1. What makes Dali Ancient Town a popular cultural destination among tourists?
Dali Ancient Town is known for its rich history, diverse culture, and stunning natural scenery. Some of the main factors that make it a popular cultural destination among tourists include: – Its well-preserved ancient architecture: Dali Ancient Town is home to over 3,000 traditional-style buildings that reflect a mix of Chinese and Bai ethnic minority designs. These buildings showcase the town’s long history and unique architectural style, attracting visitors who are interested in learning about traditional Chinese culture.
– The vibrant local culture: Dali Ancient Town is primarily inhabited by the Bai ethnic minority group, who have their own distinct culture and traditions. Visitors can experience this vibrant culture through various activities such as attending cultural performances, participating in traditional arts and crafts workshops, and sampling local cuisine.
– The beautiful natural surroundings: Situated near Erhai Lake and surrounded by Cangshan Mountain, Dali Ancient Town boasts breathtaking natural scenery that enhances its cultural charm. Many tourists come here to admire the picturesque views and take part in outdoor activities such as hiking and cycling.
– Its historical significance: Dali Ancient Town was an important commercial hub on the ancient Southern Silk Road during the Tang Dynasty (618-907). Its strategic location at the crossroads of different trading routes brought prosperity and diverse cultural influences to the town. This history has left behind many significant landmarks, such as the Three Pagodas of Chongsheng Temple, which add to its appeal as a cultural destination.
– The opportunity for immersive experiences: Dali Ancient Town offers visitors a chance to immerse themselves in authentic ancient Chinese culture through activities like dressing up in traditional costumes, practicing calligraphy, taking part in tea ceremonies, and more. This hands-on approach allows visitors to gain a deeper understanding of the local culture and make meaningful connections with the town’s history.
2. How has the ancient town preserved its traditional culture and heritage?
1. Conservation efforts: The ancient town has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1999, and the local government has implemented strict conservation measures to preserve its historical buildings and streets.
2. Traditional architecture: The ancient town is known for its well-preserved traditional Chinese architecture, with buildings made from brick, wood, and stone. Many of these structures date back to the Ming and Qing dynasties.
3. Local customs and festivals: The people living in the ancient town still practice traditional customs and celebrate festivals such as the Spring Festival and Dragon Boat Festival, keeping their cultural traditions alive.
4. Local handicrafts: The town is famous for its handicrafts such as silk embroidery, lacquerware, and woodcarving. These traditional craftsmanship skills have been passed down from generation to generation.
5. Cultural performances: Visitors to the ancient town can watch traditional music and dance performances, such as the Nuo Opera or Shadow Puppetry, which showcase the local culture and heritage.
6. Ancient traditions: The town has preserved ancient traditions such as tea ceremonies, calligraphy, and martial arts that are still practiced by locals.
7. Preservation of historical artifacts: The Dongba Culture Museum in the ancient town houses a collection of artifacts from the Naxi minority group that has inhabited the area for centuries.
8. Local cuisine: The ancient town’s food reflects its rich cultural heritage with dishes like Yak Meat Hot Pot and Yak Butter Tea that have been a part of local cuisine for generations.
9. Traditional lifestyle: Despite tourism development in recent years, many residents in the ancient town still maintain a simple lifestyle based on agriculture and fishing – preserving their traditional way of life.
10. Education programs: Various educational programs have been set up in the ancient town to teach younger generations about their cultural heritage through activities such as storytelling, painting workshops, and pottery making.
3. What are the most significant cultural landmarks in Dali Ancient Town?
1. The Ancient City Walls: These walls were first built during the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) and have been well preserved. They surround most of the ancient town, measuring about 6 kilometers in total length.
2. Three Pagodas: Located about 1.5 kilometers northwest of Dali Ancient Town, these iconic pagodas are a symbol of the town and one of its most famous landmarks. The tallest pagoda stands at 69 meters high and was built during the Tang Dynasty (618-907).
3. Yu’er Park: This park is located in the northern part of Dali Ancient Town and is known for its beautiful lush scenery and traditional architecture. It also houses several historical buildings, including a famous Buddhist temple called “Hiyi Pavilion” which was built in the Ming Dynasty.
4. Renmin Road: This road is considered to be the social center of Dali Ancient Town, with many local shops, restaurants, and street vendors selling traditional handicrafts and local snacks.
