Xizhou Morning Market in Dali

Xizhou Morning Market (喜洲早市) is one of the most vibrant and authentic markets in Dali (大理), Yunnan (云南), offering visitors a unique glimpse into the daily life and culture of the Bai people (白族). Located in the ancient town of Xizhou (喜洲), which is part of Dali Bai Autonomous Prefecture (大理白族自治州), this market is a popular destination for both locals and tourists.

Held early every morning, the market is a bustling hub where farmers, artisans, and local vendors gather to sell fresh produce, traditional handicrafts, and other goods. The market is a great place to experience the authentic Bai culture, as you can interact with the friendly locals and discover the area’s vibrant traditions.

What to Expect at Xizhou Morning Market

1. Traditional Bai Handicrafts

The market is a great place to find handmade Bai ethnic items, including beautiful textiles, embroidered clothes, and intricate wood carvings. You’ll often see Bai women wearing their traditional clothes, which are stunningly embroidered with bright patterns.

2. Fresh Local Produce

As a predominantly agricultural area, Xizhou’s market is filled with fresh fruits and vegetables grown in the fertile fields surrounding the town. Look out for local produce such as fresh tomatoes, herbs, pumpkins, and various varieties of wild mushrooms.

3. Bai Traditional Food

For food lovers, the market is a fantastic place to sample Bai cuisine (白族美食). You can try local delicacies like Xizhou baba (喜洲粑粑), a type of savory rice cake, or Yang’s rice noodles (杨家米线), a famous noodle dish. The market also offers freshly made snacks, such as pickled vegetables and steamed buns.

4. Local Teas and Spices

As part of the Tea Horse Road (茶马古道), Xizhou has a long history of tea cultivation. You can find various types of local tea, including Pu’er tea (普洱茶) and other traditional herbal teas, sold alongside fragrant spices like star anise and cinnamon.

5. Traditional Bai Music and Dance

On special days, you might even come across traditional Bai music and dance performances. The lively “Aba dance” (阿巴舞) or folk songs can often be heard in the background as vendors set up their stalls.

Best Time to Visit

Early Morning: The market opens early, usually around 5:30 AM to 6:00 AM and lasts until late morning (around 11:00 AM). If you want to experience the market at its most lively, it’s best to arrive early.

Special Days: On some festival days or market days, you may see larger crowds and extra stalls, especially during local holidays like Bai New Year or Torch Festival (火把节).

How to Get There

From Dali: Xizhou is located around 20 km north of Dali Old Town (大理古城). You can reach the market by taxi, local bus, or even by bike if you’re up for a scenic ride.

By Car: The easiest way is to drive from Dali to Xizhou, which will take about 30 minutes. Public buses are also available, but they tend to be slower and less frequent.

By Tour: If you’re on a guided tour of Dali, the Xizhou Morning Market will likely be one of the stops on your itinerary.

Local Tips

Bargain: While most prices are reasonable, don’t be afraid to bargain a little, especially when buying traditional handicrafts or small items.

Respect Local Traditions: The market is a local gathering spot, and many of the people working there are part of the Bai community. Be respectful of the local customs, and if you want to take photos, always ask for permission first.

Bring Cash: While some vendors may accept mobile payments, it’s a good idea to bring cash, especially for small purchases.

Nearby Attractions

While you’re in Xizhou, make sure to visit other attractions in the area:

Xizhou Ancient Town (喜洲古镇): Explore the town’s Bai-style architecture, and visit the Xizhou Bai Museum to learn more about the local culture.

Erhai Lake (洱海): A scenic lake located nearby, offering boat rides and picturesque views of the surrounding mountains.

Three Pagodas (三塔): The famous Bai pagodas near Dali, which are one of the most iconic historical landmarks in the region.

Xizhou Morning Market is a cultural gem in Dali, offering an authentic glimpse into the life and traditions of the Bai people. Whether you’re interested in shopping, food, or simply observing the lively atmosphere, the market is a must-visit destination for any traveler exploring Yunnan.