Lijiang Travel Guide: Attractions, Hotels, Hands-on Experiences, Itinerary...

The Lijiang region is located in the connecting part of northwest Yungui(Yunnan and Guizhou) Plateau and the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau in the northwest of Yunnan Province. It was once a transit station on the Silk Road and the Ancient Tea Horse Road, boasting a rich history. Due to its unique human and natural landscapes, it has become an extremely popular travel destination in China.

Lijiang Ancient Town, also known as Dayan Ancient Town, is one of the few minority ethnic ancient towns in China and has been designated a "World Cultural Heritage." It features a strong ethnic flavor, a layout with small bridges and flowing water, well-arranged residential buildings, and a relaxed pace of life with vibrant nightlife.

Many travelers mistakenly believe that Lijiang Ancient Town is synonymous with Lijiang, but that's not the case. In addition to the ancient town, the Lijiang region has a much larger area to explore. There are many places worth visiting, such as the mysterious "Eastern Daughter's Country" Lugu Lake, the tranquil and leisurely Shuhe Ancient Town, the majestic Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, and the picturesque Lashi Lake with its clear waters and beautiful mountains.

Located northwest of Yunnan province there is a fairyland called Lijiang. It is a peaceful place scattered with fresh water, limpid streams, breathtaking snow mountains, and what’s more, is untouched by modernity.

Although remote, Lijiang has a pleasant climate and a wide variety of tourist resources. The earliest history of Lijiang is dated back to the the Period of Warring States. With the booming prosperity of the Tang Dynasty, the local economy had its peak since the Ancient Tea and Horse Trail opened the door for commercial and cultural exchange between Tibet, Sichuan and Yunnan provinces in the past.

Today, Lijiang is an attractive tourist destination where the Naxi people live in exclusive communities. As one of the 55 ethnic groups in China, the Naxi people are renowned for their splendid Dongba Culture which is characterized with a mixture of Tibet culture and Han culture. In Lijiang you’ll be able to access various souvenirs of Dongba culture.

The extraordinary charm of Lijiang is due to the preservation of this ancient town listed as a World Cultural Heritage by UNESCO in 1997. The ancient town was once the center of the city and continues to maintain its original purpose which reflects the simplicity of the local people. The antique buildings and profound cultural heritages are well preserved. If you take a stroll along the Square Street in it, you will be captivated by the tranquil surroundings and amazed by the local lifestyle.

Amongst all the scenic areas, Mufu is a must-see. Additionally, there are some places that will not fail to attract. When it comes to natural scenery, Jade Dragon Snow Mountain has a majestic backdrop to the Moon-Embracing Pavilion at Black Dragon Pond. As for the local lifestyle various festivals expose you to a world of diverse ethnic backgrounds. Wherever you go, you will find a harmonious combination of tradition and fashion in Lijiang.