Lijiang is one of those places in China that is difficult to forget.
Located in northwestern Yunnan, at around 2,400 meters above sea level, Lijiang combines a beautiful historic old town, traditional Naxi architecture, ancient canals and some of the most spectacular mountain scenery in southwest China.
If you are planning a trip through Yunnan, Lijiang is definitely worth including in your itinerary. But there is an important thing to know before you go: Lijiang is much more than its famous Old Town.
During the seven years I lived in China, I had the chance to visit Lijiang several times. And although the Old Town has become increasingly touristy and commercial over the years, there are still plenty of places where you can experience the history, culture and landscapes that make this part of Yunnan so special.
In this guide, I will show you the best things to do in Lijiang, including the Old Town, traditional Naxi villages such as Baisha and Shuhe, the Black Dragon Pool, Jade Dragon Snow Mountain and some of my favorite viewpoints around the city.
What to see in the old town of Lijiang?
1. Explore the streets of Lijiang Old Town
The first thing you should do in Lijiang is simply walk.
The Old Town, also known as Dayan, is a maze of narrow cobblestone streets, traditional houses, stone bridges and small canals.
The historic water system is one of the most remarkable features of Lijiang. Water from the surrounding mountains flows into Black Dragon Pool and then through a network of canals and channels throughout the Old Town. UNESCO considers this traditional water system one of the outstanding features of the site.
However, I should warn you about something: Lijiang Old Town is very touristy.
When I first visited, I remember it feeling much more authentic and peaceful. Today, many of the traditional buildings have been turned into souvenir shops, restaurants, cafés, bars and other businesses.
The architecture is still beautiful, but the atmosphere has changed. That said, I still think Lijiang is worth visiting.
My best advice is to get up early and explore the Old Town before the crowds arrive.
This is when Lijiang feels completely different. The streets are quiet, the canals are almost empty and you can finally appreciate the traditional architecture without thousands of people around you.
And don’t be afraid to get lost. Some of the best corners of Lijiang are found away from the main tourist streets.
2. Visit Sifang Street and Sifang Square
One of the most important places in Lijiang Old Town is Sifang Street, also known as Sifang Square. This is essentially the historic heart of Lijiang.
Several of the main streets of the Old Town meet here, making it one of the busiest and most recognizable places in Lijiang. Historically, Sifang Street was an important commercial center and part of Lijiang’s role as a trading hub between Yunnan, Sichuan and Tibet.
Today, it is surrounded by shops, cafés, restaurants and other businesses. It can get very crowded, especially during the day, but I still recommend coming here because it gives you a good sense of the scale and layout of the Old Town.
From Sifang Street, you can simply start walking and let yourself get lost among the surrounding lanes. This is one of those places where there is no need to follow a strict itinerary.
Walk a few streets away from the square and the atmosphere usually becomes much more pleasant.
3. Discover the Naxi Ethnic Minority and the Dongba Culture
The Naxi people are one of China’s 56 recognized ethnic minorities. The history, culture, and architecture of Lijiang, which spans more than 800 years, have been clOne of the main reasons Lijiang is so interesting is its connection with the Naxi people.
The Naxi are one of China’s officially recognized ethnic minority groups and have played a central role in the history and culture of the Lijiang region.
Their traditional culture includes a distinctive language, religious practices, music, rituals and the fascinating Dongba script.
Dongba is a pictographic writing system in which symbols represent ideas, objects and concepts.
The Naxi cultural heritage is still visible throughout Lijiang, particularly in the architecture, religious traditions and local customs.
One of the easiest ways to experience this culture is simply to spend time in the Old Town and observe local life. You may also see groups of older Naxi people performing traditional dances in public squares.
For me, understanding this cultural background makes visiting Lijiang much more interesting. Otherwise, it is easy to see the Old Town simply as a collection of pretty streets and tourist shops.
UNESCO also recognizes the preservation of Dongba culture and Naxi characters as part of the heritage associated with the Old Town of Lijiang.
4. The Mu Palace
Located within the Old Town of Lijiang, this palace served as the center of political, economic, and administrative power for the entire region.
It was the residence of the Mu family, members of the Naxi ethnic group, who ruled the Lijiang area for over 400 years.
Their governance spanned the Yuan Dynasty (1271–1368), the Ming Dynasty (1368–1644), and part of the Qing Dynasty (1644–1911).
The palace was constructed in the 16th century, during the Ming Dynasty, and served as the main residence for the Mu leaders across generations.
