One Person, One Flower, One Shuanglang: Rediscovering Myself by Erhai Lake

Sometimes, the meaning of travel isn't about telling others "I've been here," but about letting yourself see a broader world. When you set out alone, you realize that life can take countless forms—and you are just one of them.

Origins: A Promise Tied to the Clouds

My name carries the character "芸" (Yun), a testament to my father's deep connection to Yunnan. He fought in the 1979 Sino-Vietnamese border war and the 1984 Battle of Laoshan and Zheyin Mountain. Those fiery years left him speaking of Yunnan with pride in his eyes. I grew up on a military compound in Yunnan, moving back to Sichuan with my family only in 1988.

Every year, I return to this land. Not for any particular reason, but like migratory birds instinctively seeking a place with clouds.

This time, I packed my DSLR camera, a suitcase, and a heart full of memories, setting off alone for Shuanglang. Though my husband Jing couldn't join me, he always said, "You should go on your own—practice your photography skills." So I embarked on this solo journey.

Travel: A Process of Transformation

I've always believed that travel isn't just about posting a few photos on social media. It's a conversation with yourself, a cleansing of the soul. When you see different people living different lives, you understand that the world doesn't revolve around you. Your perspective broadens, little by little.

On this trip, I met Dan Dan from Xiangtan, Hunan, in Kunming. She decided to follow me after seeing just a few photos of the Ejina poplar forests on my phone. "You're a good photographer," she said. She didn't know those photos were taken by my husband Jing. I'm just an amateur who uses the A-mode on my DSLR, knowing how to adjust ISO and aperture, with everything else preset by Jing. But Dan Dan added, "Your photos tell stories." That warmed my heart.

Kunming: A Fleeting Prelude

In Kunming, I skipped the famous sights. Dan Dan and I shared a meal of authentic 汽锅鸡 (steam pot chicken)—her treat. Cold-tossed rice noodles, grilled fish, creamy mashed potatoes, and iron-plate mushrooms—each dish brought back childhood flavors.

Afterward, we went to the Yunnan Art Theater to watch Yunnan Impression. Even though Yang Liping herself wasn't performing, her students danced with equal passion, each movement full of strength and grace. No photography was allowed in the theater, so I could only sneak a few shots with my phone.

From Kunming to Shuanglang: Scenery Along the Way

There are many ways to get from Kunming to Shuanglang. I chose the most budget-friendly option: a high-speed bus for 138 yuan, plus 4 yuan for insurance, taking four and a half hours. The driver stopped for lunch at the Chuxiong rest area, and by the time we reached Dali, it was five hours later.

In Dali, instead of taking the shuttle, I hired a private car. Master Zhang drove a brand-new vehicle with skilled handling and a warm demeanor. The fare from Dali to Shuanglang was 180 yuan, and he said it doesn't increase during peak season—a reliable deal, I thought.

Shuanglang: A Place That Slows You Down

Shuanglang—the name itself sounds like a poem. It's a small town in Dali, nestled against Cangshan Mountain and facing Erhai Lake. It hasn't been overdeveloped, preserving its original fishing village charm. People come here seeking a quiet spot to sit under dappled tree shadows and watch the lake.

I booked a sea-view room at Blue Sail Mediterranean two weeks in advance for 320 yuan per night. Though the famous "Haidilife" (Sea Life) was fully booked, Blue Sail Mediterranean surprised me. Opening the window, Erhai Lake lay before me, shimmering and soothing.

Accommodation Recommendations: Places Worth Staying

If you're planning a trip to Shuanglang, here are some guesthouses to consider:

• Hai Lian Inn: 300–480 yuan (sea view)
• Yun Qi Pi She: 380–680 yuan (standard)
• Feng Xin Zi (Hyacinth): 580–880 yuan (sea view)
• Lan Ting Bie Yuan: 360 yuan (sea view)
• Blue Sail Mediterranean: 320 yuan (sea view)
• Peninsula 63: 280 yuan (standard)
• Chun Nuan Hua Kai (Spring Blossoms): 380 yuan (sea view) / 280 yuan (bay view)
• Hou Niao Hai Jing Inn (Migratory Bird Sea View Inn): 480 yuan (sea view)
• Ge Sang Yun Hai: 580–1,180 yuan (sea view)
• Guan Yuan Inn: 280–680 yuan (sea view)
• Lan Ren Bu Luo (Lazy Tribe): 480 yuan (standard) / 880 yuan (stargazing) / 380 yuan (bay window)

Honestly, you can see the lake from anywhere. A sea-view room is just the cherry on top.

Daily Life in Shuanglang: Finding Yourself in Slow Time

Shuanglang has no major attractions—its charm lies in its unspoiled nature and tranquility. Every day, I wandered through the ancient town with my camera, capturing the unique character of each guesthouse.

At Lan Ting Bie Yuan, I met a dog named Xiao Huang (Little Yellow), who slept all day, every day, as if time meant nothing to him. At Dian Xin Yuan restaurant, I enjoyed a refined lunch—their deep-fried pork belly is unforgettable. At Haidilife, I photographed the iconic white tables and chairs that countless others have captured, but each shot told its own story.

My favorite photo was taken at Haidilife. A guy from Chongqing pressed the shutter for me. In the image, I stand among flowers, with Erhai Lake and Cangshan Mountain behind me. Jing later said, "You're finally approaching master level." Only one photo satisfied me, but that was enough.

Warm Little Moments

In Shuanglang, I met fellow travelers from Leshan. They treated Dan Dan, her sister, and me to a lavish dinner, moving from the restaurant to a bar. That night, we sat in the "Shuanglang Story" bar, listening to folk music, drinking, and chatting. Outside, the nightscape of Erhai Lake; inside, warm lights and laughter.

I also sent a postcard to Jing, writing: "Without you, I can travel alone. But with you, I'm happier."

Final Thoughts: Be Your Own Little Person

On the last day of my trip, I sat by the window at Blue Sail Mediterranean, watching the sunrise over Erhai Lake. In that moment, I understood: life is like a journey. It's not about the destination, but the scenery along the way and the mood with which you view it.

While the sun is still warm, while the breeze is gentle, while the flowers haven't yet bloomed to their fullest, while you're still young enough to walk long roads and speak deep longings—be your own little person. Lose your temper in the noise, fuss over trivial matters in daily life, eat, drink, shop, travel. If you can't afford it, don't buy it. If you can't forget it, don't force it. Live for your own happiness, rest when you're tired.

If you're feeling down, look out the window. The world is vast, the scenery beautiful, opportunities plentiful, and life short. Don't curl up in a small shadow. If your life is at a low point, walk boldly—because any direction you take is upward.

Goodbye, Dali. Goodbye, Yunnan. I'll be back.