Shuanglang Ancient Town — Attraction in Dali City

If Lijiang is a curated, if overly touristy, town, then Shuanglang is its chaotic, dusty, and utterly unromantic cousin. Imagine a place trying to sell itself as a lakeside getaway, yet feels more like a forgotten corner of rural Vietnam 30 years ago — but without the charm.

This is where five-star hotels stand next to rundown hostels, cigarette smoke fills the air, and the so-called “pedestrian street” is a joke — overrun by honking tuk-tuks and electric scooters darting past you with zero regard. The lake? A murky pool with all the aesthetic of muddy dishwater.

There’s nothing worth buying, no vibe worth experiencing, and certainly no peace to be found. Public restrooms are beyond disgusting, and the town entrance is swarming with scammers waiting to pounce on tourists. It’s messy, unmanaged, and honestly, a total waste of time.

Avoid...

Shuanglang Ancient Town offers a wonderful glimpse into ancient Chinese history and culture! The layout is simple yet charming, with a main road lined on both sides by unique shops, each with something special to offer. The floral wines are a must-try, along with some fascinating, rare fruits you won’t find elsewhere. The town itself is picturesque, with scenic views and a tranquil atmosphere.

Perfect for a leisurely stroll and an authentic cultural experience—highly recommended for anyone...

Very exciting and lively ancient town. Very beautiful and full-on for the senses during night. It wasn't overly overcrowded and I still felt like I could enjoy it at my own pace. Accommodations can be found right next to the edge of Erhai Lake and there are plenty of places to eat, various cuisines, bars with music/bands, stores selling local treats, souvenir shops, convenience stores, supermarkets and more. Must visit,...