Live Your Best Lives
After the false alarm the night before, I finally arrived at Xishuangbanna Airport as planned. I was still a little nervous at the moment, but I finally felt relieved after I successfully boarded the plane.
The flight from Xishuangbanna to Dali takes about an hour, and thanks to this route, I saved a lot of time.
Just after 9:00 AM, I arrived at Dali Fengyi Airport. Unlike the sweltering summer heat of Xishuangbanna, Dali is considerably cooler. As soon as I stepped out of the terminal, I felt a refreshing breeze brush my face.
Thus, the word "spring" perfectly describes Dali, a land of blossoming flowers, snow, and moon.
Our first stop on this Dali trip was the long-missed yet familiar Dali Ancient Town. This time, I stayed at the same inn I stayed at for three nights last year, the Mishe Inn.
Although the room is not the same as last year, when I walked into the room and saw the familiar color scheme for the first time, the warm memories of last year came back.
The first-floor lobby of the inn was once one of the most familiar places.
Behind the lobby is the atrium of the inn.
The bright sunshine poured in, and the glass windows were filled with the breath of life.
I came to the second floor of the inn and walked into Building B, which I hadn't been to last year. It felt a bit fresh again.
I walked up to the rooftop terrace of the inn again. I took the first photo of my Yunnan trip here last year, and I still miss it very much. The railings on both sides of the terrace are hung with succulents in good condition. It was already noon. On the way to lunch, I ran into a cute Shiba Inu who was asking for a hug.
It was already noon. On the way to lunch, I ran into a cute Shiba Inu who was asking for a hug.
Coming to this restaurant hidden deep in the ancient city, the saying “Good wine needs no bush” has its own truth.
There's also a pomegranate tree in the middle of the courtyard, and the fruits are already very large.
The sweet and sour fish with passion fruit is their signature dish. It was my first time trying passion fruit flavored fish fillet, and it was surprisingly delicious.
Another important reason for staying in Dali Ancient Town again this time was to visit Cangshan Mountain, which I didn't have time to climb last year.
Cangshan Mountain and Erhai Lake always appear together. This time, in addition to getting up close and personal with Erhai Lake again, I also wanted to see the famous Cangshan Mountain. This time, we chose to take the Cangshan Ximatan Cableway. Due to its high altitude, we could see the magnificent scenery of Cangshan Mountain. The entire cable car journey required a transfer before reaching the Ximatan Cableway's terminus.
As the cable car continues to rise, the view in front of us becomes wider and wider.
The closer you get to the top of the mountain, the more obvious the cloud-shrouded landscape becomes.
When I was still in the ancient city at noon, the sky had begun to clear up. I thought the dark clouds on the top of the mountain would slowly dissipate. However, I didn’t expect that the sudden appearance of a dark cloud would be the beginning of a thrilling journey.
Shortly after exiting the cable car station, ice particles and light rain suddenly fell simultaneously. Seeing the rain getting heavier, all the tourists were forced to retreat back to the cable car station.
The heavy rain briefly stopped, and the Ximatan Scenic Area, washed by the heavy rain, looked even more refreshing. However, little did they know that this was just the calm before the storm.
The second downpour soon arrived, its heaviest and heaviest rain ever, forcing the cable car to cease service. Descending early was impossible.
By this time, the cable car station had unknowingly transformed into a refugee camp, and everyone's initial annoyance gradually turned into panic. The downpour lasted for over two hours, and since the cable car couldn't resume operation immediately, we were stranded on Cangshan Mountain for nearly three hours. The staff at Cangshan Mountain told us that they had never seen such heavy rain for such a long time, as it usually lasted only half an hour at most. This downpour, which lasted for over two hours, was also their first time seeing such heavy rain. While sheltering from the rain at the cable car station, the torrential downpour inevitably caused the roof to leak. Furthermore, the temperature at the summit was in the single digits. Even though we'd rented cotton jackets, the dripping cold water still splattered down our trouser legs, sending waves of chills piercing our bodies. We were grateful to the Cangshan staff for providing us with free warm coats. Only by wrapping ourselves up from head to toe could we avoid the cold. Some tourists arrived in their summer clothes, while many had their shoes and socks soaked by the downpour. Some even developed altitude sickness. The mountain aid station was already packed. Without the assistance of the scenic area, it's unclear how much longer anyone could have survived.
Finally, after more than two hours of heavy rain, the rain finally subsided, and the cable car finally resumed operation. Under the escort of the scenic area staff, we refugees who had been trapped on the mountain for nearly three hours finally returned safely to the foot of the mountain.
At this time, the staff at the cable car station had prepared brown sugar ginger tea to keep us warm, and also told us that today's tickets could be transferred to the next day free of charge. Although the weather was freezing, my heart was warm at this moment.
