Wenbi Village

Introduction & Historical Significance
Nestled on the eastern shore of Erhai Lake in Dali City, Yunnan Province, Wenbi Village is a historic settlement with roots tracing back to the Yuan Dynasty when it served as the administrative center of Xinghua County. Renamed "Wenbi" for its resemblance to a writing brush pointing skyward, the village embodies a fusion of ancient Nanzhao culture, Bai ethnic traditions, and modern coastal charm. As a UNESCO-recognized cultural gem, it preserves over 1,200 years of history through its Ancient City walls, Buddhist temples, and Tang-Song stone carvings, including the famed "Fugu Shanhe" cliff inscription by anti-Japanese general Huang Zhenwu. Today, it thrives as a vibrant "literary village" blending rural tranquility with creative tourism.

Architectural Layout & Design
The village harmonizes traditional Bai architecture with contemporary coastal aesthetics:

• Historic Core: Preserved Yuan-Ming structures like the Xinghua County God Temple (1312 CE) with dragon-carved stone slabs, and Wenfeng Palace (1226 CE) featuring Qing-era woodcarvings and a 14.33m jade-carved Mazu statue.
• Modern Landmarks: The 3km "Rainbow Road"—a vibrant coastal avenue with cacti and floral bands—connects to the iconic "Sea Chapel" (20元 entry), a white minimalist chapel offering panoramic Erhai views.
• Cultural Integration: Traditional "three-house-one-screen" courtyards coexist with luxury resorts like Yang Canshui Villa, featuring infinity pools, glass-walled dining, and starry-night terraces.
• Ecological Corridors: Stone-paved lanes wind through ancient ginkgo groves, rice terraces, and wetlands, culminating in cliff-top viewing platforms.

Major Attractions

• Rainbow Road & Coastal Views: Stroll or cycle along the colored coastal path for sunrise/sunset vistas over Erhai and Cangshan Mountain.
• Sea Chapel: A postcard-perfect white chapel with a sea-facing balcony, ideal for weddings and photography.
• Cliffside Observation Decks: 360° vistas from the village summit, especially magical during golden-hour sunsets.
• Cultural Relics: Explore Tang-Song cliff inscriptions, Ming-Qing stone bridges, and the ancient kiln sites of Guoyang Mountain.
• Artistic Hubs: The "Ink Stone Creative Park" hosts calligraphy workshops, while "Tranquil Sunset Restaurant" offers al fresco dining with sea views.

Ticket Information

• Free Entry: Most village areas open 24/7; specialized venues (e.g., Sea Chapel, museums) charge ¥20–50.
• Guided Tours: ¥80–150 for historical and ecological tours, including temple visits and ancient trail hikes.
• Special Venues: Separate tickets for cultural performances (¥50–100) and workshops (¥30–80).
• Parking: ¥10/day at north gate; electric shuttles connect major sites.

Transportation Guide

• Self-Drive: 40-minute drive from Dali Ancient City via G348; parking at village entrance.
• Public Transport: Take bus 2 to Erhai East Station, then taxi (¥30) or shuttle (¥10) to village.
• Rentals: Electric bikes (¥50–80/day) for coastal rides; shared cars available via app.
• Airport Access: Direct shuttle from Dali Airport (¥50) or taxi (¥120).

Best Time & Tips

• Optimal Seasons: March–June (spring blooms) and September–November (mild weather); avoid summer monsoons.
• Photography: Dawn for misty coastal vistas; dusk for golden-hour lighting on temples and cliffs.
• Cultural Etiquette: Remove hats in temples; greet locals with "Xing hao" (good morning).
• Packing: Light layers, sunscreen, hats, and sturdy shoes; bring cash for markets.
• Dining: Must-try dishes include "Bai-style spicy fish, fried cheese, and rose jam.

Nearby Attractions & Itineraries

• Combined Tours:
  • Morning: Rainbow Road cycling + Sea Chapel sunrise photography.
  • Afternoon: Visit Chongsheng Three Pagodas (15km) or Shuanglang Ancient Town (12km) for cultural immersion.
  • Evening: Jinma Biji Square night market or Cangshan Mountain sunset hike.
• Cultural Synergy: Pair with Xizhou Village for Bai crafts or Erhai Lake boat tours for aquatic landscapes.

Wenbi Village is a symphony of history and nature—where ancient stones whisper tales of emperors, and coastal breezes carry the scent of wildflowers. As a UNESCO-recognized sanctuary, it continues to inspire global travelers seeking both cultural depth and coastal serenity in China’s Southwest.