Dali is a mixed blessing. Yunnans original backpacker haunt of the bad old days. It has suffered the fate of most old towns before the old town thing became hip. Pushed over and rebuilt. It’s easy to be cynical of the blatant café culture and hipster life style, but the relaxed atmosphere and warm winter weather keeps it a favorite stop along the Yunnan tour.

There are tons of hiking and mountain biking options to be explored for those who have a few days in the area.