Dali Exploration: Cycling Erhai Lake & Bai Villages

China’s Most Beautiful Lake Town? Exploring Dali 🇨🇳 中国最美湖滨小镇?探索大理

Destination:ChinaProvince:YunnanCity:Dali
China’s Most Beautiful Lake Town? Exploring Dali 🇨🇳 中国最美湖滨小镇?探索大理
Max and Jacqueline2025-04-1618 min

After hopping on a high-speed train from Kunming, we arrive in Dali, a laid-back town surrounded by mountains and the sparkling Erhai Lake. Dali has a unique charm — it’s got a backpacker vibe, a touch of old China, and a slower pace that draws you in.

We rent bikes to ride nearly 45km along the Erhai Lake Ecological Corridor, passing through peaceful Bai villages, Buddhist temples, and some of the most beautiful landscapes we’ve seen so far. This was one of our favorite days in China.

We also visit the Three Pagodas and try some delicious local food along the way — including a big bowl of handmade noodles in a tiny village shop. The day ends back in Dali Old Town, lit up with lanterns and buzzing with live music and local energy.

--- Max and Jacqueline
April 16, 2025, Spring in China

Video Chapters

  1. 0:00Arrival in Dali Old Town
  2. 1:10Erhai Lake bike rental
  3. 2:30Erhai Ecological Corridor
  4. 3:45Xizhou Ancient Town
  5. 5:15Bai-style handmade noodle breakfast
  6. 6:20Riding along Erhai Lake
  7. 7:30Zhoucheng Village
  8. 8:45Dali Three Pagodas & Chongsheng Temple
  9. 10:00Sunset views at Erhai Lake
  10. 10:45Dali Old Town night market

Max and Jacqueline explore Dali's charm, cycling Erhai Lake, discovering ancient towns, and savoring delicious food. A heartwarming China adventure!

Travel Guides & Tips in this video

  1. Tip 1Rent bicycles to explore Erhai Lake's ecological corridor, offering stunning views and a chance to visit peaceful Bai villages and Buddhist temples along the way. The experience offers a unique perspective of the region's natural beauty and cultural heritage. (1:07)
  2. Tip 2Negotiate prices when renting bikes or scooters to get the best deal. Local markets often have varying prices, so don't be afraid to haggle politely for a fair price. (2:10)
  3. Tip 3Ordering food in China can be an adventure! Use translation apps to decipher menus and take photos to ensure you order the right dishes. Embrace the process and enjoy the experience. (5:36)
  4. Tip 4Explore Dali Ancient Town on foot. Take your time to wander through the streets, admire the architecture, and discover hidden gems. This is the best way to soak in the atmosphere and culture of the ancient town. (8:37)
  5. Tip 5Try "crossing the bridge noodles." This local specialty is a unique culinary experience. Observe how the dish is prepared and enjoy the fresh ingredients and flavorful broth. (12:34)
  6. Tip 6Utilize China's extensive train network for efficient travel between cities. Plan your journeys in advance to secure tickets and make the most of your time. (15:33)

Max and Jacqueline's Dali adventure unfolds in this captivating travelogue. From cycling the Erhai Lake's scenic corridor to exploring ancient towns and sampling local delicacies, their journey is filled with unique discoveries. Witness the charm of Dali's old town, the serenity of Bai villages, and the grandeur of the Three Pagodas. This isn't just a travel video; it's an immersive experience showcasing the beauty and cultural richness of China.

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China’s Most Beautiful Lake Town? Exploring Dali 🇨🇳 中国最美湖滨小镇?探索大理

This travel vlog follows Max and Jacqueline during their exploration of Dali, a city in Yunnan province, China. Their journey begins with a high-speed train ride from Kunming, setting the stage for a two-day adventure. The vlog captures the essence of Dali, highlighting its unique blend of backpacker vibes and ancient Chinese charm.

The couple's exploration starts with a bike ride along the Erhai Lake Ecological Corridor, a 45km path offering stunning views and glimpses into peaceful Bai villages and Buddhist temples. This cycling adventure is punctuated by charming encounters, like meeting an enormous cat, and humorous moments, such as negotiating bike rental prices.

Their journey takes them to Shihu Ancient Town, where they discover narrow streets, traditional architecture, and a vibrant market. They sample local cuisine, including a memorable bowl of handmade noodles in a tiny village shop, showcasing the affordability and deliciousness of Chinese food. The experience of ordering food in China, with its reliance on translation apps and unique ordering customs, is also highlighted.

In Dali Ancient Town, Max and Jacqueline visit the Three Pagodas, a significant historical site over 1000 years old, marveling at its resilience and architectural beauty. They explore the surrounding park, a large Buddhist center, appreciating the contrast between the bustling city life and the serene atmosphere of this historical place. The vlog also captures the beauty of the ancient town's architecture, the vibrant markets, and the charming shops, creating a vivid picture of Dali's unique character.

Their culinary journey continues with a delightful experience of trying "crossing the bridge noodles," a local specialty, and their exploration includes wandering through the streets, discovering hidden gems, and enjoying the simple pleasures of a warm coffee during a brief rain shower. The vlog concludes with a visit to a local market, purchasing snacks for their next journey, and expressing their love for Dali before heading to their next destination, Liang, by train.

Throughout the vlog, Max and Jacqueline share their personal insights and emotional moments, making the content relatable and engaging. Their unique experiences, surprising discoveries, and local interactions create an authentic portrayal of Dali, showcasing its beauty, culture, and the warmth of its people.

FAQs (From the traveler's perspective)

Q: What was the most memorable part of your Dali trip?
A: Cycling around Erhai Lake was amazing! The views were incredible, and it was a great way to see the Bai villages and temples. And the noodles in that little shop were the best!
Q: What's the best way to get around Dali?
A: Renting bikes is a fantastic way to explore the Erhai Lake area. But the old town is easily walkable, too.
Q: What was the food like in Dali?
A: The food was incredible and super affordable! We especially loved the handmade noodles and the "crossing the bridge noodles." There's so much variety to try!

Dali Exploration: Cycling Erhai Lake & Bai Villages

After hopping on a high-speed train from Kunming, we arrive in Dali, a laid-back town surrounded by mountains and the sparkling Erhai Lake. Dali has a unique charm — it’s got a backpacker vibe, a touch of old China, and a slower pace that draws you in. We rent bikes to ride nearly 45km along the...

Dali Travel Vlog: Cycling Erhai Lake & Exploring Ancient Town

Max and Jacqueline's Chinese adventure continues in Dali, a charming town nestled beside the stunning Erhai Lake. Their journey begins with a scenic bike ride along the Erhai Lake Ecological Corridor, taking in breathtaking landscapes and visiting serene Bai villages and ancient temples. A highlight is a delightful noodle breakfast in a quaint village shop. The exploration culminates in the vibrant Dali Old Town, alive with music and local charm, making Dali a truly unforgettable experience.

Attractions in this video: Erhai Lake, Three Pagodas, Shihu Ancient Town, Dali Old Town