Xizhou Village of Xizhou Town in Dali City, Dali

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Chinese Name: 大理州大理市喜洲镇喜洲村
English Name: Xizhou Village of Xizhou Town in Dali City, Dali

Xizhou Village is located in the center of Xizhou Town, Dali City, with convenient transportation. It is 34 kilometers from the city center. It is bordered by Erhai Lake to the east, Silie Village Committee to the south, Wenge Village Committee to the west, and Yongxing Village Committee to the north. The village has 910 households and a population of 3,474, including 2,329 engaged in agriculture and 1,600 laborers, with 530 involved in primary industries.

Basic Information and Achievements

Xizhou Village, situated in Dali’s historic Xizhou Ancient Town, is an important Bai ethnic settlement with ample sunlight and fertile soil, suitable for various industrial developments. The village consists of 15 villager groups, 1,400 households, and 3,674 people, with a resident population comprising Bai, Han, and Hui ethnic groups.

Over the years, Xizhou Village has focused on becoming a “world-class” destination, leveraging its position as “China’s top Bai ethnic style town.” It has demonstrated vitality through cultural, tourism, architectural, and specialty product developments, laying a solid foundation for tourism-driven economic growth. In 2016, Xizhou Ancient Town was selected as one of the first batch of characteristic towns; in 2017, it was included in the provincial list of top characteristic towns. The village has been awarded titles such as “National Advanced Unit in Creating Civilized Villages and Towns,” “National Civilized Village and Town,” “Provincial Civilized Village,” “Provincial Boutique Village,” “Dali Prefecture Well-Off Village,” “Ecological Civilization Village,” and “Advanced Grassroots Party Organization,” and has been listed as “China’s Village Card” and one of “China’s Top Ten Ancient Villages.”

In Xizhou Village, nestled in the heart of Xizhou Town, the traditional white-tiled, white-walled residences are surrounded by vast rice fields. As autumn approaches, layers of rice waves turn from green to yellow, attracting many tourists for photos.

“This rice field was originally cultivated land for our village’s Group 9 and 10. After the ancient town’s protection and development, it was preserved as a rice field landscape and has become a symbolic spot for our village’s integration of agriculture, culture, and tourism,” explained Du Shunli, a member of the village’s “two committees.” In recent years, Xizhou Village has leveraged its rich cultural heritage, well-preserved Bai architectural style, and strong Bai customs to integrate the Xizhou Countryside Complex project, inherit Bai culture and farming culture, explore multiple agricultural functions and rural values, and cross-integrate agricultural and modern industry elements. The village has transitioned farmers into shareholders, farmhouses into guesthouses, and villages into tourist attractions, creating a diversified “agriculture+” industry that deeply integrates agriculture with tourism and wellness industries. The village hosts 140 tourism and dining service businesses, 47 rural leisure tourism inns, and 5 rural collective cooperatives, achieving diversified development in the agriculture-culture-tourism industry.

Myths and Legends

Xizhou Village is rich in ancient myths and legends, which add a sense of mystery and legend to this beautiful village. Here are some of the myths and legends related to Xizhou Village:

• Legend of the Erhai Sacred Fish: A mysterious fish called the Erhai Sacred Fish is said to be the daughter of the Dragon King of Erhai Lake. Beautiful and wise, she is the guardian deity of the lake, using her magic to protect the lake’s aquatic life and fishermen, keeping the water clear and sweet and the fish abundant.
• Legend of the Lotus Peak: Near the shores of Erhai Lake, there is a small mountain peak resembling a blooming lotus flower. The legend says that a high monk transformed a mountain peak into a blooming lotus to suppress monsters in Erhai Lake. It is said that if someone finds this Lotus Peak and knocks on its petals, their wish will come true.
• Legend of the Dragon King of Erhai: There are many legends about the Dragon King of Erhai, who is said to be the deity in charge of the lake and its fishermen. He resides in a dragon palace beneath the lake and possesses magical powers to take various forms and interact with humans. He has saved many and blessed people with peace and prosperity.
• Legend of the Stone Flower Water Cave: There is a water cave near Xizhou Village, believed to be the residence of the Dragon King of Erhai. The cave is said to have been a place where the Dragon King practiced to become an immortal, filled with magical powers and beautiful scenery. Visitors can enjoy the unique stalactites and stone flowers inside the cave, feeling the clear spring and mysterious atmosphere.

