Luxury travel to Dali and Shaxi made for you
China
Two ancient towns surrounded by stunning nature
Located amid breathtaking natural landscapes in China’s historic and culture-rich Yunnan province, Dali and Shaxi are two heritage towns that provide a glimpse into a prosperous and intriguing bygone era. Positioned in Southern China, close to the border with Myanmar, the area is known for its Bai cultural heritage, one of 56 ethnic groups recognised in China.
Dali is set on Erhai Lake and consists of a modern town at the southern shore and its ancient city on the western shore. Bordered by the dramatic Cangshan Mountain, the scenic surroundings and old landmarks are the main draw for visitors. Dali’s long history began in 738, and by 1000, Dali was one of the world’s largest cities, before being destroyed by the Mongols and rebuilt in the 1400s. The resulting make-up of the city is what attracts people today, with its old Chinese houses, charming temples and narrow streets evoking a romantic charisma.
Located 150km north of Dali, the ancient town of Shaxi is historically a key trading hub on the old Tea Horse Road, and today is the site of one of the best-preserved historic market hubs in Asia. Like in Dali, the rich cultural heritage of the Bai people defines the character of the town, while Shaxi’s vibrant Friday market provides a memorable hint to its former glory. Discover temples, shops, alleyways, houses, gates and bridges dotted throughout Shaxi, including the atmospheric main square with its ancient stage.
A word from one of our experts
These small towns in the Yunnan province feel a world away from the frenetic cities with which most people associate China. I loved visiting some of the local people’s homes and learning more about the traditional crafts from which they still make a living today, including tie-dye and cheese making!
Rachel O Leary
Why book with Jacada?
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Personalised design
We’ll plan your trip around your specific interests, tastes and preferences, providing helpful tips and honest advice based on first-hand knowledge of the destination.
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Authentic experiences
Our expert guides and brilliant travel concierges are hand-picked to provide a genuine experience, bringing your destination to life with care and passion.
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Responsible travel
Our luxury trips are designed with responsible travel principles that prioritise travel experiences that are both good for you and good for the planet.
Trip Inspiration
Get inspired with our Dali and Shaxi example trips and then get in touch to plan your own adventure
The Culture, History and Heritage of China
This fifteen-day trip offers an epic exploration of China’s most beautiful, historic and iconic sights, mixed in with plenty of classes and experiences for you…
Explore tripMeet your Asia team
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Cathy Jocubeit
Senior Concierge – Asia Pacific
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David D Arcy
Senior Travel Designer
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Ellie Khoury
Senior Travel Designer
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Georgina Bainbridge
Travel Designer
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Gilda Tang
Client Experience Manager for Asia Pacific
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Gita Widyasari
Asia Pacific Concierge
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Jessica Wijesinghe
Senior Asia Pacific Concierge
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Keith Jarman
Senior Travel Designer
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Kit Wong
Senior Travel Designer
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Leanne Anglo
Travel Designer
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Lucy Clarke
Travel Designer
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Rachel O Leary
Senior Travel Designer
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Rachel Rose
Travel Designer
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Rahma Adiningtyas
Asia Pacific Concierge
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Rosanna Convey
Travel Designer
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Taylor Williamson
Travel Designer
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Yvonne Green
Travel Designer
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“We enjoyed our first trip with Jacada…”
We enjoyed our first trip with Jacada and it surely won't be our last! Every detail and moment of our trip was perfectly planned. We were met every step of the way with courteous and knowledgeable drivers and guides. We really appreciated the local guides and the commitment they had to make every day special. Thank you Jacada for the…
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My wife and I used Jacada to plan our honeymoon to French Polynesia. Working with the Jacada team was fantastic and effortless. Every question was quickly answered. Every hiccup was quickly addressed. We felt like we were in the hands of experts who are equally passionate about travel, and who were committed to helping us have the trip of a…
“Jacada Travel has been outstanding”
We enjoy traveling and we have used Jacada Travel for some wonderful trips over several years. We have never been disappointed. In 2024 we took a Safari in Botswana Africa and walked with the gorillas in Rwanda planned by Jacada and the itinerary was amazing. In 2025 we had planned a trip to Antartica ( with another company ) but…
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Communication and organization were excellent. The Jacada team was helpful and genuinely interested in our experience. The guides were personable, knowledgeable, and clearly enjoy their work. Vehicles were spotless, timely, and coordinators managed our every need brilliantly. I will recommend Jacada to friends and family. The only way to travel!
“Iceland 8 Days”
We had a wonderful trip planned through Jacada. We enjoyed the venues and the excursions. This is a beautiful place we'd recommend to anyone who wants to go on a new adventure.
Your trip, your story
We craft trips deeply personal, delightfully surprising and entirely one of a kind. Every Jacada journey begins in conversation with a travel designer, a specialist in their destination of expertise. Behind each journey is a wealth of insight, gathered over years of on-the-ground exploration.
Once you’re booked, you’ll meet your concierge. Based in the region you’re visiting, they’ll take care of all the details so your mind is at rest. They make the trip truly special – and truly yours.