Luxury travel to Dali and Shaxi made for you

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Two ancient towns surrounded by stunning nature

Located amid breathtaking natural landscapes in China’s historic and culture-rich Yunnan province, Dali and Shaxi are two heritage towns that provide a glimpse into a prosperous and intriguing bygone era. Positioned in Southern China, close to the border with Myanmar, the area is known for its Bai cultural heritage, one of 56 ethnic groups recognised in China.

Dali is set on Erhai Lake and consists of a modern town at the southern shore and its ancient city on the western shore. Bordered by the dramatic Cangshan Mountain, the scenic surroundings and old landmarks are the main draw for visitors. Dali’s long history began in 738, and by 1000, Dali was one of the world’s largest cities, before being destroyed by the Mongols and rebuilt in the 1400s. The resulting make-up of the city is what attracts people today, with its old Chinese houses, charming temples and narrow streets evoking a romantic charisma.

Located 150km north of Dali, the ancient town of Shaxi is historically a key trading hub on the old Tea Horse Road, and today is the site of one of the best-preserved historic market hubs in Asia. Like in Dali, the rich cultural heritage of the Bai people defines the character of the town, while Shaxi’s vibrant Friday market provides a memorable hint to its former glory. Discover temples, shops, alleyways, houses, gates and bridges dotted throughout Shaxi, including the atmospheric main square with its ancient stage.

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These small towns in the Yunnan province feel a world away from the frenetic cities with which most people associate China. I loved visiting some of the local people’s homes and learning more about the traditional crafts from which they still make a living today, including tie-dye and cheese making!

Rachel O'Leary

Senior Travel Designer

Luxury accommodation in Dali and Shaxi

There are many incredible places to stay in Dali and Shaxi. Here are some of our favourites, handpicked by our travel designers:

Dali and Shaxi

Sunyata Hotel Shaxi

Enjoying a good location close to the atmospheric old town of Shaxi, as well as presenting an authentic impression of local indigenous culture through its décor and design, Sunyata Shaxi Hotel is a charming and serene base in this culture-rich region of China. Features such as the hotel’s Chinese garden and four striking courtyards, as well as numerous nods to caravan culture, perfectly demonstrate the life and times of the Tea and Horse Road, one of the Yunnan province’s most significant trade routes, of which Shaxi was a key component. Warm woods, soothing earth tones and natural elements are present throughout the hotel, particularly the 21 guest rooms and suites. Light and airy, with simplistic design and décor based around wooden floors and beams, the guest rooms are comfortable havens to retreat to for a touch of relaxation during your time in Shaxi. The hotel also provides some rewarding dining experiences, including delicious breakfasts and a number of local and authentic dishes which are served in the on-site restaurant.

Dali and Shaxi

Sunyata Hotel

A striking and cosy hotel set in the middle of the condensed ancient city of Dali, this micro-boutique space has the character of an enclosed and secluded retreat, ensuring a stay at Sunyata Hotel will provide rest and refuge from busy days exploring atmospheric Dali. The hotel’s design and layout are the result of a leading architecture project, focused on creating a peaceful space and maximising impact within the area’s spatial limits. The result is a Zen village vibe, with each guest room resembling a micro-home of sorts. There are 14 cosy rooms in total occupying this unique space, all complete with chic and contemporary design features, with plenty of style, simplistic furnishings and little artistic features. Charming and rewarding dining experiences are also a part of Sunyata Hotel’s offerings, with its fantastic on-site café-cum-restaurant serving up delicious and fresh food spanning numerous cuisines. Meanwhile, the hotel’s inviting central tea room proves the ideal setting for relaxation over a traditional mug of hot Chinese tea.

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Trip Inspiration

Get inspired with our Dali and Shaxi example trips and then get in touch to plan your own adventure

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