A Culinary Journey Through Dali and Lijiang

Mei Zhang, recognized as a top travel advisor, is the founder of WildChina and can help you plan your perfect getaway. Below is an example of the type of itineraries she creates, designed for culinary enthusiasts and culture seekers.

Growing up in Dali, the sweet, nutty aroma of sizzling ham always signaled a good meal. Embark on a journey inspired by her experiences and travel to her hometown in search of her favorite childhood meals. Wander through forgotten villages, step into the kitchens of Dali’s culinary artists, watch traditions thrive as they have done for generations, and savor the taste of that famous salt-cured ham.

Day 1: Arrive in Dali and drive to Yunlong

Arrive at Dali’s airport and meet your guide and driver in the arrival hall. Detour from the highway and follow a narrow river to Yunlong, a village known for perfecting the art of ham curing. Spend the evening in Mr. Zhang Jiahong’s guesthouse, discovering the ham and salt quests.

Stay: Mr. Zhang’s Guesthouse, Yunlong

Day 2: Yunlong

Travel through the countryside to Master’s Well Village. Visit Mr. Yang Zhiguang’s home, a local salt maker. Observe how traditional salt extraction has remained unchanged for centuries. Enjoy relaxing on the porch and tasting tu yan (土盐), a salt with a sweet aftertaste. Visit Mr. Yang Xuegong’s farm to see the ham curing process and admire the skills of local artisans as they prepare dinner.

Stay: Mr. Zhang’s Guesthouse, Yunlong

Day 3: Yunlong to Shaxi

Pack your bags and drive to Shaxi old town, passing the turnoff for Master’s Well Village. Explore the historic Qing-era fortifications and wander through the abandoned village of Shundang. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, then head towards Shaxi, a former bustling trade town on the tea and horse caravan road. Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant in Shaxi.

Stay: Sunyata, Shaxi

Day 4: Shaxi

Visit Mrs. Shi Fumei, a local cheese maker, and learn about Dali’s unique cheese culture. After watching her prepare cheese, visit Shibaoshan Grottoes for a cultural experience. Explore Stone Dragon Village and meet the region’s Folk Music King while enjoying a captivating musical performance.

Stay: Sunyata, Shaxi

Day 5: Shaxi to Dali

Drive from Shaxi towards Dali old town, stopping for a traditional three-cup ceremony. Explore Xizhou’s traditional Bai architecture and try the local snack Xizhou baba. Experience an unforgettable Bai tea ceremony filled with smoky, sweet, and spicy flavors.

Stay: Sunyata, Dali

Day 6: Dali

Drive to Weishan, home to mainly Yi and Hui ethnic groups. Meet Madame Chen, the renowned pickle maker, and witness the traditional pickling process. After exploring the East Lotus Muslim Village, return to Dali in the afternoon.

Stay: Sunyata, Dali

Day 7: Dali

Wake early and head to Erhai Lake for sunrise. Stop at a local morning market to try snacks like sticky rice pancakes. Then travel to Cangshan Mountain for a hike and visit to ancient temples, enjoying a vegetarian lunch at Gantong Temple.

Stay: Sunyata, Dali

Day 8: Dali to Lijiang

Travel to Lijiang, starting with a short hike up to Puji Temple followed by a prayer ceremony. Explore Shuhe Ancient Town, a miniature Lijiang showcasing traditional Naxi life. Enjoy the tranquility of its side streets and waterfront cafes.

Stay: The Bivou, Lijiang

Day 9: Lijiang

Wander through the historical market town of Shigu, bartering with locals for fresh produce. Visit the Dongba Culture Museum to gain insights into local culture and history. Then, travel to Yuhu village to hike around the former residence of botanist Joseph Rock.

Stay: The Bivou, Lijiang

Day 10: Lijiang

Visit Zhongyi Market, teeming with local farmers and merchants. Discover the architectural beauty of Baisha Village and venture across Wenhai Valley to meet the ‘Bimo’, a village shaman who shares insights about local life.

Stay: The Bivou, Lijiang

Day 11: Depart Lijiang

Enjoy a leisurely morning before being transferred to the airport, ready for your next adventure.