Things to do in Dayao
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Top 10 attractions in Dayao
Santan Waterfall Scenic Area
Santan Waterfall is located in Dayao County, Chuxiong Prefecture, Yunnan Province, also known as Shuangou Waterfall. It is one of the ancient Eight Scenic Spots of Dayao. Santan Waterfall is a waterfall group featuring 33 cascades along a river stretch less than 4 km long. From upstream to downstream, the first tier stands 19m high with misty, elegant water patterns; the second tier plunges 121m, and the third drops 82m. The second and third tiers are perpetually enveloped in dancing water droplets, light mist, drizzling spray, and thunderous sounds. The three-tiered waterfall forms an integrated spectacle as the river cascades down, creating three deep pools—hence the name "Santan" (Three Pools). With a total drop of 220.28m, it ranks as the tallest waterfall in southwest China.Dayao · 20.2km from downtown
Shiyang Ancient Town
Shiyang Ancient Town is only a 30-kilometer drive from Dayao County. From the county seat, you can go northwest along the flat asphalt road. The road follows the peaks, sometimes winding and sometimes straight. It passes through more than a dozen roadside villages, with strange peaks and rocks, and lush ancient trees.As we walked along the way, we found ourselves in the embrace of the ancient town without realizing it. Shiyang has been a rich producer of Yunnan well salt since the Western Han Dynasty. The late Ming and early Qing dynasties were the heyday of Shiyang salt production. Although it was a manual workshop, the annual output of salt reached more than 9 million tons. Several provinces in southern Xinjiang and neighboring countries are proud to enjoy the white well salt as white as snow.The gathering of merchants and the rotation of officials from successive dynasties made Shiyang a golden land admired by all, but it also brought a multicultural impact to Shiyang, which is located in a remote mountain area. "Schools were established to boost the morals of the people, customs and laws were set up to facilitate travel, and pagodas and pavilions were built to cultivate literary style." Shiyang, formerly known as Baijing, is located in the northwest of Dayao County, Chuxiong Prefecture, 1.5 km from the county seat.35km, land area407Square kilometers, total population27668It is a small town with a long history and profound cultural heritage. Historically, the Central Plains culture and the Yi culture collided and blended here, and Confucian culture, salt culture, Buddhism, Taoism, Islam and other religious cultures interacted here, leaving behind a splendid historical culture and local customs. Shiyang is within a radius of no more than ten miles. During the Ming and Qing Dynasties, there were five major academies, Lingyuan, Zhanggong, Luluo, Longquan, and Longyin, as well as many charity schools and private schools. Various cultures interacted and blended with each other, giving birth to the Shiyang culture with Shiyang characteristics.Despite the vicissitudes of history and the destruction of natural disasters, it still retains many long-standing historical relics and has a profound cultural heritage.1995Year8, named as one of the first three historical and cultural towns by the Provincial People's Government.Dayao · 27.1km from downtown
Santan Scenic Area
Dayao · 20.3km from downtown
Yao’an Guanglu Ancient Town
Yao’an Guanglu Ancient Town is located approx. 12 km north of the county seat of Yao’an, Chuxiong Prefecture, Yunnan Province. It has a long history, beautiful mountains and rivers, and numerous historical sites, and is known as the Cultural hub of western Yunnan and the Home of flower lanterns. The town's architecture is laid out in the shape of the Chinese character "Kun," with many ancient buildings. It has been an important town for governing Yunnan since ancient times and served as a key stronghold on the ancient Southern Silk Road leading to Southeast Asia, India, and other regions. To highlight the town's unique features, the local government is focusing on developing four major themes: fortune, longevity, prosperity, and joy. Yao’an Guanglu Ancient Town is characterized by its historical and agricultural culture. The pastoral scenery is picturesque throughout the seasons, with spring, summer, fall, and winter each offering a different natural landscape, creating beautiful pastoral views. Visitors can see the coexistence of the Earth God belief, Taoism, and Buddhism here, which reflects the local area's profound cultural heritage and inclusivity. Yao’an Guanglu Ancient Town is a place where outstanding people are born. It has produced many famous figures, and the Gao family once had the legendary reputation of "nine scholars, seven dukes, eight prime ministers, three kings, one emperor, and five marquises," producing famous scholars such as Gao Jiongying, Zhao Zixiang, Ma Siliang, and Zhao Heqing. This place is not only a must-visit stop on the ancient Southwestern Silk Road but also a historic town that carries a thousand years of fortune culture.Yao'an · 20.8km from Dayao
