Step back in time in Shaxi, a beautifully preserved town in the Dali Bai Autonomous Prefecture in Yunnan province. Once a bustling hub on the ancient Tea Horse Road, Shaxi today enchants visitors with its stunning landscape, traditional architecture, and a laid-back rural lifestyle that transports you to the China of yore. If you're seeking an offbeat, culturally rich Chinese destination, Shaxi is a gem waiting to be discovered!
| Rank | Booking Site | Price Compared to Average | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Cheapest | Trip.com | -9% | |
| 2. Cheap | Agoda | -7% | |
| 3. Average | Booking.com | -2% | |
| 4. More Expensive | Expedia | 4% | |
| 5. Most Expensive | Hotels.com | 8% |
Old Town: Staying in Shaxi's Old Town lets you experience its history firsthand. You'll find a range of guesthouses located in beautifully restored traditional Bai buildings.
Sifangjie Square Area: This area, with the lively marketplace, is the town's heart. Hotels here offer easy access to shopping and local eateries.
Sideng Village: A stay in this rural village offers a glimpse of local life. Homestays are popular here, offering a unique, immersive experience.
Shibaoshan Area: If you're planning to explore Shibaoshan's unique rock carvings, consider staying in accommodations nearby, typically rustic guesthouses.
Heihui River Area: For riverside views, consider accommodations along the Heihui River. It's a peaceful area perfect for relaxing after a day's exploration.
Sideng Market Square: This bustling marketplace with its centuries-old theatre stage is the town's hub and a must-visit.
Shibaoshan Mountain: Take a day trip to this mountain renowned for its unique rock carvings and beautiful temples.
Yujin Bridge: This ancient bridge over the Heihui River offers magnificent views of the town and surrounding countryside.
Shaxi Ancient Town: Take a leisurely stroll through the old town, appreciating its traditional Bai architecture and tranquil ambiance.
Xingjiao Temple: This ancient Buddhist temple is worth a visit for its tranquil setting and beautiful frescoes.
Baba: A kind of local flatbread, Baba comes in both sweet and savory varieties. The sweet ones are filled with red bean paste or brown sugar, while the savory ones contain minced pork.
Erkuai: This unique Yunnanese dish is made of rice that's been steamed and then pounded into a soft, chewy texture. It can be served in various ways, often stir-fried with vegetables and chilli.
Rushan Cheese: Try this unique local cheese that's often grilled and served with a drizzle of rose jam or sweetened condensed milk.
Ham and Vegetables: Shaxi's location in the mountains means it has access to a variety of fresh vegetables and high-quality ham, making this stir-fried dish a local favorite.
Local Mushrooms: Yunnan is famous for its mushrooms, and in Shaxi, you can try them in numerous ways, from stir-fries to soups.