Xizhou Ancient Town Travel Guide 2025: Discover the Authentic Heart of Dali, Yunnan

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Nestled gently on the western shore of Erhai Lake, Xizhou Ancient Town — also known as Xizhou Village (喜洲) — stands as a serene testament to the enduring spirit of the Bai people. For discerning travelers seeking a true cultural immersion beyond the well-trodden paths of China, Xizhou offers a window into centuries of artistry, tradition, and quiet rural elegance. Dali

A Living Story: The Origins and History of Xizhou

Xizhou’s history stretches back over a millennium, beginning during the Sui and Tang dynasties. Thanks to its proximity to the Nanzhao Kingdom’s capital, it once served as a seasonal palace and strategic stronghold. Over time, Xizhou evolved into a bustling commercial hub during the Ming and Qing dynasties, known as the “Xizhou Merchant Guild.” Influential families such as the Yan, Dong, Yin, and Yang clans shaped the local economy, leaving behind a rich architectural and cultural legacy that still resonates in each courtyard and alleyway.

Today, Xizhou stands as one of Yunnan’s best-preserved Bai settlements — an open-air museum where daily life carries the warmth of tradition and the whispers of history.

Architectural Elegance: Bai Residential Masterpieces

Walking through Xizhou feels like wandering into a living painting. More than 100 traditional Bai homes, many dating back to the Ming dynasty, remain beautifully intact. The architectural style, known for its “three rooms and one screen wall” and “four courtyards with five skylights” layout, creates a harmonious dialogue between light, shadow, and open space.

The Yan Family Courtyard on Sifang Street exemplifies this aesthetic sophistication. Built during the late Qing period, it features intricate wood carvings, upturned eaves, and elegantly designed moon gates. Other notable residences include the Dong Jinhan Compound, which subtly blends traditional Bai elements with early modern influences, and the Yin Fucheng Courtyard, celebrated for its refined lattice windows and graceful moon-shaped doors.

A Village Alive: Daily Life and Market Vibrance

To truly understand Xizhou, one must rise with the sun and step into its lively morning market. Beginning around 8 am, the market becomes a kaleidoscope of colors and scents: baskets overflow with freshly harvested vegetables, wildflowers, lake fish, and homemade tofu. Bai women, draped in bright traditional attire, move gracefully among the stalls, chatting, bargaining, and sharing stories.

Beyond the market, Xizhou’s daily rhythms unfold slowly — elders sipping tea in shaded courtyards, artisans handcrafting tie-dyed fabrics, and children playing under flowering pergolas. Each moment offers a glimpse into the timeless Bai philosophy of balance and harmony with nature.

Seasonal Poetry: Best Time to Visit Xizhou

Xizhou welcomes visitors year-round, each season weaving its own narrative. Spring (March to May) is especially enchanting, with camellias in bloom and vibrant local festivals such as the Raosanling Festival, a spirited celebration of Bai religious and cultural traditions.

From June to October, golden rice paddies ripple under the sun, creating dreamy pastoral landscapes perfect for photographers and contemplative wanderers. Even winter brings its own charm, offering crisp air, clear skies, and tranquil village scenes.

Nearby Treasures: Extend Your Journey

While Xizhou is a destination in its own right, its surroundings offer further layers of beauty and culture:

• Zhoucheng Village (Tie-Dye Village): Just north of Xizhou, Zhoucheng is renowned for its traditional Bai tie-dye techniques. Visitors can witness artisans at work and even create their own pieces as a soulful souvenir.
• Erhai Lake: Known as the “ear-shaped lake,” Erhai offers serene boat rides, lakeside cycling, and views that blur the line between water and sky.
• Three Pagodas of Chongsheng Temple: These ancient white pagodas stand as silent guardians of Dali, their symmetry and grace mirroring the region’s spiritual heritage.
• Dali Ancient Town: A short drive south, Dali’s storied streets, stone gates, and vibrant shops create an unforgettable blend of history and modern energy.

How to Reach Xizhou from Dali

Located just 20 kilometers north of Dali Ancient Town, Xizhou is easily accessible:

• Minibus: The most budget-friendly choice, around 5–8 yuan, taking roughly 40 minutes.
• Public Bus & Minivan Combination: A good option for experiencing local life along the way.
• Bicycle: A 1–2 hour ride along Erhai Lake’s scenic trails, ideal for those seeking an intimate connection with the landscape.
• Private Transfer: LuxTourCN (LTC) offers comfortable private car services, allowing visitors to travel at their own pace and enjoy uninterrupted views.

Where to Stay and What to Eat

Xizhou offers accommodations that echo its poetic charm. Boutique courtyard hotels, transformed from historic homes, provide a sense of timeless tranquility. Family-run guesthouses invite guests to wake with the sounds of roosters and the aroma of fresh flower cakes drifting from the kitchen.

The culinary experience here is equally memorable. Signature treats include the flaky “Xizhou Baba” pastry, delicate flower cakes, and a variety of Bai-style dishes prepared with local vegetables and lake fish. Don’t miss the ceremonial “Three-Course Tea,” which unfolds in three stages of bitterness, sweetness, and aftertaste — a metaphor for life’s many flavors.

Suggested Three-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Xizhou Ancient Town
Immerse yourself in Bai architecture, explore local markets, and savor handmade snacks in shaded courtyards.

Day 2: Erhai Lake & Shuanglang Village
Drift on Erhai’s reflective waters and discover Shuanglang, known for its lakeside art studios and serene ambiance.

Day 3: Dali Ancient Town & Three Pagodas
Wander Dali’s ancient lanes and admire the iconic Three Pagodas, concluding your journey with mountain views and sunset silhouettes.

Experience Xizhou with LuxTourCN (LTC)

With its deep local expertise and thoughtful approach, LuxTourCN (LTC) invites you to see Xizhou not just as a destination, but as a living poem waiting to be read line by line. Let this village awaken your sense of wonder and leave you carrying the echoes of its stories long after you’ve returned home.

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