LIJIANG
This corner of China’s Yunnan province is a land of awe-inspiring nature and ancient culture. It is a meeting point between the historic Naxi people of Lijiang and the raw, immense power of the Yangtze River in the gorge.
Lijiang’s UNESCO-listed Old Town offers charming waterways and traditional wooden architecture, while the Tiger Leaping Gorge challenges adventurers with one of the world’s deepest and most spectacular river canyons.
Most Popular Attractions
Lijiang Old Town (Dayan Ancient Town) Core & Culture:
Lijiang Old Town (Dayan): A UNESCO World Heritage site known for its beautiful network of canals, bridges, and traditional Naxi architecture.
Sifang Street (Square Street): The historic and lively heart of the Old Town, once a major stop on the Tea Horse Road.
Mufu Palace: Often called the “Forbidden City of Lijiang,” this expansive residence of the former Mu ruling family showcases Naxi, Han, and Tibetan architectural styles.
Wangu Tower (on Lion Hill): A five-story wooden tower offering the best panoramic views over the Lijiang Old Town and the surrounding mountains.
Giant Water Wheels: An iconic photo spot and landmark at the North Gate of Lijiang Old Town.
Black Dragon Pool Park (Heilongtan): A scenic park famous for its stunning view of the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain reflecting in its clear water.
Dayan Flower Lane: An artistic, flower-filled alley that is popular for its romantic, photo-friendly atmosphere.
Dongba Culture Museum: A repository dedicated to preserving and displaying the unique hieroglyphic writing and culture of the Naxi minority group.
Three Wells (San Yan Jing): A unique system where Naxi people use three separate pools from the same spring for drinking, washing vegetables, and washing clothes, respectively.
Bar Street: A vibrant nightlife area, particularly along Xinhua Street, that comes alive with music, bars, and clubs in the evening.
Lijiang Surrounding Towns & Nature:
Shuhe Ancient Town: A smaller, quieter, and well-preserved town on the ancient Tea Horse Road, known for its clear canals and relaxed atmosphere.
Baisha Village: The original political and cultural center of the Naxi people, famous for its well-preserved Baisha Murals from the Ming and Qing dynasties.
Yuhu Village (Jade Lake Village): A peaceful village at the foot of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, formerly the home of Austrian-American explorer Joseph Rock.
Jade Dragon Snow Mountain: A sacred, snow-capped mountain massif and national park visible from Lijiang.
Blue Moon Valley: A picturesque valley within the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain park, renowned for its strikingly blue, glacier-fed water.
Impression Lijiang Show: A massive outdoor cultural performance directed by Zhang Yimou, set against the backdrop of the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain.
The First Bend of the Yangtze River: A spectacular geographical sight near the town of Shigu where the Yangtze River makes a dramatic, almost 180-degree turn.
Tiger Leaping Gorge (Hutiaoxia) & Trekking:
Tiger Leaping Gorge (General): One of the world’s deepest and most spectacular river canyons, running between Jade Dragon Snow Mountain and Haba Snow Mountain.
Upper Tiger Leaping Gorge Scenic Spot: The narrowest part of the gorge with a well-paved plank road for easy viewing of the legendary Tiger Leaping Stone in the raging Jinsha River (Yangtze River).
Middle Tiger Leaping Gorge: The section popular with hikers, known for its challenging descents to the river.
The High Trail Hike: The classic multi-day trekking route offering unparalleled views of the gorge from halfway up Haba Snow Mountain.
The 28 Bends: The most physically demanding section of the High Trail, a series of steep switchbacks.
Sky Ladder (or Heaven Ladder): A near-vertical metal ladder providing a thrilling descent/ascent option in the Middle Gorge.
Halfway Guesthouse: A famous resting point on the High Trail, known for its incredible panoramic views, particularly from its terraces.
Activities & Experiences
Hike the Tiger Leaping Gorge High Trail: Embark on the world-famous trek, typically a 1- or 2-day journey, offering spectacular views of the Jinsha River (Upper Yangtze) rushing between the towering Jade Dragon Snow Mountain and Haba Snow Mountain.
Conquer the 28 Bends: Challenge yourself on the steepest section of the High Trail, a series of exhilarating switchbacks that lead to the trek’s highest, most scenic point.
Visit the Upper Gorge Viewing Platforms: For a shorter visit, explore the well-maintained boardwalks and viewing points to see the legendary rock where the tiger is said to have leaped.
Stay at a Local Guesthouse on the High Trail: Spend a night at a famous stop like Halfway Guesthouse to witness sunrise/sunset over the mountains and enjoy the unique local hospitality.
Explore Lijiang Old Town (Dayan Ancient City): Wander the labyrinthine, UNESCO-listed cobblestone streets, canals, and bridges of the Naxi minority’s beautifully preserved ancient capital.
Climb Lion Hill (Shizi Shan) for a Panorama: Head up this small hill in Lijiang Old Town to get a stunning bird’s-eye view of the traditional tile roofs and the distant Jade Dragon Snow Mountain.
