40 minutes from Dali, I found the most healing hidden gem town!

If you're tired of the crowds in the ancient city, why not take a day to visit Weishan — this "living ancient city" gently embraced by time. Just 40 minutes on the highway from Haidong, the pace instantly slows down. Cobblestone streets, old wooden doors, grandmas sunbathing by the roadside... it feels like stepping into a soothing movie. 🌈 A must-visit for art lovers: full marks for craft experiences · Vanguard Bookstore: An artistic landmark transformed from an ancient courtyard, order a cup of coffee and browse Weishan’s historical photo albums, with a century-old street outside the window. · Intangible Cultural Heritage DIY: Follow local masters to make a tile cat that wards off evil and brings good luck, experience indigo root fabric tie-dyeing, and print an ancient and mysterious Jiama woodblock print. All the souvenirs you take home are unique! 🍜 Foodie delight! Snack cravings satisfied · One Noodle: Only one noodle in the whole bowl! Chewy and smooth, paired with rich meat topping, a warm and comforting breakfast. 15-minute wait [Joyful], 30 minutes or more in peak season. · Braised Pork Rice Noodles: The broth made from bones is incredibly flavorful, the meat is tender and soft, a local favorite since childhood. · Rolled Rice Noodles: Rice sheets wrapped with crushed peanuts and spicy sauce, easily bought from street carts, sour and spicy to whet your appetite! (Secret tip: snacks here average 10 yuan each, you’ll wish you had three stomachs!) 🚶 Slow travel guide: embrace both history and nature · Weibao Mountain: The birthplace of the Nanzhao Kingdom, Taoist temples hidden in ancient forests, hiking to breathe fresh air and experience thousand-year-old Taoist culture. · Weishan Museum: Free admission! See Nanzhao history and ethnic costumes all in one place, a must for culture enthusiasts. · Outdoor players’ bonus: Nearby ranch offers horseback riding through fields, and in summer you can paddleboard on the reservoir, perfect for both active and relaxed fun~ 🏡 Stay in a serene-style guesthouse · Walk everywhere Highly recommend the guesthouse I stayed at! Renovated personally by the owner, preserving the structure and courtyard, yet the rooms are full of modern comfort. Super convenient location — just minutes’ walk to snack streets, craft shops, and the museum. Listen to the rain while drinking tea on rainy days, and sit in the courtyard at night to sip tea and stargaze. This is the ideal travel vibe✨ 🌟 Tips: · For self-driving from Dali, navigate to “Weishan Ancient City,” and the high-speed train is also very convenient (22 minutes direct)! · Recommended to stay 1-2 nights; weekends have livelier night markets. · Remember to book craft experiences in advance~