Zhang’s Garden in Dali (大理张家花园) is a masterpiece of Bai ethnic residential architecture and a prominent attraction in Dali tourism. Originating from the Tang Dynasty’s Nanzhao and the Song Dynasty’s Dali royal architectural styles, it comprises five “sanfang yizhaobi” (three houses and one screen wall), one “siheyuan” (quadrangle courtyard with rooms on all four sides) with five open-roofed patios, and Dali’s unique rear garden, collectively known as the “六合同春 (Six Harmonies and Spring Unison).” This architectural form originated from the unified culture of the six tribes around Erhai Lake in the Nanzhao Kingdom, symbolizing the ethnic unity of the Dali Kingdom.
The architectural style of Zhang’s Garden is distinctive, reflecting the characteristic features of Bai ethnic residential architecture. Stones in Bai ethnic residences are not only used for foundations and walls but also as lintels for doors and windows. The exterior walls of the buildings are predominantly white, with most structures being two-story “yizheng’er” (one main house with two side buildings), “liangfang yier” (two rooms and one side building), “sanfang yizhaobi,” and “siheyuan”.
Zhang’s Garden also integrates elements of private gardens, combining living spaces with landscaping to create a unique garden architectural style. Here, you can see precious tea trees throughout the courtyard, surrounded by delicate gardens filled with camellias, azaleas, and other flowers. As the clear waters of Erhai Lake are dyed golden by the sun and the sunlight lazily spreads across Zhang’s Garden, this Oriental “dream residence” becomes even more beautiful and captivating.
Within the Zhang’s Garden scenic area, there is an ancient stage where Bai ethnic folk songs and dances are performed daily, along with tea ceremonies, which are highly enjoyable. Visitors can watch the performances while savoring the Bai ethnic tea, creating a truly delightful experience. Additionally, the garden has over 30 guest rooms, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the charm of Dali’s Bai ethnic residential culture by staying for a few days.
Basic Information
| Estimated Length of Tour | 2 hours |
| Ticket Price | 90 RMB |
| Opening Hours | 8.00 – 17.30 |
| Telephone Number | 0086-0872-2684000 0086-0872-2667981 |
Location and Transportation
Located in Shangmo Village, Dali Town, Dali City, Dali Bai Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan Province, Zhang’s Garden sits at the foot of Shengying Peak of Diancang Mountain, to the north of Guanyin Pond. To get there, you can take bus 4 and get off at Guanyin Pond Stop (观音塘站).