Discover Shuhe Ancient Town: Visit this quieter, less commercialized sister town to Lijiang, which was once an important stop on the Ancient Tea Horse Road (Cha Ma Gu Dao).
Attend the Naxi Ancient Music Performance: Experience the unique and ancient orchestral music of the Naxi people, which is said to be a fusion of Taoist and Confucian court music.
See the Baisha Murals: Travel to Baisha Village to view the Ming Dynasty murals, which illustrate a fascinating blend of Han, Tibetan, and Naxi artistic styles.
Visit Black Dragon Pool (Heilongtan Park): Capture the iconic postcard shot of the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain perfectly reflected in the park’s tranquil, mirror-like waters.
Take a Cable Car up Jade Dragon Snow Mountain: Experience the high-altitude landscape and glaciers by taking one of the cable cars, such as the one to Spruce Meadow (Yunshanping) or Glacier Park.
Shop and Dine at the Sifang Street Market: Immerse yourself in the bustling heart of Lijiang Old Town, where local handicrafts, snacks, and cultural performances often take place.
Local Tips & Transport
Getting to the Gorge: The most common travel hub is Lijiang. You can take a public bus or a shared minivan (Pin Che) from Lijiang to Qiaotou (the traditional starting point for the High Trail) or directly to the scenic area.
Bus/Minivan for Trekkers: Dedicated trekker shuttle services (often arranged through guesthouses in Lijiang or via WeChat) are the most convenient, as they can drop you at the trailhead and arrange luggage forwarding to the end of the trek (e.g., Tina’s Guesthouse).
Lixiang Railway (Train): A new high-speed train line connects Lijiang and Shangri-La, with a stop at Tiger Leaping Gorge Station. This is a fast and scenic alternative to buses, requiring a short transfer bus to the scenic entrance.
Transportation along the Gorge: Local vans often operate between Qiaotou and guesthouses like Tina’s. After completing the trek, most hikers take a shared minivan from Tina’s Guesthouse back to Lijiang or onwards to Shangri-La.
Old Town Transport (Lijiang): Lijiang Old Town is a UNESCO-protected pedestrian area where no cars are allowed. Be prepared to walk a considerable distance from where a taxi or bus can drop you to your accommodation.
Altitude Awareness: Lijiang is located at an altitude of about 2,400 meters (7,900 ft), and the highest point of the Tiger Leaping Gorge High Trail is around 2,670 meters (8,760 ft). While this is generally not high enough to cause severe altitude sickness, take it easy on arrival, ascend slowly, and stay hydrated.
Naxi Culture: The primary ethnic group in Lijiang and the gorge is the Naxi people. Their culture is distinct, known for their unique Dongba pictographic writing system (one of the few pictographic languages still in use) and their historical matriarchal social structure (particularly the Mosuo people near Lugu Lake).
Naxi Guesthouse Hospitality: The guesthouses along the Tiger Leaping Gorge High Trail, often run by local Naxi families, are known for their spectacular views, communal dining, and warm welcome. They are a great place to connect with fellow travelers.
Best Time to Hike: The best seasons for hiking are Spring (April-May) and Autumn (September-October), as the weather is mild and the visibility is often best. Avoid the heavy rainy season (June-August), as the trails can become slippery and prone to landslides.
Trail Difficulty: The High Trail is a genuine trek with challenging sections like the 28 Bends. Wear sturdy, comfortable hiking boots, pack layers for unpredictable mountain weather, and carry enough water and snacks. Mule rides are often available for hire for the steepest sections if you need assistance.
Language: While basic English is often spoken at main tourist sites, guesthouses along the trekking route, and major hotels, learning a few basic Mandarin phrases will greatly enhance your experience, especially in smaller towns and for arranging local transport.
Top Restaurants
The Master of Lijiang (滇西王子) [$10-$20] – A locally renowned eatery near the South Gate, famous for blending ethnic charm with authentic, flavorful Yunnan and Naxi cuisine like Snow Mountain Fish and Colorful Hand-Grasped Rice.
Preserved Steak Restaurant (腊排骨火锅) [$15-$25 per person for hotpot] – A must-try Lijiang specialty, this spot is famous for its preserved pork rib hotpot served with vegetables, a deeply flavorful and authentic local Naxi dish.
A Ma Yi Naxi Snacks (阿妈意小吃店) [$5-$10] – A simple, traditional restaurant serving local Naxi specialties and snacks, popular for its very reasonable prices and authentic local flavors.
LI JIANG THERE IS A POT (丽江有壶) [$10-$20 per person for hotpot] – Housed in a century-old building, this hotpot restaurant is highly recommended for its preserved pork ribs hotpot, a signature dish of the region.
Dianxiang Guan Chinese Restaurant (滇香馆) [$10-$20] – Located in or near the Shuhe Old Town, this restaurant is known for its authentic Yunnan cuisine, sometimes offering views and a quiet, elegant atmosphere that combines classical and modern elements.
