Dali Old Town Night Tour

Dali Old Town, also known as Dali Ancient City, is a picturesque and historically rich area located in Dali Bai Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan Province. A night tour of Dali Old Town offers a unique opportunity to experience the vibrant culture, beautiful architecture, and lively atmosphere of this ancient city. Here’s a guide to help you make the most of your night tour in Dali Old Town:

1. Arriving at Dali Old Town

  • Transportation: If you’re staying outside the old town, you can easily get there by taxi, bus, or bike. The old town is well-signposted and easy to navigate.

2. Stroll Along the Ancient Streets

  • Renmin Road (人民路): This is one of the main streets in the old town, lined with shops, cafes, and bars. It’s beautifully lit at night, creating a cozy and charming atmosphere.
  • Foreigners’ Street (洋人街): Also known as Huguo Road (护国路), this street is popular among international visitors and offers a variety of dining and shopping options.

3. Explore the Ancient Architecture

  • Wuhua Tower (五华楼): An iconic landmark in Dali Old Town, this ancient tower is beautifully illuminated at night. It’s located at the intersection of Fuxing Road (复兴路) and Renmin Road.
  • South Gate (南城门): Also known as the Southern Gate Tower, it’s a historic gate offering great views of the old town and the surrounding mountains when lit up at night.

4. Enjoy Local Cuisine

  • Street Food: Try local snacks like Er Kuai (a type of rice cake), barbecued skewers, and various types of dumplings from street vendors.
  • Local Restaurants: Enjoy traditional Bai cuisine at one of the many restaurants. Dishes like Rushan (a type of grilled cheese) and Dali-style hotpot are highly recommended.

5. Experience the Nightlife

  • Bars and Cafes: There are numerous bars and cafes offering live music and a relaxed atmosphere. Popular spots include Bad Monkey, a well-known bar with great music and craft beer.
  • Tea Houses: Enjoy a quiet evening at a traditional tea house, sipping on local Pu’er or other Yunnan teas.

6. Visit the Markets

  • Night Markets: Explore the local night markets where you can buy handicrafts, souvenirs, and locally made products. It’s a great place to pick up unique gifts and immerse yourself in the local culture.

7. Participate in Local Activities

  • Traditional Performances: Look out for traditional Bai minority performances, which often include music, dance, and storytelling. These are sometimes held in public squares or local theaters.
  • Cultural Workshops: Some shops and cultural centers offer workshops where you can learn about traditional Bai crafts, such as tie-dyeing and pottery making.

8. Relax by Erhai Lake

  • Erhai Lake (洱海): If time allows, take a short trip to the lakeside. The lake offers serene views and a peaceful ambiance, especially under the moonlight.

Tips for a Great Night Tour

  • Dress Comfortably: Wear comfortable shoes as you’ll be doing a lot of walking on cobblestone streets.
  • Stay Safe: While Dali Old Town is generally safe, it’s always good to be cautious and keep an eye on your belongings.
  • Check the Weather: Evenings can get chilly, especially in the winter months, so bring a light jacket.

A night tour of Dali Old Town offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and modern entertainment, making it a memorable experience for any visitor.

Service Included:

  • Admission fees for all of the sightseeing spots listed in the itinerary;
  • Meals as listed in the itinerary;
  • Hotels as listed in the itinerary;
  • Private English-speaking tour guide;
  • Private vehicle for transfers & sightseeing with skilled driver;
  • Service charge & government taxes;
  • Luggage transfers between airports and hotels;
  • Service charge and all government taxes;
  • Travel Agency’s Responsibility Insurance coverage.

Service Excluded:

  • Any arrival and departure international airfares or train tickets;
  • Chinese visa fees;
  • Excess baggage charged by Airlines;
  • Single room supplement;
  • Tips to guides and drivers;
  • Personal expenses and gratuities to service staff;
  • Personal travel accident insurance;
  • All optional programs.