun photo walls like “Joyful Xizhou” and “Land of Happiness.” Don’t forget to leave your message!! Corner Tower (转角楼) – A wooden retro-style tower that's basically the symbol of Xizhou Old Town. It gets crowded, so come early if you want good photos! #travel #thingstodo

#discoverchina This is my first time visiting Xizhou. Located in Dali Bai Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan Province, Xizhou is an important part of Dali's history and culture, and a typical Bai ethnic village. Every building here is unique. Xizhou has a long history and rich cultural heritage, and it still retains the traditional Bai architectural style and distinct local customs. Therefore, you can only truly experience its charm by visiting in person.

🚩 Sightseeing Route Day 1: 昆明站-大理站-🏠- 喜洲古城-S湾 (for sunset) 喜洲古城 Xizhou - quite touristy with instragrammable cafes and photo-taking spots. Had 包浆豆腐 (tofu so silky and savoury!) and some fried mushroom with pork (great snack for 2!) S curve road - Very windy, has restaurants, hostels and bars by the 洱海 Erhai Lake. Caught the sunset there but please book Didi/transport back to your accommodation in advance. Day 2: 龙龛码头 (for sunrise!) - 双廊古镇-鹿卧山- 文笔村 -圣托里尼 - 大理古城 Went to the pier to catch the sunrise, best to dress warmly. 双廊 Shuanglang vibes feels better than Xizhou, despite the close to 1 hour car ride. Less commercialised but still has fancy cafes with Erhai lake view. Remaining places of interests feels overly touristy, great for photo-taking. Dali ancient city has all you need for food and shopping. Day 3: 🏠-大理站 🏠 Accommodation 1.Dali Impression Shuiyue Yinshi Hotel Very comfortable, homey stay. Our accommodation came with afternoon tea and complimentary breakfast. There is even free-flow hot and cold drinks. Just a quick text to the staff via WeChat. You’ll love the environment to not want to go out! Not much of a view from the room we stayed in but the common area looks great to lounge in. #travel #yunan #couplestrip #dali #myitinerary #china

Xizhou Town in Dali is a culturally rich and well-preserved village known for its deep-rooted traditions and unique Bai ethnic heritage. One of the most distinctive features of Xizhou is the tie-dyeing skills of the Bai ethnic minority. This ancient craft, passed down through generations, involves intricate hand-dyeing techniques using natural indigo and traditional patterns. The tie-dyeing process is a major source of income for the local people, with many households engaged in producing beautiful textiles that are sold to visitors and traders. Despite modernization, most of the people in Xizhou, especially the elderly, still wear their traditional Bai clothing. Women often dress in colorful embroidered outfits with headdresses, while men wear simple but elegant attire reflecting their cultural identity. This adherence to traditional dress adds to the town’s authentic charm. Xizhou remains largely untouched by urbanization, maintaining its virgin natural beauty and old-world atmosphere. Its traditional Bai-style courtyards, ancient tea houses, and slow-paced lifestyle make it a rare gem in modern China, offering visitors a glimpse into a way of life that has remained unchanged for centuries.

#favouriteitinerary Xizhou Ancient Town offers a plethora of local snacks that will leave you spoiled for choice. The golden rice fields and vibrant seas of rapeseed flowers add to the town's stunning beauty, making it a truly picturesque destination. Personal Opinion: In my opinion, Xizhou Ancient Town is a delightful blend of culinary indulgence and natural splendor. The abundance of delicious snacks and the breathtaking scenery make it an unforgettable experience for any traveler.

#favouriteitinerary #chinatrip During my trip to Dali, I rented an electric bike and took a 30-minute ride to Xizhou Village (喜洲古镇)—and it turned out to be one of my favorite experiences! The Ride: Scenic & Relaxing Starting from Dali Ancient Town, the ride to Xizhou was absolutely breathtaking. The road runs along Erhai Lake, passing golden rice fields, traditional Bai minority houses, and peaceful countryside scenery. With an e-bike, the ride was smooth and enjoyable, allowing me to soak in the fresh air and stunning views. Exploring Xizhou Village 🏡 Traditional Bai Architecture – Xizhou is famous for its well-preserved Bai-style houses, featuring white walls, intricate carvings, and colorful decorations. Walking through the village felt like stepping back in time! 🥮 Trying Xizhou Baba (喜州粑粑) – A must-try local snack! This crispy, flaky pancake comes in both sweet and savory flavors. I had the rose sugar and minced pork versions, and both were delicious! ☕ Relaxing at a Local Teahouse – I found a cozy teahouse to enjoy some Yunnan Pu’er tea, watching the peaceful village life go by. The slow-paced atmosphere was so relaxing compared to the busier streets of Dali Ancient Town. 🌾 Visiting the Rice Fields – Just outside the village, you’ll find open fields of golden rice stretching towards the mountains. It’s a perfect spot for a peaceful walk or some amazing photos. Why I Loved This Trip ✔️ Easy & scenic e-bike ride – No traffic, just fresh air and stunning views. ✔️ Authentic Bai minority culture – The village has a charming local vibe without being overly touristy. ✔️ Delicious local food – Xizhou Baba alone is worth the visit! ✔️ Perfect for a half-day trip – Just 30 minutes from Dali, but it feels like a different world. If you’re visiting Dali, I highly recommend renting an e-bike and taking a ride to Xizhou Village—it’s the perfect mix of adventure, culture, and relaxation! Have you been here before? Share your thoughts below! 🚲🏡🌿✨

