Dali Ancient Town, nestled at the foot of the scenic Cangshan Mountain, was once the capital of the ancient Nanzhao and Dali Kingdoms. The town, blessed with picturesque landscapes and a mild climate, offers an ideal setting for both residents and visitors. Locals follow a simple routine of rising with the sun and resting at dusk, often spending their leisure time gardening and basking in the abundant sunlight. This serene lifestyle, combined with the town’s beautiful weather, attracts countless tourists throughout the year.
Walking through the bustling streets of Dali Ancient Town is a journey back in time. Fuxing Road, a pedestrian street at the heart of the ancient town, is lined with shops selling Dali marble carvings, ethnic clothing, and local delicacies. Visitors can meander through these shops, hunting for unique, culturally rich souvenirs and trying various local snacks at the many roadside eateries.
Enchanting Nightlife
As night falls, the town transforms into a lively hub of activity. Foreigners’ Street and Renmin Road become the go-to areas for an eclectic nightlife experience. These areas are teeming with distinctive bars and quaint coffee shops, some of which feature resident singers or impromptu performances by travelers. With music filling the air and drinks in hand, visitors can delve into the vibrant nightlife, discovering their own moments of joy amidst the lively ambiance.
Visitor Tips
- Best Time to Visit: The weather in March and April is particularly pleasant, and the town celebrates numerous local festivals, the most famous being the ‘Third Moon Festival.’
- Clothing: While the town enjoys warm and sunny days, temperatures can drop significantly when it rains. Hence, tourists are advised to pack a few warm clothes regardless of the season.
Services and Amenities
- Opening Hours: The town is open all year round, 24 hours a day.
- On-Site Transportation: A loop tour around the town costs approximately 35 RMB per person. Access to transportation is near the South Gate Visitor Center. Children should be accompanied by adults.
- Contact Information: For any inquiries, visitors can contact the official helpline at 0872-2512899.
Local Delicacies
No visit to Dali Ancient Town is complete without trying the local delicacies. ‘乳扇’ (Rushan), a type of cheese, is particularly famous and comes in two variations: grilled and fried. Another must-try dish is ‘炒饵块’ (Stir-fried Rice Cakes). These rice cakes, mixed with a variety of seasonings, offer a delightful burst of flavors. Other local snacks include wild mushroom rice noodles and flower cakes, each offering a unique taste of the region.
Transportation
For an easier and more convenient journey, visitors are recommended to take taxis or hire cars. The trip from Dali City to the ancient town takes about 40 minutes, though it may take longer during peak hours.
Exploring Dali Ancient Town
Walking through the bustling streets of Dali Ancient Town is a journey back in time. Fuxing Road, a pedestrian street at the heart of the ancient town, is lined with shops selling Dali marble carvings, ethnic clothing, and local delicacies. Visitors can meander through these shops, hunting for unique, culturally rich souvenirs and trying various local snacks at the many roadside eateries.
Enchanting Nightlife
As night falls, the town transforms into a lively hub of activity. Foreigners’ Street and Renmin Road become the go-to areas for an eclectic nightlife experience. These areas are teeming with distinctive bars and quaint coffee shops, some of which feature resident singers or impromptu performances by travelers. With music filling the air and drinks in hand, visitors can delve into the vibrant nightlife, discovering their own moments of joy amidst the lively ambiance.
Visitor Tips
- Best Time to Visit: The weather in March and April is particularly pleasant, and the town celebrates numerous local festivals, the most famous being the ‘Third Moon Festival.’
- Clothing: While the town enjoys warm and sunny days, temperatures can drop significantly when it rains. Hence, tourists are advised to pack a few warm clothes regardless of the season.
Services and Amenities
- Opening Hours: The town is open all year round, 24 hours a day.
- On-Site Transportation: A loop tour around the town costs approximately 35 RMB per person. Access to transportation is near the South Gate Visitor Center. Children should be accompanied by adults.
- Contact Information: For any inquiries, visitors can contact the official helpline at 0872-2512899.
Local Delicacies
No visit to Dali Ancient Town is complete without trying the local delicacies. ‘乳扇’ (Rushan), a type of cheese, is particularly famous and comes in two variations: grilled and fried. Another must-try dish is ‘炒饵块’ (Stir-fried Rice Cakes). These rice cakes, mixed with a variety of seasonings, offer a delightful burst of flavors. Other local snacks include wild mushroom rice noodles and flower cakes, each offering a unique taste of the region.
Transportation
For an easier and more convenient journey, visitors are recommended to take taxis or hire cars. The trip from Dali City to the ancient town takes about 40 minutes, though it may take longer during peak hours.
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