Day trip - Shaxi
Tour Description
Shaxi Situated half way between Dali and Lijiang, Shaxi is one of the new destinations that we've been actively promoting – we are also involved in its sustainable development. Largely unaffected by the mass tourism crowd destruction which has tainted Dali and Lijiang, Shaxi's main attractions are its beautifully preserved and restored old town, and the Shibaoshan cliff and cave grottos.
The valley is primarily agricultural, growing rice and tobacco, and there are pleasant walks alongside the river as well as up to and down from the grottos. On foot, by car, or by bike you can explore the valley, including the Pear Orchard Temple community center, and the Old Theatre Inn. Shaxi old town has a Friday market, which brings in minority people from the hills, though isn't so colorful these days enough to warrant making a special trip to be there. Entry to Shaxi old town with its temples and theatres is 30y.
Shibaoshan – Stone Treasure Mountain – was one of the first places in China to get official protection, and visitors can explore its many temples and grottos spread out among the hills and ridges, including one cave featuring primitive worship of a female symbol. Entry 65y. it is around 1.5 hours (one way) from lijiang by car on the toll highway and then the smaller road to this valley. Lower in altitude, it is home tto the Bai minority who grow rice and tobacco and are famed for their building skills.
Attractions Visited in This Tour
