Yulong Snow Mountain, also known as Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, is a majestic mountain range located just 15 kilometers north of Lijiang Old Town in Yunnan Province, China. Rising to 5,596 meters at its highest peak, Shanzidou, this snow-capped massif is a sacred site for the Naxi people and a UNESCO World Heritage Site within the Yulong Snow Mountain National Scenic Area. Renowned for its dramatic glaciers, alpine meadows, and cultural significance, it’s a must-visit for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and those eager to explore Yunnan’s rich heritage. This guide will help you plan an unforgettable trip to this breathtaking destination.
A Travel Guide to Yulong Snow Mountain
Why Visit Yulong Snow Mountain?
Yulong Snow Mountain is one of the southernmost snow-capped ranges in the Northern Hemisphere, offering a unique blend of natural splendor and cultural depth. Its 13 peaks, resembling a jade dragon, dominate the Lijiang skyline, creating a stunning backdrop. Key attractions include the Baishui No. 1 Glacier, Blue Moon Valley, and the Impression Lijiang Show, a cultural performance set against the mountain’s grandeur. The area is also a biodiversity hotspot, home to rare species like the Yunnan golden monkey and snow leopard. Whether you’re riding a cable car to dizzying heights, hiking through pristine meadows, or immersing yourself in Naxi traditions, Yulong Snow Mountain promises an awe-inspiring experience.
How to Get There
Yulong Snow Mountain is easily accessible from Lijiang, a well-connected city in Yunnan.
From Lijiang Old Town: By Public Bus: Take Bus No. 7 from Red Sun Square (Bailong Square) to the Yulong Snow Mountain Tourist Center. The ride takes about 1.5–2 hours and costs ¥15. By Taxi or Ride-Hailing (Didi): A taxi from Lijiang Old Town takes 30–40 minutes and costs ¥50–80. Didi is slightly cheaper and widely available. By Private Tour: Many hotels and agencies in Lijiang offer day tours, including transportation, for ¥200–400 per person, depending on inclusions.
Getting to Lijiang: By Air: Lijiang Sanyi International Airport (LJG) has direct flights from major cities like Kunming (1 hour), Shanghai (3.5 hours), and Beijing (4 hours). From the airport, a taxi to Lijiang Old Town takes 40 minutes (¥80–100). By Train: High-speed trains connect Lijiang to Kunming (3–4 hours) and Dali (2 hours). Lijiang Railway Station is 10 km from the Old Town, with taxis costing ¥20–30.
Within the Scenic Area: Shuttle buses (included in the entrance fee) connect key attractions like Glacier Park, Blue Moon Valley, and Spruce Meadow. Cable car tickets are purchased separately.
Visa Note: As of December 2024, travelers from 54 countries (e.g., France, Germany, Italy) enjoy 30-day visa-free stays in China, while US, UK, and Canadian passport holders can visit for 6 days visa-free. Check updated policies before travel.
Best Time to Visit
Autumn and Winter (November–February): The best seasons for clear skies and snow-covered peaks, offering crisp views and a winter wonderland. January and February are ideal for heavy snow, though temperatures at higher altitudes can drop below 0°C.
Spring (March–April): Alpine meadows bloom with wildflowers, and the weather is mild, though crowds increase during the Chinese New Year and spring festivals. Summer (May–August): Green forests and vibrant valleys are beautiful, but rain and fog can obscure views. Avoid July for minimal snow due to melting.
Avoid: October, as heavy fog often hides the mountain. Crowd Tip: Avoid China’s National Day (October 1–7) when attractions are packed. Arrive early (before 7 AM) to secure cable car tickets, as daily visitor limits (8,000) apply.
Tickets and Opening Hours
Opening Hours: May 1–October 31: 6:00 AM–6:00 PM; November 1–April 30: 6:30 AM–6:00 PM; Cable cars and attractions like Glacier Park may close earlier (4:00 PM).
Ticket Prices: Scenic Area Entrance: ¥100 (includes shuttle buses to major sites; valid for 1 day). A ¥230 through-ticket (valid for 2 days) covers additional sites like Jade Water Village and Baisha Mural.
Cable Cars (Round-Trip): Glacier Park (Large Cableway, 4,506 m): ¥170; Yak Meadow (Maoniuping Cableway, 3,600 m): ¥80; Spruce Meadow (Yunshanping Cableway, 3,240 m): ¥75.
Impression Lijiang Show: ¥150–300, depending on seat class. Lijiang Old Town Maintenance Fee: ¥80 (may be required for scenic area entry). Discounts apply for students, seniors (60+), and children under 1.2 meters (free).
Booking: Cable car tickets often sell out quickly, especially for Glacier Park. Purchase online via Trip.com or WeChat, or arrive early at the ticket office. Group tours guarantee access but limit flexibility.