5. Foreigner’s Street: Also known as Yangren Street, this area features a mix of old and new style buildings that are influenced by both Chinese and Western cultures. It is a popular destination for tourists looking for unique souvenirs or trying out local cuisine.
6. Erhai Lake: Located just outside Dali Ancient Town, this beautiful lake has become a popular spot for leisure activities such as boating, cycling or simply strolling along its shores to enjoy the scenic views.
7. Chongsheng Temple: This temple complex is located near the Three Pagodas and consists of three different temples, each with their own distinctive architectural styles from different dynasties.
8. Bai Ethnic Minority Folk Houses: One of China’s largest ethnic minorities, the Bai people have a strong presence in Dali ancient town, with many traditional folk houses still standing today.
9. Shaxi Ancient Town: Located about 120 kilometers from Dali Ancient Town, Shaxi is a well-preserved ancient town that was an important stop on the Tea Horse Road during the Tang Dynasty.
10. Dali Museum: This museum is a must-visit for those interested in learning more about the history and culture of Dali Ancient Town. It showcases various artifacts, paintings, and sculptures from different dynasties, providing a comprehensive overview of the town’s rich cultural heritage.
4. How do locals celebrate traditional festivals in Dali Ancient Town?
The locals in Dali Ancient Town celebrate traditional festivals in various ways, including:
1. March Street Dancing Festival: This festival is celebrated on the third day of the third lunar month and is one of the biggest festivals in Dali Ancient Town. Locals dress up in traditional attire and dance along the streets to traditional music.
2. Three Pagodas Temple Fair: This fair takes place annually on the fifteenth day of the first lunar month to pray for good luck and prosperity. The fair includes performances, local food, and various activities.
3. Yi Torch Festival: Celebrated by the Yi ethnic minority group, this festival usually takes place in early July and features bonfire parties, traditional dances, and horse racing competitions.
4. Butterfly Festival: Also known as Shiyong Bai ethnic minority’s New Year Festival, this celebration takes place around mid-April. It includes singing competitions, bullfighting, and other cultural activities to welcome the spring season.
5. Cangshan Mountain Flower Festival: Celebrated in April or May depending on when flowers bloom, this festival features a flower exhibition, local cuisine tasting, music performances, and outdoor activities like hiking.
6. Water-Splashing Festival: Held on April 13-15 every year, this festival celebrates the Dai people’s new year by splashing water on each other as a symbol of cleansing and good luck for the upcoming year.
7. Erhai Lake Fishing Banquet: This annual event takes place at Erhai Lake during winter when fishermen catch fish using traditional methods called caiji. The banquet celebrates their successful harvest with a feast featuring fish dishes.
8. Dali International Film Festival: This film festival debuted in 2005 and aims to promote independent films from China and abroad while showcasing local culture through screenings, forums, workshops, etc.
Overall, these festivals showcase the rich culture and traditions of Dali Ancient Town while bringing together locals and visitors in a joyful celebration.
5. What kind of traditional handicrafts can visitors find in the ancient town’s markets?
Visitors can find a variety of traditional handicrafts in the ancient town’s markets. Some examples include handwoven textiles such as batik, ikat, and songket, which are intricately patterned and dyed fabrics used to make clothing and home decor items. Other popular handicrafts found in the markets include pottery, woodcarvings, silver jewelry, and basketry made from local materials like bamboo or rattan. Visitors can also find traditional musical instruments, such as gamelan (a set of Javanese percussion instruments) or angklung (a bamboo musical instrument). Traditional batik painting and other forms of art can also be found in the markets, along with traditional food products like local spices, coffee beans, and sweets.
6. What role do Bai minority people play in the cultural landscape of Dali Ancient Town?
Dali Ancient Town, located in Yunnan province in southwestern China, is home to the Bai people, one of the 56 ethnic minority groups officially recognized in China. The Bai people have a rich cultural heritage that has shaped the cultural landscape of Dali Ancient Town.
1. Architecture: The traditional architecture of Dali Ancient Town is heavily influenced by Bai culture. Most of the buildings are made of white stones and bricks, with black tile roofs and intricate wood carvings. These structures follow traditional Bai designs and techniques, showcasing their unique style and craftsmanship.