The complex combines traditional architectural elements associated with the Ming period with influences from the Naxi and Tibetan cultures. It consists of courtyards, halls, gardens and traditional wooden buildings.
If you are interested in the history of Lijiang, this is one of the most worthwhile places to visit inside the Old Town.
It is also a good place to get a different perspective of the traditional architecture of Lijiang
5. Black Dragon Pool
Black Dragon Pool (Heilongtan) is one of my favorite places to visit in Lijiang. Located just north of the Old Town, this beautiful park contains ponds, bridges, gardens and traditional buildings.
But the real attraction is the view. On a clear day, the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain rises behind the water and can be reflected in the pool, creating one of the most iconic landscapes in Lijiang.
The name Black Dragon Pool originates from a local legend. It is said that in the past, a black dragon lived in the pond, and when the locals called upon it, the dragon brought rain to the region.
The Black Dragon Pool is closely tied to Naxi history and culture. Naxi people, who have a profound connection with nature and practice animism, regard the site as a sacred space and a spiritual gathering point.
The Dragon Temple within the park is dedicated to worshipping water and natural forces, honoring the dragon that, according to legend, protected the area.
Entrance fee: 50 RMB (approximately €8).
6. Viewpoints of the old town of Lijiang
Walking through the Old Town is great, but seeing Lijiang from above is a completely different experience.
There are several viewpoints around the higher parts of Dayan where you can look over the traditional tiled rooftops and the mountains surrounding the city.
Rooftop cafés and bars in Lijiang
This is something that has become increasingly popular in Lijiang. There are now plenty of rooftop cafés, restaurants and bars with panoramic views over the Old Town.
Some are perfect for taking photographs, while others are simply nice places to sit down, have a coffee, drink a beer or enjoy a meal while watching the city below.
My advice is not to obsess over finding one particular “best viewpoint”. Instead, wander through the upper streets of the Old Town and look for terraces with a view.
It is one of those simple pleasures that makes Lijiang special.
7. Lion Hill and Wangu Pavilion
One of the classic viewpoints is Lion Hill (Shizishan).
You can reach the higher parts of the hill by walking uphill through the narrow streets of the Old Town. At the top is Wangu Pavilion, one of the best-known panoramic viewpoints in Lijiang.
From here, you can see the enormous sea of traditional rooftops spreading across Lijiang.
8. Visit Baisha Ancient Town
If there is one place I would add to any older Lijiang itinerary, it is Baisha Ancient Town. In fact, I would consider Baisha one of the best places to visit near Lijiang.
Baisha is located around 8 km north of Dayan Old Town and is one of the three historic components of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Lijiang, together with Dayan and Shuhe.
And there is something particularly interesting about Baisha: It is older than Lijiang. The settlement developed during the Song and Yuan dynasties, before Dayan became the main commercial center of the region.
Compared with Lijiang Old Town, Baisha is much quieter and has a more village-like atmosphere. You can walk through its traditional streets, see Naxi architecture and enjoy views of the mountains without the same level of tourism found in Dayan.
The Baisha murals
One of Baisha’s main attractions is its historic religious murals.
UNESCO highlights more than 40 paintings in Baisha depicting subjects related to Buddhism, Taoism and the life of the Naxi people, incorporating influences from different cultures in the region.
Even if you are not particularly interested in art or history, I still recommend visiting Baisha.
The village itself is worth the trip. And when the weather is clear, the views of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain behind the traditional houses are fantastic.
9. Explore Jade Dragon Snow Mountain
The Jade Dragon Snow Mountain (Yulong Snow Mountain) is probably the most spectacular natural attraction near Lijiang.
The mountain dominates the landscape north of Lijiang and has 13 major peaks, with the highest reaching 5,596 meters. You can see it from several places around Lijiang when the weather is clear.
The mountain is also culturally important to the Naxi people. For visitors, the most popular areas include Glacier Park and Blue Moon Valley, with cable cars providing access to some of the higher areas.
Glacier Park
Glacier Park takes you to an altitude of more than 4,500 meters. And this is something you should take seriously.
Lijiang itself is already around 2,400 meters above sea level, while the upper areas of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain are dramatically higher. You may feel the altitude much more than you expect.
Take it slowly, stay hydrated and don’t push yourself if you start feeling unwell.The views, however, can be spectacular.
The highest cable car ride costs 180 RMB (approximately €25). The park entrance fee is 120 RMB (around €15), making the total cost around €40.
