Dali Old City by raraavis
Dali Old City is one of the few walled cities in China. It has over 1,200 years of history behind it. The Bai (White) Tribe is the primary minority group in Dali. Very few young Bai women still dress in traditional appareal, but you will see them around the Old City to attract tourists. Dali Old City and its architecture have an aged look to it. However, the hippie restaurants and bars give it a distinct, relaxing atmosphere mixing the old and the new.
It's not as developed as its replacement destination -Lijiang, but retains a lot more flavor than its too commercialized neighbor.
The best thing to do is simply get lost and wander the streets. It's not that big and no need to worry about getting lost as long as you are within the 4 walls.