Introduction to Erhai Lake
Erhai Lake (洱海) is one of the most iconic attractions in Yunnan Province and a true symbol of Dali. Shaped like a crescent moon, this highland freshwater lake stretches over 40 kilometers from north to south, with the majestic Cangshan Mountains standing to the west. For the local Bai people, Erhai is more than just a lake – it is their “mother lake,” a source of livelihood, culture, and inspiration.
For travelers, Erhai is the heartbeat of Dali: think endless cycling roads hugging the water, hidden villages where life moves slowly, and sunsets that turn the entire sky golden. Whether you’re a culture lover, an adventure seeker, or just someone who wants to sip coffee by the shore, Erhai offers a side of Yunnan you’ll never forget.
Erhai Lake Attractions: East Shore vs. West Shore
Erhai Lake is usually divided into two main areas: the West Shore (海西) and the East Shore (海东). Each side has its own highlights.
West Shore (海西) – Culture, History, and Countryside
1. Dali Ancient Town (大理古城)
Facing Erhai and backed by the Cangshan Mountains, Dali Ancient Town is the most popular base for exploring the area. The old town is lively, filled with boutique shops, cafés, and restaurants.
Must-see attractions near the old town:
- Chongsheng Temple and the Three Pagodas (崇圣寺三塔): Just 3 km from the old town, the Three Pagodas are the landmark of Dali. Built in the Tang Dynasty and standing strong despite earthquakes, they are considered the “royal temple” of the ancient Dali Kingdom.
- Cangshan National Park (苍山国家公园): Famous for its 19 peaks and 18 streams, the mountain offers three cableways:
- Ximatan Cableway –The longest (5,555m), reaching 3,996m altitude. Perfect for snow in winter and rhododendrons in spring. For those who love challenges.
- Gantong Cableway – A relaxing ride to mid-mountain, lush greenery and streams, easy for families.
- Zhonghe Cableway –The most budget-friendly and shortest, with panoramic views over the old town and Erhai. You can even enjoy vegetarian meals at Zhonghe Temple on top.
- Longkan Pier (龙龛码头): Famous sunrise spot. In autumn and winter, the nearby metasequoia forest turns golden red, reflecting beautifully in the water.
- Chuangdan Art Zone (床单厂艺术区): Located near the south gate of the old town. A transformed textile factory turned art hub with graffiti walls, hundreds of creative stalls, indie concerts, and even rainbow-hued crystals. It’s where Dali’s alternative spirit truly shines.
2. Panxi S-Curve (磻溪 S湾)
Part of the Erhai Eco Corridor, this winding lakeside road is one of the most photogenic cycling routes in China. Blue water on one side, green hills on the other, and the road curving like a ribbon. At sunrise or sunset, the scene is pure romance.
3. Xizhou Ancient Town (喜洲古镇)
Quieter and more authentic than Dali Old Town, Xizhou is home to traditional Bai-style houses and beautiful countryside. The highlight here is the farmland scenery that changes with the seasons:
- Spring & Summer (April–August): Green rice fields stretch endlessly, like a sea of vitality.
- Autumn (September–October): Golden rice paddies create postcard-perfect harvest scenery.
- Spring & Summer (April–August): Green rice fields stretch endlessly, like a sea of vitality.
Local Craft: Don’t miss Bai tie-dye workshops, where you can make your own indigo souvenirs.
East Shore (海东) – Scenic Views and Modern Resorts
1. Shuanglang Ancient Town (双廊古镇)
A lakeside town full of stylish cafés, boutique guesthouses, and art spaces overlooking the water. It’s commercialized but still one of the top picks for first-time visitors who want those iconic lake views.
2. Wenbi Village (文笔村)
Home to the Instagram-famous Rainbow Road and the Sea Hall Chapel, where it looks like the road vanishes into the lake. A perfect stop for creative photography.
3. Ideal Land (理想邦)
Nicknamed “Santorini of China,” this spot features whitewashed houses and blue rooftops set against Erhai’s turquoise waters. A trendy place for young travelers and couples.
Hidden Gems in Xiaguan (下关) – Where Locals Live
Most travelers focus on Dali Ancient Town, but Xiaguan, the modern part of Dali near the city center, hides some of the coolest spots around Erhai. This area is where locals actually live, so it feels less touristy but surprisingly rich in unique experiences.
1. Yunxiang Mountain (云想山)
Nicknamed “Dali-fornia,” this spot has become famous among young travelers for its mix of adrenaline and sunset romance.
- Extreme Park: China’s first Luge-style mountain karting park, with tracks inspired by New Zealand. It’s a family-friendly activity you won’t want to miss.
- Cliffside Chapel: A pure white triangle-shaped chapel, perfect for drone shots with Erhai as the backdrop.
- Sunset Café: A glass terrace café where you can take photos that look straight out of La La Land, only with Cangshan and Erhai in the frame.
- Evening vibe: The open lawn overlooks Dali Ancient Town and Erhai. As the sun sets, the whole place turns into a “sunset rollercoaster” moment.
2. Longwei Pass / Longwei City (龙尾关 / 龙尾城)
If you think Dali Ancient Town is too crowded, Longwei Pass will surprise you.
- This is Dali’s most authentic preserved street district, first built in the Tang Dynasty by the Nanzhao king Geluofeng.
- Today it blends local life with creativity: tiny cafés and craft shops sit next to real barbershops, wholesale stores, and family homes.
- The whole street is a downhill route, easy to stroll without worrying about getting lost.
- Atmosphere: quiet, original, and uncommercialized, with clean stone-paved lanes, small streams under Cangshan, and traditional houses where people still live.
👉 Compared with the busy Dali Ancient Town, Xiaguan shows you the side of Dali where tradition and daily life continue naturally, making it a hidden gem for those who want authenticity.
Transportation Around Erhai Lake
The most classic way to experience Erhai is by cycling around the lake, but if you prefer a more relaxing option, the Erhai Lake Tourist Bus (洱海环湖巴士) is very convenient.
- How to book: Tickets can be purchased via the WeChat Mini Program “安心游大理”.
- Advantage: Covers major attractions on both east and west shores. Hop-on, hop-off flexibility without the stress of navigation.
Final Tips for Visiting Erhai Lake
- Plan smart: Don’t try to see everything in one day. Choose either the East or West Shore and go deeper.
- Best seasons: Spring for flowers, summer for greenery, autumn for golden harvests, and winter for peaceful lake views.
- Photography: Sunrise is best on the East Shore, sunset is magical on the West Shore.
- Price reminder: During major Chinese holidays (Golden Week, Chinese New Year, etc.), hotel and attraction prices can double or even triple, so book early and plan accordingly.
Conclusion
Erhai Lake is not just a tourist attraction – it’s a living postcard of Dali’s culture, landscapes, and lifestyle. On one shore, you’ll find ancient Bai villages and golden rice fields; on the other, modern cafés, rainbow-colored roads, and Santorini-style resorts. And if you venture into Xiaguan, you’ll discover Dali’s local heartbeat, far from the tourist crowds.
Whether you cycle, ride the tourist bus, or simply wander through lakeside towns, Erhai promises more than beautiful views – it’s an experience that stays with you long after you leave Yunnan.
