A Hidden Gem in the Heart of Ancient China
If you’re planning a getaway to Dali, China, and want an immersive stay that feels like stepping into a Chinese period drama, The One Resort 大理一呆水木荣府 is where tradition meets serenity. Nestled in the heart of Dali’s old town, this boutique heritage-style resort offers a truly atmospheric escape, blending classic architecture, charming courtyards, and the buzz of the city just beyond its gates.
Getting There
The journey from Kunming to Dali by car took about 5 hours, including the pit stops we made along the way. Once you arrive in Dali Old Town, do note that cars are restricted during certain hours, especially in the more popular pedestrian-only lanes. We had to be dropped off at a nearby intersection, and the hotel promptly sent a bellboy to assist with our luggage and guide us through the cobbled streets to the reception.
This small gesture already gave us a taste of the hospitality that awaited inside.
First Impressions: A Movie Set Come to Life
Walking through the gates of The One Resort felt like entering a film set for an ancient Chinese drama. Lush trees, quiet courtyards, and intricate rooftops crafted in traditional Chinese style surround the entire compound. Each building retains a unique charm, and the layout gives off an elegant, village-like atmosphere with tranquil nooks to unwind.
The architecture blends Ming and Qing dynasty design elements, with wooden carvings, stone pathways, and tiled rooftops adding a rustic but regal charm.
The Rooms
Rooms are housed within heritage-style two-storey buildings. I stayed on the upper floor, which required climbing a narrow, steep staircase — definitely something to keep in mind if you’re traveling with elderly family members (request a ground-floor room for ease).
My room exuded zen. A standalone bathtub surrounded by smooth river stones created a spa-like ambiance. There was a separate rainfall shower, full amenities, and a private toilet space. The use of wooden beams and antique furniture made it feel like a modern stay wrapped in old-world charm.
This is the kind of space where time feels slower—in the best way possible.
Location: The Best of Dali at Your Doorstep
Location-wise, it doesn’t get better than this. The One Resort is right in the heart of Dali Ancient Town, a bustling hub full of life, flavors, and local charm. The moment we stepped outside, we were surrounded by:
- Lively bars with live music
- Local street food vendors grilling everything from tofu to yak skewers
- Trendy cafés and tea houses
- Massage parlours for post-walking pampering
- Handcrafted souvenir stalls and indie boutiques
It’s the kind of place where day and night offer completely different experiences—calm in the morning, electric in the evening.
Dining
Breakfast was served at the charming annex beside the main reception. The decor carried the same old-school elegance, with vintage wooden furniture and sunlight streaming through traditional windows. The buffet offered a simple but satisfying spread of Chinese and Western options—think steamed buns, noodles, eggs, fruit, and toast.
While it wasn’t gourmet-level, it was more than adequate and had enough variety to start the day. Seating is limited, so try to go early or outside of peak breakfast hours to avoid the crowd.
Service
The service stood out for its warmth and efficiency. The porters helped carry our luggage both to and from the drop-off point, and up those tricky stairs to our room. The check-in process, while slightly delayed due to peak-hour crowds, was handled with courtesy and professionalism.
The staff may not be fluent in English, but they more than make up for it with their helpfulness and patience.
Final Thoughts
One of the most refreshing aspects of our stay was the lack of international tourist crowds. Dali seems to be more of a domestic destination, and yet it’s full of energy thanks to local Chinese travelers. This made the experience feel much more authentic, culturally rich, and connected to the rhythm of local life.
If you’re looking for a stay that delivers on aesthetics, atmosphere, and access to Dali’s cultural heartbeat, The One Resort ticks all the boxes. It’s not just a hotel—it’s part of the experience.