Xizhou (喜洲古镇) – the Bai ethnic cultural heart and ancient merchant town 18km north of Dali Old Town, Yunnan.
Basics
Location: Dali City, between Cangshan Mountain (west) and Erhai Lake (east).
History: Dates to Nanzhao Kingdom (Tang); flourished in Ming-Qing as a Tea Horse Road trade hub (“Yunnan’s Merchant Capital”).
Status: National Historic & Cultural Town; well-preserved Bai architecture and folk traditions.
Core Attractions
Zhengyi Gate (正义门): Main entrance, iconic Bai-style tower.
Yan Family Compound (严家大院)
Ticket: ¥25; 08:30–17:30.
Bai architecture masterpiece: three rooms + one screen wall, exquisite woodcarvings.
Bai Three-Course Tea & folk dance shows (14:00 daily).
Sifang Square (四方街): Town center, snacks & handicrafts.
Xizhou Linden Centre (喜洲林): Famous yellow wall + rice fields photo spot (free).
Zhoucheng Village (周城村): 5km north, “Bai Tie-Dye Village”; DIY workshops available.
Local Experiences
Xizhou Baba (喜洲粑粑): Try sweet (rose) or savory (scallion pork) flatbread, ~¥10.
Bai Tie-Dye: Traditional dyeing craft; visit Zhoucheng for hands-on experience.
Rice Fields & Sunsets: Best views at golden hour (17:00–19:00).
Transportation
From Dali Old Town: Minibus to Xizhou (¥10, 30 mins) or taxi (~¥40).
From Dali Station: Taxi ~¥50.
Tips
Entry: Town streets free; Yan’s Compound ¥25.
Best Time: Spring (Mar–May) or Autumn (Sep–Nov) for mild weather and harvest scenery.
Nearby: Combine with Erhai Lake cycling or Cangshan Mountain hikes.
Compared with busy Dali Old Town, Xizhou offers a quieter, authentic Bai cultural experience with stunning mountain-lake views.