2. Customs and Traditions: The Bai minority people have their own customs and traditions that are deeply rooted in their daily lives. One popular tradition is spinning a giant prayer wheel at the Three Pagodas Temple for blessings and good luck. They also celebrate traditional festivals such as the Third Month Fair and the Torch Festival, which attracts tourists from all over China.
3. Culinary Culture: The cuisine of Dali Ancient Town is a fusion of Han Chinese and Bai flavors. The local food is known for its use of fresh produce, herbs, spices, and flowers grown in the area. Popular dishes include fried cheese balls (rushan), sticky rice cakes (baibaigao), pine nut soup (songren tang), and more.
4. Arts and Crafts: The Bai people have a long tradition of creating beautiful handicrafts such as batik cloth, tie-dye fabrics, embroidery, silver ornaments, marble sculptures, and paper umbrellas. These items are not only functional but also considered works of art that reflect their cultural identity.
5. Music and Dance: Traditional music plays an important role in Bai culture. Folk songs like “Reshui Yangguang” (Hot Sunlight) are commonly sung during festivals or special occasions. They also have unique dance forms such as “Pipa Dance,”, where dancers perform with a string instrument called the pipa.
6. Tourism: The Bai people, through their rich culture and unique traditions, have made Dali Ancient Town a popular tourist destination. They have preserved their heritage and shared it with visitors, adding to the diverse cultural landscape of the town.
In summary, the Bai minority people play a significant role in shaping the cultural landscape of Dali Ancient Town through their architectural styles, customs and traditions, cuisine, arts and crafts, music and dance, and contribution to tourism. Their presence adds to the charm and authenticity of this ancient town in Yunnan province.
7. Is there any evidence of cross-cultural influences in the architecture and art of the ancient town?
Yes, there is evidence of cross-cultural influences in the architecture and art of the ancient town. Many ancient towns were located on trade routes, enabling cultural exchange and influences from neighboring societies.
For example, the ancient town of Pompeii in Italy was heavily influenced by Greek culture, as it was originally founded by the Greeks and later conquered by the Romans. This is evident in its architectural styles, such as the use of Greek orders in its temples and public buildings. The art and sculptures found in Pompeii also show a strong Greek influence.
Similarly, the ancient town of Petra in Jordan, which was an important trading center on the Silk Road, shows a blend of Roman, Hellenistic, and Arabic influences in its architecture and art. The famous Treasury building in Petra features a mix of classical Roman columns with traditional Nabataean rock-cut architecture.
Another example is Angkor Wat in Cambodia, a Hindu-Buddhist temple complex that combines elements of Indian architecture with Khmer styles. This reflects the cultural exchange between India and Southeast Asia during ancient times.
The ancient town of Timbuktu in Mali also showcases a fusion of African and Islamic influences in its buildings and decorative arts. The Great Mosque of Djenné, one of the largest mud brick structures in the world located near Timbuktu, incorporates local tribal designs with Islamic architectural elements.
Overall, archaeological evidence shows that cross-cultural influences played a significant role in shaping the architecture and art of many ancient towns around the world.
8. Are there any cultural performances or events that take place regularly in Dali Ancient Town?
Yes, there are several cultural performances and events that take place regularly in Dali Ancient Town, including:
– Dongjing Music Performance: Held every evening in the Three Pagodas Square, this traditional music performance showcases the unique music style of the Bai ethnic group.
– Bai Minority Fashion Show: This fashion show is held every Friday and Saturday evening in Erhai Gate Square, featuring traditional costumes and dances of the Bai people.
– Dali Ancient Town Street Festival: This festival takes place during the summer months and features various street performances, including music, dancing, acrobatics, and other cultural activities.
– Temple Fairs: Various temple fairs are held throughout the year at temples in Dali Ancient Town, featuring traditional rituals, performances, and handicrafts.
– Butterfly Gathering Ceremony: Held on the 15th day of the second lunar month (usually in March), this ceremony involves releasing butterflies to symbolize good luck and prosperity.
– Torch Festival: Celebrated by the Yi ethnic group on June 24th of each year, this festival includes traditional dances, bonfires, fireworks displays, and other cultural activities.
9. How has tourism impacted the local culture and way of life in Dali Ancient Town?
1. Economic impact: Tourism has been a major driver of the local economy in Dali Ancient Town. The influx of tourists has created numerous job opportunities for locals, from traditional crafts and services to modern hospitality and transportation industries.
