Dayan

Day Trips

Start your day with a leisurely stroll through the ancient cobbled streets of Dayan, soaking in the traditional Bai architecture that adorns the buildings. Visit the iconic Sifang Street, where you'll find quaint shops selling local handicrafts and souvenirs. Enjoy a traditional Bai breakfast at a local eatery, sampling the famous rice noodles and fresh vegetables.

After lunch, head to the picturesque Black Dragon Pool, where you can relax and admire the stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Explore the nearby Dongba Culture Museum to learn about the history and culture of the Naxi ethnic group. Take a moment to enjoy a peaceful boat ride on the pool's serene waters, surrounded by lush greenery.

As the sun sets, return to Sifang Street to experience the vibrant night market, filled with street food vendors and local artisans. Indulge in tasty snacks such as grilled skewers and sweet rice cakes while mingling with locals. End your evening by watching a traditional Naxi music performance, immersing yourself in the rich cultural heritage of the region.

Take a short trip to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Lijiang Old Town, where you can wander the maze-like streets adorned with colorful flowers and traditional wooden buildings. Visit the Mu Family Mansion, a historical site that showcases the architectural beauty of the Naxi culture. Enjoy a cup of locally brewed tea at a nearby tea house while soaking in the morning ambiance.

Spend your afternoon exploring the bustling market area, where you can find unique handicrafts and souvenirs. Don't forget to try the famous Lijiang baba, a local bread, at one of the popular stalls. As you wander, stop by the picturesque Square Street, a popular gathering place for both locals and tourists.

As night falls, take a seat at one of the riverside restaurants and enjoy a delicious dinner featuring local delicacies. The vibrant lights of the old town create a magical atmosphere, perfect for a romantic evening. Cap off the night by enjoying a traditional dance performance by local artists, celebrating the rich cultural heritage of the area.

Rise early and embark on a journey to the breathtaking Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, where you can take a cable car ride to reach the glacier park. Marvel at the stunning views of snow-capped peaks and lush valleys below. Take a guided walk on the scenic trails to appreciate the diverse flora and fauna of this unique ecosystem.

In the afternoon, visit the nearby Baisha Village, known for its ancient murals and traditional Naxi culture. Explore the local artisan workshops, where you can witness the creation of intricate handmade crafts. Enjoy a traditional lunch at a local guesthouse, trying dishes prepared with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

Return to Dayan in the evening and visit a local hot spring to unwind and relax after a day of exploration. Enjoy the therapeutic waters while surrounded by natural beauty and the sounds of nature. Finish your day with a quiet dinner at a cozy restaurant, reflecting on the stunning sights you've experienced.

Spend your morning in Baisha, exploring its rich cultural landscape and visiting the iconic Baisha Murals that depict the history and mythology of the Naxi people. Engage with local artists, learning about their craft and the significance of their work in preserving Naxi culture. Don't miss the chance to try some local breakfast specialties at a family-run eatery.

In the afternoon, participate in a traditional Naxi dance workshop, where you can learn the steps and rhythms that have been passed down through generations. Afterward, visit the nearby Lijiang Impressions Show, a spectacular performance that showcases the customs and traditions of various ethnic groups in Yunnan. Enjoy the vibrant colors and lively music that fill the air.

As evening approaches, take a leisurely walk back to Dayan, watching the sunset paint the sky in hues of orange and pink. Stop by a local café for a cup of herbal tea and share stories with fellow travelers about your day's adventures. End the night by enjoying a tranquil night stroll, taking in the charming sights of Dayan under the stars.

Depart early for a day trip to the renowned Tiger Leaping Gorge, one of the deepest gorges in the world. As you arrive, take in the breathtaking views of the Yangtze River and towering cliffs that surround you. Begin your hike along the gorge trails, feeling the thrill of adventure as you navigate through the stunning landscape.

Continue your hike through the gorge, stopping at various viewpoints to capture stunning photos of the dramatic scenery. Enjoy a packed lunch amidst nature, listening to the roar of the river below. Afterward, visit a local guesthouse for a taste of homemade snacks and refreshments.

As the sun sets, make your way back to Dayan, reflecting on the day's adventures in the stunning gorge. Treat yourself to a hearty dinner at a local restaurant, savoring Yunnan's famous mushroom dishes. Spend the evening relaxing and sharing stories with fellow travelers about your hiking experience.

Delve deeper into the Naxi culture by visiting the Dongba Culture Museum, where you can learn about their unique language, customs, and artistic expressions. Engage with local artists who are preserving traditional crafts such as wood carving and weaving. Enjoy a light breakfast at a nearby café, sampling local pastries and tea.

In the afternoon, participate in a Naxi cooking class, where you can learn to prepare authentic Naxi dishes using local ingredients. After your culinary adventure, enjoy the fruits of your labor with fellow participants, tasting the dishes you’ve created. Visit one of the local temples, where you can observe traditional rituals and gain insight into the spiritual life of the Naxi people.

As evening falls, stroll through the quiet streets of Dayan, enjoying the serene atmosphere. Find a cozy restaurant where you can indulge in a meal featuring local specialties, perhaps trying the famous Yunnan cheese. Conclude your evening with a visit to a local bar, enjoying live music performed by talented musicians.

Take a short trip to the charming village of Shuhe, known for its well-preserved architecture and tranquil setting. Start your morning by exploring the quaint streets lined with shops selling handmade crafts and local produce. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a riverside café, basking in the peaceful ambiance.

In the afternoon, rent a bicycle and explore the scenic countryside surrounding Shuhe, including lush fields and ancient tea plantations. Stop by a local tea house to sample Yunnan's famous Pu'er tea and learn about the tea-making process. Make your way to the nearby scenic spots, such as the beautiful Blue Moon Valley, to capture stunning photographs.

As the evening sets in, return to Shuhe for a traditional dinner at a local restaurant, where you can savor dishes made with seasonal ingredients. After dinner, enjoy a peaceful walk along the water, admiring the reflections of the stars on the surface. End your day by relaxing in a local guesthouse, soaking in the tranquil atmosphere of the village.

Embark on a day trip to Erhai Lake, a stunning body of water surrounded by mountains and picturesque villages. Start your morning with a boat ride, taking in the serene landscapes and clear blue waters. Stop at one of the small islands to explore local temples and enjoy the natural beauty.

After your boat ride, spend the afternoon cycling along the lakeshore, stopping at charming villages such as Dali and Xizhou. Visit local markets to sample fresh produce and traditional snacks, immersing yourself in the vibrant local culture. Take a moment to relax by the lakeside, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere and stunning views.

As the sun sets over Erhai Lake, find a cozy lakeside restaurant to enjoy a dinner featuring fresh fish from the lake. The stunning sunset colors reflect on the water, creating a magical dining experience. Return to Dayan in the evening, filled with memories of a beautiful day by the lake.

Begin your day by exploring the ancient Tea Horse Road, a historic trade route that once connected China to Tibet and beyond. Visit local tea farms, learning about the significance of tea production in the region and sampling various types of tea. Enjoy a traditional breakfast at a tea house, where you can savor freshly made pastries and tea.

In the afternoon, take a guided hike along a section of the Tea Horse Road, discovering the stunning landscapes and rich history of the area. Along the way, visit small villages where you can interact with local families and learn about their way of life. Stop for lunch at a local eatery, tasting dishes made with fresh ingredients sourced from the surrounding area.

As the evening approaches, return to Dayan and enjoy a farewell dinner at a restaurant that specializes in Yunnan cuisine. Reflect on your journey and the experiences you've had throughout your trip. End your evening with a relaxing stroll through the historic streets, cherishing the memories made in this enchanting region.