2026 Taste of Dali Trip
2026 Taste of Dali Trip
2026
Taste of Dali:
Cooking, Culture & Craft Tour: Step into the kitchens, markets, and villages of Dali — where food is not just nourishment, but heritage, celebration, and identity. This in-depth culinary tour takes you through the diverse regions and cultures that shape Yunnan’s rich food traditions, from the Bai, Yi to the Hui communities.
Routing：
Day 1
# Arrive Dali !
We will meet at Dali Airport, where the exciting journey began. We will travel together to my family resort in the Dali old town from the Airport. After arriving at the hotel, take your time to unpack and we will have a welcome dinner at the hotel.
Day 2
# Dali’s Rose Pastries
We’ll start the morning by visiting the vibrant Dali Morning Market, where locals gather for fresh produce, spices, and seasonal specialties. This is a great opportunity to understand the ingredients that define Dali’s unique culinary landscape.
After a walk through Dali Old Town, we’ll enjoy a traditional lunch featuring local classics in a historic setting.In the afternoon, we’ll head to a local farm, where you’ll learn how to make Dali’s famous rose pastries (玫瑰鲜花饼) — a delicacy that embodies the region’s floral abundance.
Dinner will be at Chimido, a contemporary restaurant that fuses traditional Dali flavors with creative, modern interpretations — a perfect way to experience the evolving food culture of the region.
Day 3
# Er Kuai Making # Xizhou Village
Today we’ll visit Xizhou Village, known for its traditional Bai architecture and the beloved local specialty — Xizhou Baba. This flaky flatbread, stuffed with either sweet or savory fillings, is a must-try and an essential part of Bai food culture.
We’ll stroll around the village, watch how the famous Xizhou Baba is made, and enjoy it fresh for lunch.
In the afternoon, we’ll visit a local craft museum, where you’ll learn how to make your own er kuai (饵块) — a classic Dali-style rice cake.
We’ll end the day with a Bai banquet-style dinner back in Xizhou, featuring an array of traditional dishes that showcase the diversity and richness of Bai cuisine.
Day 4
# Eryuan Ru shan Making
Today is all about relaxation, local flavours, and enjoying nature.
We’ll head to Eryuan, a lush area north of Dali known for its high-quality cow’s milk and traditional dairy products. Our morning will be spent at a local cheese workshop, where you’ll learn how to make Rushan (乳扇) — a signature Bai milk cheese, thinly stretched and often grilled or fried.
For lunch, we’ll enjoy a selection of local Eryuan dishes, showcasing the region’s farm-fresh produce and dairy specialties.
In the afternoon, it’s time to unwind at a natural hot spring, letting the mineral-rich waters soothe your body — a true holiday indulgence amidst the mountains and countryside.
Day 5
# Tea Hourse Road #One Noodle Bowl
#Horse Caravan Museum
Today we’ll explore Weishan Ancient Town, a beautifully preserved town with deep roots in Hui (Muslim) and Yi ethnic cultures. Once the capital of the ancient Nanzhao Kingdom, Weishan is also famous for its street food and culinary diversity.
We’ll spend the day wandering the old town, discovering hidden food stalls and tasting local specialties — including the unique One Noodle Bowl (一根面), a dish served with a single, impressively long noodle. We’ll also sample an array of Hui Muslim dishes, rich in spices and distinctive techniques.
In the afternoon, we’ll visit the Horse Caravan Museum, where you’ll learn about the historic Tea Horse Road (Southern Silk Road) and its role in shaping the cultural and economic landscape of Yunnan and beyond.
Day 6
# Cangshan Mountain # Erhai
# Dali Dreamstone Museum
Today we’ll ascend the majestic Cangshan Mountain by cable car, offering stunning views of Dali, Erhai Lake, and the surrounding landscape.
We’ll take a gentle walk along the scenic Jade Belt Road, a path that winds along the mountain with panoramic views. Along the way, we’ll visit a mountain temple, where we’ll enjoy a Buddhist vegetarian lunch — simple, nourishing, and spiritually grounding.
In the afternoon, we’ll visit the Dali Dreamstone Museum, where natural stones from the mountain are celebrated as pieces of art formed by nature itself. This space combines geology, art, and local culture in a uniquely Dali experience.
The evening is yours to enjoy — you’ll have free time to explore Dali Old Town, discover its vibrant nightlife, cafes, artisan shops, or simply relax as you please.
Day 7
# Yunnan Ham # Yunnan Salt
Today we’ll explore something that Yunnan is famous for — salt and ham!
We’ll travel to the ancient village of Nuodeng, a hillside settlement known for its centuries-old ham curing tradition. Here, you’ll see firsthand how Nuodeng ham — one of China’s most prized hams — is made, from salting to aging.
We’ll also visit the village’s old salt wells, where salt was historically extracted, playing a crucial role in Nuodeng’s prosperity. Along the way, we’ll admire traditional Bai architecture and the village’s well-preserved cultural heritage.
In the evening, we’ll celebrate the day with a ham-themed dinner, savoring dishes that highlight the deep, savory flavors of this Yunnan specialty.
Day 8
On our final day, we’ll explore one of Yunnan’s most iconic exports — tea. We’ll visit a local tea museum, where you’ll not only learn about Yunnan’s rich tea culture but also make your own tea brick (普洱茶砖) to take home as a meaningful souvenir.
For lunch, we’ll enjoy the famous Yunnan Cross-Bridge Noodles (过桥米线) — a hearty, flavorful dish that’s beloved across the province.
In the afternoon, we’ll return to the hotel and come together for a special activity: with guidance from local chefs, we’ll cook a feast ourselves, using the skills, recipes, and inspirations gathered throughout the trip.
We’ll share this farewell dinner together, celebrating new friendships, shared experiences, and the flavours of Dali.
Day 9
It’s time to say goodbye, packed full of inspiration and fully charged for your next life adventure! We will arrange airport transport for everyone. And will see you in London sometime again hopefully!
See you in Dali !