The main downside is that Jade Dragon Snow Mountain has become very popular with domestic tourists, especially during holidays. If you want a quieter experience, avoid peak Chinese holiday periods whenever possible.
10. Visit Blue Moon Valley
Blue Moon Valley is one of the most photographed areas around Jade Dragon Snow Mountain.
The valley is famous for its turquoise-blue water, mountain scenery and lush vegetation. It is also a relatively easy way to enjoy the mountain landscape without doing a demanding hike.
If you are planning to visit Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, it makes sense to combine both places on the same day.
The combination of turquoise water and the snowy peaks in the background makes this one of the most spectacular landscapes in the Lijiang area.
11. Shuhe Village
Another excellent place to visit near Lijiang is Shuhe Ancient Town.
Located around 4 km northwest of Dayan, Shuhe is often described as a smaller and quieter version of Lijiang Old Town. Although it is also tourist-oriented, the atmosphere is generally more relaxed than in Lijiang.
Shuhe has an important connection with the old Tea Horse Road, which once linked Yunnan with Tibet and other parts of the region.
Its historic streets, stone bridges, canals and traditional houses make it an easy and enjoyable half-day trip from Lijiang. There are also plenty of cafés, restaurants and small shops, so it is a good place to slow down and enjoy the atmosphere.
And like Baisha, Shuhe is officially part of the Old Town of Lijiang UNESCO World Heritage Site. If you want something quieter than Lijiang but still want traditional architecture and a good tourist infrastructure, Shuhe is a great option.
12. Lake Lashi
Lashi Lake (Lashihai) is located roughly 10 km from Lijiang Old Town and is another interesting option if you have extra time.
The area is particularly popular with Chinese tourists, and one of the traditional activities here is horseback riding around the lake. If you decide to take a horse tour, make sure you agree on the price beforehand.
Horseback riding is so common here that some locals find it unusual when visitors simply want to walk around the area. When I visited, I was traveling alone and decided not to take a horse tour. Instead, I explored the area on foot. And honestly, I loved it.
Today there are also cafés and restaurants around the lake where you can stop for a drink and enjoy the scenery.
If you have several days in Lijiang and want to escape the crowds of the Old Town, Lashi Lake can be a pleasant change of scenery.
13. Explore Yuhu Village
If you have more time, consider visiting Yuhu Village, a traditional Naxi settlement close to Jade Dragon Snow Mountain.
Yuhu is not as famous as Baisha or Shuhe, which is precisely why I think it is interesting. It offers a more rural atmosphere and gives you the opportunity to see another side of the Lijiang area.
You won’t find the same concentration of shops and tourist attractions as in Lijiang. Instead, the appeal is the combination of traditional village life and spectacular mountain scenery.
If you have four or five days in Lijiang, I would consider adding Yuhu to your itinerary.
14. Take a day trip to Tiger Leaping Gorge
If you are traveling around northern Yunnan, one of the best excursions you can make from Lijiang is Tiger Leaping Gorge. The gorge is located between Lijiang and Shangri-La and is one of the most spectacular natural landscapes in the region.
The gorge was carved by the Jinsha River, one of the major headwaters of the Yangtze River, between Jade Dragon Snow Mountain and Haba Snow Mountain.
If you enjoy hiking, I would strongly recommend allowing enough time to experience it properly rather than simply stopping for a quick photograph.
It also works very well as part of a route between Lijiang and Shangri-La.
How many days do you need in Lijiang?
This depends on whether you only want to explore the Old Town or also visit the surrounding area. I recommend two or three days.
One day in Lijiang
If you only have one day:
- Lijiang Old Town
- Mu Palace
- Lion Hill and Wangu Pavilion
- Black Dragon Pool
- Rooftop café or bar at sunset
It will be a busy day, but you can see the main highlights.
Two days in Lijiang
Day 1: Lijiang Old Town, Mu Palace, viewpoints and Black Dragon Pool.
Day 2: Baisha and Shuhe.
This is probably my favorite option if you are short on time.
Three days in Lijiang
Day 1: Dayan Old Town and Black Dragon Pool.
Day 2: Baisha + Shuhe.
Day 3: Jade Dragon Snow Mountain + Blue Moon Valley.
What to see near Lijiang?
