Shaxi is an ancient market town in China’s Yunnan Province. It is an important stop on the well-traveled route between Lijiang and Dali. The Shaxi marketplace was inducted to the World Memorial Fund list a few years ago.
In old times, Shaxi was situated along an important trade route connecting Tibet with southern China’s lowlands. Caravans came through on a regular basis, bringing salt along with other sundries. All of this traffic made Shaxi a thriving, international hub. Everything ground to a halt in the aftermath of the Cultural Revolution.
The upshot is that Shaxi was largely ignored in China’s devastating destroy-and-rebuild campaign. Much of the original infrastructure remains to this day, and today’s government understands the benefit of tourism. With the help of renowned conservation expert, Jacques Feiner, the city has restored the marketplace and temples that once hosted traders from across the continent.
Getting There & Away
Shaxi is situated squarely between Lijiang and Dali, two better known (and more crowded) ancient cities. Minibuses connect from Jianchuan bus station (1 hour). The nearby airport in Xiaguan opened recently and offers quick service to the international hub in Kunming (45 minutes).
Things to Do
Shaxi Attractions
- Sideng Market
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Shaxi’s forgotten central attraction has been restored by one of the world’s leading architectural conservationists.
- Xingjiao Temple
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Once closed under intense religious persecution, this temple has been restored and is once again open for worship.