I had been so excited about my trip to Cangshan, but I never expected it to end this way. All I can say is that the journey was full of surprises and it was a thrilling experience.
The cable car stopped for a minute midway down the mountain, almost making us think it had broken down and we were stuck in mid-air. This trip was just as thrilling as our previous night in Banna.
As we left the scenic area, it was still raining moderately at the foot of the mountain. It was said that there had been heavy downpours there before, and tickets to Cangshan had already been sold out.
In the evening, we finally returned to Dali Ancient Town, and the drizzle finally stopped.
At this moment, the pale yellow lights in Dali Ancient Town appeared even warmer against the dark green backdrop of Cangshan Mountain in the distance.
The building we passed by with a very beautiful exterior is a bar called Sakura-hana-ya-jin. The story of this bar will be introduced later.
Last year, my first dinner in the ancient city was at Duan Gongzi, but this time, I can check in at a different restaurant.
The retro decoration inside the store is very distinctive. The dishes have been served. While being trapped on Cangshan Mountain in the afternoon, this dinner has become a kind of expectation and belief for the future.
Shuanglang Ancient Town, nestled in the northeast corner of Erhai Lake, offers one of the best spots in Dali Prefecture for up-close views of the lake.
Last year, during my Yunnan trip, I briefly visited Shuanglang for a day, but due to time constraints, a single day trip wasn't enough to fully experience this beautiful ancient town. This time, I returned, and a three-day, two-night trip was more than enough to fully experience Shuanglang.
We arrived at Shuanglang Ancient Town around 11:00 AM. A stark contrast to the inclement weather of the previous day, today was a bright, sunny day. The inn we stayed at in Shuanglang this time was called Hua Hao Yue Yuan, situated on a small hillside near the south entrance of Shuanglang. From here, we could overlook Erhai Lake and Shuanglang Ancient Town. So why didn't we choose a room with a sea view right next to Erhai Lake? I'll keep you in suspense for now. The inn has a small courtyard with a swimming pool, and the environment is great.
The inn has a small courtyard with a swimming pool, and the environment is great.
The inn has a small courtyard with a swimming pool, and the environment is great.
The inn has a small courtyard with a swimming pool, and the environment is great.
The inn has a small courtyard with a swimming pool, and the environment is great. You can see Erhai Lake in front of the courtyard. This peninsula deep in Erhai Lake is called Yuji Island.
There is also a cute little Teddy bear in the inn.
Another reason to choose this inn is the swimming pool with a great photo-taking rate.
Unlike the internet celebrity style of the swimming pool at Xishuangbanna Yunzhu Hotel, the swimming pool here is more pure and natural.
Under the sunshine, it is beautiful and healing.
Coming to the guest room, it is also a very photogenic place with a very classy design style.
The rooms in the inn have a small balcony, from which you can overlook the Erhai Lake across the way.
I opened the curtains, and when the sunlight streamed into the room, all I wanted to do was lie in bed and enjoy this beautiful afternoon.
However, another voice in my body told me not to do that, because there were more important things to do.
In Shuanglang Scenic Area, the coastline around the pier is arguably the most scenic spot. Strolling here, a gentle breeze brings a sense of comfort.
The Nanzhao Style Island opposite is our destination for the afternoon.
Come to this corner garden restaurant and taste authentic Yunnan cuisine.
What should I eat? Just follow the recommendations.
When I passed by here again at night, when the lights came on, the dining atmosphere was even stronger.
After arriving at Shuanglang Wharf, we will take this yacht to Nanzhao Fengqing Island.
Entering Nanzhao Fengqing Island, the first thing you see is a group of Sha Yimu sculptures.
The flowers along the roadside are in full bloom.
Walking onto the island's coastal boardwalk, you can see the azure Erhai Lake in the distance, with the waves forming beautiful spots of light under the sunlight.
This is one of the most popular check-in spots on the island.
Therefore, it is natural that there are many young ladies lining up here to take pictures.
Not far from the check-in spot is the Erhai Daughter Statue.
Continue walking along the coastal boardwalk and you will come to a small hill.
Here you can deeply feel the greenery of the entire island.
The largest building in the middle of the island is the Nanzhao Palace.
There is a large square in front of the gate, which can be reached by tourist bus.
Coming to the other side of Fengqing Island, there is a forest covered with lawn, which has a fairy-tale beauty.
After walking through most of Fengqing Island, the ancient town of Yuji Island is now in sight.
Arriving at the pier again, preparing to return to Shuanglang Ancient Town.
And the next stop was to check in at this Dali restaurant across the street that I had been eyeing for a long time and wait for the wind to come.
When I passed by here last year, I was wondering what kind of hotel was so beautiful. It made me feel like I was on vacation in Europe. Later I looked it up and found out that the name of this hotel was Dali Waiting for the Wind. I think I must stay here next time I come to Shuanglang. And this time I really wanted to stay here, but because the hotel does not support free early cancellation, I could only give up. Although I didn't manage to stay here, the cafe on the first floor of the hotel is still a great place to take photos and check in.
