Roots of Yunnan: Handicraft Traditions and Cultural Encounters

Roots of Yunnan is a thoughtfully paced 8-day journey through the Dali region, designed for those who prefer to travel more slowly and connect more deeply. Travel through Dali, Weishan, and Shaxi, where you will step into local workshops and small communities, gaining insight into traditional crafts such as indigo dyeing, woodblock printing, and tile cat making. Along the way, experience Yunnan through its everyday life — from tea harvesting and pressing to observing the making of rushan (Yunnan cheese) and trying on traditional Yi attire. All of this unfolds against the backdrop of Dali’s celebrated landscapes — from Erhai Lake to the Cangshan Mountains — long admired for their beauty and romantic charm. With a relaxed rhythm, minimal physical demands, and time to truly settle into each place, this journey offers a more personal and in-depth way to experience Yunnan’s living traditions.