Nanzhao Old Town (Weishan Ancient City, 巍山古城) – the birthplace of the Nanzhao Kingdom (738–902 AD) and a well-preserved Ming-Qing ancient city in Dali, Yunnan.
Basics
Location: Weishan Yi & Hui Autonomous County, 51km south of Dali Old Town.
History: Founded in Yuan; rebuilt 1390 (Ming) into a brick city; 600+ years old.
Nicknames: “Origin of Nanzhao”, “Living Ancient City”, “South Weishan, North Pingyao”.
Status: National Historic & Cultural City; less commercialized than Dali.
Core Layout & Landmarks
Chessboard Pattern: Square “seal-shaped” city; 25 streets & 18 alleys radiate from central Xinggong Tower.
Gongchen Tower (拱辰楼)
Iconic north gate tower, Ming; “Kui Xiong Liu Zhao” plaque marks Nanzhao’s unification.
Xinggong Tower (星拱楼)
Central “pen-holder” tower; four main streets extend from here.
Nanzhao Museum (南诏博物馆)
Exhibits Nanzhao relics; ¥20 entry.
Weishan Confucian Temple (巍山文庙)
Ming-era complex; one of Yunnan’s largest Confucian temples.
Local Experiences
Snacks: Try one-stick noodles, braised pork ersi, and green pea cake.
Handicrafts: Traditional tie-dye and wood carving workshops.
Atmosphere: Authentic local life, no loud bars; quiet Ming-Qing streets.
How to Get There
From Dali:
Bus: Dali → Weishan (1hr, ¥20).
Self-driving: 51km, 1hr.
Tips
Tickets: Old town streets free; museum ¥20, Confucian Temple ¥40.
Best Time: Year-round; spring (Mar–May) or autumn (Sep–Nov) for mild weather.
Nearby: Pair with Weibao Mountain (Nanzhao sacred site, 15mins).
Compared with busy Dali, Weishan is a tranquil time capsule of Nanzhao heritage and slow Yunnan life.