Outside the cafe on the first floor, there is a large parasol, which is a perfect match with the blue sky and white clouds of Erhai Lake next to it.
This place faces Erhai Lake, which is a good place to sit quietly and daydream.
Outside the window, the combination of the small chair and the small wind chime is very beautiful.
This scenic road near Erhai Lake was renovated last year, and the entire street is planted with succulents. The most beautiful area is undoubtedly the Dali Waiting for the Wind~
Walk into the courtyard of the hotel cafe.
I want to go with you to enjoy the breeze again, order a cup of coffee and enjoy a beautiful afternoon~
Originally I just wanted to sit outside, but the enthusiastic and kind store clerk saw my professional photography equipment at a glance and took the initiative to invite me to go to the hotel to take some more photos. She just hoped that I could share the photos I took in the store with them. There is also a small terrace on the rooftop of the hotel, which is perfect for sitting and watching the sunset.
The hotel also has a small terrace on the rooftop, which is perfect for sitting and watching the sunset.
As the sun sets, my journey of waiting for the wind comes to an end, because the next stop is waiting for me.
It was already 6:30 in the evening, and we hurried to this Muxi Seaview Restaurant to enjoy the most luxurious meal of this trip.
Although the restaurant is a bit remote, it still attracts many tourists to dine here.
The bougainvillea on the edge of Erhai Lake has been dyed a light golden by the setting sun.
Walking into the room, the quiet environment is very stylish.
A high-quality dinner is served, and the elegant knife and fork moment begins.
At this time, the sky was gradually darkening. Standing by the Erhai Lake, watching the sunset glow in the distant sky slowly fade away, waiting for the night to slowly fall.
In Shuanglang Ancient Town, you can also encounter many young women wearing ethnic costumes taking photos.
Returning to the warm inn, tomorrow is a brand new day.
Good morning, beautiful Shuanglang.
Although we couldn’t see the sunrise, the morning glow was equally wonderful.
The Jupiter hanging in the opposite sky at this time is the most dazzling star in the sky.
The sky is getting brighter, and the whole ancient town is slowly waking up from its sleep.
When I came to the inn lobby, there were not many tourists staying recently, and I felt that the entire lobby had been reserved for me.
A new day has begun, so hurry up and have a hot breakfast~
On the edge of Erhai Lake, in addition to the famous Dali Ancient City, there is another ancient town with strong Bai customs, Xizhou, which preserves the largest and best collection of Bai residential buildings.
It takes about half an hour to get there by bus from Shuanglang.
Unlike the massive commercialization of Dali Ancient City, it still retains relatively original streets and cultural atmosphere, but the main roads during holidays are still crowded with tourists.
At the roadside stalls, the simple Bai people are waiting for the arrival of tourists.
The alleys with no tourists nearby are the most authentic appearance of Xizhou.
The buildings on the side are very characteristic of the Bai ethnic group.
Continuing to wander around the ancient town, the Dong family must have been a wealthy family here, and encountered many Dongyuan buildings along the way.
When I happened to pass by this restaurant recommended by a certain person, who would have thought that the entrance to it would be an inconspicuous coffee shop.
The restaurant is located in a courtyard house. When you walk in from the outside, you realize that there is something special here.
The decoration in the store is relatively simple and antique, and it can be seen that it must be a certain age.
Serve, start~
A cat in the distance is also actively looking for food.
After lunch, I looked up at the sky. The originally gloomy weather in the morning had begun to clear up.
Continuing walking in the ancient town, I came across a couple wearing traditional clothes taking wedding photos, their happy smiles were beyond words.
On the roadside, a carriage for visiting the ancient town was parked. The horse lowered its head. It must be very tired.
The most famous scenery in Xizhou Ancient Town is the rice fields that frequently appear in Internet celebrity photos.
Small waterwheel next to rice fields
When you come to the main road, you will see a pure pastoral scenery and picturesque scenery.
There are small electric cars passing by one after another on the road.
At the end of the road is the unknown green mountain on the east side of Erhai Lake.
In the rice fields, wheat ears and wild flowers compete with each other, creating a scene full of spring.
There are many vendors in the rice fields selling these flower-shaped balloons, which are very cute.
Beside the rice field is a resting place. It turns out that this rice field has its own exclusive name, Xi Xiaotian.
After the trip to Xizhou, there is another very important place worth visiting in the afternoon, which is known as the ideal state of Dali Santorini.
Before traveling last year, I had always been fascinated by Utopia. But in the end, only after actually setting foot on this land can I realize its charm.
