Shiping, Yunnan: More Rustic Than Jianshui, More Livable Than Dali—Perfect for a Slow-Paced Getaway

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A ancient town highly recommended by National Geographic,

there are still many underrated hidden gems here,

tucked away in the hills or at the end of the road,

untouched parts of Yunnan.

Taking advantage of the cheap flights and hotels, I visited a

lesser-known ancient town endorsed by National Geographic,

one that remains largely unaltered

and free from commercialization,

filled with warm and simple locals.

It boasts stunning landscapes, rich culture, and pleasant weather—

every breath feels like therapy.

It’s also home to the best tofu in the country,

with affordable prices, like cross-bridge rice noodles under 10 yuan,

offering a blissful, carefree life every day.

This severely underrated and overlooked town,

is Jianshui in Honghe Hani and Yi Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan.

Just a 30-minute drive away.

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The hidden gem of Shiping, a town unknown to many.

I didn't have high expectations before going to Shiping,

but was instantly amazed upon arrival.

That "Yunnan-style" pace of life and ancient town charm,

yet not overly commercialized.

Elderly people playing cards or chess in small groups...

as if suddenly activating a time machine,

pulling people back to the 1970s-80s.

This is the lesser-known Shiping,

a city probably unfamiliar to most tourists,

even many Yunnan locals know little about it.

This severely underrated historic Yunnan old town,

more worth exploring than neighboring Jianshui,

hides history, cradles culture, and boasts irresistible cuisine.

It's a fossil-like cultural ancient town,

with over 1,200 years of history,

accumulating profound historical heritage!

The place exudes scholarly atmosphere, producing many talents,

hailed as "Land of Literature" and "First Literary Prefecture of Southern Yunnan"

"Five steps produce three imperial scholars, across the street stand two Hanlin academicians"

Yuan Jiagu, the only imperial examination champion from Yunnan,

remains an inspirational "idol" motivating later generations to strive for excellence.

A living museum of Ming-Qing architecture where all

cultural relics and ancient buildings can be visited without tickets.

It preserves remarkably intact Ming-Qing era structures,

housing 25 protected cultural heritage sites at various levels, including

Qihe Tower and the Chen Clan Ancestral Hall which are nationally protected units.

Though historical glory may have faded with time,

whether it's the completely non-commercialized ancient town,

the breathtaking plateau lakes,

or the astonishing variety of tofu dishes,

don't underestimate low-key Shiping - here you'll find

French-style vintage meter-gauge railways matching Jianshui's charm,

Yunnan's fourth largest lake praised by Xu Xiake himself,

rivaling Erhai in beauty with far fewer crowds.

Even more captivating than Jianshui's famous tofu.

The art of making tofu here has a history of over 600 years,

Locals can prepare more than 200 types of dishes with it,

Grilled tofu, molten tofu, dried tofu, tofu balls…

Even eating it for three meals a day leaves you craving more.

Here, you can live like a local,

Hidden in the bustling city, Shiping

seems untouched by the outside world’s hustle,

People are always so leisurely, chatting at street corners,

Children playing freely in the parks.

If you’re a railway enthusiast, a foodie,

or just tired and yearning for a slow-paced life,

then you must not miss this understated gem in southern Yunnan.

Shiping, a severely underestimated treasure of a city for living!

Shiping, a place where you start planning your next longer stay

even before you’ve left.

No matter when you visit, you won’t be disappointed!

Because here, you can...

Stay in a pristine ancient town untouched by commerce,

and enjoy a leisurely, slowed-down life!

Shiping Ancient Town is a must-visit to understand Shiping,

perhaps due to its inconvenient transportation, few tourists come,

leaving everything in the town much the same as in the old days,

with well-preserved ancient architecture and residential houses.

As soon as you enter, you’ll see the exquisitely crafted Dragon Gate,

with its upturned eaves, intricate brackets, and delicate carvings, showcasing superb craftsmanship.

The buildings are surrounded by flowers and ancient trees, serene and timeless.

Chess, mahjong, and cards bring endless joy and relaxation.

The Zunjing Pavilion behind the Confucian Temple has been transformed into Dafang Coffee,

where the owner’s baking skills outshine even the coffee,

making it a favorite local spot in the ancient town.

It will change your impression of ancient towns—

no neon lights, no commercial hustle,

just the simple, everyday life of Shiping’s people.

Follow your heart and wander into the narrow alleys,

and you’ll stumble upon unexpected scenery.

The ancient town’s alleys, lined with yellow bricks and earthen walls,

lead you past many aged tile-roofed houses.

Azaleas and vintage window lattices complement each other,

while delicate red patterns adorn the eaves,

evoking an illusion of returning to the 1980s or 90s.

Children occasionally run past, laughing and playing,

as elderly folks sit idly, chatting about daily life,

and the enticing aroma wafts from tofu shops...

A force that quietly soothes your soul.

Explore the most beautiful ancient villages and schools,

and feel the unique charm of century-old architecture!

If the buildings of Shiping Ancient Town

immerse you in a sense of historical nostalgia,

then its ancient layout of three streets and nine lanes

further enhances the beauty of this architectural village.

It is a village with over 600 years of history,

the only ancient village listed among the most beautiful.