2. Cultural exchange: With the increasing number of tourists from all over the world, Dali Ancient Town has become a hub for cultural exchange. Locals have the opportunity to interact with people from different backgrounds and learn about their cultures, while also sharing their own customs and traditions.
3. Preservation of tradition: As tourism brings in revenue, it has also contributed to preserving the traditional way of life in Dali Ancient Town. Many locals make a living through selling local handicrafts or performing traditional dances and shows for tourists, allowing them to continue practicing and preserving their cultural heritage.
4. Revitalization of historical sites: In recent years, there have been efforts to restore and revitalize historic buildings and sites in Dali Ancient Town due to tourism demand. This has not only improved the appearance of these cultural landmarks but also helped preserve them for future generations.
5. Homogenization of culture: However, some argue that tourism has led to the homogenization of local culture as businesses cater to tourist preferences rather than authentically representing local traditions. This can dilute or even erase certain aspects of the unique culture in Dali Ancient Town.
6. Environmental impact: With the increase in tourist numbers comes an increase in waste, pollution, and strain on natural resources such as water and land use. These environmental impacts can have long-term effects on the local community if not managed properly.
7. Gentrification: As tourism becomes a main source of income for locals in Dali Ancient Town, it can also lead to gentrification as prices rise and traditional residents are priced out of their homes.
8. Changes in lifestyle: Some locals have adjusted their lifestyles to cater to tourists’ expectations, such as changing their traditional dress or way of eating to fit a more “tourist-friendly” image. This can potentially lead to a loss of local identity and cultural practices.
9. Conflict with traditional values: The influx of tourists and outside influences can sometimes clash with traditional values and beliefs held by the local community, leading to tension and conflicts between locals and visitors. It is important for responsible tourism practices to be implemented in order to mitigate these potential negative impacts on the local culture and way of life in Dali Ancient Town.
10. Can visitors participate in any cultural activities or workshops while visiting the ancient town?
Yes, visitors can participate in various cultural activities and workshops while visiting the ancient town. These may include traditional music and dance performances, calligraphy or painting classes, tea ceremonies, cooking classes to learn how to make local dishes, and other cultural experiences. Visitors can inquire about these activities at the information center or with local tour companies.
11. Are there any traditional cuisines or delicacies that visitors must try while exploring Dali Ancient Town?
Some traditional Dali cuisine and delicacies visitors should try while exploring Dali Ancient Town include:
1. Bai Three Courses (Bai San Xian) – a traditional dish consisting of three dishes made with local ingredients such as chicken, pork, and mushrooms.
2. Erkuai (Yunnan rice cake) – a popular street food in Dali Ancient Town made from steamed rice flour cut into slices and topped with various toppings such as chili oil, soy sauce, and vegetables.
3. Duhua – a sweet snack made from pressed tofu mixed with sugar, ginger, sesame seeds, and peanuts.
4. Yunnan noodles (Mi Xian) – a staple dish in Yunnan cuisine made with thin rice noodles served in a broth with various toppings such as meat, vegetables, and spices.
5. Yogurt – the yogurt in Dali is famous for its creamy texture and slightly sour taste due to being fermented using unique bacteria found only in the local spring water.
6. Four Joy Rice Noodle Soup (Si Hui Mi Xian) – a hearty noodle soup containing four different meats including beef, pork ribs, sliced pork, and duck blood cakes.
7. Fried Cheese (chao nai qiu) – a popular snack made by frying balls of cheese until crispy on the outside but soft and gooey on the inside.
8. Xizhou baba – a savory pancake filled with minced pork or beef, onions, and peppers.
9. Bai-style cold salad (Bai Liang Ban) – a cold dish made with mixed vegetables and preserved ham or sausage.
10. Qiubei roasted fish – a specialty dish from nearby Qiubei County consisting of fresh fish stuffed with herbs and roasted over an open fire.
12. Do locals still follow traditional customs and beliefs in their daily lives?
It depends on the specific location and individual beliefs, but in general, many locals still follow traditional customs and beliefs in their daily lives. In rural areas and smaller communities where traditional lifestyles are more prevalent, customs and beliefs tend to be passed down through generations and play a significant role in daily life. However, in larger cities and more modernized areas, the influence of traditional customs and beliefs may be less pronounced.
