Nestled at the foot of the majestic Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, Shuhe Old Town is a tranquil gem just 4 kilometers northwest of Lijiang’s bustling Old Town in Yunnan Province. As one of the earliest settlements of the Naxi people and a well-preserved stop along the ancient Tea Horse Road, Shuhe offers a serene escape with its crystal-clear streams, historic architecture, and rich cultural heritage. Recognized as part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site alongside Lijiang, this quaint town provides a less crowded, more authentic alternative to its famous neighbor. Whether you’re a history buff, a culture enthusiast, or simply seeking peace, this guide will help you plan a memorable visit to Shuhe Old Town.
A Travel Guide to Shuhe Old Town
Why Visit Shuhe Old Town?
Shuhe Old Town, also known as Longquan Village (Dragon Spring Village), is celebrated for its pristine Naxi culture, charming cobblestone streets, and tranquil ambiance. Unlike the more touristy Lijiang Old Town, Shuhe retains a laid-back vibe, making it ideal for leisurely strolls and cultural immersion. The town’s historic significance as a trading post on the Tea Horse Road, coupled with its well-preserved Ming and Qing Dynasty architecture, offers a glimpse into the Naxi people’s transition from agriculture to commerce. From sacred springs to ancient bridges and vibrant markets, Shuhe is a photographer’s dream and a haven for those seeking authenticity.
How to Get There
Shuhe Old Town is easily accessible from Lijiang, which serves as the main travel hub in the region. Here are the primary transportation options:
From Lijiang: By Bus: Regular shuttle buses run from Lijiang Old Town or Lijiang Bus Station to Shuhe, taking about 20–30 minutes. The fare is around ¥5–10. Look for buses labeled “Shuhe Ancient Town.” By Taxi or Ride-Hailing (Didi): A taxi ride from Lijiang Old Town takes approximately 20 minutes and costs ¥20–30. Negotiate the fare beforehand or use Didi for convenience. By Bicycle: For an adventurous option, rent a bike in Lijiang (¥20–40/day) and cycle to Shuhe along a scenic 8 km paved road. The ride takes about 1–1.5 hours and offers stunning views of the countryside. By Private Car: Tour operators like Easy Tour China or Yunnan Exploration can arrange private transfers for a more comfortable journey, costing around ¥100–150.
Getting to Lijiang: By Air: Fly into Lijiang Sanyi Airport (LJG), which serves domestic flights from cities like Kunming, Chengdu, and Xi’an. From the airport, take a taxi (¥80–100, 40 minutes) or airport shuttle bus (¥20, 50 minutes) to Lijiang city center, then transfer to Shuhe. By Train: Lijiang Railway Station, 4.8 km from Lijiang Old Town, connects to Kunming and Dali via high-speed trains. From the station, take a public bus (¥1–2) or taxi (¥15–20) to Lijiang Old Town, then proceed to Shuhe. By Bus: Long-distance buses from Kunming, Dali, or Shangri-La arrive at Lijiang Bus Station. From there, transfer to Shuhe via bus or taxi.
Tip: If combining Shuhe with nearby Baisha Ancient Town (2 km north), consider walking or cycling for a scenic day trip.
Best Time to Visit
Shuhe Old Town is a year-round destination, with each season offering a unique charm:
Spring (March–May): Blooming flowers and mild temperatures (10–20°C) make this ideal for outdoor exploration. Summer (June–August): Cool compared to much of China (20–25°C), but it’s the rainy season, so bring an umbrella. The lush greenery enhances the town’s beauty.
Autumn (September–November): Clear skies, crisp weather (10–20°C), and golden foliage create perfect conditions for photography. Winter (December–February): Mild days (5–15°C) with ample sunshine, though nights can dip near freezing. The town is quieter, offering a peaceful experience.
Note: May to October is the peak tourist season, so visit in early spring or late autumn for fewer crowds. Avoid Chinese holidays like National Day (early October) to enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere.
Tickets and Opening Hours
Opening Hours: The town is open 24 hours, but most attractions, shops, and museums operate from 6:30 AM to 8:30 PM. Entrance Fee: ¥40–50 per person, though some sources note the fee may be waived for casual visitors. The ticket grants access to key sites like the Ancient Tea Horse Road Museum.
Booking: Tickets are available on-site or through platforms like Trip.com or Ctrip. During peak seasons, book in advance to secure entry to specific attractions like the museum. Tip: If you’re visiting Lijiang Old Town as well, check if a combo ticket covers both sites for cost savings.
What to See and Do
Shuhe Old Town is compact, requiring about half a day to explore fully. Its highlights blend history, culture, and natural beauty:
Sifang Street (Square Street): The heart of Shuhe, this 250-square-meter market square is lined with archaic wooden shops selling Naxi handicrafts, leather goods, and local snacks. It’s lively during market days and a great spot to witness Naxi daily life. Try Naxi specialties like chickpea jelly, Naxi steamed buns, or butter tea at nearby food stalls.