Lijiang is also an excellent base for exploring northern Yunnan. If you have enough time, I would strongly consider adding:
- Tiger Leaping Gorge
- Shangri-La
- Baishuitai / White Water Terraces
- Yuhu Village
- Lashi Lake
A route I particularly recommend through Yunnan is:
Kunming → Dali → Lijiang → Tiger Leaping Gorge → Shangri-La
This gives you a fantastic combination of historic towns, Tibetan and Naxi culture, mountain landscapes and hiking.
What is the best time to visit Lijiang?
Lijiang can be visited throughout the year, but I would try to avoid major Chinese public holidays if possible.
The Old Town and Jade Dragon Snow Mountain can become extremely busy during peak travel periods. If you want a quieter experience, traveling outside the busiest holiday periods is a good idea.
How to get to Lijiang
Lijiang has both an airport and a high-speed railway station, so getting there is considerably easier nowadays than it was when I lived in China.
If you are coming from Kunming, high-speed trains connect the two cities in roughly 3.5 to 5 hours, depending on the service.
There are also railway connections with other destinations in Yunnan, including Dali and Shangri-La, which makes it quite easy to include Lijiang in a wider Yunnan itinerary.
Another option is to fly into Lijiang Sanyi International Airport, especially if you are coming from another part of China.
Personally, I would choose depending on your itinerary. If you are already traveling around Yunnan, the train makes a lot of sense, as you can easily connect Lijiang with Dali and Shangri-La.
You can check train schedules and book tickets here.
Where to stay in Lijiang Old Town
For a first visit, I would try to stay inside or just outside Lijiang Old Town.
Staying in a traditional Naxi courtyard house can be a really interesting experience, especially if it is your first time in Lijiang.
Traditional Naxi houses are usually organized around a central courtyard, with wooden structures and tiled roofs. They are one of the most characteristic elements of Lijiang’s traditional architecture.
There is one thing to keep in mind, though: some parts of the Old Town can be quite noisy at night.
If you are looking for somewhere quiet, try to choose accommodation away from the streets where most of the bars and nightlife are concentrated.
My experiences with accommodation in Lijiang
During my first trip to Lijiang, I stayed at Mama Naxi Guest House, right in the heart of the Old Town.
I had heard very good things about this guesthouse and, at the same time, I was curious to learn a little more about the Naxi culture, the indigenous culture of the Lijiang area.
If you are looking for a 2- or 3-star hotel with private rooms for around €20–30 per night, I also stayed at Mai Xiao Mai Resort Courtyard, which I found to be a very good value-for-money option.
If you prefer something a little more special, for around €50 per night, you can take a look at Lijiang Yun Ruo Shui Beauty Inn.
And, above all, my favorite of all the places I have stayed in Lijiang: Doufu Lijiang Resort.
For me, this is the best option if you are looking for somewhere with more character and a touch of luxury without the price getting out of hand.
Are you planning a trip to Yunnan?
After several years exploring the province, we organize small-group trips and tailor-made itineraries to discover some of the most fascinating places in southwest China.
Our itineraries include destinations such as Dali, Lijiang, Shangri-La, Shaxi, Yuanyang, Jianshui, and other lesser-known regions that have preserved much of their authenticity.
If you would like to explore Yunnan accompanied by someone who lives and regularly travels around the region, take a look at our travel options:
- Organized trip to Yunnan (13 days)
- Yunnan trekking itinerary (11 days)
- Yunnan and Sichuan trip (13 days)
- Tailor-made trips around Yunnan and China
If you have any questions about what to see in Lijiang or you are looking for a tailor-made itinerary, you can contact us at contacto@sindestinoaparente.com. We will be happy to help you plan your trip.
We also invite you to read our travelers’ reviews. In this section, you can discover their experiences and find out what their adventure in Yunnan with us was like. You can also visit our Frequently Asked Questions about Our Trips page to find answers to any questions you may have.
More information about China
- Living in China: Curiosities and Everyday Life
- What to See in Yunnan: 10 Must-Visit Places
- China Travel Guide
- The Best Apps for Traveling in China
Travel is fatal to prejudice, bigotry, and narrow-mindedness.
– Mark Twain –
Hi, I’m Marcos.
I’ve been travelling around Asia since 2011 and have spent much of that time living in China, learning Chinese and exploring the country independently.
On Sin Destino Aparente, you’ll find practical travel guides, firsthand experiences and useful tips to help you plan your own adventure.
I currently live in Phuket, Thailand, and organize personalized trips to China for travellers looking to discover the country beyond the usual tourist routes.
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