Lijiang

Written by Alexander Kopp, Wei Li
18/08/2025
Stunning view of a traditional pagoda at Mufu Palace in Lijiang, China, under a bright blue sky.
Jasmine Xie, Pexels

Lijiang, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in China's Yunnan Province, captivates with its preserved ancient towns, rich Naxi ethnic culture, and dramatic natural landscapes.

Lijiang Old Town's Sifang Street is a lively area where visitors can engage with the bustling market during the day and participate in vibrant bonfire parties at night, providing opportunities to meet other travelers. For a calmer atmosphere, Shuhe Ancient Town offers boutique cafes in a serene setting.

Top 6 Things to do in Lijiang

Visitors to Lijiang can engage in a mix of cultural exploration within ancient towns, breathtaking mountain excursions, and immersive cultural performances.

1. Wander Through Lijiang Old Town (Dayan Ancient Town)

Step into a UNESCO World Heritage Site, a labyrinth of cobblestone streets, traditional wooden houses, and winding canals. This ancient city preserves the architectural and cultural essence of the Naxi people. While parts are commercialized, exploring the side alleys offers a more authentic experience with local artisans and a quieter rhythm. Aim to visit in the early morning for a tranquil atmosphere and better photography opportunities, or in the evening to witness the lively atmosphere around Sifang Street.

Cost: There is no direct entrance fee for Lijiang Old Town itself. However, an 80 CNY maintenance fee for the Lijiang Ancient Town is officially required, which may grant access to several attractions within the area, though its strict enforcement for general entry can vary.

Transport: Lijiang Old Town is the central hub, and most areas are best explored on foot. Taxis and local buses connect to its perimeter. From Lijiang Airport, a taxi costs around CNY 80-100, or an airport shuttle bus costs CNY 15-20 to a central point, followed by a short taxi or walk. From Lijiang Railway Station, a taxi costs around CNY 35 (25 minutes), or public buses (Line 16 or 4) are available for approximately CNY 4.

2. Ascend Jade Dragon Snow Mountain

Experience the majestic Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, a sacred snow-capped range offering panoramic views. Visitors can take a cable car to Glacier Park, reaching elevations over 4,500 meters for breathtaking views of snow and glaciers. Another option is Spruce Meadow, a high-altitude grassland with scenic pathways. It is highly recommended to purchase a portable oxygen tank for the high altitude, which is available at local shops or the hospital.

Cost: The Jade Dragon Snow Mountain National Park entrance fee is CNY 100. The Glacier Park cable car costs CNY 140 for a round trip. The Spruce Meadow cable car costs CNY 60. Tickets for the Glacier Park cable car sell out quickly and should be booked in advance via WeChat mini-programs. Oxygen tanks cost approximately CNY 20 in Lijiang Old Town or CNY 60 at the summit.

Transport: Jade Dragon Snow Mountain is approximately 20-30 km from Lijiang City. A tourist bus from the South Gate of Lijiang Ancient Town costs around CNY 40, or public bus Number 7 from Hong Tai Yang Square costs CNY 15. Taxis or Didi (ride-hailing) are also options, costing around CNY 80-100 for a one-way trip (40 minutes). Many tours also include transport.

3. Witness the Impression Lijiang Show

This grand outdoor cultural performance is set against the stunning natural backdrop of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. Directed by Zhang Yimou, the show features hundreds of local ethnic Naxi, Yi, and Bai performers, showcasing their traditional songs, dances, and daily life. It offers a profound and immersive experience into the region's rich cultural heritage and is best enjoyed on a clear day to fully appreciate the natural scenery.

Cost: Tickets typically range from CNY 190 to CNY 280 for standard seats, and CNY 346 for VIP seats. An additional Jade Dragon Snow Mountain ticket (CNY 130, part of the park entrance fee) is required to access the show venue, as it is located within the scenic area.

Transport: The show takes place at the Blue Moon Valley Theater in Ganhaizi, within the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain scenic area. Transportation to the mountain area is not included in the show ticket. Visitors can take a tourist bus from Hongtaiyang Square (near Lijiang Old Town) or a chartered car/taxi (around CNY 200 for a round trip from Lijiang Old Town, taking about 40 minutes).

4. Explore Shuhe Ancient Town

Discover a quieter, less commercialized alternative to Lijiang Old Town. Shuhe Ancient Town is one of the oldest habitats of Lijiang, preserving well-maintained ancient buildings, wells, and pathways along the Ancient Tea Route. It offers a peaceful atmosphere for strolling, browsing artisan workshops, and enjoying boutique cafes. Look for reflections in the canals and enjoy the tranquil charm, especially when visiting early in the day or near sunset.

Cost: Shuhe Ancient Town generally offers free entry for exploration. Some sources mention an entrance fee of CNY 70, but more recent information suggests free entry for general exploration.

Transport: Shuhe Ancient Town is located about 5 kilometers north of Lijiang Ancient Town. It can be reached by taxi (around CNY 15-30, 15-30 minutes), local buses (Line 6 or 11, around CNY 2, 40-60 minutes), or by renting a bicycle for a scenic ride (around 1 hour).

5. Experience Lashi Lake Activities

Visit Lashi Lake, a picturesque highland freshwater lake and a nature reserve located outside the main town. It is particularly popular for bird watching during winter when thousands of migratory birds gather. Another popular activity is horse riding along reconstructed sections of the Ancient Tea Horse Road, providing a unique cultural and active experience in the scenic countryside. Canoeing is also an option.

Cost: Entry to the Lashi Lake area is generally free. Horse riding tours typically range from CNY 160 to CNY 360, which may include activities like horse riding and canoeing. Bargaining for horseback riding is possible.

Transport: Lashi Lake is about 10 kilometers from Lijiang Old Town. A taxi or hired car costs around CNY 30-50 for a 30-minute trip. Mini-vans are available from Zhongyi Market (south of Lijiang Old Town) for CNY 4-5 one way. Cycling from Lijiang Old Town is also an option, taking about 1 hour and costing around CNY 100-150 for daily bike rental.

6. Ascend Lion Rock and Wangu Tower

Located within Lijiang Old Town, Lion Rock is the highest point, offering panoramic views of the entire ancient city, its intricate rooftops, and the distant Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. Climbing to the top and visiting Wangu Tower provides a fantastic vantage point for photography and a peaceful escape from the bustling streets below.

Cost: Entry to Lion Hill is generally free, but there is a separate admission fee of CNY 50 for Wangu Tower, which is located at the top of the hill.

Transport: Lion Hill is situated within Lijiang Old Town and is easily accessible on foot from most parts of the ancient city. Motor vehicles are prohibited within the old town itself.

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