Cai Village, also known as Caicun Village (才村) is nestled along the western shore of Erhai Lake in Dali. With over 3 kilometers of lakeshore, the village is home to more than 7,100 people and boasts 3,250 acres of farmland. Its residents, primarily of the Bai ethnic group, have traditionally made a living through fishing, giving rise to a unique fishing village culture.
Adjacent to Erhai Lake, one side of Cai Village has been transformed into the Erhai Wetland Park by the government. The Cai Village Scenic Area relies heavily on this wetland park for its attractions. Thanks to its natural beauty and cultural allure, Cai Village attracts numerous tourists. With over 120 guesthouses and 20 restaurants, it stands as the largest tourism scenic area among the Bai ethnic villages around Erhai Lake and hosts the most visitors among the pristine villages in the area.
Beyond its picturesque landscapes, Cai Village also preserves well-preserved ancient Bai architecture and rich historical and cultural sites. The Caishen Temple, Benzhu Temple, Kuixing Pavilion, and ancestral halls of various surnames are just a few of the must-visit temples and shrines. These ancient structures bear witness to the passage of time and form an integral part of Bai culture.
Architecturally, the buildings in Cai Village are mostly traditional wooden structures with tiled roofs. The walls are often constructed using stones from the nearby Cangshan Mountains, carried down by streams, and plastered with mud, showcasing typical features of Bai residential architecture. The layout of the courtyards also follows typical Bai patterns, such as the “three-section compound with a screen wall” and the “four-sided courtyard with five sky wells.”
Cai Village also offers numerous lakeside guesthouses, some with expansive views of the sea. If you enjoy the ambiance here, consider staying for a few days. Compared to the renowned Shuanglang, accommodation prices in Cai Village are more affordable, offering a quieter and more natural retreat.
Basic Information
| Estimated Length of Tour | 1 day |
| Ticket Price | Free |
| Opening Hours | 24 hours a day throughout the year |
Location and Transportation
Cai Village is situated on the western shore of Erhai Lake, only 2 kilometers to the east of Dali Ancient Town in Dali City, Yunnan Province. You can walk, ride a bike, or take bus C2 at the North Gate of the ancient town to get there.
