
Budget-Friendly Destinations in Sizhan, China
1. Dali Ancient City
A well-preserved Bai ethnic town with ancient architecture and vibrant culture.
- Affordable Accommodation: Offers a variety of budget-friendly hotels and hostels.
- Street Food Delights: Inexpensive local food options along the bustling streets.
- Free Cultural Performances: Daily Bai ethnic performances in the town square, free of charge.
2. Shaxi Old Town
A picturesque village with historic architecture and hiking trails.
- Budget-friendly Lodging: Homestays and budget guesthouses offer authentic experiences.
- Hiking Trails: Numerous hiking trails around the village, suitable for all levels.
- Traditional Market: A weekly market showcases local produce and crafts at affordable prices.
3. Jianchuan Baisha Naxi Scenic Area
A serene area featuring well-preserved Naxi architecture and a spiritual forest.
- Budget-friendly Transportation: Shared shuttle buses available from Dali city.
- Naxi Cultural Experiences: Visit a Naxi family and learn about their unique culture.
- Affordable Local Cuisine: Traditional Naxi restaurants serve delicious, budget-friendly meals.
4. Xizhou Ancient Town
An ancient Bai ethnic town with beautiful architecture and a traditional market.
- Budget-friendly Lodging: Budget guesthouses and homestays offer affordable stays.
- Street Food Delights: Taste Bai ethnic snacks at local street food stalls.
- Traditional Market: Explore the bustling market selling local produce and handicrafts.
5. Erhai Lake
A beautiful lake surrounded by hills and offering boat tours.
- Affordable Boat Tours: Enjoy a budget-friendly boat tour on the lake.
- Breathtaking Scenery: Beautiful landscapes perfect for photos and relaxation.
- Local Bai Villages: Visit nearby villages to experience the Bai ethnic culture.
6. Zhonghe Temple
An ancient Naxi temple with intricate carvings and a spiritual atmosphere.
- Free Admission: No admission fee to enter the temple.
- Intricate Carvings: Beautiful carvings depicting Naxi history and culture.
- Peaceful Atmosphere: A serene and spiritual environment for reflection.
7. Shibao Temple
An ancient Buddhist temple hidden in a forest near Dali.
- Budget-friendly Transportation: Shared taxis and treks available from Dali city.
- Stunning Scenery: A beautiful forest trail leads to the temple.
- Buddhist Culture: Learn about Buddhist culture and history at the temple.
8. Tuanjie Village
A picturesque village known for its rice terraces and friendly locals.
- Budget-friendly Accommodation: Homestays offer an authentic experience.
- Rice Terraces: Beautiful rice terraces ideal for hiking and photography.
- Local Culture: Experience the friendly hospitality of the local Yi minority.
9. Tengchong Ancient Town
An ancient town with a mix of Han Chinese and ethnic minority culture.
- Affordable Accommodation: Variety of budget-friendly hotels and hostels.
- Thermal Springs: Relax in affordable hot springs around the town.
- Geological Sites: Visit the nearby Mt. Wuniu and its unique geological formations.
10. Natian Hot Springs
A series of natural hot springs in Tengchong with scenic surroundings.
- Affordable Entry Fee: Low cost to enter and enjoy the hot springs.
- Scenic Surroundings: Enjoy beautiful mountain views while soaking in the hot springs.
- Healing Properties: Believed to have therapeutic properties for various ailments.
11. Yunling Scenic Area
A scenic area with lush forests, waterfalls, and ethnic minority villages.
- Budget-friendly Transportation: Shared vans available from Tengchong city.
- Stunning Landscapes: Beautiful waterfalls, forests, and villages to explore.
- Ethnic Minority Culture: Interact with locals and learn about their unique culture.
12. Jingmai Stone Forest
An area with towering stone pillars forming a unique forest landscape.
- Budget-friendly Transportation: Shared buses available from Kunming city.
- Unique Landscapes: Awe-inspiring stone pillars forming a surreal forest landscape.
- Dinosaur Fossils: One of the best places in China to find dinosaur fossils.
13. Zhaotong Ancient City
An ancient city with well-preserved architecture and a bustling market.
- Affordable Accommodation: Variety of budget-friendly hotels and hostels.
- Street Food Delights: Taste local Yi minority snacks at street food stalls.
- Historical Sites: Visit ancient temples, gates, and the bustling market.
14. Luhu Village
A scenic Yi minority village with beautiful rice terraces and waterfalls.
- Budget-friendly Accommodation: Homestays offer an authentic experience.
- Rice Terraces: Beautiful rice terraces ideal for hiking and photography.
- Local Culture: Experience the friendly hospitality of the local Yi minority.
15. Tiger Leaping Gorge
A breathtaking gorge with hiking trails and stunning landscapes.
- Budget-friendly Transportation: Shared buses available from Lijiang city.
- Stunning Landscapes: Awe-inspiring gorges, waterfalls, and mountain views.
- Hiking Trails: Challenging hikes for adventurous travelers.