The history of Dali is an epic written across the landscapes of Cangshan and Erhai. Human habitation dates back over 4,000 years. During the Western Han Dynasty, the Dali area was formally incorporated into the Chinese empire. In 738 AD, the Nanzhao Kingdom rose here, becoming a powerful regime in Southwest China that lasted more than two centuries. It was followed by the Dali Kingdom, which endured for over 300 years alongside the Song Dynasty, flourishing in Buddhism and earning the name "Kingdom of Fragrant Buddha." During the Ming and Qing dynasties, Dali served as the political, economic, and cultural center of western Yunnan, leaving behind treasures such as the Three Pagodas of Chongsheng Temple, Weishan Ancient Town, and the Shibao Mountain Grottoes. Dali Old Town still preserves its original chessboard layout, with cobblestone streets, traditional Bai residences, and flowing streams telling stories of a thousand years. From the grandeur of Nanzhao to the gentleness of Dali, from Buddhist solemnity to the vibrant colors of Bai culture — the layers of history have endowed this ancient city with irreplaceable cultural depth. Every step here is a conversation with the past.