Located on the northeastern shore of Erhai Lake in Dali, Yunnan Province, Shuanglang Ancient Town is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful lakeside villages in the area. Surrounded by mountains on three sides and facing the sparkling waters of Erhai Lake, this charming fishing village offers visitors a peaceful escape with stunning scenery, traditional Bai culture, and a relaxing slow-paced lifestyle.
Unlike the bustling atmosphere of famous destinations such as Lijiang Ancient Town, Shuanglang remains a quieter place where travelers can enjoy beautiful landscapes, local culture, and the simple pleasures of lakeside living.


A Picturesque Fishing Village by Erhai Lake
Shuanglang was originally a small fishing village where the local Bai ethnic people lived by fishing in Erhai Lake for generations. The lake has always been closely connected with local life, and many traditional houses were built along the shoreline, allowing residents to enjoy views of the water from their windows.
Today, with the development of tourism, traditional Bai-style houses have been transformed into boutique hotels, guesthouses, cafés, and restaurants. Despite these changes, Shuanglang has maintained its unique charm and is often known as “the most scenic town around Erhai Lake.”
Beautiful Scenery and Pleasant Climate All Year Round
Shuanglang enjoys a mild climate throughout the year, making it an ideal destination in every season.
* Spring: Flowers bloom and the weather is comfortable for outdoor activities.
* Summer: The cool lakeside climate provides a perfect escape from the heat.
* Autumn: Clear blue skies and white clouds create beautiful scenery.
* Winter: Warm sunshine makes it a relaxing place to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
The combination of mountains, lake views, sunshine, and fresh air makes Shuanglang one of the most attractive destinations in Dali.\


Highlights of Shuanglang Ancient Town
Erhai Lake Views and “Penglai Fairy Island”
One of the best experiences in Shuanglang is simply walking along the lakeside and enjoying views of Erhai Lake. The nearby island scenery, especially the famous Nanzhao Island, is often described as a “Penglai Fairy Island” because of its beautiful natural surroundings.
Yang Liping’s Famous Waterfront Residences
The renowned Chinese dancer Yang Liping built two distinctive waterfront residences here — the Sun Palace and the Moon Palace. These unique buildings have become iconic landmarks around Erhai Lake and are admired for their artistic design and stunning locations.


Cycling Around Erhai Lake
Cycling around Erhai Lake is one of the most popular activities for visitors. The route is often considered one of the most beautiful cycling routes in China, offering spectacular views of the lake, mountains, villages, and countryside along the way.
Experience Bai Culture and Slow Village Life
Walking through Shuanglang’s old lanes, visitors can discover traditional Bai architecture, local handicrafts, and peaceful village scenes. A boat trip on Erhai Lake is another wonderful way to appreciate the landscape.
Many travelers come here not for a busy sightseeing schedule, but simply to slow down — enjoying a cup of coffee by the lake, watching the sunset, or relaxing in a quiet guesthouse.
Travel Tips
Although tourism has brought many new hotels, restaurants, and cafés to Shuanglang, the village still preserves much of its original charm. Travelers who enjoy peaceful environments, beautiful scenery, photography, and cultural experiences will find Shuanglang an unforgettable stop during a Yunnan journey.