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2D1N Shaxi Eco Retreat | Ancient Tea Horse Road & Buddhist Grottoes
Stay at eco-friendly hotel, guided exploration of Tea Horse Road & grottoes
Group size
Up to 2 guests
DURATION
2 days 1 night
Booking type
Private trip
MEET UP
At location
Group size
Up to 2 guests
- Experience highlights
- Itinerary
- Inclusions
- Accommodation
- Availability
- More Info
- Host
A guided journey through Shaxi’s ancient town & grottoes
Step off the beaten path and explore Shaxi, one of the last surviving market towns along the ancient Tea Horse Road — a historic trading route that once connected Yunnan to Tibet. Unlike more commercialised old towns, Shaxi remains quietly lived-in, where cobbled streets, old caravan inns, and temple courtyards still reflect its past.One of the highlights is Shibao Mountain, home to a series of rare Buddhist grottoes carved directly into the cliffs over 1,000 years ago. These intricate stone carvings, set against a dramatic natural landscape, offer a glimpse into a lesser-known chapter of China’s Buddhist heritage that few travellers get to see up close.Shaxi’s revival story is equally compelling. Once at risk of disappearing, the town has been thoughtfully restored with a focus on preserving its original architecture and way of life. Today, it offers a rare chance to experience rural Yunnan as it is — not staged, but evolving — where Bai communities continue their traditions while adapting to modern life.What to ExpectWalk through Shaxi Old Town, including Sideng Square and the historic Yujin BridgeVisit Shibao Mountain to see ancient Buddhist grottoes carved into the cliffsExplore Bai villages and learn about local culture and daily lifeExperience a community gathering with Bai songs and dance (if available)Stay at a thoughtfully designed eco-hotel that blends modern comfort with traditional craftsmanshipGood to KnowThis is a private 2-day, 1-night experience, with all transport and some meals includedThe hotel and most activities are accessible, but some walking on uneven paths or stone terrains is involved—good footwear is recommendedThe bonfire evening and dances depend on group size and weather conditionsEntrance fees to local sites and attractions are included, but supplementary costs (like souvenirs or extra activities) are notMake sure to bring cash for local purchases and any additional donations at temples or villagesPrepare to embrace slow, scenic exploration—this isn’t a rushed tour but a chance to really connect with place and people
Experience highlights
What You’ll be Doing
Day 1:
Explore Shaxi Old Town, Bai village, innovative rammed earth hotel & local cultureDay 2:
Visit Shibao Mountain and Baoxiang Temple, see ancient carvings and learn spiritual fusionShow Details
What’s Included
One night of accommodation in Shaxi
Breakfast and dinner at Linden Centre
Day 2 packed lunch and snacks
Required entry fees during excursions
Transportation from Shaxi Old Town to Linden Centre Shaxi
Transfers to and from the experiences
Show Details
Next Available Dates
Prices shown in USD
Select Time for 13 Apr 2026
Additional Information
Where we'll meet
Start Point
Meet-up at Shaxi Old Town(寺登街, 寺登街, 中国)
- Start time is flexible. Do let us know which time you prefer
- Notes: Meet in Shaxi Old Town during the day
End Point
- End at Linden Centre Shaxi (石宝山, 中国)
Start & Ends
You can choose any start time. Just let your host know after booking.
10:30AM on Day 1 - 12:00PM on Day
10:30AM on Day 1 - 12:00PM on Day
10:30AM on Day 1 - 12:00PM on Day
10:30AM on Day 1 - 12:00PM on Day
Suitability / Accessibility
- Wheelchair-accessible
- Infant seats available
- Vegetarian food available
- Halal food available
- Child Friendly (No Minimum Age)
Cancellation & other policies
- CancellationCancel 3 days before activity for a full refund
What to Pack
- Cash (for local purchases & donations)
- Casual clothes for activities
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Light jacket or sweater (cool evenings)
- Rain jacket or poncho (in case of rain)
- Sunscreen and hat
- Water bottle
From
¥2,049.7
/personShow Prices
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Meet your host
Since 2008, American couple Brian and Jeanee have called rural Yunnan home. Their dedication to China’s rich heritage and restoring a historic Bai courtyard in Xizhou, Dali, reflects their respect for local culture and community, inspiring trust in Linden Centre's authentic experience.
But their vision never stood alone. Yujiang, and other young Chinese professionals who had studied and worked abroad, began returning and joined the Linden Centre. Together—with local communities and leaders—they’ve shaped Linden Centre into something truly special: an international perspective rooted in local identity.
Experience: 18 years
Speaks: Basic English, Fluent English, Chinese
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