In the second year of Yuanfeng in the Western Han Dynasty (before 109), Yuye County was established in Dali, and the organizational system of Yuye County remained until the Southern and Northern Dynasties. Early Tang Dynasty, Erhai Lake area? Six letters? With the support of the Tang Dynasty, the power of Mongolian imperial edict became stronger and stronger. Six letters? , the establishment of Nanzhao State. During the Tang and Song Dynasties from the 8th century to the13rd century, Dali was always the political, economic and cultural center of Yunnan, and also the capital of Nanzhao and Dali.

After the demise of Dali in Yuan Dynasty, Yunnan remained the political center of Dali. In the 11th year of Yuan Dynasty (1274), Yunnan Province was established, and its administrative center was moved from Dali to Kunming, but Dali is still the largest city in western Yunnan, which has been inherited ever since.

Dali is inhabited by Yi, Hui, Lisu, Miao and Han nationalities. Dali culture is the product of the integration of Central Plains culture, Tibetan culture, Southeast Asian culture and local national culture, and it is an important part of Chinese cultural chain. The costumes, residence, marriage, beliefs, customs and festivals of the Bai nationality are full of unique national interests. These rich ethnic customs add to the historical and cultural atmosphere of the ancient city and the charming color of Dali's historical and cultural city.