Just Back from Yunnan: Sharing My Photo Spots and Tips to Avoid Pitfalls

November is when Yunnan becomes its most beautiful—don’t miss out! Seriously, go!!

📍My Route: Lijiang Ancient Town - Shuhe Ancient Town - Baisha Ancient Town - Dali Ancient Town - Xizhou Ancient Town - Langqiao

✔️Things to Do
1️⃣ Don’t say Lijiang Ancient Town is boring and commercialized! It’s all about timing. November is truly amazing—flowers everywhere, and there’s a chrysanthemum exhibition! It’s even more stunning than any of my previous visits!

2️⃣ Wild Post Office is a bit pricey, but it’s so worth it for the photos. Make sure to try a variety of poses—you’ll get fantastic shots!

3️⃣ Shuhe Ancient Town and Baisha Ancient Town are both quieter and great for leisurely strolls. Baisha has a more rustic, artistic vibe, with lots of charming little shops. The hand-painted fridge magnets are lovely, but you can’t get them custom-made on the spot.

5️⃣ Baisha offers a chance to see the Golden Sunrise on the mountain, but check the weather beforehand. We woke up at 7 a.m., but the clouds were too thick, so we missed it.

6️⃣ Compared to Dali, I personally loved Xizhou Ancient Town more. The golden wheat fields are stunning, but they’re being harvested soon! If you want to see them, hurry up!

7️⃣ If you’re in Dali and want to see Erhai Lake, I recommend renting an electric scooter to visit Longkan Pier. The water cypresses have turned golden—absolutely beautiful! But beware, it’s always crowded. You’ll have to wait in line no matter the time!
In Xizhou, there are also many interesting shops, but they close early at night. Bargaining is a must—some things are overpriced! At night, the town is incredibly quiet.

8️⃣ From Xizhou, you can head to Langqiao. One photo at the Insta-famous bridge hole is enough, but the surrounding water cypresses are breathtaking—you just can’t stop taking pictures!

9️⃣ Weather: Lijiang has bigger temperature fluctuations compared to Dali and feels colder. It’s sunny during the day, so a shirt and light jacket are enough. Comfortable shoes are essential, bright-colored clothes look great in photos, and don’t forget sunscreen—it’s easy to get tanned!

❗️❗️ Always remember to bargain, no matter what!