Private Xizhou Market & Erhai Lake Cruise Tour from Dali

Summary

Xizhou Old Town Market & Three Pagodas Private Day Trip

You’ll taste local snacks in Xizhou’s market, cruise quiet waters on Erhai Lake, and stand beneath Dali’s iconic Three Pagodas—all with an expert guide who shares real stories along the way.

What’s the experience like?

Steam curled up from a street-side wok as we wandered into Xizhou’s old town just after 9 am. Our guide, Ms. Li, waved us over to a tiny stall selling fresh baba bread—still warm, slightly sweet. The Bai women wore their bright blue jackets and headscarves, chatting in a dialect I’d never heard before. We ducked through the market’s narrow lanes, past piles of wild mushrooms and baskets of tiny oranges. It’s noisy but friendly; vendors call out prices while someone nearby slices tofu with a wire. If you look up, you’ll spot carved wooden balconies peeking out above the stalls—some are over a hundred years old.

By late morning, we reached the pier for our Erhai Lake cruise. The water was glassy that day, reflecting the Cangshan mountains behind us. There’s a faint scent of lake grass in the air—kind of earthy. The ferry wasn’t crowded; just a handful of locals heading to the next village. About halfway across, we stopped at Tianjingge Pavilion. It’s not huge but has this peaceful view back toward Dali city—worth the short climb up its steps for photos or just to catch your breath.

After lunch (ours was simple stir-fried greens and rice at a small spot near the dock), we drove to the Three Pagodas. They’re taller than I expected—over 16 stories—and you can see them from almost anywhere in Dali. Built during the Tang dynasty, they’ve stood here for more than 1,000 years. Our guide shared stories about monks hiding scrolls inside during wars; it made me see them as more than just ancient towers. By mid-afternoon, we were back in Dali city—tired but glad we’d seen so much in one day.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Dali and Surroundings Tour

• Meet guide in hotel lobby at 9:00am
• Transfer to Xizhou town and explore traditional buildings and local market
• Cruise on Erhai lake
• Chinese lunch
• Visit the three Pagodas

Top questions

Is this tour suitable for families with young kids?

Yes! The pace is relaxed and strollers are fine in most places. Kids usually love the boat ride and market sights.

How long does the whole tour take?

The tour runs most of the day—usually from 9 am until about 4 or 5 pm depending on traffic and how long you linger at each stop.

Are meals included?

Lunch is included at a local restaurant near Erhai Lake. Let us know if you have dietary needs—we’ll do our best to accommodate.

Can I join if I don’t speak Chinese?

No worries! Your guide speaks English and will help with any translation or questions along the way.

What’s included

Your private car and driver are covered, plus an English-speaking guide who knows all the local spots. You’ll get tickets for the Erhai Lake cruise and entry to the Three Pagodas too. Lunch is included (simple Chinese fare), along with bottled water for each guest.