Originally, I did not plan to go to Ideal State again this time, mainly due to time and route reasons: Firstly, I would be pressed for time to go to Cangshan and Xizhou; secondly, there is no direct transportation from Shuanglang to Ideal State, so taking a taxi would be more expensive.
However, when I was queuing up to board the boat at Nanzhao Fengqing Island the afternoon before, an old man in front of me spoke excitedly about going to Santorini in Dali the next day. His words suddenly touched me. Yes, I want to go to this beautiful Utopia too!
Take a bus from Xizhou back to Shuanglang and then summon a Didi. It will take you to Ideal State in about half an hour.
Last year, we started from the ancient city of Dali and transferred to another bus through downtown Dali and arrived directly at the entrance of Ideal State. We did not see the whole of Ideal State on the way; but now I started from the double corridor on the north and walked south. When I almost arrived at Ideal State, the panoramic view of the future city in front of me really amazed me!
This patchwork shape is a magnificent landscape that cannot be felt when you are inside the ideal state.
At present, Ideal State is roughly divided into two parts from the appearance. The white part in the front is the hotel and commercial area, while the light brown part in the rear is the residential area.
Then, let’s follow the upward stairs to experience the charm of Dali Santorini again~
The exterior walls of the podium below Ideal State were previously painted brown, making them appear more low-key and reserved compared to pure white.
Looking outside, there are dots of Erhai Lake under your feet
In the distance is the urban area of Dali
Why is this place called Santorini? The following set of photos will show you the charm of this ideal state.
The place with the five-star red flag on the shape of the cruise ship is a cafe called Cave.
This is also a place where more beautiful pictures are born. You can take many photo angles that cannot be taken outside.
When you come to the cave cafe, with such great weather and beautiful scenery, you should sit down and savor it.
Order a drink and snack and enjoy this wonderful afternoon.
This is also a popular place for travel photography.
Walking on the streets of Ideal State, the blue dress of this young lady on the side of the road perfectly complements the white buildings in the town.
Next, head towards the top level of Utopia.
Come to the residential area of Ideal State.
The architectural style of the houses here is also very distinctive, full of the flavor of a European town.
The top of Ideal State is Ideal Plaza.
The intangible cultural heritage museum in front is also the only purely Chinese-style building in Ideal State.
On the other side of the Ideal Square, people are full of wishes and blessings.
There is also a Jingwu Art Museum next to the square.
In an ideal country, there is a channel that can go directly from the ground to the top. This road is the Avenue of Flowers.
Flower Avenue is located in the middle of the entire Utopia. Although there are many steps to go up, it is still worth the walk.
The flower beds on the Flower Avenue are filled with purple lavender.
There are two overpasses passing through the sky above the Flower Avenue.
The end ahead is the top of Flower Avenue.
The sky is getting darker, and the sun in the west has hidden among the clouds.
It is getting late. Thanks to the good God, this trip to Utopia has come to a successful conclusion.
Then next time you come here, should you consider staying for one night?
It was close to eight o'clock in the evening when I returned to the inn. Thanks to the late sunset here in Yunnan, I was able to take pictures of this beautiful scenery at this time.
The lights of the inn have been lit, so I say good night in advance.
I was lucky enough to go to Utopia yesterday with blue sky and white clouds.
Early in the morning, it was raining lightly outside, and the rain clouds above Erhai Lake were moving at a speed visible to the naked eye.
After breakfast, the light rain gradually stopped, and there was still some time to go out for a walk in the morning, because there were still several places I wanted to go to in the ancient town.
But who could have expected that when we arrived at the ancient town, the light rain had turned into heavy rain, and the previous sunny weather was completely reversed today.
The first place I want to check in is Yuji Island in Shuanglang Ancient Town. This was the name of Nanzhao Island. Now that I have been here, I understand that it is no different from other places in the ancient town.
The second place I want to check in is this blank restaurant.
As the last stop in Shuanglang last year, the elegant and stylish environment left a very deep impression on me. It is very memorable for me to come here again before leaving this time.
It is still this familiar scene, but the only flaw is that the Tiangong is not beautiful, and the shooting effect in rainy weather is much worse.
Since we have already shot a set of blockbusters under sunny weather here last year, we will change the style this time, and we will not ask for too much.
Matcha latte paired with cheese cake makes for a great morning tea time.
The last place I checked in was this fish hot pot restaurant, which was the last stop and the last meal of this double corridor trip.
It was here that we had lunch at Shuanglang last year. Now that we are here again, it can be regarded as a beginning and an end.
The fish here are all picked fresh in the pond. The little brother who caught the fish gave me a smaller one because he was afraid that I would not be able to eat it.
Ten minutes later, the steaming fish hotpot was served~
When lunch came to an end, my cell phone rang. It turned out that the driver for the next trip came to confirm with me the pick-up location.
So where to go next? The answer is the famous Lijiang~
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