13. Has modernization affected the cultural traditions and customs of Dali Ancient Town?
Modernization has definitely had an impact on the cultural traditions and customs of Dali Ancient Town. The town, which was once a remote and isolated area, has now become a popular tourist destination due to its unique cultural heritage.
One of the biggest changes brought about by modernization is the influx of tourists from around the world. This has led to a blend of different cultures and influences in the town, as visitors bring their own customs and traditions with them.
Additionally, modernization has also brought new technologies and ways of life to Dali Ancient Town. Many traditional activities such as farming and handicrafts have been replaced by more modern industries like tourism and technology.
The traditional clothing, architecture, and cuisine in Dali Ancient Town have also been influenced by modern trends. Many locals now wear Western-style clothing instead of the traditional Bai costumes, and new buildings have been constructed using modern designs and materials.
However, while modernization has certainly brought changes to the town’s cultural landscape, efforts are being made to preserve its unique heritage. Government initiatives have been put in place to protect historical sites and promote local traditions. There are also efforts being made by local communities to pass down traditional skills and knowledge to younger generations.
Overall, while modernization has played a role in changing some aspects of Dali Ancient Town’s cultural traditions and customs, efforts are being made to strike a balance between preserving its heritage while embracing new developments.
14. Are there any famous historical figures or stories associated with Dali Ancient Town’s culture and heritage?
Yes, there are several famous historical figures and stories associated with Dali Ancient Town’s culture and heritage. These include:
1. The Bai ethnic minority group: The town was originally inhabited by the Bai people, who have a rich cultural legacy and history in the region.
2. Emperor Duan Zheng Ming (1360-1425): It is said that the emperor used to retire to Dali Ancient Town when he needed a break from his imperial duties, which helped gain the town its fame.
3. Du Wenxiu (1823-1872): A leader of the Hui ethnic minority group who led a rebellion against the Qing dynasty in 1856 in Dali Ancient Town.
4. Yang Liping: A famous Chinese dancer from Yunnan province known for her interpretation of Bai ethnic dances, she lived in Dali Ancient Town for many years and has contributed greatly to promoting local culture and heritage.
5. Zhang Chongren (1897-1978): A renowned artist from Yunnan province who spent his later life living and painting in Dali Ancient Town.
6. Butterfly Lovers: A famous Chinese legend that was set in Dali Ancient Town, telling the tragic love story between a young scholar and a maiden who were reincarnated as butterflies.
7. Three Pagodas of Chongsheng Temple: These three ancient pagodas are one of the most iconic landmarks of Dali Ancient Town and are believed to be built during the Tang Dynasty (618-907 AD).
8. Cangshan Mountain Range: This mountain range with its 19 peaks overlooks Dali Ancient Town and is considered sacred by local Bai people.
9. Traditional festivals: Many traditional festivals celebrated by the Bai people are closely tied to Dali Ancient Town’s culture, such as the March Street Festival, Torch Festival, and Raosanling Festival.
10. Historic sites: Dali Ancient Town is home to many historic sites, including the ancient city walls, Jianchuan Museum and Three-Pronged Altar, which showcase the town’s rich history and cultural heritage.
15. Can visitors learn about the early human civilizations that existed around Dali Ancient Town through its culture and artifacts?
Yes, visitors can learn about the early human civilizations that existed around Dali Ancient Town by exploring its culture and artifacts. The town has a rich history dating back over 4,000 years, and there are several cultural sites and museums that offer insights into the lives of early human civilizations in this region. Some popular places to visit include the Dali Museum, the Three Pagodas of Chongsheng Temple, and the Dali Ancient City Wall. These sites showcase ancient relics and artifacts such as pottery, weapons, and tools that were used by early humans. Visitors can also learn about the customs, beliefs, and daily lives of these ancient civilizations through exhibitions, traditional performances, and guided tours.
16. Does Dali Ancient Town have a specific dress code or fashion influenced by its culture?
No, there is no specific dress code or fashion influenced by the culture of Dali Ancient Town. However, some people may choose to wear traditional Bai ethnic clothing, which consists of elaborate handmade garments in bright colors and intricate designs. Additionally, many vendors in the town sell secondhand vintage clothing and accessories for tourists to wear as they explore the historic streets. Ultimately, visitors are free to wear whatever they feel comfortable in while respecting local customs and traditions.
