TikToker went to ‘Fake Santorini’ made in China and describes: “Drinking… frappe under the sun”

A TikToker revealed how she found herself in a ‘made in China’ Santorini icon.

27-year-old Yasmin von Roon was stunned when she discovered Dali’s resort, an “exact copy” of the much-loved Santorini.

Built on the slope of the Cangshan mountain range, the popular resort overlooks Lake Erhai and is a unique “replica” of the Cycladic island thousands of kilometers away from the Aegean.

The resort – dubbed the “fake Santorini” – has replicated the island’s iconic whitewashed cobbled streets and blue windows, a Cyclades trademark and favorite tourist destination.

Dali features clear skies and a relaxed atmosphere, while visitors can enjoy an iced frappe in the sun just like in Greece, the TikToker reported.

The Aegean, the volcano and the world-famous Santorini sunset may be missing, but otherwise the Chinese version bears a close resemblance to the original.

The sunny Greek island is a particularly popular wedding destination for Chinese couples – which may be why more than €1 billion has been spent on recreating the island’s replica in Yunnan province.

The “made in China” Santorini

The Italian-German content creator came across the unexpected sight while traveling alone, reports the UK’s Sun newspaper. She told the newspaper that she first saw photos of the area circulating on Chinese social media.

“I couldn’t believe this. Being close to Dali’s beautiful old town, I couldn’t resist seeing it with my own eyes!” he said.

China’s Santorini has become a popular tourist resort – especially for those who can’t afford a trip to the authentic Greek island – and has a variety of Greek-like hotels, shops and restaurants.

As the TikToker said, even the weather is the same, referring to a strong “Cycladic” wind that was blowing when she arrived in Dali.

“Nothing compares to the original”

The 27-year-old, who studies International Relations and Global Governance at China’s Zhejiang University, however, believes that while the copy is quite convincing, nothing can compare to the… original.

He added: “Having visited Greece several times, including Santorini, I can appreciate the charm of the Chinese replica.

It is located in one of the most scenic locations in China, and the environment with frappes etc. exudes a relaxed atmosphere reminiscent of Greece.

There were couples taking their wedding photos there, just like in the real Santorini. But while the setting is amazing, the essence of Greek Santorini is irreplaceable.

While the replica brings out the visual aspects well, such as the architecture and coastal setting, the cultural and historical depth of the original is unmatched.”

She stated that she sees Dali as “a token of admiration and an opportunity for those who cannot travel abroad to get a taste of… Greece.”

Chinese media described Dali as “a resort town with beautiful scenery and Santorini-style buildings, attracting many couples to take wedding photos.”