1. A great choice to visit Yunnan in winter
(1) Unique climate advantages
In winter, when the north is shrouded in severe cold and covered in silver, Dali, Lijiang, and Xishuangbanna in Yunnan are like paradise on earth, emitting unique climate charm and attracting countless tourists to explore
Dali, this city of flowers, snow, and moon, has a pleasant climate of warm winters and cool summers. Although it is located on a plateau, there is no harsh cold. The average temperature in winter is around 4 degrees to a dozen degrees, with a relatively large temperature difference between day and night. During the day, when the sun shines, it is warm and comfortable. Wearing a windbreaker or a thicker sweater, strolling through the streets and alleys, feeling the gentle breeze, is very pleasant. At night, as the temperature drops slightly, adding a coat can resist a slight chill. Moreover, it rarely snows in winter in Dali, and even if it does, it is mostly on Cangshan Mountain. The snow covered Cangshan Mountain and the sparkling Erhai Lake complement each other, creating a stunning scene. Like Cangshan Ximatan, with an altitude of 3920 meters, it is often covered in silver in winter, and the snow covers it with a pure white coat, like a fairyland; Jizu Mountain has an altitude of 3320 meters, with a relative height difference of about 1900 meters between Binchuan Bazi and it. The climate is diverse in three dimensions, and in autumn and winter, the mountains are covered with red leaves and tall pine trees, creating a unique sceneryLijiang belongs to the plateau type southwest monsoon climate, with low temperatures and large temperature differences between day and night, but most areas are still warm in winter and cool in summer. The average temperature in winter is 4 ℃ -19 ℃, with relatively dry air and mostly sunny days. During the day, the average temperature is 19 ℃. Wearing comfortable clothes such as short suits made of single-layer cotton and linen fabric, T-shirts, etc., allows for free play; At night, with an average temperature of 4 ℃, it is necessary to wear warm clothing such as windbreakers and coats. Lijiang also has the typical three-dimensional climate characteristics of "one mountain has four seasons and ten miles have different days". For example, the distance from the ancient city of the Old Town of Lijiang to the Yulong Snow Mountain is only 15 kilometers, the altitude rises from 2400 meters to 5596 meters, the vertical height difference is 3196 meters, and the temperature difference between the top and bottom is about 18.8 ℃. This enables you to not only feel the warmth of the sun in the ancient city, but also enjoy the world of ice and snow in the Yulong Snow Mountain not far away, and enjoy the magnificent landscape of snow all the year roundXishuangbanna is an excellent place to avoid the cold in winter. It belongs to the tropical monsoon climate, warm and humid all year round, with no four seasons, only dry and wet seasons. Winter is even warmer and more pleasant, with a daily minimum temperature of around 13 ° C and a daily maximum temperature of around 25 ° C. From November to April of the following year is the dry season, with little rainfall and mostly sunny days, with blue skies and white clouds, and clear skies for thousands of miles. Here, after the sun comes out during the day, you can easily travel by wearing a short sleeved shirt made of cotton and linen fabric, paired with thin pants and a thin T-shirt. Adding a thin jacket such as a jacket, casual wear, windbreaker, etc. in the morning and evening can fully enjoy this comfortable time. It is adjacent to Ailao Mountain and Wuliang Mountain to the north, like two natural barriers, blocking the cold wind from the north, making Xishuangbanna feel immersed in a warm embrace all year round, with a unique charm of "always summer without winter, one rain becomes autumn"
(II) Rich Cultural Landscape
In addition to pleasant climate, Dali, Lijiang, and Xishuangbanna also contain profound and unique cultural charm. Different ethnic cultures blend and collide here, shining brightly, allowing every tourist to imitate Buddhism and immerse themselves in the treasure trove of cultural history
2. Preparation before travel should not be ignored
(1) Clothing matching strategy