#favouriteitinerary Day 2 of my Yunnan adventure started with a visit to the quaint Xizhou City, where I enjoyed a cup of fresh coffee paired with handmade floral biscuits – the perfect way to start the morning. Xizhou is famous for its iconic cornfields, and I couldn’t resist taking a few photos with the stunning golden backdrop. For lunch, we indulged in Thai-style hand-pulled rice, a deliciously flavorful dish that kept us energized for the afternoon. Afterward, we headed to Shuanglang Town, a serene riverside gem known for its breathtaking sunsets. We took a leisurely stroll along the water, soaking in the peaceful vibes and snapping some photos. Before wrapping up the day, we stopped at a local store to send postcards from Dali. A refreshing cup of CHAGEE rounded off the evening, marking another perfect day in Yunnan!

#newyearnewtrip Nestled in the heart of Dali, Xizhou Town is a serene gem that offers a glimpse into Yunnan's rich cultural heritage. This charming town, known for its well-preserved Bai architecture, is a perfect escape for travelers seeking tranquility and authenticity. Wander through its cobblestone streets, where traditional white-washed houses with intricate wooden carvings and tiled roofs stand proudly against a backdrop of majestic mountains. Xizhou is also famous for its morning market, where local vendors sell fresh produce, spices, and handmade crafts, offering an authentic taste of local life. Be sure to try the town’s signature "Xizhou Baba" – a delicious, savory flatbread stuffed with ingredients like pork or vegetables. For a deeper cultural experience, visit the ancient Bai temples and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere that makes this town a hidden treasure. Whether you're an architecture lover, foodie, or nature enthusiast, Xizhou will leave you enchanted. #travel #thingstodo #familytravel #china

#chinatrip Xizhou Ancient Town is where history and culture blend seamlessly. Walking through the grand stone gates, I felt like stepping into a living museum. The Bai-style architecture stood proud, with intricate carvings and vibrant paintings, offering a glimpse into the past. The quiet courtyards and charming bridges added a serene touch to the town. What stood out most were the colorful displays of traditional Bai clothing and tie-dye crafts. The vivid blues and natural designs reflected the artistry of the locals, creating an unforgettable cultural experience. For those seeking a journey into history with a dash of creativity, Xizhou is a must-visit. 📍Don’t miss: The handcrafted tie-dye workshops and authentic Bai cuisine served in quaint eateries. 🌟Tip: Arrive early to explore the town in peace before it gets busy.

#chinatrip Beauty of Dali, Yunnan province A less crowded small village compare to Dali ancient town - known as Xi Zhou. Very comfy to enjoy the quiet and peaceful ambience right here. Everyday i just walked around in the small town, to the coffee shop to spend few hours chit chat with local people. Just do nothing and wandering around, looking at the beauty ancient buildings, high mountains probably covered with snow now. Ps. There’s a special morning market that’s for locals and bet you will be surprised with their local goods, fruits, delights, clothes and etc. A place that definitely worth to come back, spend time and relax your mind. Far away from gadgets, work and crowds. Plus you don’t need to spend a-lot on accommodation, food right here. #travel #dali #xizhou #china

This is Xizhou, a charming town nestled not too far from the bustling streets of Dali Ancient City—where history and serenity meet. From breathtaking scenery to mouthwatering dishes, Xizhou offers the perfect blend of natural beauty and culinary delights. You can get here by taking a sightseeing bus from Dali Ancient City, or rent a scooter from the famous S-curve! Would recommend!

📍Address: Dali, Dali City, China 671004 📍Key Points Xizhou is a smaller scale ancient village compared to Dali Ancient Town. But it's really small yet substantial! The village reflected in the pond at the entrance is so beautiful that you'll say 'wow' as you enter. There are plenty of snacks and cafes, so you can easily have a meal, and I tried the Xizhou Baba, which is a local specialty of Xizhou! It's really a pretty place everywhere, so I highly recommend you visit. 📍Average Price per Person: Free admission 📍Rating: 4/5

#ChinaTravel How to get there: 30-40 minutes by car from Dali Ancient Town Attraction: Xi Ancient Town There are many ancient towns and villages of ethnic minorities in Yunnan Province. The more famous the ancient towns are, the more commercialized they are. If you want to see Dali Ancient Town and explore a more modest neighborhood, Xi Ancient Town is the right place.☺️ I recommend using Didi to get around Dali, where public transportation is difficult to use. It costs about 40 yuan (about 8,000 won) even though it takes about 40 minutes.😏 #YunnanTravel #Dali

#fallishere XIZHOU village is located 18km away from the north of Dali with a history for more than 1000 years. One of the popular place to visit in Dali. The village is cool and authenic, all are well maintained . We have opportunity to go in and see the interior design and the structure of the village . A really uniques experience and highly recommended. 👍🏻 if you are here should pay a visit you will learn a lot of the local culture. #fallishere #awesomepic