These myths and legends are an important part of the Dali region’s ethnic culture and one of the distinctive cultural symbols of Xizhou Village. They convey people’s reverence and gratitude toward nature, ancestors, and deities in a unique way, adding endless charm to this beautiful village.

Historical Background

Xizhou Village’s history dates back to the Han Dynasty. In 109 BC, Emperor Wu of Han established Yizhou Prefecture in the Erhai area, which included Yeyu County, roughly located in today’s Xizhou area. In 585 AD, Sui Dynasty general Shi Wansui led a campaign to Erhai and stationed troops in Yeyu, during which Xizhou was known as “Shi City.”

In 779 AD, the Nanzhao King, Yi Mengxun, moved the capital to Shi City and established Dali Jian, also known as Shi Jian or Jian Ruo Prefecture. This became an important administrative region of the Nanzhao Kingdom. Throughout the Song, Yuan, Ming, and Qing Dynasties, Xizhou remained a significant historical and cultural region on the western shore of Erhai Lake.

Xizhou Village is not only rich in history and cultural heritage but has also produced many notable figures and stories.

• Zhang Yao and Sun Yat-sen’s Revolutionary Friendship: Zhang Yao was a member of the Xizhou merchant group in Yunnan. During his studies in Japan, he met Sun Yat-sen, joined the Tongmenghui, and actively participated in the democratic revolution. He held positions such as a temporary senator and Tongmenghui general secretary, contributing to Yunnan’s democratic revolutionary efforts.
• Legend of the Yin Family Courtyard: The Yin Family Courtyard is one of the representative buildings of the Xizhou merchant group. It was once the residence of Yin Pinsan, a member of the merchant group, who founded the “Fuchunhe” business in the early 20th century. The courtyard’s unique architectural style and exquisite carvings reflect Bai people’s architectural wisdom and aesthetic taste.
• Commercial Legend of Dong Chengnong: Dong Chengnong was another significant figure of the Xizhou merchant group. He founded the “Fuchunhe” business and ventured into various fields such as industry, finance, and education. His business acumen and unique vision made “Fuchunhe” one of the most influential businesses in Yunnan and even nationwide.

In addition to these figures and stories, Xizhou Village has produced many other distinguished people and events, such as the achievements of Yin Fucheng and Yang Hongchun. These people and stories together form the rich cultural landscape of Xizhou Village, attracting countless visitors.

Village Appearance

Xizhou Village, located in the center of Xizhou Town, is an ancient village rich in history and cultural heritage. The village’s appearance is well-preserved, showcasing the perfect blend of Bai traditional architecture and natural scenery.

Surrounded by the beautiful Erhai Lake and Cangshan Mountain, the village presents a unique landscape of mountains, water, and fields. Entering Xizhou Village, one is greeted by a collection of ancient Bai-style buildings, primarily constructed with stone and wood, with stone slab roofs and intricately patterned lime-painted walls, reflecting Bai people’s architectural wisdom and aesthetic taste.

Strolling through the village, visitors can enjoy various styles of gardens, courtyards, and squares, with a strong cultural atmosphere permeating every corner. The village’s streets are crisscrossed, with cobblestone paths extending in all directions, allowing a blend of ancient and modern experiences.

Additionally, Xizhou Village’s fields provide a stunning landscape. In spring, fields are covered in golden rapeseed flowers; in summer, lush green rice paddies extend to the horizon; and in autumn, the ripened rice stalks signal a bountiful harvest. These beautiful field scenes attract many tourists for sightseeing and photography.

