Xizhou and Erhai Villages: A Respectful Photography Day
By XOOTOUR Editorial Team · Updated 20 October 2026
You do not need to cross all of Dali to have a memorable day. This route is shaped around photographers and cultural travellers, with sensible transfers and enough breathing room to notice the city.
Save the route first, then verify any booking rules, service notices and the forecast close to departure. Variable prices and hours are deliberately left out rather than presented as permanent facts.
At a glance
- Route: Xizhou old town → Courtyard or heritage site → Field-edge route → Erhai village stop
- Pace: one full day with deliberate photo stops
- Food idea: Xizhou baba or another local snack from a working shop
- Reality check: Private homes, fields and ceremonies require permission, even when visually inviting
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1. Xizhou old town
- Why it belongs here: Begin with public streets and learn to recognize Bai architectural details.
- How to handle it: Ask before photographing people at close range.
2. Courtyard or heritage site
- Why it belongs here: Enter only places clearly open to visitors.
- How to handle it: Pay attention to signs and household boundaries.
3. Field-edge route
- Why it belongs here: Use established roads and viewpoints around the agricultural landscape.
- How to handle it: Never step into crops for a cleaner frame.
4. Erhai village stop
- Why it belongs here: Finish by the lake in one community with a confirmed return ride.
- How to handle it: Buy locally without turning residents into props.
Before you leave
- Check the attraction or transport operator for current reservations and service notices.
- Keep the hotel address and each major stop saved in Chinese.
- Carry a payment backup and enough battery for navigation.
- Drop the final stop if weather, crowds or fatigue make the day less enjoyable.
Frequently asked questions
Can I complete this route in one day?
Yes, if you follow the stated pace—one full day with deliberate photo stops—and avoid adding distant attractions. The final stop is the easiest one to remove.
Should I book anything in advance?
Check official notices for museums, heritage sites, ferries, cruises and high-demand attractions. Requirements may change by date, season and document type.
What is the biggest planning mistake?
Private homes, fields and ceremonies require permission, even when visually inviting. Build the route around comfort and reliable transport, not the number of saved places.
Plan with XOOTOUR
Use XOOTOUR to collect these Dali stops into an initial itinerary, compare their order on the map and keep the plan in one place. Before departure, confirm time-sensitive details with the relevant official operator.