About this journey
We meet at Sule Restaurant near Dali old town at 13:00, then drive about 1 hour to the Miju River countryside, shaded by huge Chinese pistache trees.
We'll take a gentle walk along the riverbank, collecting leaves and flowers for plant pounding (eco-printing), and forage wild vegetables from the fields to make tempura.
Afternoon tea includes fresh fruit, pastries, and hand-made milk tea.
Years ago, I rode a beat-up motorcycle here with a friend in autumn, through golden rice fields that felt more beautiful than Xizhou.
We dreamed of camping by the stream.
Five years later, I returned in spring 2025 with my van, converted by Xiaoqi into a cozy camper.
I spent two days just sleeping, cooking, and walking—feeling utterly content.
The path runs between fields and a creek, with rich vegetation different from Cangshan.
Bug-nibbled leaves make perfect pounding subjects.
We even spotted beautiful earthstars and parasol mushrooms (only before October).
Why a van trip?
The van is our second home—simple and free.
This activity is an invitation into our life.
In spring, I parked under big trees, fields on one side, creek on the other.
Curious farmers asked about my stove.
I hung magnetic curtains for privacy, opened the right windows for breeze and flower scents.
I spent almost the whole day inside, except for walks and washing dishes in the clean irrigation ditch.
Egrets flew away when I approached, but dozens of squirrels boldly hopped onto the path, as if teasing me.
Xiaoqi built a large foldable table for me to draw.
I sketched a big tree with a child and a butterfly, surrounded by green.
Time passed quickly.
In the evening, I walked among ancient Chinese pistache trees—their narrow leaves have a unique scent when crushed.
A monk from Bolo Temple once gave us some for tea; I thought of picking some again.
For dinner, I pan-fried goat cheese slices with tomato, sprinkled with salt.
As dusk fell, I saw gray-blue mountains behind the creek, lit a cigarette, and lay down with the van door open, feeling the perfect temperature.
What will you see?
Eryuan's rural scenery, cheese-making, local ice cream and fresh milk.
Plants vary by season: Jan-Mar: bare ancient trees contrast with green fields of tribute vegetables and fava beans; Mar-Jun: lush growth with many plants not found on Cangshan, and century-old Albizia trees bloom white; Oct-Dec: golden rice fields and egrets suddenly flying out of the tree clusters.
What will you do?
Walk along the ancient tree-lined riverbank, collect plants, learn about them, make plant pounding crafts, forage wild vegetables, cook tempura, and enjoy afternoon tea.
Who is it for?
Anyone who loves nature, crafts, and relaxation—no fitness required.
Special features: Easy, immersive countryside experience with limited group size, absolutely off the beaten path.
Can I drive myself?
Parking near the meeting point is inconvenient, and riding in the van through the countryside is part of the experience.
Can a group of 4-5 join?
Yes, but please contact the guide on WeChat: dalimogujingling.
Photos from Sep 1, 2025; each season looks different.
