Photographer's Canvas: Huangshan & Wuyuan
An Immersive Exploration of Bai, Naxi and Tibetan Traditions
Day 1: Arrival in Dali
- Airport reception and transfer to your hotel in Dali
- Leisure time to acclimate and prepare for your cultural journey
- Overnight in Dali with time to rest for the upcoming adventures
Day 2: Dali's Ancient Charms
Morning Exploration: - Discover Dali Ancient Town's harmonious blend of ancient and modern elements - Ascend Wuhua Tower for panoramic views of Cangshan Mountains and Erhai Lake - Visit the Confucius Temple with memorial tablets dedicated to ancient saints - Observe the unique Catholic Church featuring traditional Bai ethnic architecture - Explore People's Road with its fascinating mix of fortune-telling services and cultural stalls
Afternoon Highlights: - Marvel at the earthquake-resistant Three Pagodas dating back to Tang and Song dynasties - Stroll along the Ecological Corridor of Erhai Lake with stunning azure waters - Optional cycling routes along Erhai Lake (additional cost)
Evening Recommendation: - Dine at Plum and Well Restaurant for authentic Bai cuisine in a 100-year-old courtyard - Experience traditional Bai atmosphere with staff in ethnic attire
Day 3: Bai Culture & Journey to Lijiang
Morning Cultural Immersion: - Visit Xizhou local market for hands-on Xizhou Pastry making experience - Learn traditional Bai snack preparation techniques from local experts - Explore Yan's Compound, a magnificent Bai-style residence turned museum - Admire exquisite marble carvings featuring auspicious animals
Afternoon Transition: - Travel to Lijiang with scenic views en route - Check into Lijiang hotel and refresh
Evening Exploration: - Discover Lijiang Old Town's vibrant Square Street - Wander through Ming and Qing Dynasty heritage buildings - Optional: Attend evening bonfire party with Naxi people and fellow travelers - Experience the magical atmosphere of lantern-lit canals
Day 4: Naxi Culture & Natural Wonders
Morning Mountain Adventure: - Journey to sacred Jade Dragon Snow Mountain - Visit Ganhaizi Meadow for breathtaking mountain panoramas - Discover the aquamarine Baishui River fed by glacial meltwater - Take ropeway to romantic Spruce Plateau
Afternoon Cultural Discovery: - Explore Baisha Village, original settlement of Naxi people - Appreciate 600-year-old Baisha Murals blending Han, Tibetan and Naxi art - Visit Dading Pavilion from Ming Dynasty - Experience Naxi family visit with opportunities to: - Learn Dongba language elements - Try traditional Naxi attire - Gain deeper understanding of Naxi customs
Day 5: Geological Marvels & Tibetan Transition
Scenic Journey: - Morning departure for Shangri-La - Stop at Tiger Leaping Gorge to witness one of China's deepest gorges - Experience the powerful rushing waters and dramatic landscapes - Visit Stone Drum Town to see the First Bend of Yangtze River - Understand the geographical significance of this U-shaped bend
Evening Tibetan Immersion: - Check into Shangri-La hotel - Recommended dinner at Dagemam Tibetan Restaurant - Experience authentic Tibetan cuisine in traditional setting - Evening stroll through Dukezong Old Town - Observe Tibetan architecture and possible folk dancing on Square Street
Day 6: Tibetan Buddhist Heritage
Morning Spiritual Exploration: - Visit Songzanlin Monastery, Yunnan's largest Tibetan Buddhist temple - Admire the "Little Potala Palace" architecture - Discover cultural treasures including gilded Buddha statues and palm-leaf scriptures
Afternoon Natural Beauty: - Explore Potatso National Park's pristine landscapes - Enjoy serene lakes, virgin forests and grazing animals - Stroll along Shudu Lake wooden boardwalks
Cultural Exchange: - Tibetan family visit to learn about nomadic traditions - Experience traditional Butter Tea tasting - Understand Tibetan daily life and customs
Day 7: Departure from Shangri-La
- Morning preparation for departure
- Airport transfer according to flight schedule
- Final farewell to Yunnan's cultural richness