Early Autumn in Dali: New Ways to Explore Secret Lesser-Known Spots
As the cool autumn approaches, I suddenly long to visit a mild city to start the beauty of early autumn. Offering both seclusion from the bustling city and the comfort of pastoral life, the most suitable place seems to be Dali.
Leaving behind the dazzling nightlife of the metropolis, I enjoy the leisurely pace of romantic Dali. For many, Dali is like a utopia far from worldly troubles, where one can always find the most desired life.
But in Dali, beyond the wind, flowers, snow, and moon, there is also a sense of tranquility and detachment. Besides Cangshan Mountain and Erhai Lake, there are many low-key, hidden treasures that are equally captivating.
**Eryuan West Lake: A Natural Lake Painting**
Although I have visited Dali more than ten times, it was my first time discovering Eryuan West Lake. If time permits, I recommend arriving here at dawn to catch a sunrise and watch the sun slowly rise from the other side of the mountains.
Eryuan West Lake, also known as Dali West Lake, is only about 40 kilometers from Dali Ancient Town. As soon as I entered the gate, I was captivated by the scenery. Though summer has passed, the area still retains a summer-like charm.
"It has a Jiangnan landscape, surrounded by four mountains of verdant greenery, making West Lake in Hangzhou seem inferior by comparison." This is the exclamation Xu Xiake made while boating on Eryuan West Lake, arousing curiosity. Seeing it with my own eyes, the feeling is beyond words.
In autumn, lotuses elsewhere have withered, but here some still hide under the leaves, as if trying to hold onto this unrepeatable summer.
"One flower blooms in two seasons, monopolizing summer and autumn glory"—perhaps only the lotus can do this. Standing on the bridge, you can see Cangshan Mountain in the distance, while the nearby lake, pavilions, and towers are all in full view.
You can also take a wooden boat across the lake. The water is exceptionally clear, and you can occasionally see small fish swimming at the bottom.
Eryuan West Lake actually consists of six villages and one island. Seen from a drone, it reveals a beautiful natural lake landscape with villages in the lake and lakes in the villages.
What is most commendable is that it lacks the commercial atmosphere of West Lake in Hangzhou, which is in the middle of a bustling city. Although it has been developed into a scenic area, the local residents still enjoy their original pace of life, unaffected.
Even the small boats we travel on are actually the daily means of production and transportation for the local villagers. These landscapes, which we consider luxuries, are commonplace to the locals. It's truly fortunate to live here.
Looking into the distance, the other side of the lake is lined with white-walled, gray-tiled houses, scattered in height, exuding the tenderness of a Jiangnan water town.
The serene and beautiful environment allows visitors to relax. The beauty of West Lake is like a freshly brewed jasmine tea—fresh and elegant, leaving a lasting aftertaste.
Perhaps everyone has a longing for a water town in their heart. The hustle and bustle are just a backdrop, all for the enjoyment of freedom and leisure.
**Hongsheng Road: Directly to Erhai Lake**
Before coming to Hongsheng Road, you might think it's just an ordinary road, like I did. But when you stand by the roadside and see the road stretching straight toward the distant Erhai Lake, you'll be instantly stunned.
The road is near Dali University, easily accessible by bus or taxi. Fortunately, the weather was good, and I could see the road and Erhai Lake in the distance.
Find the highest point of the road. There are relatively fewer cars, but you must pay attention to safety while taking photos. A photo with the road can easily look like a professional shot; no wonder it's called Dali's most beautiful road.
If your equipment allows, it's better to bring a telephoto lens for a more surprising visual effect.
Simple and solid-colored clothing is most suitable for photos here. When there are few vehicles passing by, it's the perfect time to take pictures. No matter what style you choose, this road can handle it.
It's also important to plan your poses in advance. If you can't think of a suitable one, you can pretend to walk casually—candid shots can also produce great photos.
**Ideal邦: A Photo Treasure Trove**
I first learned about Ideal邦 while playing on my phone at home and was immediately attracted by its architectural style. This time in Dali, I couldn't miss it.
Even before its opening, many people came specifically to take photos, and some newlyweds even chose it for wedding photos.
The first impression of Ideal邦 is eclectic, fantastical, unconventional, and full of sculptural feel. All buildings are unique, and walking through them, you sense an artistic atmosphere everywhere.
The Ideal邦 town is divided into three sections: a theme area with Aegean architectural style, a private customized inn area, and a cliff hotel commercial area. It has been open to the public for free since late April this year.
Built on a hillside, the town has many steps. The streets are lined with flowers, and the air is filled with their sweet fragrance.
Each building breaks away from traditional architectural styles, as if naturally grown, exuding a sense of freedom and spontaneity.
It is said that the designer and owner of Ideal邦 made a special field trip to dozens of traditional European settlements before finally planning, designing, and building it.
The compact layout along the mountain creates a magical effect of changing scenery with each step. The wonderful combination of white and earth tones subtly creates a familiar strangeness that makes you want to explore.
Curved architecture paired with blue sky and white clouds is undoubtedly the best photo angle. The town is not very large, but it is beautiful and quiet.