17. Are there any notable cultural museums or galleries to visit in or near Dali Ancient Town?
Yes, there are several notable cultural museums and galleries in and near Dali Ancient Town. Some popular options include:
1. Dali Bai Nationality Museum: This museum is dedicated to showcasing the history, culture, and customs of the Bai ethnic minority group, who make up a significant portion of Dali’s population.
2. Dali Museum of Contemporary Art: Located in neighboring Xizhou Town, this museum features a collection of contemporary Chinese art and hosts regular exhibitions and events.
3. Dali Gucheng Museum: Housed in a traditional courtyard mansion within Dali Ancient Town, this museum offers a glimpse into daily life in ancient Dali through its exhibits on architecture, furniture, clothing, and more.
4. Yunnan Provincial Museum: While not located directly in Dali Ancient Town, this large museum in Kunming (about 4 hours away by car) offers an extensive collection of artifacts and displays related to Yunnan’s diverse cultural heritage.
5. Danto Art Gallery: This gallery, located within the ancient city walls of Dali Ancient Town, showcases local artists’ works including paintings, sculptures, ceramics, and more.
6. Ma Department Store Art Gallery: Also located within the ancient city walls of Dali Ancient Town, this gallery features works from renowned Chinese artists as well as up-and-coming talents.
7. Zunsang Naxi Embroidery Institute: A short drive from Dali Ancient Town is the Zunsang Naxi Embroidery Institute where visitors can learn about the traditional embroidery techniques of the Naxi ethnic minority group and purchase handcrafted items from their shop.
Overall, there are many opportunities to explore and appreciate the diverse cultural heritage of Dali at its various museums and galleries.
18. How are the younger generations preserving and promoting their local culture and traditions?
Some ways that younger generations are preserving and promoting their local culture and traditions include:1. Participating in cultural events: Many young people actively participate in festivals, religious events, and other cultural celebrations within their communities. This not only keeps the traditions alive but also allows them to learn more about their culture and its significance.
2. Learning traditional skills: Younger generations may learn traditional skills such as cooking, handicrafts, music, or dance from older members of their community. This helps to pass down these skills from one generation to the next.
3. Documenting oral histories: In some cultures, storytelling is an important tradition for passing down history and values. The younger generation can record these stories and preserve them for future generations.
4. Using social media to share cultural practices: Many young people use social media platforms to showcase traditional practices and promote awareness of their culture. This allows them to reach a wider audience outside of their immediate community.
5. Inviting elders to share their knowledge: Younger generations may invite elders and respected community members to schools or youth organizations to share their knowledge about local traditions and culture.
6. Creating art inspired by local culture: Art forms such as painting, sculpting, or writing can be used as a medium to express and celebrate local culture. Younger generations may also use modern technology like digital art or video production to preserve and promote traditional art forms.
7. Participating in volunteer projects: Many young people engage in volunteering activities within their community that focus on preserving local heritage sites or promoting cultural practices.
8. Joining cultural organizations: Younger generations may join clubs or organizations related to their cultural heritage where they can learn more about their traditions and work together to preserve them.
9. Taking part in language revival efforts: Some cultures have indigenous languages that are at risk of dying out due to younger generations not speaking it fluently anymore. Young people can participate in language revitalization efforts through workshops, classes, and events.
10. Traveling to ancestral lands: Some young people make an effort to visit their ancestral villages or places related to their cultural heritage. This not only connects them to their roots but also gives them a deeper understanding of their culture’s origins and significance.
19. Do tourists have an opportunity to interact with locals and learn about their way of life while exploring Dali Ancient Town?
Yes, tourists have ample opportunity to interact with locals and learn about their way of life while exploring Dali Ancient Town. The ancient town is home to a mix of different ethnic groups including the Bai, Yi, and Hui minorities, providing visitors with an opportunity to experience their cultures and traditions firsthand.
Tourists can participate in various activities such as visiting local markets, attending traditional performances, and joining cultural workshops to learn about local customs and practices. They can also visit the homes of local families, where they can learn how they cook traditional dishes and make handicrafts.
Additionally, many locals run shops and restaurants in Dali Ancient Town, providing tourists with a chance to chat with them and get insights into their daily lives. These interactions offer a unique perspective on the local way of life and enhance the overall experience of visiting Dali Ancient Town.