China – Shaxi: off the beaten track paradise

Is it still possible to visit beautiful places in China without being disturbed by crowds of tourists? Yes it is and Shaxi in Yunnan is one of these places. Shaxi is conveniently located halfway between Dali and Lijiang, so off the beaten path… for the moment at least (a highway is on the way!). The town has been very well renovated by an international team. After visiting Shibashoan (see other blog) we arrived at our charming hotel, which was an old local theater on the outskirts of Shaxi, serenely located on the edge of the paddy fields. The next day we walked to Shaxi together with the locals heading to the Friday market where all the ethnic minorities of the area congregate. The market is lively and brightened by the colors of traditional clothes. The main square is a great place to soak up the historical atmosphere of the town, watch all the people go by and admire the grand tree of the square (and possibly hear the resident cuckoo). A quiet afternoon in a beautiful setting before the tourist madness of Lijiang.

Voyagista’s tips

•  The market is held on Friday only
•  Great value boutique accommodation offered at the  “old theatre inn”
•  Visit nearby Shibashoan or hike in the surrounding mountains