Taoyuan Wharf of Erhai Lake in Dali City
Overview
Taoyuan Wharf (桃源码头, Táoyuán mǎtóu) is the docking point for boat tours on Erhai Lake (洱海, Érhǎi), situated on the western shore of the lake, opposite the scenic town of Shuanglang (双廊, Shuāngláng). This picturesque wharf is renowned for its beautiful natural scenery and rich cultural heritage.
Journey Details
Boats depart from Dali Taoyuan Wharf between 13:30 and 14:30, making a one-way trip to Longkan Wharf (龙龛码头, Lóngkān mǎtóu), near Dali Ancient Town (大理古城, Dàlǐ gǔ chéng), arriving around 16:30 to 17:00. The entire journey takes approximately 2.5 hours. As there are no direct buses to Taoyuan Wharf, the closest stop is at Butterfly Spring (蝴蝶泉, Húdié quán), from where you can call a Didi (滴滴) taxi to the wharf. Although the trip may feel lengthy, the experience is worth it, even if the scenery consists mainly of bare mountains and water.
Wildlife Encounters
One of the highlights of the journey is watching seagulls chase after food tossed by tourists, creating amusing moments of desire as they try to snatch away bread and snacks.
Cultural Essence
Taoyuan Wharf is a reflection of Baijia Fishing Village (白家渔村, Bái jiā yú cūn) and the daily customs of the Bai people (白族, Bái zú). Beyond the uniform blue tiles and white walls, visitors can enjoy vast fields, fishing songs, the sight of cooking smoke, and the sounds of roosters and dogs, all contributing to a serene and picturesque atmosphere.
Estimated Time
1-3 hours
Transportation
- Self-Driving: Depart from Dali City Bus Station (大理市客运站, Dàlǐ shì kèyùn zhàn) via Renmin North Road (人民北路, Rénmín běi lù) to Xijing Line (西景线, Xī jǐngxiàn) until you reach your destination.
- Public Transport: Take a bus from Dali Ancient Town to Xiuzhou (喜洲, Xǐzhōu) or Xiaguan (下关, Xiàguān) and get off at Taoyuan Wharf.
Location
Taoyuan Wharf is located in Xizhou Town (喜洲镇, Xǐzhōu zhèn), Dali Bai Autonomous Prefecture (大理白族自治州, Dàlǐ bái zú zìzhìzhōu), Yunnan Province (云南省, Yúnnán shěng), China.
Best Time to Visit
The ideal times to visit are in spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November), when the weather is pleasant and the scenery is at its most captivating. It’s advisable to avoid peak travel times, such as the National Day and Spring Festival, to reduce crowds.
Attractions
- Taoyuan Wharf (桃源码头, Táoyuán mǎtóu): A prime spot for watching the sunrise over Erhai Lake, where the morning sun reflects beautifully on the shimmering water.
- Erhai Lake (洱海, Érhǎi): The second largest freshwater lake in China, known as the “Pearl of the Plateau.” A dedicated cycling path circles the lake, perfect for exploring.
- Nearby Bai Villages (白族村落, Bái zú cūnluò): Experience the local ethnic culture and traditional architecture.
Photo Opportunities
- Sunrise at the Wharf: Arrive early at Taoyuan Village to find the perfect spot to catch the first rays of sunlight on the lake.
- Rowboat on the Lake: Rent a small boat to paddle on the lake and capture the stunning landscape of Erhai.
- Bai Ethnic Clothing: Dress in traditional Bai attire and take photos in front of the unique Bai architecture.
Culinary Recommendations
- Erhai Fish (洱海鱼): Try the local specialty, fresh and delicious.
- Three Courses of Tea (三道茶): Experience the traditional Bai beverage, enjoying its unique preparation and flavors.
Important Notes
- Environmental Protection: Do not litter by the lake; keep the natural environment clean.
- Sun Protection: Yunnan has strong sunlight; please take appropriate sun protection measures when going out. Additionally, the temperature varies significantly between day and night, so bring enough warm clothing.
- Respect Local Culture: When visiting ethnic villages, respect the local customs and traditions.
Accommodation Suggestions
There are several inns and guesthouses in Taoyuan Village (桃源村, Táoyuán cūn), allowing you to choose lakeside accommodations to enjoy tranquil nights and beautiful morning views. When booking, consider the location, environment, and services offered to ensure a comfortable stay.
How to Get There
To reach Taoyuan Wharf from Dali City, follow these steps:
- Drive or take a bus from Dali Ancient Town to Butterfly Spring.
- Use a taxi or Didi to reach Taoyuan Wharf.
With this guide, you can fully experience the beauty and culture of Taoyuan Wharf in Dali, leaving with unforgettable memories.
