Yan's Compound of Bai Minority in Xizhou

Yan's Compound in Xizhou is the most representative of Bai-style residences, about 13 kilometers (8.08 miles) from Dali City. 

The dwellings of the ethnic minority of Bai in Dali, Yunnan Province always make a strong impression on the traveler. Gradually, the Bai style architecture came into being. Over many years the Bai craftsmen practiced creating traditional Chinese dwellings, all the while cultivating a breathtaking architectural style to call their own.

The Yan's Compound covers an area of about 3,066 square meters (0.76 acres), built around the 1920's. As a whole, it is divided into four parts and each part is cleverly linked together. After visiting this impressive compound, one will ameliorate the admiration for its magnificence and the Bai people's architectural gifts.

Yan's Compound, Dali
Yan's Family- the biggest clan in Xizhou
Yan''s Residence
Marble gate inscripted with Si Ma Di

 Yan's Compound Pictures

 Yan's Compound Video

Upon entering, one's eyes will fall upon the principal house with it's screen wall and two wings. According to the tradition of Bai-style architecture, the screen wall should face east in order to make use of the early morning sun and reflect the light into the inner rooms. Additionally, the screen wall, adorned with elaborate caligraphy and paintings, is considered as a talisman; the Bai people believe it brings good blessing.

Walking inside, one will see the second and then the third parts, each of the parts is enclosed by four houses with four small rooms built between each of the houses; a unique architectural style in Dali called "sihe wutianjing". The final house of Yan's Compound embraces a modern, western architectural style.

"Sandaocha" is a traditional regional tea ceremony consisting of three unique tea flavors, and is an experience not to be missed in Yan's compound. The host begins by presenting a bitter tea which stands for the hardships in life. Then, a sweet tea of sesame and walnut symbolic of happiness in life. Finally, a bitter, sweet, and spicy tea symbolic of pondering life.

Houses with exquisite wooden decorations
Classical residence of the Bai Ethnic Group
Courtyard inside the Compound
Courtyard inside the Compound

The Bai architecture and culture will fascinate the traveler. This stop in Xizhou is one not to be left unexplored!
 

How to get to Yan's Compound

Take a bus from East Gate of Dali Ancient City to the Xizhou Town and then walk to the compound; or take a taxi to the compound directly.

Entrance Fee CNY 25
Opening Hours 8:30 - 18:00
- Last updated on May. 13, 2024 by Gabby Li -
Questions & Answers on Yan\s Compound of Bai Minority in Xizhou
Asked by Trang from VIETNAM | Oct. 25, 2015 22:43Reply
How can I get to Yan compound of Bai by bus from Dali old town? Thank you
Answers (1)
Answered by Edgar from FRANCE | Oct. 26, 2015 03:10
00Reply


At the Cangshan Gate of the old town. Take a regular bus to Eryuan at the nearby parking lot, and get off at Xizhou on the way (30min). After arriving, rent a three-wheeled motorcycle to the compound at a cost of CNY5 within 10min.
Asked by trang from VIETNAM | Oct. 18, 2015 09:37Reply
how long does it take from dali xiaguan to Yan compund by bus?
And how long does it take for the visit?
Answers (1)
Answered by Grace from AUSTRALIA | Oct. 19, 2015 03:39
00Reply


Well, the duration is around an hour for the single trip.
And the suggested sightseeing time of this scenic spot is 1 to 2 hours.
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