Jiuding Dragon Pool (Longquan): A sacred spring at the town’s fountainhead, this crystal-clear pool is revered by locals as a holy site. Feed the fish or listen to the bubbling water, and visit the nearby Beiquan Temple or Sansheng Palace for a glimpse of Naxi religious practices. The pool’s reflection of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain on calm days is a photographer’s delight. A broken stele by the pool emits a ringing sound when struck, known as “Duan Bei Qiao Yin” (Sound of the Broken Stele).
Qinglong Bridge: This 400-year-old Ming Dynasty stone bridge, 25 meters long, is a landmark of Shuhe’s historical significance. Its weathered flagstones and alignment with Jubao Mountain reflect the architectural prowess of the Naxi Mu family.
Ancient Tea Horse Road Museum (Dajue Palace): Housed in a well-preserved Ming Dynasty complex, this museum showcases the history of the Tea Horse Road through 13 exhibition halls and over 800 relics. Rare Ming Dynasty murals in the main hall are a highlight. It’s a must-visit for history enthusiasts. Admission: Included in the town’s entrance fee or ¥20 separately.
Cultural Experiences: Explore Naxi leatherworking and embroidery at artisan workshops. Shuhe was historically renowned for its leather goods, a legacy of the Tea Horse Road. Visit Longquan Temple or Shilian Temple to observe local rituals and admire traditional architecture. Rent a horse for a short ride (¥50–100) to experience the town’s Tea Horse Road heritage.
Hiking and Scenic Views: Take a 10-minute soft hike along stone paths to a small hilltop temple for panoramic views of Shuhe and Lijiang Old Town. The trail offers tranquil scenery and the soothing sound of streams. For a longer trek, walk or cycle 40 minutes to Baisha Ancient Town, another Naxi village with historic murals.
Evening Relaxation: Unwind at a riverside cafe or bar along “Pub Street,” where live music and local brews create a cozy vibe. The small river running through the town adds to the ambiance. Recommended: S. Ratatouille for modern Yunnan dishes like fried tofu with cured ham.
Where to Eat
Shuhe’s dining scene blends Naxi flavors with Yunnan specialties:
Local Eateries: Food stalls near Sifang Street serve affordable Naxi dishes like spicy soup, grilled fish, Naxi crispy pork, and chickpea jelly (¥10–30). Don’t miss the barbecued meats, such as lamb or yak skewers, available at market stalls.
Restaurants: S. Ratatouille offers a modern take on Yunnan cuisine in a stylish setting. Try the fried tofu with cured ham (¥40–60).
Cafes: Riverside cafes provide coffee, tea, and light snacks (¥15–40) with scenic views, perfect for a relaxing break.
Tip: For a budget-friendly meal, pack a picnic and enjoy it by Jiuding Dragon Pool.
Where to Stay
Shuhe offers a range of accommodations, from boutique guesthouses to luxury hotels, many housed in traditional Naxi courtyards:
Luxury: Banyan Tree Lijiang (5-star, ~10-minute walk from Shuhe, ¥800–1,500/night) combines Naxi architecture with modern amenities. Mid-Range: Lijiang Conifer Lishui Yangguang Hotel (4-star, near Shuhe entrance, ¥300–500/night) offers comfortable rooms and excellent service. Budget: Ansu-Water Wooden Holiday Courtyard or Zee Yau (Freedom Life Hostel) provide cozy, authentic stays with modern facilities (¥100–200/night).
Booking: Reserve via Trip.com, Booking.com, or Ctrip, especially during peak seasons. For a quieter experience, choose guesthouses in the western part of town, away from the main square.
Tip: Staying in Shuhe is cheaper and quieter than Lijiang Old Town, with similar cultural charm.
Tips for a Great Visit
Dress Comfortably: Wear sturdy shoes for cobblestone streets and light layers for variable weather. Bring a raincoat in summer. Respect Local Culture: Avoid littering in sacred springs and follow temple etiquette (e.g., no loud noises). The Naxi hold streams and springs as holy. Photography: Shuhe’s alleys, bridges, and mountain backdrop are postcard-perfect, but early mornings offer the best light and fewer crowds.
Language: English is limited, so carry a translation app or basic Chinese phrases. Combine Your Trip: Pair Shuhe with Lijiang Old Town (20 minutes away), Baisha Ancient Town (2 km), or Black Dragon Pond Park for a fuller Yunnan experience. Festivals: Time your visit for the Snow Mountain Music Festival (August) or Bangbang Festival (January 15, Lunar Calendar) to experience Naxi traditions, markets, and performances.
Final Thoughts
Shuhe Old Town is a serene retreat that captures the essence of Naxi culture and Yunnan’s historical legacy. Its tranquil streams, ancient bridges, and vibrant markets offer a refreshing contrast to the busier Lijiang Old Town, making it perfect for travelers seeking authenticity and relaxation. Whether you’re savoring Naxi cuisine, exploring the Tea Horse Road’s history, or simply soaking in the mountain views, Shuhe promises an enchanting journey into China’s past. Plan your visit, wander its timeless alleys, and let this hidden treasure leave you rejuvenated.
Happy travels!
