Shuanglang Town in Dali (大理双廊镇) is a charming tourist destination that attracts visitors with its natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. Not only is it a place where the Bai ethnic group has lived for generations, but it’s also a haven for numerous artists seeking inspiration.
First and foremost, Shuanglang Town offers breathtaking natural scenery. Situated on the northeastern shore of Erhai Lake, with the imposing Chicken Foot Mountain to the east and the vast expanse of Erhai Lake to the west, Shuanglang benefits from a unique landscape. Visitors can indulge in the magnificent views of Erhai Lake and experience the harmonious beauty of the mountains and waters.
Furthermore, Shuanglang Town boasts a wealth of historical relics and cultural heritage. Visitors can explore the ancient architecture, temples, and other historical sites in the old town, experiencing the unique charm of Bai culture. Moreover, it has witnessed numerous historical events such as the Tang-Tianbao War and the Du Wenxiu Uprising, providing an excellent opportunity for tourists to learn about the history and culture of Dali.
In Shuanglang Town, visitors can also immerse themselves in the rich folk culture and ethnic customs. The town is home to many Bai people who preserve their unique ethnic traditions and customs. Visitors can enjoy Bai folk performances, taste authentic Bai cuisine, and participate in various ethnic festivals, immersing themselves in the unique charm of Bai culture.
In addition to its cultural and natural attractions, Shuanglang Town offers abundant tourism resources. It is home to famous attractions such as Nanzhao Fengqing Island and Yujii Island, each with its own unique charm. Nanzhao Fengqing Island is one of the three major islands in Erhai Lake, where visitors can enjoy beautiful lake views and explore rich cultural relics. Yujii Island, on the other hand, is an artistic hub featuring not only stunning natural scenery but also cultural landmarks like Yang Liping’s Sun Palace.
Moreover, the town’s boutique accommodations and delicious cuisine are also highlights of tourism. Many guesthouses in Shuanglang are located by the lake or in the mountains, offering beautiful surroundings and excellent facilities for a comfortable stay. As for cuisine, Bai cuisine is predominant in Shuanglang, known for its unique flavors and delicious taste, allowing visitors to not only savor delicious food but also gain insights into Bai culinary culture.
Basic Information
| Estimated Length of Tour | 1 day |
| Ticket Price | Free |
| Opening Hours | 24 hours a day throughout the year |
Location and Transportation
Shuanglang Town is located on the northeastern shore of Erhai Lake in Dali City, Dali Bai Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan Province, China. You can easily find coaches at Dali Bus Terminal North Station, Dali Ancient City Ticket Center, and Dali Ancient City Bus Station to get there.
I sincerely do not recommend Shuanglang in Dali. There are too many people, the paths are long, and the scenery is average. It is very difficult to reserve a visit to Yang Liping’s Sun and Moon Palace. To enter, you must purchase a tea set package for 120 yuan. Before 9:00 AM, there are fewer people in Shuanglang, and you can take a 10 yuan small yellow bike to get in. Otherwise, you’ll have to walk 3.4 kilometers. On the… Read more »
First time visiting Shuanglang.
Everywhere is bustling with construction.
The rampant dust can’t overshadow the beauty of Erhai Lake.
The shimmering water surface under the sunlight is vibrant and healing.
The most interesting part is exploring the narrow paths leading to the seaside,
not knowing what kind of scenery awaits at the end.
I finally got to taste the wild mushroom rice and flower cakes that I had been longing for.
Yunnan, I will come back!
You must stay one night in Shuanglang when visiting Dali. Waking up in the early morning, I was surrounded by a sea of stars, with the Cangshan Mountains serene in the background, and the deep Erhai Lake in front of me. The distant lights on the shore flickered like a dream.
There are many small trinkets in the ancient town, and there are plenty of shops where you can take pictures. The night view is beautiful, and the sunset is also stunning. If you take the path to the Sun Palace and head towards the back mountain, you can catch a great view of the sunset.
I spent over a hundred for the ride to Shuanglang Ancient Town, and I only managed to take one decent photo. Personally, I didn’t feel it was worth it. The commercial atmosphere in Shuanglang Ancient Town is quite heavy, with shops lining the streets and a lot of noise. Additionally, the transportation to this place is not very convenient.
When visiting Dali Shuanglang Ancient Town, try to park in the designated parking lot. Many parking spaces are reportedly private. If you park there without anyone saying anything, you might be surprised by unexpected fees when you leave, which can be higher than those at the parking lot.
The ancient town allows electric scooters to ride, but there is no division between pedestrian and non-motorized vehicle lanes, leading to chaotic order. I was honked at dozens of times during my visit. At times, not even two people are allowed to walk side by side. It was really annoying! (The flower pastries are very delicious, and the shawl is beautiful.)
I have been to Dali three times. This time I chose to explore Shuanglang in depth. I have to say that the consumption in Shuanglang is now very high, and commercialization is too heavy. During the four-day and three-night trip to Shuanglang, it rained for two and a half days, and it was too cold. I wish I had known, I would have come back later.