Xizhou Ancient Town (喜洲古镇) & Bai Tie-dyeing (白族扎染) Experience

Nestled amidst the breathtaking landscapes of Dali in Yunnan Province, Xizhou Ancient Town is a captivating blend of history, culture, and the incredible craftsmanship of the Bai ethnic minority. This ancient town, which has stood for over a thousand years, invites travelers to wander through its cobblestone streets, admire its picturesque architecture, and immerse themselves in rich traditions. Whether you are a history lover or curious about unique cultures, Xizhou promises an unforgettable experience that will resonate long after your visit.

Arrive at Xizhou Ancient Town and step back into time. The bluestone-paved roads extend under your feet and the ancient stage stands quietly. With its upturned eaves, richly ornamented brackets, carved beams, and painted rafters, it fully displays the charm of Bai ethnic architecture.

Bai Ethnic Architecture

The town has maintained its historical architecture and traditional ways of life, making a walk through its streets feel like a journey back in time. The range of architectural styles represents various periods, highlighting influences from both the Han Chinese and the Bai ethnic minority. For example, Bai-style houses are known for their '3 rooms and a wall screening' and '4 joints and 5 courtyards' designs'.

'3 rooms and a wall screening' means that each house features a main room with two adjacent wing-rooms, and a wall in front of the central room to ensure privacy. '4 joints and 5 courtyards' indicates that the houses have a central courtyard surrounded by rooms, with four smaller courtyards connecting to the central one from all sides, forming a total of five courtyards. These houses are adorned with woodcarvings, colored patterns, marble, and wash drawings, showcasing the finest examples of Bai architecture.

The Yan Family Compound is a typical complex of Bai - style residential buildings, integrating various exquisite techniques such as woodcarving, stone carving, and colored painting. The layout of "three - winged houses with a screen - wall" and "quadrangles with five - courtyard wells" perfectly showcases the unique style of traditional Bai architecture. Entering it, you can truly feel the life atmosphere of the Bai people.

Morning Market and Sifang Street

For a genuine insight into local life, visit Xizhou's lively morning market. Each day, vendors display stalls filled with fresh produce, handmade crafts, and delicious street food. As you wander through the market, you'll encounter vibrant colors and lively sounds as locals engage in bartering and conversation. The market is not only a crucial income source for many but also a social center. It's a place where community bonds are strengthened through shared meals and friendly interactions.

Sifang Street is the lively core of Xizhou Ancient Town, filled with chatter, laughter, and traditional music. With its charming shops, teahouses, and eateries, this street is perfect for soaking up the local atmosphere. Travelers can explore exquisite handicrafts, textiles, and other artifacts crafted by local artisans. This street is more than just a shopping spot; it's a hub where visitors can engage with residents, hear age-old stories, and observe the daily rhythms of Bai life.

Local Street Food & Delicacies

Step into the snack street of the ancient town, where the hustle and bustle of life can be felt. One must-try snack that has gained considerable acclaim in culinary circles is the famous Xizhou Baba. This delightful treat is a type of baked bun that is traditionally filled with a variety of ingredients, including savory meats, vegetables, or sweet fillings such as red bean paste. The outer crust is perfectly golden and flaky, providing a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the tender and flavorful filling inside.

The sweet one is filled with rose and red bean paste. The fragrant flower flavor blends with the sweet red bean paste, and the outer crust is baked until it becomes golden and crispy. The salty one is filled with minced meat and scallions, giving off a savory aroma. Then pair it with a bowl of cool shrimp. The soft "shrimps" float in the icy sweet sugar water, melting in your mouth immediately and bringing a refreshing coolness, making your taste buds cheer. Pair it with a bowl of steaming cold chicken rice noodles. The smooth rice noodles, tender chicken, and unique sauce will bring you a sense of happiness with every bite. The special yogurt in Xizhou is also not to be missed. The thick yogurt, topped with honey and various fresh fruits, is sweet, sour, refreshing, and greasy - relieving.

You should also sample "Er Kuai," a type of rice cake that is uniquely representative of the region's culinary traditions. These rice cakes are made from glutinous rice, which is pounded into a smooth, thick paste and then shaped into flat, rectangular pieces. What makes Er Kuai particularly special is its delightful texture: crispy on the outside, thanks to the frying or grilling process, while remaining soft and chewy on the inside. This duality in texture showcases the delightful essence of Bai cuisine, where the balance of flavors and textures is paramount. Er Kuai can be enjoyed in various ways; it can be served plain, accompanied by dipping sauces, or stir-fried with an array of vegetables and meats for a heartier dish.

Three-Course Tea

A cultural highlight in Xizhou is the traditional Bai tea ceremony known as the Three-Course Tea. This intriguing ritual involves serving tea in three distinct stages, each offering a different flavor experience.