Yulong Snow Mountain
Yulong Snow Mountain is not far from the ancient city of Lijiang. It is a sacred mountain range of the Naxi people and has 13 interconnected peaks with a breathtaking view. You can take a cablecar up the mountain while observing the vegetation changing from bottom to. The foot of the mountain is a ranch. During the spring season, there will be a large number of flowers blossoming. The Yunshan Ping on the mountain side is regarded by the Naxi people as a romantic place. The of the mountain is covered in snow all year round, and you can absorb the glorious sight of the glaciers when you are up there.China · Yulong
Dianchi Lake
Dianchi Lake is also called Kunming Lake. It is the sixth largest freshwater lake in China. It has the nickname of "Sparkling Pearl Embedded in a Highland". The lake is wide and spectacular. Every winter, a large flock of red-billed gulls migrate here from Siberia, making it a good place for bird watching and bird feeding. There are different ways to explore Dianchi lake. You can stroll around the lake, cycle, or ride a boat. You can also climb up to the Dragon Gate overlooking Dianchi Lake to get a better view of the entire lake.China · Kunming
Langbapu Earth Forest (Xinhua Earth Forest)
The Langbapu Soil Forest, also known as Xinhua Soil Forest, is located in Longbapu Village, Xinhua Township, Yuanmou County, Chuxiong Yi Autonomous Prefecture. The soil columns there are tall and dense with various types. The conical soil forest is well developed, which has become an important scenic spot of the Yuanmou soil forest. The Langbapu Soil forest is in different colors and shapes, looking from a distance like a magnificent palace.Yuanmou · 36.5km from Dayao
Stone Forest Scenic Area
The Stone Forest Scenic Area is located in Shilin County, Kunming, and is one of the key attractions in the city. This scenic area showcases typical karst landforms, featuring stone peaks, pinnacles, sinkholes, and underground rivers. The towering rock formations take on various shapes—sword-like, pagoda-like, mushroom-like, and more—creating a breathtaking and fantastical landscape. The Stone Forest Scenic Area is divided into several widely spaced sections, with the Greater and Lesser Stone Forest attractions at its core. The Naigu Stone Forest is located approx. 12 km north of the main attractions, while the Dadie Waterfall scenic area sits approx. 29 km southwest. The Changhu Lake area is positioned 26 km southeast of the main site. When visitors refer to touring the Stone Forest, they typically mean exploring the Greater and Lesser Stone Forest sections. The Greater and Lesser Shilin are located in the same area. After purchasing tickets at the main entrance and walking along the path for 20 minutes, you'll find the smaller and more gently sloped Lesser Shilin Scenic Area on your left. Amidst the dense cluster of peaks stands the famous Ashima Stone, where the majestic karst formations resemble a graceful Yi ethnic maiden named Ashima, seemingly waving to visitors—a favorite photo spot for travelers. Beyond the striking Ashima, the Lesser Shilin area features other captivating views like the Steed and Pillar Supporting the Sky, each with unique shapes. This is where your imagination is put to the test. If you find your imagination lacking, we recommend hiring a guide who can offer fresh perspectives on these remarkable formations. As you drive leisurely along the highway, you'll encounter a series of remarkable rock formations lining the roadside—the Tang Monk Stone, Stone Prison, Phoenix Combing Its Wings, and Lingzhi Mushroom Rock—each vividly lifelike and exquisitely crafted by nature's artistry, presenting their unique postures to showcase Earth's wondrous creations. Strolling along the pathway, you'll unexpectedly arrive at the Great Stone Forest Scenic Area. After marveling at wonders like "Two Birds Sharing Food," "Rhinoceros Gazing at the Moon," "Lotus Peak," "Shilin Grand View," and "Stone Screen," you might feel slightly fatigued. Take a peaceful break at Lion Pavilion while admiring the inverted peaks reflected in Lion Pool across the way. After prolonged exposure to these karst formations, visual fatigue may set in—making