About Place
- "A picturesque ancient town with breathtaking mountain views."
- "An enchanting maze of cobblestone streets and waterways."
- "A cultural melting pot with rich Naxi heritage."
Reasons to Visit
- Architectural Charm: Lijiang's Old Town, known as Dayan, boasts well-preserved ancient architecture that dates back to the Ming Dynasty. The traditional Naxi houses, built from wood and adorned with intricate carvings, are interwoven with a network of canals and stone bridges, creating a mesmerizing, fairy-tale-like atmosphere. Walking through the narrow, winding streets feels like stepping back in time, offering a glimpse into the town's rich history and culture.
- Cultural Diversity: Lijiang is home to the Naxi ethnic group, whose unique Dongba culture adds a distinct character to the town. The Naxi people have their own language, dress, and customs, and their traditional music, dance, and handicrafts are integral to Lijiang's cultural identity. Visitors can experience this vibrant culture through various performances, museums, and interactions with the local community.
- Scenic Beauty: Nestled at the foot of the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, Lijiang offers stunning natural landscapes that attract nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. The majestic mountain, with its snow-capped peaks and lush forests, provides a dramatic backdrop to the town. Popular activities include hiking, horseback riding, and exploring the scenic Blue Moon Valley and Lashi Lake. The area's pristine environment and serene beauty make Lijiang a haven for relaxation and outdoor exploration.
Visa
- United States/Canada/Europe/Australia: Tourist visas (L visa) required. Usually, a single-entry visa is issued for 30 days. Application involves passport, completed application form, recent passport-sized photo, flight itinerary, and proof of accommodation.
- ASEAN Countries (e.g., Thailand, Malaysia): Visa-free access for short stays up to 15-30 days, depending on the country.
- Japan/Singapore: Visa-free access for short stays up to 15 days.
- India/Russia/South Africa: Tourist visas required, similar documentation as above.
Travel Expenses
Travel to & from destination:
- Airfare: Approximately $1,200 round trip per person from a major metro city (e.g., New York) to Lijiang Sanyi Airport, including layovers.
- Total for two people: $2,400
2. Hotel cost:
- Average cost per night: $100
- Total stay (3 nights): $300
- Total for two people: $600
3. Food cost:
- Average cost per meal: $20 per person
- Total meals (6 lunches + 6 dinners): $240
- Total for two people: $480
4. Activity cost:
- Jade Dragon Snow Mountain: $50 per person
- Blue Moon Valley: $20 per person
- Baisha Village: $10 per person
- Lashi Lake activities: $30 per person
- Total for two people: $220
5. Near destination travel cost:
- Car rental: $50 per day
- Total for three days: $150
Total Estimated Travel Expenses: $3,850
Best Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival and Exploration Upon arrival in Lijiang, settle into your hotel and take some time to acclimate. Start your exploration with a leisurely stroll through the Old Town of Lijiang. Wander through its charming streets, admire the traditional Naxi architecture, and visit the Mu Family Mansion, a historical residence of the local chieftain. For lunch, try local Naxi cuisine at a cozy restaurant like "Naxi Mama's Kitchen." In the evening, enjoy a traditional Naxi music performance at the Dongba Palace. For dinner, savor local specialties at "Lao Fangzi," a restaurant known for its authentic Naxi dishes. Spend the night soaking in the atmosphere of the Old Town.
Day 2: Jade Dragon Snow Mountain and Blue Moon Valley Start your day early with a visit to Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. Take a cable car ride up the mountain to enjoy panoramic views of the snow-capped peaks. Explore the Blue Moon Valley, a scenic area known for its stunning blue lakes and picturesque landscapes. For lunch, try a meal at the mountain's restaurant, offering both local and Chinese dishes. In the afternoon, visit the Baisha Village, known for its ancient murals and traditional Naxi culture. For dinner, head back to Lijiang and dine at "The Bivou," a restaurant offering a mix of local and Western cuisine. End your day with a peaceful walk along the canals of the Old Town.
Day 3: Lashi Lake and Departure Spend your morning at Lashi Lake, located just a short drive from Lijiang. Enjoy activities like horseback riding, bird watching, and boating on the lake. Have lunch at a lakeside restaurant, such as "Lashi Lake Fish Restaurant," known for its fresh fish dishes. After lunch, return to Lijiang for some last-minute shopping or sightseeing. Visit the Black Dragon Pool Park, a serene park with beautiful views of the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. For your final dinner, enjoy a meal at "Prague Cafe," offering a variety of international and local dishes. Prepare for your departure the next day.
Safety Tips
- Keep your valuables secure and avoid displaying them in public.
- Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas.
- Carry a copy of your passport and visa with you.
- Stay hydrated and wear sunscreen to protect against the high altitude sun.
- Respect local customs and traditions, especially in religious sites.
- Be aware of your surroundings and avoid secluded areas at night.
- Use reputable transportation services and avoid unlicensed taxis.
- Learn a few basic phrases in Mandarin or Naxi to help with communication.
- Keep emergency contact numbers handy at all times.
- Purchase travel insurance to cover medical emergencies and other unforeseen events.
Flights
- Airlines: China Eastern, Air China, Cathay Pacific
- Flight duration: Approximately 16-20 hours with layovers
- Estimated cost: $600 per person one way
Hotels
- InterContinental Lijiang Ancient Town Resort: Luxurious resort within walking distance of the Old Town.
- The Bivou Lijiang: Eco-friendly boutique hotel with modern amenities.
- LUX Tea Horse Road Lijiang*: Upscale hotel offering beautiful views and excellent service.
- Lijiang Wangfu Hotel: Traditional Naxi-style hotel with comfortable rooms.
- Blossom Hill Inn Lijiang: Charming guesthouse with a homely atmosphere.