The ceremony begins with a bitter brew made from aged tea leaves, followed by a fragrant infusion that delights the palate. The final course introduces a sweet, refreshing blend, representing hospitality and the warmth of Bai culture.

During this ceremony, engaging in heartfelt conversations with Bai people enhances the experience, as tea is an essential symbol of their hospitality. Pairing the tea with local delicacies, such as "Bai-style pickled vegetables," deepens your culinary exploration and appreciation of the region's flavors.

Traditional Craftmanship

At the heart of Xizhou lies an unwavering passion for traditional craftsmanship. Artisans continue to produce beautiful works inspired by their rich heritage, creating a vibrant crafting community that refreshes local customs. Many shops and workshops welcome visitors to witness their time-honored techniques, providing an educational glimpse into the artistry that defines this town.

Traditional craftsmanship in Xizhou includes tie-dyeing, pottery, Jiama, weaving, and embroidery, vital for sustaining the local economy and preserving the Bai cultural identity. For example, traditional Bai silk weaving is renowned across China, with artisans often showcasing their techniques at local festivals, where visitors can watch and even try their hand at the craft.

Craftmanship Museum

To dive deeper into the magnificent heritage of Bai craftsmanship, a visit to the Craftmanship Museum is essential. This museum offers fascinating insights into traditional techniques and the progression of local crafts through various exhibits.

Among the items displayed, you'll find intricately designed textiles and skillfully crafted pottery. Each piece tells the story of the artisans who dedicate their lives to preserving these traditions. The museum experience not only highlights the artistry but also helps visitors understand the significance of these skills in the cultural narrative of the Bai people.

Tie-Dyeing

One of the standout craft forms in Xizhou is the traditional tie-dyeing technique. The Bai people are experts in this art, creating vibrant patterns and colors on textiles. Visitors have the opportunity to see the tie-dyeing process firsthand in local workshops, where artisans demonstrate their skills.

Engaging in a tie-dye workshop is a memorable experience, allowing travelers to learn this age-old craft. Under the guidance of professional staff, you will have an in-depth understanding of the historical origin of Bai ethnic group's tie-dyeing. From the ancient origin legends to the modern inheritance and development, you can admire the exquisite tie-dyeing works and feel the charm of intangible cultural heritage art.

Try the hands-on tie-dyeing experience session. Under the guidance of the staff, try to design and make simple tie-dyed handkerchiefs or scarves, and leave with a unique travel souvenir.

You can also visit the nearby Zhoucheng Village, known as the "Hometown of Bai Tie Dyeing". Every household in the village has an indissoluble bond with tie - dyeing. Walking through the village, you can see various tie - dyed products drying in the sun. The blue - and - white colors are full of artistic charm.

Rice Fields

The rural scenery of Xizhou is equally charming. Walk along the paths in the fields. The vast rice paddies sway in the gentle breeze, and the continuous Cangshan Mountains stand in the distance, presenting a peaceful and harmonious rural picture.

Different seasons bring different beautiful pictures. In spring and summer, the rice seedlings are lush, like green waves rolling; in autumn, the rice ears turn golden, just like a golden carpet. Strolling along the ridges of the fields, the gentle breeze blows, and the fragrance of rice, grass, and soil blend together. In the distance, the Cangshan Mountain is covered with a layer of greenery, and nearby, the brook flows gently, making you feel extremely comfortable.

At sunset, the golden afterglow shines on the earth, and the entire Xizhou is dyed in warm colors, breathtakingly beautiful. At this time, find a place with a good view and quietly enjoy this magnificent sunset

Your Gateway to Bai Culture

Xizhou Ancient Town is a captivating destination, offering a rich blend of history, culture, and traditional craftsmanship. From its stunning Bai architecture to the lively morning market and the immersive experiences like the Three-Course Tea, this town provides a genuine glimpse into the lives of the Bai ethnic minority.

Exploring the hidden gems of Xizhou allows visitors to develop a deeper appreciation for local culture, art, and the importance of preserving these traditions for future generations. For those seeking adventure, connection, and authentic cultural experiences, Xizhou’s charm is certain to leave lasting impressions.

With every visit to this remarkable ancient town, the chance to learn, experience, and share the beauty of Bai culture awaits. So pack your bags and let us take you on a private tour to Xizhou Ancient Town, where the heart of traditional craftsmanship beckons.

WHY CHOOSE A PRIVATE TOUR?

• PERSONALIZED EXPERIENCE - Customized your itinerary based on your interest and pace.

• LOCAL EXPERTISE - Learn about Xizhou's history, architecture, culture, traditional craftsmanship and local life from a knowledgeable guide.

• LANGUAGE SUPPORT - Your English or foreign speaking guide will make communications and navigation effortless.

This tour is perfect for travelers seeking a customized, immersive cultural experience in Xizhou Ancient Town.