Little Putuo

Introduction & Historical Significance
Nestled in the eastern waters of Erhai Lake in Dali, Yunnan Province, Xiaoputuo Island is a 4A-level scenic area and provincial cultural heritage site with a 400-year history. Originally constructed in 1624 during the Ming Dynasty by the Gao brothers, it was dedicated to Guanyin (Avalokitesvara) and served as a sacred Buddhist site and navigational landmark for ancient mariners. The island, covering just 130 m², embodies Dali’s maritime culture and Han-Bai religious syncretism, featuring Ming-era architecture and inscriptions. Recognized as a "Pearl of Erhai," it symbolizes spiritual tranquility and regional history.

Architectural Layout & Design
The island harmonizes with its natural setting through minimalist yet ornate design:

• Guanyin Pavilion: A two-story wooden temple with upturned eaves, intricate dougong brackets, and gold-leaf carvings, housing a 3.8m-tall gilded Guanyin statue. The pavilion’s octagonal design reflects Buddhist cosmology.
• Stone Railings & Steps: Hand-carved granite balustrades and 108 stone steps leading to the pavilion, symbolizing the 108 human afflictions pacified by Buddhist practice.
• Ancient Banyan Trees: Centuries-old trees shading the island, their roots intertwining with stone benches and inscription plaques.
• Maritime Landmarks: A Ming-era lighthouse replica and stone steles documenting the island’s construction history and Buddhist teachings.

Major Attractions

• Guanyin Pavilion Meditation: Daily chanting sessions and incense ceremonies held at dawn and dusk.
• Seagull Spectacle (Winter): From November to March, thousands of Siberian seagulls gather, creating a "snowstorm" over Erhai—visitors can feed them with approved snacks.
• Erhai Panoramic Views: 360° vistas of Cangshan Mountain, Dali Ancient City, and the lake’s changing hues at sunrise/sunset.
• Historic Stele Garden: Inscriptions by Qing-era scholars and modern calligraphy artists.
• Ring-Road Boat Tours: Circumnavigate the island on traditional wooden boats (¥30-50/person).

Ticket Information

• Island Access: Free 24/7; pavilion entry ¥15-25 (includes incense and guided commentary).
• Boat Services: Shuttle boats from nearby Ha Yin Village (¥20-40 round trip).
• Guided Tours: ¥80-150 for cultural-historical tours covering architecture, Buddhism, and local lore.
• Combined Tickets: Discounted packages (¥100-180) with Erhai Lake cruises or Cangshan cableways.

Transportation Guide

• Public Transit: Bus 2 from Dali Ancient City to Ha Yin Village (¥5, 20 mins); walk 10 mins to the dock.
• Self-Drive: 25-minute drive from Dali Old Town via G214 Highway; parking at Ha Yin Village (¥10/day).
• Boat Access: Seasonal shuttle boats (8 AM–5 PM) and private charters available.
• Bicycle/E-Scooter: Rentals from Dali for scenic lakeside rides to the island.

Best Time & Tips

• Optimal Seasons: Winter (Dec–Feb) for seagull flocks and crisp air; spring (Mar–May) for blooming wildflowers; autumn (Sep–Nov) for clear skies. Avoid summer humidity and crowds.
• Photography: Dawn for misty lake-island silhouettes; sunset for golden-hour lighting on pavilion eaves and seagulls.
• Cultural Etiquette: Remove hats in pavilion; feed seagulls only with approved grain (no bread).
• Packing: Sunscreen, hats, binoculars for birdwatching, and waterproof bags for boat rides.
• Dining: Nearby Ha Yin Village offers Bai snacks like erkuai (rice cake) and sanduo (fried fish), while the island has minimal food stalls (bring snacks).

Nearby Attractions & Itineraries

• Combined Tours:
  • Morning: Xiaoputuo seagull feeding + pavilion meditation + Erhai photo stops.
  • Afternoon: Boat to Nanzhao Island or Cangshan cableway hike.
  • Evening: Dali Ancient City night markets or Jinsha River sunset cruise.
• Cultural Synergy: Pair with Xizhou Ancient Town for Bai architecture or Shuanglang for lakeside cafés.
• Day Trip Route: Dali Old Town → Xiaoputuo → Xizhou → Hai Tong Peninsula → Erhai Sunset.

Xiaoputuo Island epitomizes Dali’s maritime soul—where spirituality, nature, and history converge. As a UNESCO-recognized gem, it continues to enchant travelers seeking serenity and cultural authenticity in China’s southwest.