Friends of Porsche – Fly and Drive Singapore By Yaso Trip The eighth stop

Summary

Dali (大理) is a historic city nestled between the Cangshan Mountains (苍山) and Erhai Lake (洱海), offering a blend of ancient cultural heritage and stunning natural scenery. Visitors can explore the iconic Three Pagodas of Chongsheng Temple (崇圣寺三塔), traverse mountain trails via cable cars, wander through traditional Bai‐style villages, and immerse themselves in the vibrant atmosphere of the ancient town’s streets. Whether you’re seeking panoramic views, architectural marvels, or authentic local flavors, Dali delivers a memorable “fly‐and‐drive” adventure.

1. Three Pagodas of Chongsheng Temple (崇圣寺三塔)

The Three Pagodas are an ensemble of three independent brick pagodas arranged in an equilateral triangle, dating back to the 9th and 10th centuries during the Kingdoms of Nanzhao and Dali .

  • Main Pagoda (Qianxun Pagoda, 千寻塔): Standing 69.6 m tall with 16 tiers of eaves, this Tang‐era structure is hollow inside and once housed over 700 Buddhist relics discovered during 1978 restorations.

  • Twin Pagodas (South and North Pagodas, 南北双塔): Each octagonal tower reaches 42.19 m in height, built roughly a century after the main pagoda, and features ten tiers of upturned eaves with interior Buddha shrines.
    The site is located about 1.5 km north of Dali Ancient Town (大理古城), at the foot of the Cangshan range, making it easily accessible by road.

2. Cangshan Mountains (苍山) Exploration

Cangshan, or Mount Diancang (甸仓山), is a majestic range of 19 peaks west of Dali, with its highest summit, Malong Peak (马龙顶), reaching 4,122 m .

2.1 Wash Horse Pool Cable Car (洗马潭索道)

This three‐stage gondola climbs from the “Heavenly Dragon” film set station through the Seven Dragon Maiden Pool (七龙女池) up to Wash Horse Pool at 4,097 m, offering seasonal views of rhododendrons in bloom or snow‐capped peaks.

2.2 Gentong Cable Car and Qingbi Stream Hike (感通索道 & 清碧溪徒步)

Linking Gentong Temple (感通寺) to Qingbi Stream, this route provides sweeping vistas of Erhai Lake (洱海) and forested slopes, perfect for moderate hikes.

2.3 Jizhao Nunnery (寂照庵)

Perched mid‐mountain, this serene temple is famed for its succulent gardens and vegetarian fare, ideal for a quiet retreat.

2.4 Jade‐Cloud Trail (玉带云游路)

An 11 km loop connecting multiple scenic spots—Seven Dragon Maiden Pool, Zhonghe Temple (中和寺), and more—this well‐maintained path suits avid walkers seeking varied landscapes.

3. Xizhou Ancient Town (喜洲古镇) and Bai Architecture

Xizhou (喜洲古镇) is celebrated for its classical Bai‐style residences marked by “Three‐Courtyard and One Screen Wall” (三坊一照壁) and “Quadrangle with Five Courtyards” (四合五天井) layouts, blending Han and Bai design elements.

Xizhou Ancient Town in Dali

  • Courtyard Layouts: The three‐courtyard pattern symbolises fortune and protection, while the five‐courtyard design optimises airflow and light.

  • Wood Carvings & Murals: Entrances and screen walls feature intricate carvings and vibrant murals depicting flora, fauna, and auspicious motifs.
    Stroll through stone‐paved lanes, visit artisan workshops, and sample local specialties like Xizhou Baba (喜洲粑粑), a savory or sweet flatbread.

4. Dali Ancient Town (大理古城) – A Living Museum

Founded in the Tang dynasty and largely preserved from the Ming and Qing eras, Dali Ancient Town (大理古城) offers a leisurely experience of traditional life.

  • Renmin Road (人民路): The town’s most bustling street, lined with cafés, handicraft boutiques, and bars, perfect for people‐watching.
  • Foreigner Street (洋人街): Renowned for its eclectic nightlife and international eateries, this alley comes alive after dusk.

  • Wuhua Tower (五华楼): The ancient city’s high vantage point, providing panoramic views of Cangshan and Erhai Lake.

  • South Gate (古城南门): A photogenic gatehouse that serves as the town’s emblematic entrance.

5. Honglongjing Waterfront Restaurants (红龙井水上餐厅)

Nestled along the Honglongjing Stream, these eateries combine Bai architectural motifs—such as screen walls and wooden beams—with contemporary comforts.

  • Waterside Walkways: Wooden decks and stone bridges trace the stream, illuminated at night for a romantic ambiance.

  • Open‐Air Terraces: Dine al fresco on floating platforms while sipping Pu’er tea and sampling grilled river fish.

  • Cultural Performances: Live Bai‐style music and tie‐dye demonstrations offer immersive cultural insights.

6. Practical Tips

  • Best Seasons: Summer (June–August) for mountain blooms; Winter (December–February) for snow‐clad peaks.

  • Packing Essentials: Sunscreen, layers for cool evenings, and sturdy walking shoes.

  • Local Delicacies: Try Dali clay pot fish (大理砂锅鱼), Bai fermented cheese (乳扇), and mint tofu (薄荷豆腐) .

  • Eco‐Friendly Travel: Respect heritage sites, minimise single‐use plastics, and follow local waste-sorting guidelines.

Embark on this eighth leg of your “Fly & Drive” with Yaso Trip to discover Dali’s timeless charm—where every turn reveals stories etched in stone, sky, and water.