Things to do in Lijiang

If you’re already in Lijiang, you should still visit—just adjust your expectations and prepare to be pushed around by the massive crowds!Personally, I found it slightly overrated. Visiting in September means virtually zero snow on the peak, just grey rock, patchy ice, and mist. Yet, it’s still packed. Expect an exhausting, full-day affair filled with endless queues for park shuttles, cableways, and boardwalks. You'll spend half the day jostled along in a sea of people.Quick Tips:Wear solid walking shoes: Non-negotiable for hundreds of boardwalk stairs at 4,680m.Oxygen: Vendors sell it like survival gear. I didn't use mine, but most people huff it continuously. Pace yourself and listen to your body.Time: Write off the whole day.It’s an iconic check-the-box spot, but go in mentally prepared for the hustle. Blue Moon Valley at the base remains a great silver lining!

A truly worthwhile destination; the experience exceeded my expectations. Although there were no seagulls and the water hyacinths weren't in full bloom at Lugu Lake in late September, it was still incredibly beautiful. Whether you start from Lijiang or Dali, it's very friendly to independent travelers, with convenient public transportation. A tour around the lake is also easy, and the stone pot fish and cured pork rib hot pot are delicious.

This visit to the attraction was an excellent experience. It boasts a rich historical and cultural heritage, beautiful natural scenery, and excellent facilities, making for a smooth and comfortable overall tour. In conclusion, this attraction is of exceptional quality and highly worth visiting; it is strongly recommended to all tourists.

The night view of Lijiang Old Town is a gentle interplay of lights and flowing water. As night falls, the cobblestone streets are bathed in the warm yellow glow of lanterns, creating a poetic atmosphere. The Jade River shimmers, reflecting the starry sky of the old town. In the streets and alleys, Naxi ancient music and folk songs blend together, and the everyday life of the city merges with the ancient charm of a thousand years ago. From a high vantage point, the myriad lights of homes create a scene resembling a flowing ink painting of Jiangnan, gentle and romantic, captivating visitors with its blend of tranquility and vibrancy, making them linger and reluctant to leave.

Yulong Snow Mountain was such a special experience for me. 🏔️🤍 I’ve seen so many photos of this place before, but seeing the snow-covered mountains with my own eyes felt completely different.The cold and the altitude definitely made it a little challenging 😂 but I kept looking around and thinking how beautiful everything was. The mountains, the clouds, and the whole atmosphere were just unforgettable.Really happy I got to experience this in person. Definitely one of the highlights of my Yunnan trip. ✨

Horseback riding along the Ancient Tea Horse Road is definitely worthwhile. The only downside was that I bought shoe covers this time; it was incredibly hot and stuffy, very uncomfortable. Don't blindly follow the shopkeepers' recommendations; follow your own pace. The food wasn't particularly delicious, but it was good value for money. Just make sure you're not hungry. The scenery was beautiful, and there were fruit vendors along the roadside.

Our jade dragon snow mountain day trip kicked off on a drizzly morning. Uncle Ming, our driver, arrived right on time at 7 am at our hotel. The car was spotless, and the ride to our destination was smooth and enjoyable. Uncle Ming gave us clear directions on how to explore the Spruce Meadow and Blue Moon Valley. We wrapped up our tour by 1 pm, and despite the rain, everyone was thrilled. Uncle Ming's service is highly recommended.

- Tranquil and Relaxed Atmosphere: Compared to Lijiang Ancient Town, Shuhe Ancient Town is quieter and more peaceful, without excessive noise and commercial hawking. It feels more like a place to live, where visitors can slow down and enjoy leisurely moments. - Beautiful Natural Scenery: Shuhe Ancient Town is nourished by water, which comes from melting snow from the mountains. The water is crystal clear, flowing through the fields and into the town, forming small canals that surround every row of houses. The emerald green waters of Jiuding Longtan (Nine Dragon Pool) are like an emerald embedded in the town, adding to its ethereal beauty. - Rich Cultural Heritage: Shuhe Ancient Town has a long history. Formerly known as "Suhe," it is related to the ancient Naxi tribe. During the Yuan and Ming dynasties, it was an important post on the Ancient Tea Horse Road. Many relics from that time are still preserved, such as the stone slabs worn smooth by horses' hooves. Historical buildings like Jiefang Bridge and Yujin Bridge also bear the marks of time. - Rich in folk customs: The ancient town preserves the traditional architectural style and lifestyle of the Naxi people. Visitors can see Naxi elders sunbathing in their courtyards, admire exquisite Naxi wood carvings, embroidery and other handicrafts, hear melodious Naxi ancient music, and experience the rich ethnic customs.

It was great choice. Return bus shuttle ride lijiang ancient town to jade dragon snow mountain ticketing office. Plus we get single ride sight seeing train which we really enjoyed! Hui helped us with purchasing the Yun shan ping cable car tickets at the ticketing office counter as we tried to purchase it online but was sold out. Thanks Hui and her good service!

Sifang Street is located in the center of Lijiang Old Town. It is well connected with traffic and surrounded by quiet alleys. It is said that it was built by Mu Tusi in the Ming Dynasty according to the shape of his seal. It is the most important hub on the Ancient Tea Horse Road. Since the Ming and Qing Dynasties, merchants from all over the world have gathered here, and the cultures of various ethnic groups have intersected and thrived here. It is the center of economic and cultural exchanges in Lijiang. Sifang Street is famous for its unique street scene of colorful stone paving, clear water washing the street, market in the middle of the day and washing the market at dusk.