Xizhou

Xizhou is a town located in the Yunnan Province of China, positioned within the Dali Bai Autonomous Prefecture on the shores of Lugu Lake. It lies approximately 25 kilometres west of the city of Dali and is accessible via a winding highway that passes through forested highlands. The town’s geographical coordinates place it at an elevation of about 2,319 metres above sea level, giving it a temperate high‑altitude climate with mild summers and cool winters.

Historically, Xizhou developed as a trading post along the ancient Silk Road routes that connected China to Southeast Asia. The town’s name, which translates loosely as “West Village,” indicates its position relative to the larger Dali settlement. Archaeological findings in the area include Han dynasty pottery fragments and traditional Bai salt‑making tools, suggesting that residents have lived there for over two millennia. Over the centuries, Xizhou has maintained a strong Bai cultural presence, characterized by distinctive architecture, wooden balconies, and the use of local lacquering techniques.

In contemporary times, Xizhou has become a notable destination for eco‑tourism, leveraging its scenery and cultural heritage. Visitors can explore the historic Bai houses, participate in local festivals such as the annual Bird‑in‑the‑Sky ceremony, and sample regional specialties like fried rice cakes and freshwater fish from Lugu Lake. The town supports a small but growing hospitality sector, with guesthouses and restaurants that cater to domestic and international tourists.

The population of Xizhou is estimated at around 6,000 residents, most of whom belong to the Bai ethnic group. The local economy is primarily based on agriculture, animal husbandry, and tourism‑related services. Educational infrastructure includes a primary school and a vocational training centre that focuses on craft preservation and hospitality management. The town is also connected by road to Dali and the national highway network that facilitates trade and travel within the region.