it the perfect moment to shift perspectives. Board a cruise on Shilin Lake, where mountain vistas and water scenery converge into one breathtaking panorama, dissolving all stress and worries. If you prefer not to walk, electric carts driven by Yi ethnic women shuttle between attractions and stop upon request. You can still marvel at the wonders of the Stone Forest Scenic Area, and some friendly drivers may even share interesting local anecdotes along the way. Naigu Stone Forest, also known as New Stone Forest or Mozhai Stone Forest, is located 13 km north of the Stone Forest Scenic Area. It features a landscape composed of stone formations, Baiyun Lake, Shifeng Mountain, and Yougu Xianpu Waterfall. Compared to the Stone Forest Scenic Area, this site offers a distinct style. The towering gray-black stone pillars here are densely packed, resembling castles, towers, and mushrooms. The rugged, primitive rock formations surge skyward like waves, creating a majestic atmosphere. Walking through these dark peaks feels like stepping into a primeval world.China · Shilin
Yuanmou Earth and Forest Scenic Resort
Yuanmou Earth and Forest Scenic Resort is located in Yuanmou County, Chuxiangzhou and features a number of tall stone pillars. Be amazed by the beautiful quartz, agate and other substances shimmering in the sunshine. The resort is a solid choice for shutterbugs. Get accommodation and shoot the marvelous sunrise and sunset. At night, looking up at the array of stars glittering in the boundless sky is a wonderful experience.Yuanmou · 44.5km from Dayao
Dongfengyun Scenic Area
Mile's “Dongfengyun” town is a characteristic town with cultural tourism, health care and art as its core. The tens of thousands of acres of vineyards and hundreds of acres of lavender fields Souvenir the Attraction add color to the town. All year round, there are flowers in full bloom in spring, evergreen trees in summer, yellow ginkgo trees in autumn, and quiet and peaceful things in winter. Play in the charm of Dongfeng, flower field windmills, lakeside trails, and special-shaped buildings, bringing you a visual feast of art. Sculptor Luo Xu took the red soil from this plateau and used the red bricks from this land to implant unique-style buildings into the original landforms, and built a group of red brick art buildings in various shapes. The kaleidoscope displays the only two sets of "Thousands of Chorus Pottery Figurines" in the world, and the Half Cloud Art Living Room creates a Zen and quiet Refreshment environment. International Art Center, Agricultural Reclamation Museum, Flower Hill, Seal Workshop... Here, architecture tells stories and art conveys emotions. Eat at Dongfengyun, where the Seal Shop and Cultural and Creative Market, which combine local snacks from Mile, bring you a food carnival. Stay at Dongfengyun, MGallery Art Hotel, with 5 different themes to meet your business, administration, parent-child, vacation, and honeymoon needs; Niuduoluo Music Farm, takes you into a different rural life; Art Inn, with modern intelligent technology, allows you to experience the butler-style immersive stay experience cared for by artificial intelligence. Here, life becomes poetry, allowing time to flow slowly in the poetry and paintings of art, and allowing the soul to rest quietly in the long river of years. The wind rises, the clouds fall, wine is consumed among the flowers, and life is filled with the rare charm of the east wind.China · Mile
Experiences you can't miss in Dayao
Featured Day tours in Dayao
View all Day tours![Jizu Mountain 1-day tour [includes admission ticket + cable car + sightseeing bus | quality pure play | round-trip pickup & drop-off]](https://ak-d.tripcdn.com/images/0101q120008flnx0p2FDD_C_568_320.jpg?_fr=wc)
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Free things to do in Dayao
Yao’an Guanglu Ancient Town
Yao'an · 20.8km from DayaoDianchi Lake
China · Kunming
Erhai Lake
China · Dali City
Yunnan Provincial Museum
China · Kunming
Old Town of Lijiang
China · Lijiang
Dali Ancient City
China · Dali City
Xizhou
China · Dali City
Yang Li Ping Art Space
China · Dali City
Shuanglang Ancient Town
China · Dali City
What travellers say about Dayao
M28***2114 July 2026
5.0
The Three Pools Waterfall in Dayao, Chuxiong was a wonderful surprise! The tallest waterfall in Southwest China is magnificent, with refreshing mist – a perfect summer retreat. The scenic area is well-equipped with sightseeing buses and magic carpets, making it easy for both the elderly and children to enjoy. The boardwalks and viewing platforms offer great photo opportunities, and the pristine natural scenery is worth a special trip!