Strolling through the village, you will see many

quaint and well-arranged structures,

with small bridges and flowing water, offering picturesque views at every step—truly a feast for the eyes.

The most noteworthy sight is the Chen Clan Ancestral Hall,

built by Chen Heting in 1925.

Walking through the central hall, side halls, and main hall,

you’ll find nothing but exquisitely carved beams and painted pillars,

all majestic and soaring into the clouds.

Chen Heting also advocated for the establishment of Shiping No.1 Middle School,

then known as "Shiping County Middle School."

Stepping into the ancient architectural complex of Shiping No.1 Middle School,

you’ll feel as if transported back to the 1930s.

The elegant and magnificent Qihe Tower is the centerpiece of this Republic of China-era complex,

with additional features like the Pearl-Spraying Pool, Welcoming Guest Spring, and arched bridges.

Every snapshot captures a scene full of artistic charm.

Check in at the more niche meter-gauge railway than Bisezhai,

Every shot is a blockbuster that will dominate your social media feed!

A French-style vintage train,

Shiping Railway Station, built in 1936,

is a hidden gem on the Gebishi Railway.

Yet it rivals others in charm and elegance,

with bright yellow walls and dark green doors, windows, and eaves.

There are no signs of deliberate renovations,

nor crowds in costumes for photoshoots.

You can even board the same meter-gauge train as in Jianshui,

step into the retro carriage, and hold a handwritten train ticket,

clattering along at a leisurely pace,

as if traveling back to an old movie from the last century.

Stroll or cycle along the plateau lake,

immersing yourself in total relaxation!

It’s a reason to visit Yunnan,

and worth planning a special trip for.

It’s also one of Yunnan’s nine major plateau lakes,

with ever-changing scenery, each season offering its own beauty.

Summer lotuses, autumn sunflowers and hairy crabs,

Along with the black-headed gulls dancing over the lake—never tire of the view.

Walking or cycling along the South Lake Ring Road here,

Is truly a delightful experience, as tested firsthand.

Under the azure sky, embraced by lakes and mountains,

The water ripples gently, accompanied by birdsongs and cicada chirps everywhere.

The dusk after sunset is especially breathtaking,

Offering an immersive relaxation for both body and mind.

Heal yourself in the hustle and bustle of life!

Shiping County holds a market once per session,

Where you can buy the freshest vegetables,

Cut tobacco, flowers, wild herbs, even lime...

The market starts as early as 7 or 8 a.m.,

With lively haggling and warm, friendly banter among people.

You can also visit the fragrant tofu stalls,

A few taels of corn wine and dozens of tofu cubes down the hatch,

So comforting and delightful, utterly blissful!

The city that wins the stomach's favor has changed!

Here, tofu is almost a staple food,

Locals have countless ways to enjoy it,

Crafting over 200 dishes from it,

Enough to avoid repetition for three meals a day for a month.

Here, you’ll encounter

A fragrant grilled tofu stall every few steps.

The golden-brown grilled tofu is irresistibly tempting,

Dipped into a local specialty sauce,

Poked open to soak up the flavors,

Rich bean aroma blends with the dip in your mouth,

Like a lotus blooming in your heart.

The rice noodles here are also extraordinary,

They’re red, said to be whole grain,

So even weight-conscious friends can indulge freely.

A huge bowl for 5 yuan, with unlimited refills,

Just thinking about it makes mouths water.

You can be healed by an endless variety of delicious foods.

Skewered meat on the grill, roasted pork skin,

glutinous rice with soy milk that you’ll miss if you wake up late,

super appetizing stir-fried pork with quick-pickled mustard greens,

crispy pork with pea shoots and bitter greens, and cold rice noodles with sour soup

that comes with more than six toppings.

There’s also Shiping fried fish, stir-fried tofu greens, seaweed,

leek soup with tofu skin, clay pot fish, mint-boiled eggs...

Even a deity wouldn’t trade such a life!

Another pride of Shiping is its bayberries.

Compared to ordinary ones on the market,

they’re larger, more tangy, and juicier,

with the biggest as large as a ping-pong ball.

You can pick and eat them fresh right off the tree.

Shiping has no luxurious resorts,

but you can truly immerse yourself in the locals’ daily life,

experiencing the relaxed and carefree rhythm of a small town.

So if you’ve been to Yunnan countless times,

Shiping might just be the perfect choice.

If you are planning a trip,

the stunning scenery, delicious food, and hospitable people here,

will leave you with unforgettable memories.

1. Transportation: No direct high-speed rail is available yet. You can transfer from Kunming to Jianshui, then drive or take a small train to reach the destination.

2. Accommodation: Options are available near Yilong Lake and in the ancient town. Staying in a guesthouse in the ancient town is recommended for easier access to food and sightseeing.

3. Itinerary: Shiping Xiushan Mountain—Yilong Lake—Zhengying Village—Shiping Ancient Town (Yuping Academy—Shiping Museum—Ancient Prefecture Office—Confucian Temple—Li Hengsheng’s Former Residence)—Huanwen Park.

4. Notes: Shiping County has an elevation of about 1,430m (be mindful of sun protection and warmth); all attractions are free except for transportation costs.

Shiping, Yunnan: More Rustic Than Jianshui, More Livable Than Dali—Perfect for a Slow-Paced Getaway

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