When traveling to Dali, Lijiang, and Xishuangbanna in Yunnan in winter, there are many considerations for clothing preparation. Proper dressing can make you both comfortable and able to cope with different weather changes during the tripThe average winter temperature in Lijiang is between 0 ℃ and 10 ℃, with an average daytime temperature of about 10 ℃ and an average nighttime temperature close to 0 ℃. The climate is dry with strong winds. It is recommended to bring warm clothing such as down jackets, sweaters, cashmere sweaters, fur coats, etc., and be sure to wear accessories such as scarves, gloves, hats, etc. to prevent cold winds from invading. Due to the frequent need to walk while traveling in Lijiang, shoes should be comfortable and warm, such as thick soled sneakers or lightweight short boots. Considering the dry climate, you can also bring some moisturizing products such as moisturizer and lipstick to keep your skin moist and soft
(II) Transportation Mode Selection
There are multiple transportation modes to choose from when traveling to Yunnan and within Dali, Lijiang, and Xishuangbanna, each with its own advantages, disadvantages, and applicable scenarios. Below, we will provide a detailed introduction for everyone
Transportation to Yunnan:
- Airplane: Dali, Lijiang, and Xishuangbanna in Yunnan have airports, and many major cities across the country have direct flights, which are very convenient. For example, departing from Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou and other places can directly reach the corresponding cities, saving travel time. However, during the peak travel season, airfare prices may be higher and it is necessary to book in advance to enjoy discounts. After arriving at the airport, there are usually airport buses, taxis, etc. that can take you to the city center or near scenic spots
- Train: If you have plenty of time, the train is an economical choice. Kunming, as a transportation hub in Yunnan, can be taken by train to Dali, Lijiang and other places, and along the way, you can also enjoy the beautiful scenery of Yunnan. Like the high-speed train from Kunming to Dali and Lijiang, it is both comfortable and offers a panoramic view outside the window. But compared to airplanes, it takes longer
Transportation in Dali City:
- Bus: There are currently more than ten bus routes in Dali City, most of which are automatic coin operated and require change to be prepared. The bus fare is generally 1 yuan, and some routes to ancient cities and other scenic spots cost 1.5 yuan. The journey takes about 30 minutes and is convenient for traveling to various regular locations in the city
- Car rental or electric vehicle: If you want to freely explore the surrounding area of Erhai Lake or go to some farther attractions, renting a car or electric vehicle is a good choice. You can rent electric vehicles in the ancient city, with prices ranging from 25 to 60 yuan per day during the off-season and slightly higher during the peak season; Companies such as Shenzhou Car Rental and Yihi Car Rental also offer some services in Dali Old City. Online car rental is OK. Usually, the daily fee is about 100 yuan. If you rent a car, it is about 400 yuan a day, and the driver is accompanied throughout the whole journey. However, when renting a car for self driving, one should pay attention to following traffic rules and parking related issues, while when riding an electric bike, one should consider whether the battery life can meet the travel needs<103
Transportation in Lijiang City:
- From the airport to the ancient city:
- Airport shuttle bus: It only costs 20 yuan to get on the bus from the airport and get off at Dayanhua Lane Station, which is convenient and fast
- Bus route 27: Get on at the airport intersection station and get off at the Bailong Square station, which is economical
- Taking a taxi: The distance is about 30km, the cost is about 75 yuan, the speed is relatively fast, but the price is slightly higher
- Transportation within the ancient city: Due to the high terrain in the northwest and low terrain in the southeast, cycling is prohibited, so walking is the main way. However, the ancient city is not large, and walking tours can easily experience its charm. In addition, there are also electric scooters available in the ancient city, with a cost of about 10 yuan, which can save some physical energy
Urban transportation in Xishuangbanna:
- Bus: There are multiple bus routes in the city that can reach many scenic spots such as Manting Park. The ticket price is generally 1 yuan, which is affordable, but the waiting time may be slightly longer, and some remote scenic spots may not be directly accessible
- Taxi or ride hailing service: Travel is relatively flexible, and taking a taxi to various places in the city is quite convenient. Ride hailing services are relatively more standardized and transparent, but during peak tourist periods, there may be traffic jams or difficulties in finding a taxi
In short, everyone can choose a suitable mode of transportation based on their itinerary, budget, and convenience of travel
(III) Recommended accommodation places
Recommended accommodation places in Dali Old City:
- : There are many inns and hotels to choose from around. The accommodation environment here is antique, and you can stroll along the stone paved roads of the ancient city and experience the charm of the millennium old city. There are numerous snacks and specialty shops in the surrounding area, making it very convenient to play. The price range is relatively wide, with ordinary guesthouses costing around 100-300 yuan per night, while slightly better conditioned specialty guesthouses or small hotels may cost 300-500 yuan, and higher end ones may have even higher prices. Moreover, it is not far from the ancient city to attractions such as Cangshan and Erhai Lake, with convenient transportation
- Shuanglang Ancient Town: Located on the shore of Erhai Lake, the scenery is beautiful, and many homestays have excellent views of the sea. In the morning, you can watch the sunrise of Erhai Lake, and in the evening, you can enjoy the beautiful sunset reflecting on the lake surface. The accommodation prices vary, with the sea view rooms being relatively expensive, possibly around 500 yuan, but the experience is great; Ordinary homestays located slightly further away offer more affordable prices, around 200-400 yuan. This place is suitable for tourists who want to relax and enjoy the scenery of Erhai Lake to the fullest
Recommended accommodation locations in Lijiang:
- Inside Dayan Ancient Town: You can deeply experience the Naxi ethnic customs of Lijiang, and at night, you can go to Sifang Street to experience the lively nightlife of the ancient town. There are many delicious foods around, and you can easily reach various scenic spots by walking. In terms of price, ordinary specialty inns range from 100-500 yuan per night, depending on factors such as room configuration and decoration style. Higher end hotels have higher prices, suitable for tourists who want to immerse themselves in the ancient city atmosphere
- Big Waterwheel Area: Near the west gate, with convenient transportation and high cost-effectiveness, it is very convenient to travel to other places in the ancient city or take transportation outside. The surrounding supporting facilities are also relatively complete, and the accommodation price range is wide, which can meet the needs of tourists with different budgets
- West Scenic Area: With a wide view, you can enjoy the panoramic view of the ancient city and the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. The scenery is beautiful, and staying here allows you to appreciate the unique beauty. However, the price may be relatively high, especially for rooms with good scenery, which are more suitable for tourists who pursue high-quality accommodation experience and like to enjoy beautiful scenery
Recommended accommodation locations in Xishuangbanna:
- Gaozhuang West Shuangjing: This place is full of rich Dai ethnic customs, with unique architectural styles, bright lights at night, and lively atmosphere. There are various night markets and food streets, where you can taste authentic Dai cuisine and purchase special ethnic handicrafts. There are various accommodation options available, including homestays and hotels, with a wide range of prices. The economical ones cost around 100-300 yuan, while the mid to high end ones cost 300-800 yuan or even higher. Moreover, they are close to attractions such as the Lancang River and Starlight Night Market, making them easy to visit
- Near the Water Splashing Square: Located in the center of the city, the transportation is very convenient, with numerous shopping malls and restaurants around. The living facilities are complete, and the accommodation prices are relatively moderate. Different levels of hotels and homestays can meet the budget needs of various tourists, making it convenient to visit various attractions in the city or participate in local activities.
Everyone can choose the most suitable accommodation location based on their preferences, budget, and requirements for the surrounding environment and travel convenience, making travel more comfortable and pleasant
3. Dali, the romance of flowers, snow, and moon
(1) Must visit attractions
1 The Erhai Lake Ecological Corridor is like a beautiful ribbon winding along the shores of Erhai Lake, with a total length of 129 kilometers. It connects numerous villages along the way, perfectly integrating Cangshan, Erhai Lake, and ancient villages and buildings. It is an important window to showcase the achievements of Erhai Lake protection and a shining pearl intertwined with nature and cultureYou can choose to walk, stop and walk within a short distance, take photos to your heart's content, and enjoy the comfortable time of intimate contact with nature; You can also rent a bicycle at various stations along the ecological corridor