Experience the breath of Dali

Here's a detailed 3-day, 2-night itinerary for exploring Erhai Lake: Itinerary • Day 1: Dali Ancient Town & Surroundings ◦ Morning: Arrive in Dali and head to Dali Ancient Town. Take photos at the South Gate and soak in the historic charm. Visit the Chuangdan Factory Art District, browse artsy handicraft shops, and relax at a retro café. ◦ Afternoon: Visit Jizhao Nunnery to try their vegetarian meal (¥20/person) and experience the tranquility of "China's Most Beautiful Nunnery." If time and energy permit, hike the Jade Belt Road on Cangshan Mountain for panoramic views of Erhai Lake. ◦ Evening: Explore Renmin Road Night Market and sample local snacks like grilled rushan cheese and pounded chicken feet. • Day 2: West Erhai Lakeshore Cycling Tour ◦ Morning: Start at Longkan Dock, rent an e-bike, and cycle along the West Ecological Corridor to Panxi S-Bend, enjoying lake and mountain views while capturing "mirror of the sky" photos. ◦ Afternoon: Continue cycling to Xizhou Ancient Town to visit Bai-style architecture like Yan Family Compound and try Xizhou baba. Don't miss the "Lonely Tree" at Haishi Park for cinematic shots. The rice fields at Xizhou around 4 PM offer stunning light. • Day 3: East Erhai Lakeshore Self-drive Tour ◦ Morning: Drive to Shuanglang Ancient Town. With prior reservation, visit Yang Liping's Sun Palace to admire its unique architecture. ◦ Afternoon: Head to Wase Dock (feed seagulls from November to March) for picturesque fishing boat scenes. Then visit Wenbi Village to photograph the rainbow road and Erhai reflections. ◦ Evening: Arrive at Ideal State to enjoy Santorini-style architecture under night lights, like stepping into a fairy tale. Transportation • Cycling: The Longkan-Panxi section of the West Ecological Corridor is ideal for cycling. Rent family tricycles at Caicun Dock or e-bikes (~¥30/hour). • Self-drive: The East Ring Road suits driving. Rent a convertible for sunset chasing (choose models with 200km+ range). • Sightseeing Bus: Purchase a 3-day unlimited pass (¥98) covering 23 stops on both routes, with panoramic skylight views of Cangshan's sea of clouds. Food Recommendations • Mushroom Hotpot: During rainy season (June-October), try the fresh and flavorful mushroom hotpot at Eryue Xiaochu (Ancient Town branch). • Bai-style Sour-Spicy Fish: Lao Li's in Shuanglang serves this appetizing dish with Erhai crucian carp and sour papaya. • Xizhou Baba: Deshenghe on Xizhou Square is a time-honored shop for authentic sweet/savory layered cakes. • Pan-fried Rushan: Ge Wai Xiao Guan (Shuanglang) offers this unique rose-sauce paired cheese delicacy. Accommodation • Luxury: Moon Pine·Erhai in Shuanglang (from ¥1500/night) features 270° glass rooms for sunset views. • Mid-range: Dali Fruit Tree Homestay near Longkan Dock (~¥600-800/night) has a healing starlit terrace breakfast. • Budget: Dali July Hostel in the ancient town (¥60/bed) offers Cangshan views from its rooftop. Tips • Strong UV radiation around Erhai requires sun protection: hats, sunglasses, arm sleeves, and high-SPF sunscreen. • Motor vehicles are prohibited on the West Ecological Corridor—avoid unlicensed taxis. • Rent cars only through the official "You Dali" platform. Document the vehicle's condition with video to prevent disputes.