All Inclusive Private Day Tour to Shaxi Ancient Town from Dali

Dali , China

All Inclusive Private Day Tour to Shaxi Ancient Town from Dali

Active

8h - 9h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Escape the bustle of the city and discover the ancient Tea Horse Road Town at Shaxi outside of Dali on this double-duty, full-day excursion. After the convenient hotel pick up, hop on your private air-conditioned vehicle, discover the ancient buildings, stone bridges, ancients roads and streets at Shaxi Ancient Town. Learn its history and background from your tour guide, and experience the quaint lives of local Bai People. This private tour including entrance fee, lunch and door-to-door hotel transfers. You can choose to end your tour in Shaxi, Lijiang or return Dali.

Available options

Tour Ends in Dali

Pick up location is your hotel in Dali, after the tour, you will be transferred back to your hotel in Dali.<br/>Pickup included

Tour Ends in Shaxi

Pick up location is your hotel in Dali, after the tour, you will be transferred to your hotel in Shaxi. Ends in Shaxi <br/>Pickup included

Tour Ends in Lijiang

Pick up location is your hotel in Dali, after the tour, you will heading to your hotel in Lijiang.<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Hotel pickup and drop-off

Professional guide

Lunch

Bottled water

Transport by private vehicle

Entrance Fee

Detailed itinerary

Meet your private guide in hotel's lobby in Dali, heading directly to Shaxi Ancient Town which takes about 2 hours. Sit back and enjoy the sceneries along the way.

Stop 2

Shaxi Ancient Town, used to be an important and prosperous hub along the ancient Tea Horse Road which refers to the international trade route with the caravan as the main means of transportation. It is one of the world's 100 most endangered sites listed by the World Monuments Fund is a place where you can breathe in fresh air around-the-clock. The village has a long history that can be traced back to the Spring and Autumn period and the Warring States period (770 BC-221BC).

Now there still remains ancient buildings, stone bridges, ancients roads and streets as a record of the once glory and vicissitude of the its past.

Upon arrival, follow your tour guide to explore. Stroll around the Sifang street, if you come on Friday, you will experience the local trading fair: mountain villagers come down from the hills with their horses to trade their goods.

Next, you will pay a visit to the Ming Dynasty (1368 - 1644 AD) Xingjiao Temple. It is the largest and most representative Buddhist Tantra temple in China. The well-preserved murals of Ming Dynasty in the temple are deeply influenced by the painting style of the Central Plains in China and have rich local ethnic characteristics. They are the treasures of the Bai People in the southwestern China. Your tour guide will offer more information and facts about the Buddhism in China.

Continue to explore the Ancient Opera Stage and Yuxi Bridge. After lunch in the the local restaurant, you can choose to end your tour in Shaxi, heading to Lijiang or return Dali.

What's not included

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

CMN EN

Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

About Dali

Dali is a picturesque city in Yunnan Province, renowned for its stunning natural scenery, rich cultural heritage, and the famous Erhai Lake. Nestled between the Cangshan Mountain and Erhai Lake, Dali offers a blend of ethnic Bai culture, historic sites, and outdoor adventures, making it a must-visit destination in Southwest China.

Top Attractions

Cangshan Mountain

A stunning mountain range offering hiking trails, scenic views, and hot springs. The 19 peaks of Cangshan provide a breathtaking backdrop to Dali.

Nature Half day to full day Free to ¥100 for cable car

Erhai Lake

A large, picturesque lake offering water activities, cycling paths, and stunning sunsets. The lake is a major attraction and a hub for outdoor activities.

Nature Half day to full day Free to ¥150 for boat tours

Dali Ancient Town

A well-preserved ancient town with traditional architecture, bustling markets, and a rich cultural heritage. The town is a great place to experience the local Bai culture.

Historical Half day Free to explore, shopping and dining costs vary

Three Courses of Tea

A traditional tea ceremony performed by local Bai women. The ceremony involves serving tea in a specific ritual, offering insights into the local culture.

Cultural 1-2 hours ¥50-100

Xizhou Town

A charming town known for its well-preserved Bai architecture, museums, and cultural sites. Xizhou is a great place to learn about the Bai ethnic group.

Cultural Half day Free to explore, museum entry fees vary

Must-Try Local Dishes

Crossing the Bridge Noodles

A traditional Bai dish consisting of a hearty broth with various ingredients, served with rice noodles. The dish is named for the story of a scholar who prepared it to sustain himself while studying for exams.

Dinner Vegetarian options available

Erkuai (Yunnan Rice Cakes)

Thick, chewy rice cakes that can be fried, boiled, or steamed and served with various toppings. They are a popular street food in Dali.

Snack Vegetarian

Yunnan Ham

A type of cured ham that is a delicacy in Yunnan. It is often served as a snack or used in various dishes.

Snack Contains pork

Mushroom and Potato Hotpot

A hearty hotpot dish featuring a variety of mushrooms and potatoes, cooked in a flavorful broth. It's a popular dish in the colder months.

Dinner Vegetarian options available

Popular Activities

Hiking in Cangshan Mountain Cycling around Erhai Lake Boating on Erhai Lake Tea ceremonies Hot springs Lakeside picnics Visiting museums Exploring ancient towns

Best Time to Visit

Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November)

The weather is most pleasant during these seasons, with clear skies and comfortable temperatures. It's the best time for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

15°C to 25°C 59°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Chinese (Mandarin)
Widely spoken: Yunnan dialect, Bai language
English: Limited

Currency

Chinese Yuan (CNY)

Time Zone

GMT+8

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Dali is generally a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming local population. However, as with any destination, it's important to take precautions and stay aware of your surroundings.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious of your belongings in crowded areas
• Use reputable tour operators and guides
• Avoid unlicensed taxis

Getting there

By air

Dali Airport • 10 km from city center

By train

Dali Station

By bus

Dali Bus Station, Xiaguan Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The bus system is affordable and covers most parts of the city and surrounding areas.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Didi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Foreigners Street Xiaguan Erhai Lake Area

Day trips

Shaxi Ancient Town

90 km from Dali • Full day

A well-preserved ancient town on the old Tea Horse Road, offering a glimpse into the region's rich history and cultural heritage.

Lijiang

150 km from Dali • Full day or overnight

A UNESCO World Heritage site known for its well-preserved ancient town, stunning natural scenery, and rich Naxi culture.

Shuhe Ancient Town

150 km from Dali • Full day or overnight

A sister town to Lijiang Ancient Town, Shuhe offers a more relaxed and less touristy experience, with a rich history and cultural heritage.

Festivals

Dali March Fair • March Bai Ethnic New Year • Late February to early March (lunar calendar) Dali International Photography Festival • October

Pro tips

Visit the local markets early in the morning for the freshest produce and best selection
Learn a few basic phrases in Mandarin or the local Yunnan dialect to enhance your interactions with locals
Bring comfortable walking shoes, as Dali is best explored on foot
Try the local Bai cuisine, which is known for its unique flavors and ingredients
Visit the Three Courses of Tea ceremony for a unique cultural experience and insights into the local Bai culture