Shimen Ancient Town of Yunlong County, Dali

? Overview

Shimen Town (石门镇) in Yunlong County (云龙县), Dali (大理), lies between the Hengduan Mountains (横断山脉) and the Lancang River Basin (澜沧江流域). Blessed with breathtaking natural scenery and rich cultural heritage, this destination offers both relaxation and exploration. From ancient villages to sacred temples, and from crystal-clear rivers to unique local delicacies, Shimen Town is the perfect place to immerse yourself in nature and history.

? Location & Introduction

Shimen Town is located in the southwest of Yunlong County, Dali Bai Autonomous Prefecture (大理白族自治州).

• East: borders Jiuzhou Town (旧州镇)

• South: connects to Baofeng Township (宝丰乡)

• West: faces Tongdian Town (通甸镇) across the Nujiang River (怒江)

• North: neighbors Baishi Town (白石镇)

The Bijiang River (沘江) runs through the town, giving life to its valleys. Covering an area of 258.86 km², Shimen Town is home to Nuodeng Village (诺邓村)—a historic Bai ethnic settlement with more than a thousand years of history, recognized as one of Yunnan’s most famous cultural villages.

? Must-See Attractions

? Hutoushan Ancient Temple Complex (虎头山古建筑群)

Located south of Shimen, this Daoist temple complex is built around a mountain shaped like a tiger’s head. With halls such as the Hall of Laozi and the Hall of the God of Wealth, it combines nature and architecture seamlessly. Visitors can also find ancient stone inscriptions, including poems describing the “Eight Scenic Views of Shimen (石门八景).”

? Xizhu Temple (西竺寺)

Situated in Xianglu Village (象麓村), about 3 km from town, this Buddhist temple was first built in the Ming Dynasty and renovated during later periods. Inside, you’ll find well-preserved statues of the Eighteen Arhats. It was designated a county-level protected cultural site in 1987.

? Yu Huang Pavilion Complex (玉皇阁建筑群)

Found in Nuodeng Village (诺邓村), about 7 km from the county seat, this group of Ming and Qing dynasty buildings centers on the grand Yu Huang Pavilion. With its three-story roof and distinctive architecture, it also includes a Confucian temple, martial temple, and wooden archway—showcasing unique artistry and historical value.

? Qingyun Bridge (青云桥)

Built in 1824, this historic suspension bridge spans 36 meters across the Bijiang River (沘江). With its wooden planks and iron chains, it once served as a vital transportation hub and is now listed as a provincial cultural relic.

? Bijiang River (沘江)

The river flowing through Shimen offers crystal-clear waters, lush mountains, and peaceful riverside walks—perfect for connecting with nature.

? Local Food to Try

? Nuodeng Ham (诺邓火腿)

Made with thousand-year-old natural well salt, this ham is aromatic, tender, and slightly salty. Aged for over three years, it can even be eaten raw and was featured in A Bite of China (舌尖上的中国).

? Yunlong Rice Noodles (云龙卷粉)

Delicate yet chewy, these noodles can be stir-fried, boiled, or served cold with sauces—an everyday favorite among locals.

?️ Hot Chili Noodles with Rice Cakes (热油粉配饵块)

A spicy and savory combo of hot chili noodles and soft rice cakes, offering a unique flavor experience.

❄️ Rice Jelly (米凉虾)

A refreshing summer snack made from rice, with a smooth and cooling texture.

? Buckwheat Pancakes (荞粑粑)

Crispy, golden pancakes made from buckwheat flour, rich in flavor and nutrition.

? Small Fish Soup (小鱼汤)

A local specialty known for its fresh taste and comforting flavor.

? Transportation

• By Car: Drive from Dali (大理) along the G56 Hangrui Expressway to Yunlong County, then continue to Shimen Town.

• By Public Transport: Take a coach from Dali Fast Passenger Station to Yunlong County, then transfer by minivan or taxi to Shimen.

? History & Culture

Shimen Town has a profound cultural heritage. Nuodeng Village (诺邓村) is regarded as one of the birthplaces of Bai ethnic culture, with traditional houses featuring white walls and grey tiles, reflecting classic Bai architecture. The area preserves many ancient temples and religious buildings—such as Hutoushan Complex (虎头山古建筑群), Xizhu Temple (西竺寺), and Yu Huang Pavilion (玉皇阁)—all standing as witnesses to the town’s long history and cultural richness.