The Old Town of Lijiang, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Yunnan Province, is a captivating blend of ancient architecture, vibrant Naxi culture, and stunning natural surroundings. Known for its cobblestone streets, traditional wooden houses, and intricate canal system, this 800-year-old town is nestled at the foot of the snow-capped Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. Whether you’re a history buff, a culture enthusiast, or an adventurer, this guide will help you plan an unforgettable visit to one of China’s most charming destinations.
A Travel Guide to the Old Town of Lijiang
Why Visit the Old Town of Lijiang?
Lijiang’s Old Town (Dayan) is a living museum of Naxi heritage, with well-preserved buildings dating back to the Ming and Qing dynasties. Its maze-like streets are lined with shops, cafes, and guesthouses, creating a vibrant yet relaxed atmosphere. The town serves as a gateway to natural wonders like Jade Dragon Snow Mountain and Tiger Leaping Gorge, making it a perfect base for both cultural exploration and outdoor adventures. From the rhythmic flow of its canals to the lively evening markets, Lijiang offers a unique glimpse into China’s diverse ethnic tapestry.
How to Get There
Lijiang is located in northwestern Yunnan, about 550 km from Kunming, the provincial capital. Here are the main ways to reach the Old Town:
By Air: Lijiang Sanyi International Airport (LJG) is 28 km from the Old Town (about 40 minutes by taxi). It offers direct flights from major cities like Kunming (1 hour, ¥300–600), Chengdu (1.5 hours), Shanghai (3.5 hours), and Beijing (4 hours). From the airport, take a taxi (¥80–100) or an airport shuttle bus (¥20–30) to the Old Town’s entrance.
By Train: Lijiang Railway Station, 7 km from the Old Town, is connected to Kunming (3–4 hours by high-speed train, ¥200–300) and Dali (2 hours, ¥100–150). Overnight trains from Kunming are also available. Taxis from the station to the Old Town cost ¥20–30, or take bus route 18 (¥1–2).
By Bus: Long-distance buses from Kunming, Dali, or Shangri-La arrive at Lijiang Bus Station. The ride from Dali takes 3–4 hours (¥60–100), while Shangri-La is 4–5 hours (¥70–120). Local taxis or buses connect the bus station to the Old Town.
Note: The Old Town is car-free, so vehicles drop off at designated entrances (e.g., Zhongyi Market or South Gate). Be prepared to walk or hire a bike to explore.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March–May): Mild weather (10–20°C) and blooming flowers make this ideal for sightseeing and hiking. Cherry blossoms add charm to the town. Summer (June–August): Warm (15–25°C) but rainy, with lush greenery. Bring an umbrella and non-slip shoes for wet cobblestones.
Autumn (September–November): Clear skies, crisp air (10–20°C), and golden foliage make this the peak season for photography and outdoor activities. Winter (December–February): Cold (0–15°C) but less crowded. Snow on Jade Dragon Snow Mountain creates a stunning backdrop.
Tip: Avoid Chinese national holidays (e.g., National Day in early October, Spring Festival) to escape crowds and inflated prices.
Tickets and Entry
Old Town Maintenance Fee: ¥50 per person, typically collected when entering the Old Town or booking certain attractions. Some guesthouses may include this in your stay. Opening Hours: The Old Town is open 24/7, though most shops and restaurants operate from 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
Other Attractions: Nearby sites like Black Dragon Pool or Jade Dragon Snow Mountain may have separate fees (¥30–200, depending on the site). Booking Tip: Purchase tickets for attractions like Mu’s Mansion or Jade Dragon Snow Mountain in advance via apps like Ctrip or at your guesthouse to avoid queues.
What to See and Do
The Old Town and its surroundings offer a mix of cultural, historical, and natural experiences:
Explore the Old Town Streets: Wander through Sifang Street, the heart of the Old Town, a bustling square with shops, street food, and live Naxi music performances in the evening. Stroll along Qiyi Street and Xinhua Street for quieter lanes with cafes, handicraft shops, and views of traditional Naxi architecture. Admire the Waterwheels at the North Gate, iconic symbols of Lijiang’s canal system.