Walking, stopping, admiring the scenery, and taking beautiful photos. In a trance, it really feels like being in Santorini.
**Luwo Mountain: A Mysterious Wild Attraction**
What is the meaning of travel? Sometimes it's taking beautiful photos, sometimes tasting local cuisine, or maybe just appreciating the scenery.
In Dali, there is a place called Luwo Mountain. The name may be unfamiliar to many, but it is located west of the well-known East Erhai Road.
Standing on the summit of Luwo Mountain, you have a super wide view of Cangshan and Erhai, and the lush greenery is very pleasing to the eyes.
If you are driving, after getting off the expressway, continue straight to the Ring Erhai Road, then turn right to East Erhai Road, where you can see many scenic spots.
The entire Luwo Mountain site is exactly on the road from Shuanglang Town to Wase Town. When you see many cars parked on the roadside, you're probably there.
The area is divided into West, North, and South zones. The South Zone has the most primitive cave, and many photos of cliff scenery are taken here. Almost all wedding photo shoots also choose this spot.
The popular window frame is also a perfect photo point. But if you come in the afternoon, you need to allow time for queuing, as there are many people.
Wearing a nice dress, just sitting there makes you look like a painting girl, doesn't it?
The combination of ruined walls and window frames looks particularly beautiful in photos, whether on cloudy days or near dusk. Of course, different weather gives a different overall feel.
Continuing forward, you approach the lake. This place is relatively secluded. By the shore, there are several lush big trees, making it extremely quiet.
Walking on the sandy platform, feeling the breeze on your face, it's very pleasant.
In the distance is the blue Erhai Lake, and nearby are verdant trees. At this moment, you don't have to do anything, but you must not forget to admire the scenery.
**Xizhou Rice Fields: Super Healing**
The sky is clear blue, and the rice fields in Xizhou are full of pastoral freshness. I can't help but feel a wandering mood to enjoy the beauty of the moment, recording the scenery with my eyes.
The small Xizhou rice fields attract so many tourists to stop and take photos. Even across mountains and seas, people can't forget them, precisely because there is real life here.
Under the blue sky and white clouds, strolling through the rice fields, listening to the cicadas, and occasionally catching the faint fragrance of rice in the wind.
You can also cross the crisscrossing paths in the fields and walk to the depths of the rice fields. You will truly fall in love with this healing and hopeful place.
The yellow walls in the rice fields are also super photogenic. Coming around 6 p.m., the light is soft and perfect for photos.
Surrounded by the fast-paced city life and work, after a long time, you naturally long for the pleasure of stealing a few idle moments.
In September, it's no longer hot, nor yet cold. The rice fields are gradually turning golden. Here, time seems to slow down. Watching clouds and listening to the wind become the most important things.
Walking on the ridges, everything in sight is a view. The fragrance of rice wafting in the air is unforgettable.
Xizhou really has a magic. At the end of the vast rice fields lie the Bai ethnic villages. The most famous boutique inn here is "Xizhou Inn," and many foreign tourists come to Xizhou just for this inn.
Of course, what touches me more are the rice fields, the folk houses, and the intersecting paths—a natural, rustic beauty.
**Blossom Sea Seaview Homestay: Romantic and Artistic**
Dali is like a treasure trove. Every so often, a "fairy-like" homestay appears. On the shores of Erhai between Xizhou Ancient Town and Taoyuan Pier, there is a beautiful garden homestay. I fell in love with it at first sight. Enjoy the joy of facing the Erhai Sea.
Blossom Sea—just the name suggests flowers everywhere. It's an artistic and romantic place. The location is also excellent, with just the right height to overlook Erhai.
Even the courtyard outside the homestay is surprising enough. The yard is full of blooming flowers—nearly 40,000 white daisies. No girl could resist being charmed.
Driving here is convenient, with dedicated parking spaces. The staff are mostly Bai indigenous people from the village. Their service attitude is great, and they make you feel comfortable.
Entering the homestay lobby, the decoration is warm and cozy. Everything follows a minimalist style, with artistic decorations everywhere. Though not luxurious, it gives a feeling of home.
The common area offers a place for tea and chat. Under the warm yellow light, you feel an ultimate sense of security.
Entering the room, it's spacious but not empty. Outside the window, lush green plants are visible. Opening the window lets you breathe fresh air. The warm tones and comfortable bed put you in a completely relaxed state, ensuring a good night's sleep.
Outside the homestay garden is a ring road along the lake. There is also a wetland by Erhai. Near sunset, you can stay by the lake and watch the sun set slowly—absolutely breathtaking.
1. From Dali Ancient Town to Eryuan West Lake, it takes only about 30 minutes by car. Alternatively, you can take a bus to Yousuo Street and then a small tricycle there.
2. Eryuan West Lake ticket: 100 RMB/person. Opening hours: 08:00–17:00.
3. The best photo times at Ideal邦 are early morning and dusk. The light at sunrise and sunset is excellent, but remember sun protection—Dali's UV rays are strong.
4. Xizhou rice fields are usually from July to September. The fields start turning yellow in mid-September. Navigate to "Xizhou Inn" to find them.