Festivals and Activities

Xizhou Village’s festival activities are rich in local characteristics and deep cultural connotations:

• Rice Planting Festival: This traditional folk activity is a prominent feature of Dali’s farming culture, originating in the late Eastern Han Dynasty, with over 1,700 years of history. Every April in the lunar calendar, locals celebrate the rice planting season with this festival.
• Dragon Dance Market Opening: Usually held on the 15th day of the lunar New Year, this event centers around dragon dance performances and includes other folk art performances such as Bai ethnic “King of Whips,” fast-paced songs and dances, Yi ethnic drum dances, and band performances. The event is lively with drums and crowds, creating a harmonious and festive atmosphere.
• Erhai Lantern Festival: From the 23rd to the 29th day of the lunar December, Xizhou residents celebrate the traditional Erhai Lantern Festival. The festival features various forms of lantern exhibitions, traditional folk songs and dances, and displays of local craftsmanship and customs.
• Dragon Boat Festival: Celebrated to honor historical figures like Qu Yuan and Wu Zixu, it is also a significant festival for Xizhou residents. The festival features dragon boat races on Erhai Lake, attracting numerous tourists for viewing and participation.
• Bai Ethnic Festival: The Bai Ethnic Festival, held on the 15th day of the lunar March, includes activities such as Bai people’s traditional dance performances, flower admiring, and food tasting. Locals and tourists gather to celebrate, showcasing the unique culture of the Bai people.

These festivals and activities highlight the distinctive cultural customs and lifestyles of the Bai ethnic group and Xizhou Village, attracting numerous visitors every year.

Tourism and Development

In recent years, Xizhou Village has emphasized the development of tourism and infrastructure. With its beautiful natural scenery, rich cultural heritage, and historical significance, the village has become a popular tourist destination in Dali, attracting numerous domestic and international visitors.

• Xizhou Ancient Town Scenic Area: This area preserves the traditional Bai architectural style and cultural elements, featuring well-protected ancient buildings, traditional crafts, and folklore. Visitors can stroll through ancient streets, admire the Bai architectural features, and experience traditional folk customs.
• Xizhou Countryside Complex Project: This project aims to integrate rural areas, agriculture, and tourism, creating a comprehensive rural tourism experience. The project includes rural guesthouses, farm activities, and cultural experiences, providing visitors with a unique rural tourism experience.
• Erhai Lake Scenic Area: Located near Xizhou Village, Erhai Lake is one of Yunnan’s largest freshwater lakes, offering stunning natural views and abundant water activities. Visitors can enjoy boat rides, fishing, and lakeside walks, experiencing the lake’s beautiful landscape.
• Bai Ethnic Culture Experience: Xizhou Village provides opportunities for visitors to immerse themselves in Bai culture, including traditional dance performances, folk crafts, and Bai cuisine. This helps tourists gain a deeper understanding of the Bai people’s traditional customs and cultural practices.

Local Cuisine and Specialties

Xizhou Village’s local cuisine features rich flavors and unique culinary traditions. Here are some notable local dishes and specialties:

• Xizhou Baba: A traditional Bai-style pancake, often made with wheat flour and various fillings like pork, vegetables, or bean paste. It is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, providing a delightful taste experience.
• Xizhou Tofu: Known for its rich taste and smooth texture, Xizhou tofu is made from high-quality soybeans and is often served with different seasonings and side dishes. It is a popular and nutritious local delicacy.
• Erhai Fish: Fresh fish from Erhai Lake is a local specialty, prepared with various cooking methods such as grilling, steaming, or frying. The fish is tender and flavorful, making it a favorite dish among locals and tourists.
• Bai-style Pickles: Bai-style pickles are made from fresh vegetables and spices, fermented to develop a unique sour and tangy flavor. They are commonly served as side dishes or appetizers in local meals.
• Local Herbal Tea: Xizhou Village produces various herbal teas made from local herbs and plants. These teas are known for their health benefits and refreshing flavors, providing a unique beverage option for visitors.

These local dishes and specialties reflect the rich culinary heritage of Xizhou Village and offer visitors a taste of the region’s unique flavors.