Santan Waterfall Scenic Area
M82***5028 April 2025
4.0
石羊古镇位于云南省大姚县，是一个历史悠久的古镇。它有着深厚的文化底蕴，被誉为儒家圣地和千年盐都。在这里，你可以看到古老的建筑、感受传统的文化，也可以品尝到地道的美食。作为一个旅游爱好者，我深深地被石羊古镇所吸引。当我走进古镇时，我感受到一股浓厚的历史气息。孔庙是最吸引我的地方之一。它是一个展示儒家文化的重要场所，是一座具有深远历史意义的建筑。在孔庙里，我通过了解儒家文化，更深入地了解了中国的传统文化和价值观。此 ，石羊古镇还是一个千年盐都。这里的盐是非常有名的，自古以来一直是当地人的重要来源。在古镇里，有一些盐场遗址和盐仓，这些都是历史的见证。我非常感慨，这些曾经是人们生活的一部分，也是人们与历史的联系。
Shiyang Ancient Town
阴阳宝瓶7 October 2024
4.0
Guanglu Ancient Town in Yao'an is a scenic spot in the county and a must-visit place when visiting Yao'an. It has a sense of age and you can go and experience it. As a county, it is not appropriate to have this culture.
Yao’an Guanglu Ancient Town
Anonymous user25 October 2026
5.0
เป็นประสบการณ์ที่ดี ภูเขาหิมะมังกรหยกยิ่งใหญ่มาก การเดินขึ้นต้องใช้แรงกายเยอะ เนื่องจากอยู่ที่สูง ควรเตรียมร่างกายให้พร้อม ชุดกันหนาวที่ดี และเตรียมออกซิเจนมาด้วย
Yulong Snow Mountain
Anonymous user14 October 2026
5.0
Location: Haigeng Park/No. 16 Hubin Road ↔ Xishan Longmen (West Mountain Dragon Gate), not near the old street, you have to go to the Dianchi Lake area.
Experience: Crossing the lake + climbing the mountain, about 20 minutes one way, views of Dianchi Lake, Sleeping Beauty Mountain, and city scenery, great for taking photos.
Ticket Price: One way about 59-60 RMB, round trip about 98-100 RMB.
Advantages: Easy for lazy people to climb West Mountain, no climbing required, unique views; seagulls in winter.
Disadvantages: Stops during strong winds/thunderstorms; long queues during peak season; separate ticket/walking required for Longmen after climbing the mountain; don't confuse with the "Xishan Longmen Cableway".
Conclusion: First time in Kunming, taking the Dianchi-Xishan route → worth it; if just exploring the old street → not worth a special trip.
Dianchi Lake
Anonymous user18 September 2026
4.0
This attraction was developed by a private owner. Due to early issues, the local government sold it to a private contractor, resulting in only moderate maintenance and upkeep. Furthermore, local transportation to the site is somewhat inconvenient. If you plan to go, it's recommended to drive yourself or hire a car. Buses are available, but their schedules are less flexible. From a photography perspective, it's worth visiting; the scenery is very photogenic and perfect for taking pictures.
Langbapu Earth Forest (Xinhua Earth Forest)
M25***1826 October 2026
5.0
This is my second time visiting the Stone Forest Scenic Area in Yunnan. The scenery is still incredibly beautiful, with unique peaks and rocks that are truly magnificent. It deserves its status as a World Natural Heritage site and is definitely worth a visit.
Stone Forest Scenic Area
Anonymous user12 March 2026
5.0
The scenery is pristine and magnificent, with vibrant colors and few tourists, offering a truly immersive experience. Scenic Area No. 4 is the most breathtaking. However, the only drawbacks are the inadequate service facilities and unclear signage for the tour routes.
Yuanmou Earth and Forest Scenic Resort
189***1223 October 2026
4.0
It's nice for taking photos and checking in, but not so much for leisurely sightseeing. A few of the exhibition halls were quite nice. What I don't understand is that the shuttle bus is still a gasoline-powered vehicle, and there was a really unpleasant smell in the back.
Dongfengyun Scenic Area
