Dali Ancient City in Yunnan Province in the Chinese mainland is a living museum where every stone tells a story. At its heart stands the South Gate Tower, erected in 1382 during the early Ming Dynasty. Over six centuries later, its distinctive palace-style bricks and sweeping eaves still dominate the city skyline, offering a window into architectural elegance that has endured through dynastic changes.
The Tower’s nameplate—two bold characters reading “Dali”—was inscribed by renowned calligrapher and scholar Guo Moruo in 1961, layering modern cultural depth onto a centuries-old landmark. Today, visitors can wander beneath its arched corridors, snap photos of carved motifs, and imagine the echoes of merchants, scholars, and envoys who once passed through these gates.
More than just a photo op, the South Gate Tower anchors a vibrant neighborhood of craft workshops, local tea shops, and ethnic Bai cultural performances. Data from local tourism boards indicate a 25% rise in under-30 travelers seeking authentic heritage experiences in the past five years. For young global citizens, entrepreneurs, and digital nomads, Dali offers an immersive journey into history—without skimping on modern buzz.
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Live: Explore the history and culture of Dali Ancient City in Yunnan
cgtn.com