Cultural Landmarks: Mu’s Mansion: The former residence of the Naxi chieftains, this restored complex showcases Ming-Qing architecture and Naxi history (¥40 entry). Black Dragon Pool Park: Just outside the Old Town, this scenic park offers stunning views of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain reflected in its clear waters (¥30 entry). Dongba Culture Museum: Learn about Naxi traditions, including their unique pictographic script and shamanic practices (¥30 entry).
Day Trips and Outdoor Adventures: Jade Dragon Snow Mountain: A 1-hour drive from Lijiang, this 5,596-meter peak offers cable cars, hiking trails, and the Impression Lijiang cultural show (¥200–300 for cable car and show). Tiger Leaping Gorge: One of the world’s deepest canyons, ideal for hiking (2–3 days, ¥65 entry). It’s 2 hours from Lijiang by bus. Shuhe Ancient Town: A quieter, less touristy Naxi town 6 km away, perfect for a half-day visit.
Naxi Cultural Experiences: Attend a Naxi Orchestra Performance at Sifang Street or the Naxi Concert Hall, featuring traditional instruments like the erhu (¥120–200). Try a Dongba Calligraphy Workshop to learn the Naxi script (¥50–100, available at cultural centers).
Evening Activities: Explore the night market along Xinhua Street for local snacks, souvenirs, and live music. Relax at a rooftop bar or cafe with views of the town’s illuminated rooftops and distant mountains.
Where to Eat
Lijiang’s cuisine reflects Naxi and Yunnan flavors, with fresh ingredients and bold spices:
Local Specialties: Naxi Grilled Fish: Spicy, crispy fish served with herbs (¥30–50). Yunnan Rice Noodles (Guòqiáo mǐxiàn): A flavorful broth with thin noodles, meat, and vegetables (¥15–25). Baba: A Naxi flatbread, often stuffed with cheese or meat (¥10–20).
Dining Spots: 88 Snack: A popular eatery on Qiyi Street for affordable Naxi dishes (¥20–40 per person). N’s Kitchen: A cozy cafe with Western and Yunnan fusion options, ideal for breakfast (¥30–60). Stone the Crows: A British-run pub near Sifang Street, great for pizza and craft beer (¥50–80).
Tip: Street food stalls near Sifang Street offer cheap, tasty snacks like grilled mushrooms or yak meat skewers (¥5–15).
Where to Stay
The Old Town is filled with charming guesthouses and boutique hotels, many in traditional Naxi courtyard buildings:
Luxury: Banyan Tree Lijiang (5-star, ~10-minute drive): Elegant suites with mountain views, starting at ¥1,200/night. Pullman Lijiang (5-star, near Black Dragon Pool): Modern comfort with Naxi-inspired design, ¥800–1,000/night.
Mid-Range: Lijiang Zen Garden Hotel: A boutique guesthouse with cozy courtyards, ¥300–500/night. Maple Leaf Inn: A family-run option with friendly service, ¥200–350/night.
Budget: Mama Naxi Guesthouse: A backpacker favorite with dorms and private rooms, ¥50–150/night. International Youth Hostel Lijiang: Clean and central, ¥40–100/night.
Booking Tip: Book via Booking.com, Agoda, or Ctrip for deals. Reserve early for peak seasons (spring and autumn).
Tips for a Great Visit
Wear Comfortable Shoes: The cobblestone streets are uneven, so sturdy footwear is essential. Stay Hydrated: Lijiang’s high altitude (2,400 meters) can cause mild altitude sickness. Drink water and take it slow on your first day.
Respect Local Culture: Ask permission before photographing Naxi locals, especially elders, and avoid littering in the canals. Cash and Apps: Some small shops prefer cash (bring small bills), but WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely accepted.
Combine Your Trip: Plan a multi-day itinerary including Shuhe Ancient Town, Baisha Village, or a trek in Tiger Leaping Gorge for a fuller Yunnan experience.
Final Thoughts
The Old Town of Lijiang is a magical destination where ancient traditions meet breathtaking landscapes. From its winding streets and vibrant markets to the majestic Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, Lijiang offers a rich tapestry of experiences for every traveler. Embrace the slow pace, savor the local flavors, and let the charm of this Naxi heartland leave you enchanted.
Happy travels!
