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Dragon Boat Festival weekend

Hello. The period I’m intending to visit Dali coincides with the dragon boat and children’s day weekend. The places I’m intending to visit - Cangshan, Erhai, Dali ancient town, Shaxi town. Are these places likely to be much more crowded during that period of time? Thank you!

Visiting Dali during the Dragon Boat Festival weekend and Children's Day is likely to be busier than usual, as these holidays are popular times for domestic travel in China. Tourist spots around Dali, such as Cangshan, Erhai, Dali Ancient Town, and Shaxi Town, may experience increased crowds, especially at well-known scenic viewpoints and main streets in the old town.

Here’s what to expect at each location:

  • Cangshan Mountain: Hiking trails and cable car areas can be crowded, particularly the main access points. Early morning visits are recommended to avoid peak crowds.
  • Erhai Lake: Boat tours and lakeside walking paths may have more visitors than usual. Consider renting bicycles or using less popular piers for a quieter experience.
  • Dali Ancient Town: The old town streets, markets, and food areas will be busy, especially in the afternoons. Arriving early in the day or visiting on weekdays during the holiday can help avoid the densest crowds.
  • Shaxi Town: As a smaller and less-visited town, Shaxi may be slightly less crowded than Dali Ancient Town, but popular squares and markets can still be busier than usual.

Tips for managing the crowds during this holiday period:

  • Start your days early to reach popular attractions before the peak crowd hours.
  • Consider hiring a local guide or driver who knows alternative routes and quieter times for visiting each site.
  • Use off-peak times for activities like lake cruises or cable car rides.
  • Be prepared for longer wait times at restaurants and tourist facilities.

Overall, while the Dragon Boat Festival and Children's Day will increase visitor numbers, careful planning and early starts can help you enjoy the highlights of Dali and its surroundings without feeling overwhelmed by crowds.

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The attractions mentioned in this question

Dali
Shaxi
Erhai Lake
Dali Ancient Town
Cangshan Mountain
China
Dali
China
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