Caicun Village Wetland Park of Erhai Lake in Dali
Cycling out from the ancient city of Dali (大理古城), it doesn’t take long to spot a prominent building by the roadside. A right turn leads us onto the long and straight “path into the village.” Upon our arrival, the weather wasn’t great—strong winds made me less inclined to take a boat ride on Erhai Lake (洱海). However, I noticed a bridge to the right of the dock that seemed to lead somewhere, so I decided to stop and explore. To my surprise, I stumbled upon Caicun Wetland Park (才村湿地公园). Although small, this park is worth a visit, with clear ponds lining both sides.
Scenic Highlights
One of the favored attractions by Erhai Lake, it offers beautiful scenery both at sunrise and sunset. Caicun Wetland Park is located on the western side of Erhai Lake, featuring Cangshan Mountain (苍山) and the lake itself, complemented by picturesque rural landscapes. Here, you can take a bamboo raft with locals and truly immerse yourself in the tranquil setting. Entering the park, the relaxed atmosphere becomes more pronounced.
On one side, the quiet lake is covered in duckweed and green algae, with several ancient-looking gnarled trees lying irregularly in the water—a typical wetland park scene; on the other side lies Erhai Lake. To see the vastness of Erhai Lake, one must walk to the far end of the park. Along the way, there are various open-air barbecue stalls, with vendors claiming to grill fish from the lake. Although we merely looked, if the temperature were a bit warmer, I would love to sit, enjoy some food, and lazily watch the clouds and the undulating mountains, creating an ultimate experience of slow living.
Observation Point
The observation point at the end of the path is the most crowded area in the park. With such beautiful scenery, it would be a loss not to snap some postcard-worthy photos. The rocky shoreline becomes a hotspot for visitors, and you might even encounter a wedding photography team, possibly leading to a wait. Nearby, many little ducks paddle across the water, adding to the charm. However, while posing for photos, one must be cautious about safety, especially on the uneven and slippery rocks; a slip could lead to a serious mishap.
Traditional Bai Village Life
On the opposite side of the curve, the scenery shifts again. Behind, traditional Bai (白族) houses appear particularly humble and peaceful, giving a glimpse into the daily lives of local residents, truly representing tranquility and ease. The juxtaposition of the vibrant natural setting with the simplicity of village life enhances the charm of Caicun.
Time Reference
Duration: 1-3 hours
Transportation
Bus: Take the ancient city C2 route to Caicun Dock Station and walk from there.
Admission
For specific details, please consult the scenic area.
Opening Hours
Open all day (January 1 – December 31, Monday – Sunday).
Location
150 meters east of Yuehua Road (月华路), Dali Bai Autonomous Prefecture, Dali City.
Overview of Caicun Village
Caicun is located on the eastern side of Dali ancient city, along the western shore of Erhai Lake. It has over 3 kilometers of coastline and a population of over 7,100, with 3,250 acres of arable land. The Bai ethnic group has lived here for generations, relying on fishing for their livelihood. The lakeside has been transformed into a wetland park by the government, and the scenic area primarily relies on this park for its appeal.
Caicun is rich in natural beauty and cultural heritage, boasting over 120 inns and more than 20 restaurants, making it the largest tourist attraction in Bai villages around Erhai Lake, and a popular destination for visitors.
Attractions and Names
- Erhai Lake (洱海)
- Cangshan Mountain (苍山)
- Caicun Wetland Park (才村湿地公园)
- Bai Ethnic Culture (白族文化)
Development Status
Caicun and Wacun are connected villages featuring well-preserved temples such as the Caishen Temple (财神庙) and traditional Bai architecture. The local government has facilitated tourism development, making the wetland park a significant draw for visitors to Dali. The Bai community still upholds traditional customs during festivals, such as dragon dances and rituals, ensuring an authentic experience.
In 2003, to alleviate pressure on Erhai Lake, the government banned 40 small boats at Caicun Dock, limiting the number of operational boats to about 20. The local tourism company now operates these boats, which transported over 70,000 visitors in 2008, showing a significant increase since 2004. About 1,500 residents engage in tourism-related services, contributing to the local economy.
Future Prospects
Daily, nearly a thousand visitors come to Caicun. The village operates 20 small boats and has numerous transport services, restaurants, and flower-growing businesses. This integrated tourism service model enhances the experience, turning the beautiful natural scenery into tangible economic benefits.
Travel Tips for Caicun Wetland Park
- Location: 150 meters east of Yuehua Road, near Caicun/Lungan Dock.
- Hours: Open year-round from 6 AM to 9 PM; early morning or dusk is recommended for the best views.
- Cost: Free entry to the park.
- Activities: Enjoy the tranquil natural setting, ideal for relaxation and photography.
- Dining: Many nearby restaurants and stalls offer local specialties like yogurt and grilled fish.
- Accommodation: Various hotels are available nearby, offering comfortable and reasonably priced stays.
How to Get There
You can easily reach Caicun Wetland Park by cycling or taking public transport from Dali Ancient City. The scenic area is accessible, making it a perfect day trip for visitors looking to enjoy the serene environment of Erhai Lake and the surrounding natural beauty.