What to See and Do
Yulong Snow Mountain offers diverse attractions, accessible by cable car, shuttle bus, or hiking trails:
Glacier Park (Baishui No. 1 Glacier): Ride the Large Cableway to 4,506 meters for close-up views of the Baishui No. 1 Glacier, a shimmering ice formation resembling a “hanging waterfall.” A wooden boardwalk leads to an observation platform at 4,680 meters, one of the highest in the world. Expect crisp air and stunning alpine vistas. Oxygen canisters (¥30–50) are available for altitude sickness. Tip: Dress warmly (down coats rentable for ¥50) and pace yourself to avoid altitude sickness.
Blue Moon Valley (Baishui River): A serene valley with turquoise pools fed by glacial melt, named for its moon-like shimmer. The White River’s calcified pools and clear waters are perfect for photography. Accessible by shuttle bus from Glacier Park. Activity: Stroll along the lakes or take wedding photos, a popular activity here.
Spruce Meadow (Yunshanping): At 3,240 meters, this meadow offers tranquil views of the snow peaks and alpine blooms. The Small Cableway provides easy access, making it ideal for families or those short on time. Tip: Visit in summer for wildflowers or winter for snow-dusted landscapes.
Yak Meadow (Maoniuping): A vast grassland at 3,600 meters, dotted with yaks and offering distant mountain views. The Middle Cableway leads here, and you can walk or rent a horse (¥50–100) to explore. The meadow is especially scenic in summer with blooming flowers. Cultural Note: The Naxi call it “Ban Nong Guo,” meaning “beautiful and mysterious paradise.”
Impression Lijiang Show: Directed by Zhang Yimou, this open-air performance (1–2 PM daily) features 500 local Naxi, Yi, and Bai performers, with Yulong Snow Mountain as the backdrop. It showcases minority cultures through music, dance, and storytelling. Book tickets in advance via Trip.com. Tip: Bring sunscreen or an umbrella, as the show is outdoors and can be sunny.
Hiking and Trekking: Guided treks (2–3 days) are available for experienced hikers, covering meadows, forests, and glaciers. Shorter trails, like those in Ganhaizi Meadow, are less strenuous. Check with local agencies like Asia Odyssey Travel. Note: High-altitude trekking requires preparation; consult a doctor if you have health concerns.
Black Dragon Pool (Nearby): Located in Lijiang’s Jade Spring Park, this pond offers one of China’s finest views of Yulong Snow Mountain, especially at sunrise. It’s a 30-minute drive from the scenic area.
Where to Eat
On-Site: The Yulong Snow Mountain Tourist Center has basic restaurants serving noodles, rice dishes, and snacks (¥20–50). Options are limited, so bring snacks or a packed lunch for picnics in meadows.
Lijiang Old Town: Return to Lijiang for diverse dining, including Naxi specialties like LaoNaiYangYu (spicy mashed potatoes) and SuHongDou (crispy kidney beans). Try 88 Snack or N’s Kitchen for authentic Yunnan cuisine (¥30–80 per meal).
Tip: Stay hydrated with bottled water or glacial water from Blue Moon Valley, which is safe to drink.
Where to Stay
Staying in Lijiang Old Town or nearby is recommended for easy access to the mountain:
Luxury: Jinmao Purelax Mountain Hotel (near the scenic area): Offers snow mountain views and modern amenities, starting at ¥800/night. InterContinental Lijiang Ancient Town (Old Town): Blends Naxi style with luxury, around ¥600–1000/night.
Mid-Range: Lijiang Wenhai Ritz Momento (near Baisha): Cozy with mountain views, ¥300–500/night. Baisha Old Town Guesthouses: Charming and authentic, ¥150–300/night.
Budget: Lijiang Youth Hostel (Old Town): Clean dorms and private rooms, ¥50–150/night.
Booking Tip: Use Trip.com or Ctrip for deals, and book early during peak seasons (spring and autumn).
Tips for a Great Visit
Altitude Precautions: Glacier Park exceeds 4,500 meters, so altitude sickness is a risk. Buy oxygen canisters (¥30–50), drink plenty of water, and avoid strenuous activity if feeling dizzy. Dress Warmly: Even in summer, higher altitudes are cold (0–10°C). Wear layers and rent a down coat (¥50) if needed.
Arrive Early: Cable car tickets sell out by 8 AM, especially for Glacier Park. Arriving at 6:30 AM ensures access and clearer views. Photography: The mountain and Blue Moon Valley are photogenic, but fog can obscure views. Morning light is best for clear shots.
Respect Naxi Culture: The mountain is sacred to the Naxi. Follow guides’ instructions and avoid littering. Combine Your Trip: Pair your visit with Lijiang Old Town, Tiger Leaping Gorge (1-hour drive), or Shangri-La (3-hour drive) for a fuller Yunnan experience.
Final Thoughts
Yulong Snow Mountain is a captivating blend of natural majesty and cultural richness, offering something for every traveler. From the thrilling cable car ride to Glacier Park to the serene beauty of Blue Moon Valley and the vibrant Impression Lijiang Show, this destination leaves a lasting impression. Plan ahead to secure tickets, dress for the altitude, and immerse yourself in the sacred landscapes and Naxi heritage of Yunnan. Whether you’re gazing at snow-capped peaks or strolling through alpine meadows, Yulong Snow Mountain is an adventure you’ll never forget.
Happy travels!
