Nanzhao Style Island: The Most Beautiful Island on Erhai Lake, Dali

Nanzhao Style Island is one of the three islands on Erhai Lake. It is located in Shuanglang Township, Eryuan County, Dali, and is known as "the scenery of Dali lies in Cangshan Mountain and Erhai Lake, and the scenery of Cangshan Mountain and Erhai Lake lies in Shuanglang." It encapsulates thousands of years of Dali's cultural heritage, blending the historical charm of the Nanzhao and Dali dynasties. With both natural scenery and cultural landscapes, it is one of the finest tourist destinations in Yunnan. ### **I. Recommended Main Attractions** 1. **Daughter of Erhai Statue** As the boat approaches the island, the first thing that catches the eye is the bronze statue of the "Daughter of Erhai," depicting a standing and a reclining fisherwoman, echoing the natural reef "Drunk Eight Immortals." 2. **Yunnan Fortune Star Square (Achaye Avalokiteśvara Statue)** The square is dominated by the world's tallest white marble Avalokiteśvara statue (17.56m high), with a unique design that incorporates the Buddhist art of the Nanzhao period. 3. **Nanzhao Palace** Built in the style of the Tang Dynasty, blending Tubo and Bai ethnic elements, it was once the summer palace of the Nanzhao King. Now, it is a multifunctional complex for sightseeing, leisure, and accommodation. 4. **Benzhu Square** Showcasing the Bai ethnic Benzhu culture, it enshrines Duan Zongbang, the "Central Benzhu," and other Benzhu deities. It is an important place to understand the folk beliefs of the Bai people. 5. **Taihu Stone Group** The island has a precious group of Taihu stones, with various shapes, forming forests and patches, which are of great ornamental value. 6. **Shayimu Sculpture Group** Based on the myth recorded in the Book of the Later Han Dynasty, it tells the creation legend of the Bai people, with 10 stone pillars behind it symbolizing the 10 sons of Shayimu. ### **II. Tickets and Opening Hours** - **Tickets**: CNY 50/person (including round-trip ferry). Online ticket purchases may offer discounts (e.g., CNY 48). - **Opening Hours**: 08:00–17:30 (may be adjusted in some seasons). - **Discount Policy**: - Free admission for children under 1.2m, seniors over 70, and military personnel. - Free admission for citizens within Dali Prefecture during the annual March Street Festival and Dali Prefecture Anniversary. ### **III. Transportation Guide** 1. **Water Route**: - Take the Erhai Lake Grand Cruise from Dali Port or Longkan Pier (boat ticket approx. CNY 140/person, including ethnic performances). - Take a ferry from Shuanglang Pier (approx. 5-minute journey). 2. **Land Route**: - **Dali Ancient City → Shuanglang**: Take a minibus from Renmin Road or next to the Feng Hua Xue Yue Hotel (approx. 1.5 hours). - **Xiaguan → Shuanglang**: Take a minibus from the North Passenger Station (ticket price approx. CNY 14) or a taxi (approx. CNY 120–140). - **Self-driving**: Drive along Dali Road to Shangguan Town, then turn into Huanhai Road to Shuanglang. ### **IV. Best Time to Visit** - **Season**: March–June (pleasant spring climate with many Bai festivals). - **Time**: It is recommended to board the island at 8am, when there are fewer tourists, making it ideal for taking photos. The light is soft after 4pm, making it suitable for leisurely tours. ### **V. Travel Tips** - **Visit Duration**: 2–3 hours (can be extended to half a day for an in-depth experience). - **Accommodation**: Although there are sea view villas on the island, they are expensive. It is recommended to stay in Shuanglang Ancient Town, which offers more choices. - **Nearby Attractions**: - **Shuanglang Ancient Town**: A literary and artistic town by Erhai Lake, perfect for taking photos and drinking coffee. - **Dali Ancient City**: Experience the Bai culture and stroll along Fuxing Road commercial street. - **Cangshan Mountain and Erhai Lake**: Take a cable car to climb Cangshan Mountain or cycle around Erhai Lake. ### **VI. Precautions** 1. You need to take a boat to enter the island. Pay attention to safety and follow the instructions of the staff. 2. The ultraviolet rays in Dali are strong, so it is recommended to take sun protection measures. 3. There are many tourists during holidays, so it is recommended to buy tickets online in advance. Nanzhao Style Island combines natural scenery and cultural history. Whether it is for photography, cultural exploration, or leisure vacation, it is the essence of Dali travel.