Shaxi Ancient Town

Introducing Shaxi Ancient Town
Shaxi ancient town is a historic market town located roughly halfway between Dali and Lijiang. It is one of the world’s 100 most endangered sites listed by the World Monuments Fund and a place where you can breathe in fresh air around-the-clock.

Shaxi Ancient Town Fast Facts
• Chinese Name: Shaxi Guzhen 沙溪古镇
• Best Time to Visit: April to October
• Recommended Visiting Hours: About 2 to 3 hours
• Things to Do: Photography, Architecture, Bai Customs and Traditions
• Opening Hours: All day
• Entrance Fee: Free
• Address: Jianchuan County, Dali, Yunnan Province

What to expect at Shaxi Ancient Town

Shaxi is a village with a long history that can be traced back to the Spring and Autumn period and the Warring States period (770 BC-221BC). Stone Treasure Mountain and the Friday Market are the two most popular tourist attractions in Shaxi Town.

Shaxi Ancient Town started as a trading point for tea and horses during the Tang Dynasty (618 – 907). The prosperity of the town was at its height during the Ming and Qing dynasties (1368–1912). It is probably the most intact horse caravan town on the Ancient tea route leading from Yunnan into Burma and Tibet.

The Sideng market square of Shaxi was added to the World Monuments Watch List of 100 Most Endangered Sites in 2001. The street now is consists of an old opera stage, Yujin Bridge, Xingjiao Temple, shops, restaurants, old courtyards, century-old trees and ancient lanes.

How to get to Shaxi Ancient Town

From Dali
• Take a long-distance bus from Dali Bus Station to Jianchuan Bus Station (3.5 hours). Then take a local minibus to Shaxi (1 hour).

From Lijiang
• Take a long-distance bus from Lijiang Bus Station to Jianchuan Bus Station (2.5 hours). Then take a local minibus to Shaxi (1 hour).

Additional travel advice on Shaxi Ancient Town
• UV is very strong in this area, so please wear sunscreen, hat and sunglasses during daytime.
• Cafes and restaurants on the street are always closed by 22:00.