Lijiang: The Snow Mountain & Ancient Town
Wander through centuries-old streets, gaze upon the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, and immerse yourself in Naxi culture.
Welcome to Lijiang! Time slows down here, hidden in the cobblestone streets of the Old Town and the reflection of the Snow Mountain. This 3-day, 2-night plan covers the must-visit snowy peaks, healing blue lakes, Naxi-style ancient towns, and authentic highland cuisine.
Attractions & Itinerary
Tap copy & paste icon at the right side of attraction name and paste in map app to see the location.
Day 1: Old Town Classic Roam
Zhongyi Market(忠义市场)
Experience the most authentic local vibe. The variety of fruits and vegetables here is rich and affordable. A microcosm of local life in Lijiang, full of vitality.
Mufu Palace(木府)
"The Forbidden City of the North, Mufu Palace of the South." This was the residence of the Mu Chieftains (Tusi) of the Naxi people. Listen to stories of Naxi history and admire the magnificent architecture.
Lion Hill & Wangu Pavilion(狮子山与万古楼)
The best spot to photograph the layered rooftops of the Old Town. Climb Wangu Pavilion for a panoramic view of Lijiang Old Town and the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain in the distance.
Sifang Street(四方街)
The heart of the ancient city. Brightly lit at night, it is the core area to experience Lijiang's nightlife. Watch the bonfire dancing or find a quiet bar.
Day 2: Embrace Snow Mountain & Blue Valley
Jade Dragon Snow Mountain(玉龙雪山)
The sacred mountain of the Naxi people, snow-capped year-round. Take the Glacier Park Ropeway directly to 4506m, then hike to 4680m.
Blue Moon Valley(蓝月谷)
Formerly known as "Baishui River," named for its blue water and crescent-shaped valley. Admire the crystal-clear, sapphire-blue water at the foot of the snow mountain.
Spruce Meadow (云杉坪)
A primeval spruce forest under the snow mountain. Photos here give a quiet, "Nordic forest" vibe. A perfect choice if you miss the big ropeway tickets.
Day 3: Ancient Town Art Tour
Shuhe Ancient Town (束河古镇)
Compared to Lijiang Old Town, this place is quieter. Historically a key stop on the Tea Horse Road, it's known as the "Naxi Utopia." Rent an e-scooter and ride around.
Baisha Ancient Town (白沙古镇)
The birthplace of Naxi culture, retaining the most primitive Naxi heritage. Find a "Rooftop Cafe" to gaze at the snow mountain and visit the famous ancient Baisha Murals.
Yuhu Village (玉湖村)
A stone village at the foot of the snow mountain. Very niche, quiet, and far from commercial noise. Explore the stone houses and experience true secluded life.
Food Recommendations
Note: Food items may contain allergens. Please confirm with restaurant staff directly
Tap copy & paste icon at the right side of food name and paste in Dianping app to find restaurants.
Must-Try Naxi Flavors
Cured Ribs Hot Pot
腊排骨火锅
Salty and savory, with firm meat and rich broth. Lijiang's signature dish.
Yak Meat Hot Pot
牦牛肉火锅
Meat unique to the plateau—tender, chewy, and nutritious.
Water Primrose
水性杨花
An aquatic vegetable that grows in clean lakes. Crisp, tender, and refreshing.
Local Snacks
Bursting Tofu
包浆豆腐
Crispy outside, soft and bursting inside. Amazing with fish mint and chili powder.
Chickpea Jelly
鸡豆凉粉
A Lijiang specialty. Black jelly, pan-fried until crispy outside and soft inside.
Roasted Dairy Fan
烤乳扇
One of the "18 Oddities of Yunnan". Crispy, milky, and usually topped with rose jam.
Transportation Guide
Arrival in Lijiang
- Plane (Lijiang Sanyi Airport - LIJ): Airport Bus (20 CNY) to Old Town. Taxi approx. 50-80 CNY. Do NOT take illegal taxis.Check flights via
- High-Speed Train (Lijiang Station): Taxi to Old Town approx. 20-35 CNY (20 mins), very cost-effective.Check trains via
City Transport
- Taxi/Ride-Hailing: Convenient as the city is small. Traffic around Old Town can be heavy.
- Bus 101: High-value option for Jade Dragon Snow Mountain (15 CNY).
- E-Scooter: Riding between ancient towns (e.g., Shuhe to Baisha) is very pleasant.
Where to Stay
South Gate / Zhongyi Market
Convenient transport, close to airport bus and snow mountain shuttle, plenty of food nearby.
North Gate / Water Wheel
A major landmark, easy to catch taxis, close to shopping districts.
Shuhe Ancient Town
If you prefer quiet and have a relaxed schedule. Many high-end guesthouses and a serene environment.
Essential Tips
Travel Tips
- Ropeway Tickets: Extremely hard to get. Set an alarm to book at 20:00 the night before via "Lijiang Tourism Group" WeChat mini-program.
- Altitude Sickness: Lijiang is ~2400m, Snow Mountain 4680m. Buy oxygen bottles in the city (~15-20 CNY).
- Sun Protection: UV rays are strong! Wear high-SPF sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat. Climate is dry.
- Maintenance Fee: 50 CNY/person. Mandatory for entering Dayan Old Town, Shuhe, and Baisha.