Contacts
- Indian Embassy in China: +86-10-8531-2500
- Police: 110
- Ambulance: 120
- Firefighters: 119
Country
Closet Airport
- Lijiang Sanyi Airport (LJG)
Nearest City
- Kunming
Heritage Sites
- Old Town of Lijiang (UNESCO World Heritage site)
Airlines
- China Eastern
- Air China
- Cathay Pacific
- Sichuan Airlines
Currency
- Chinese Yuan (CNY)
Languages Spoken
- Mandarin
- Naxi
Real Story
One of the most significant historical events in Lijiang's history is the Great Lijiang Earthquake of 1996. This devastating earthquake struck on February 3, 1996, with a magnitude of 7.0 on the Richter scale, causing widespread destruction and loss of life.
Before the earthquake, Lijiang was a relatively unknown ancient town, nestled in the mountains of Yunnan Province. The earthquake, however, brought the town into the international spotlight. The quake's epicenter was near the Old Town of Lijiang, and the tremors were felt across a vast area, affecting nearly 200,000 people.
The impact on Lijiang was catastrophic. Many of the town's historic buildings, constructed from wood and stone, were severely damaged or destroyed. The intricate network of canals and bridges that characterized the Old Town suffered extensive damage. In the immediate aftermath, rescue efforts were hampered by the remote location and the mountainous terrain.
Despite the devastation, the Great Lijiang Earthquake became a turning point for the town. The disaster drew attention to Lijiang's unique cultural and architectural heritage, sparking a massive reconstruction and preservation effort. The Chinese government, along with international organizations such as UNESCO, launched initiatives to restore and rebuild the Old Town while preserving its historical significance.
The reconstruction efforts focused on maintaining the traditional Naxi architectural style, using authentic materials and techniques. This careful restoration not only revived the town's aesthetic charm but also strengthened its structures to withstand future seismic activity. The successful restoration of Lijiang's Old Town was recognized internationally, and in 1997, Lijiang was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site.
The earthquake also fostered a sense of resilience and unity among the residents of Lijiang. The local community came together to rebuild their homes and lives, preserving their cultural traditions in the process. This spirit of resilience and cooperation became a defining characteristic of Lijiang, attracting visitors who were inspired by the town's recovery and rich cultural heritage.
Today, the Great Lijiang Earthquake is remembered not only as a tragedy but also as a catalyst for the preservation and celebration of Lijiang's unique identity. The town's ability to rise from the rubble and embrace its heritage serves as a testament to the strength and determination of its people. Lijiang's story of recovery and renewal continues to inspire visitors, making it a place of historical significance and enduring beauty.
Cuisine
Lijiang's cuisine is a delightful reflection of its diverse cultural heritage, particularly that of the Naxi ethnic group. Known for its hearty and flavorful dishes, Naxi cuisine often features ingredients like yak meat, wild mushrooms, and locally grown vegetables. One of the most iconic dishes is Naxi baba, a type of flatbread that is both crispy and chewy, often filled with savory ingredients like minced pork or vegetables.
Another local specialty is Sanwen fish, a dish prepared with fish sourced from the pristine waters of Lashi Lake, cooked with a blend of spices and herbs unique to the region. Jidou liangfen, a cold mung bean jelly dish, is a popular snack that provides a refreshing contrast to the rich and savory main dishes.
The cuisine of Lijiang is also influenced by neighboring Tibetan and Han culinary traditions, making it a melting pot of flavors and techniques that tantalize the taste buds of visitors.
Culture and History
Lijiang, with its vibrant culture and rich history, is a melting pot of diverse ethnic groups, primarily the Naxi people. The Naxi culture is deeply rooted in the traditions of the Dongba religion, an animistic belief system that reveres nature and ancestral spirits. The Dongba priests, or shamans, play a crucial role in preserving Naxi traditions through rituals, ceremonies, and the unique Dongba script, one of the few remaining pictographic writing systems in the world.
The Old Town of Lijiang, also known as Dayan, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a testament to the city's architectural heritage. The town's layout is a masterpiece of ancient urban planning, with its labyrinthine streets, wooden houses, and flowing canals. The Mu Family Mansion, once the residence of the ruling Mu clan, is a significant historical site that offers a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of Lijiang's past rulers.
Lijiang's location at the foot of the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain adds to its allure. This majestic mountain, sacred to the Naxi people, is not only a natural wonder but also a cultural icon. The mountain is often depicted in Naxi art and mythology, symbolizing the harmony between humans and nature. The nearby Blue Moon Valley and Lashi Lake further enhance Lijiang's natural beauty, offering serene landscapes and opportunities for outdoor activities.
The cultural diversity of Lijiang is also reflected in its cuisine. Naxi food is characterized by its hearty and flavorful dishes, often incorporating ingredients like yak meat, wild mushrooms, and locally grown vegetables. Traditional Naxi feasts are communal affairs, bringing together families and communities to celebrate festivals and special occasions.
Festivals are an integral part of life in Lijiang, with the Torch Festival and the Sanduo Festival being two of the most prominent. These festivals are marked by vibrant celebrations, including music, dance, and traditional performances that showcase the rich cultural heritage of the Naxi people.
Lijiang's cultural richness is further enriched by its role in the ancient Tea Horse Road, a trade route that facilitated cultural exchange between China, Tibet, and beyond. This historical significance is evident in the town's diverse architectural styles and the presence of Tibetan, Bai, and Han cultural influences.
In summary, Lijiang's unique blend of architectural charm, cultural diversity, and stunning natural landscapes makes it a captivating destination for travelers seeking an authentic and enriching experience. The town's commitment to preserving its heritage while embracing modernity ensures that visitors can enjoy both the historical and contemporary aspects of this enchanting place