Meet Yourself: A Healing Journey in Dali

The hugely popular TV series Meet Yourself (去有风的地方) a few years ago sparked a longing in many for the city of Dali. Those authentic and heartwarming scenes from the show are hidden within the ancient villages of Dali. If you too want to experience this breezy sense of ease, follow in my footsteps to discover the real-life filming locations. Fengyangyi: Stepping onto Stone Paths, Meeting the Past The inspiration for the “Breeze Courtyard” in the series—Fengyangyi Village—is an ancient settlement gently preserved by time. Here, there are no bustling crowds of tourists, only old stone-paved paths, weathered earthen walls, and trees that have stood for centuries. Walking into the village, you’ll encounter many familiar scenes. The stone steps leading to the “Breeze Courtyard” are flanked by vine-covered stone walls and end at a rustic wooden door adorned with red couplets, as if Xie Zhiyao and Xu Hongdou could push it open at any moment. The village lanes are narrow and winding, lined with original stone walls, some of which have begun to peel, revealing traces of time. Ancient courtyards are everywhere—each gate and every wall tells its own story, making you feel as though you’ve stepped back into a slower-paced era. At the village entrance, you’ll see the classic gate engraved with Fengyang Courtyard. This was an important location in the series and is now a perfect spot for visitors to take photos. The stone lions at the gate, paired with the vintage architectural style, are full of charm. Traces of the Wind: Markers Throughout the Village Throughout Fengyangyi, many places bear the mark of Ride the Wind. At the village entrance, a large signpost shows directions and distances to various filming locations, such as “Fengyang Courtyard” and “Phoenix Eye.” These signs not only guide visitors but have also become a distinctive part of the village scenery. A Stroll with Flavors: More Than Scenery, There’s Food Beyond the ancient architecture, Fengyangyi is also home to many unique small shops. You can find eateries like “Little Chef” and “Big Bone Broth” that appeared in the series and sample local delicacies. These spots stand out with their bright colors and eye-catching signs. At the other end of the village, a striking red wooden door hangs a sign reading “Auntie Liao’s Noodles,” a cozy noodle shop full of warmth. Imagine ending your village walk with a hot bowl of noodles—pure comfort. If you want to escape the city’s noise and find some peace and healing, Fengyangyi Village in Dali is an excellent choice. Its beauty and stories are waiting for you to discover. #mytraveldiary