Dali Ancient City - Dali Attractions

Introduction

The history of Dali Ancient City can be traced back to the Nanzhao Kingdom, which was established in the early 8th century. Dali became a significant political center during the rule of the Duan family under the Dali Kingdom (937 to 1253), when it reached its peak. The current incarnation of Dali Old Town began its construction during the Hongwu period of the Ming Dynasty, around 1382 AD. Thus, if counted from the Ming Dynasty reconstruction, Dali Old Town has a history of over 600 years.

Dali Ancient City, Yunnan - One of China's oldest towns@Wilko Wanders

My first train journey in China, travelling from Kunming to Dali, one of the oldest villages in the country. I’ll be staying in Dali Old Town on a friend’s recommendation. I am excited to explore all that this historic area has to offer.

Incredible First Impressions of Dali, Yunnan, China@Two Mad Explorers

It's our very first day in Dali and we can honestly say that we have fallen in love with this city. China never ceases to amaze us when it comes to hospitality, food and amazing scenery.

Tile Cats

In the streets of Dali's old town, you'll find these unique ceramic cats called Tile Cats. They're not your typical cute kitties; instead, they have wide-open mouths and glaring eyes, looking fierce or even quirky. Placed on rooftops, they’re not just for decoration but are also believed to keep evil spirits away. What's cool is that each tile cat has its own expression and posture, making every one a unique piece of art.

Tie-dye

Dali's tie-dye isn't just a traditional craft; it's a way of life. You can see artisans folding, stitching, and tying white cloth before dipping them into natural dyes. The charm of tie-dye is its unpredictability: even with the same technique, each result is different. Dali's tie-dye is famous for its rich colors and unique patterns, especially in indigo shades. Walking through the old town, you'll find shops selling all kinds of tie-dye products, from clothes to home decor. Many shops also offer tie-dye workshops where you can make your own piece. It's not just a craft experience but a chance to connect with Dali's traditional culture.