About Dali Ancient City
Dali Ancient City is a well-preserved walled city that served as the capital of the Bai-ruled Nanzhao and Dali kingdoms for over 500 years. The city's grid layout dates from the Ming Dynasty, with four main gates and towers still standing. Inside the walls, cobblestone streets are lined with traditional Bai architecture — white-walled houses with blue-trimmed details and ornate wood carvings.
Today, the city is a haven for artists, writers, and travelers seeking a slower pace of life. Boutiques, cafes, and galleries occupy traditional buildings, while local markets sell Bai crafts, textiles, and food. The city's location — with Cangshan Mountain rising behind and Erhai Lake sparkling nearby — creates a setting of extraordinary beauty. At night, the streets are lantern-lit, and the atmosphere is relaxed and bohemian.
What Not to Miss
The city walls and gates — climb for views of the mountains and lake.
Foreigner Street (Yangren Jie) — the main thoroughfare with shops, cafes, and bars.
Local markets — experience Bai culture through crafts, food, and daily life.