V. Sherry Restaurant [$15-$25] – Serves home-cooked style Yunnan dishes, including local specialties like Snow Mountain Fish, Naxi Barbeque, and yak beef, often covering a broad range of local cuisines.
Naxi Cuisine Culture Center [$20-$35] – While it features dinner and a traditional dance/music performance, it offers authentic Naxi dishes, making it a good spot for a complete cultural and culinary immersion.
Nima Tibetan Restaurant [$10-$20] – Offers various Yunnan and Tibetan specialties, with the yak hot pot being a standout, along with snacks like buttered tea and yak beef dishes.
Chickpea Bean Jelly (鸡豆粉) [$2-$5] – While a snack rather than a full restaurant, many small stalls throughout Lijiang Old Town serve this popular, tangy and savory local specialty, made from a local high-altitude bean.
Lijiang Baba (丽江粑粑) [$2-$5] – Another essential street snack, this Naxi-style flatbread comes in both sweet (often with sesame or walnuts) and savory flavors and is cooked on a flat-bottomed pan.
Les Petites Ecuries (小马厩) [$15-$30] – A beautifully decorated restaurant, often described as having an elegant, romantic style, serving creative Yunnan cuisine with an exquisite, fusion presentation blending Chinese and Western styles.
Laomadian Karma Café [$10-$20] – Located in the nearby Shaxi, a common stop for regional travelers, this café-restaurant offers a mix of local and Western food in a charming setting, blending local ingredients with a modern touch.
Ashun’s Kitchen [$15-$25] – A highly-rated ethnic restaurant with a cozy ambiance, serving Yunnan specialties like Naxi barbecue, horseshoe copper pot rice, and creative dishes like orange “salmon” (rainbow trout).
Yunshang Sheng Yan • Changjie Yan (云上盛宴•长街宴) [$25-$45] – Offers a “Long Street Banquet” dining experience that showcases Naxi heritage with a wonderful display of local ingredients and communal dining.
Man Yi Xuan (in Amandayan) [$70-$120] – Located in the luxury Amandayan resort, this rustic Naxi restaurant provides an exquisite fine-dining experience with spectacular views of the snow mountain and the ancient town.
Bai Yun Restaurant (in Banyan Tree Lijiang) [$40-$70] – A fine Chinese restaurant within the luxury Banyan Tree resort, offering elevated Cantonese and authentic Yunnan cuisine with modern touches.
7 Colors Chinese Restaurant (in InterContinental Lijiang) [$30-$50] – A hotel restaurant that offers a refined take on Yunnan cuisine with magnificent views of the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, known for its elegant setting.
Ming Yue Restaurant (in Banyan Tree Lijiang) [$30-$50] – Also at Banyan Tree, this restaurant serves a mix of international favorites and authentic, traditional flavors of Yunnan in a refined setting.
Halfway Guesthouse (中途客栈) [$8-$15] – A legendary stop on the high-trail trek, famous for its magnificent “Heavenly Stairs” view and simple, hearty meals perfect for hikers, often including local dishes and basic Western fare.
Tina’s Guest House [$5-$15] – Located at the end of the high-trail, this is a larger guesthouse/hotel known for having good food and is a convenient, popular spot to finish the trek before transport.
Tea Horse Guesthouse (茶马客栈) [$5-$15] – Situated earlier on the high trail, this guesthouse offers simple, hot meals like rice dishes and noodles, providing a welcome break for trekkers.
Sean’s Spring Guest House [$8-$18] – A long-standing, popular stop on the high-trail, known for offering both local food and simple Western options like pizza and burgers to cater to international trekkers.
N’s Kitchen Upstairs (Lijiang) [$10-$20] – A popular spot among backpackers and foreigners in Lijiang, offering a cozy atmosphere and Western dishes like burgers, pasta, and pizza, serving as a nice break from local cuisine.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
Le Petit Paris (小巴黎酒吧): A popular and romantic spot located on Bar Street in Lijiang Old Town, known for mixing Western romantic customs with local Naxi culture. It features a French owner and often has live ethnic singing.
Sakura House (樱花屋): Found on Cuiwen Section of Xinhua Street in Lijiang Old Town, this historic bar (Lijiang’s first) is a symbol of local romance culture and also serves Western and Korean food. It has a distinct pink uniform for its waitresses.
Wen Hai Bar (at Banyan Tree Lijiang): A charming cocktail bar with light food and afternoon tea, offering a sophisticated and tranquil atmosphere within the Banyan Tree resort, away from the Old Town’s main hustle.
Wish you were here: A unique, non-smoking bar and coffee shop located in the heart of Lijiang Old Town’s bar scene, popular with art lovers for its distinct atmosphere.
38号火塘酒吧 (No. 38 Fire Pit Bar): Located in Lijiang Old Town, this bar features a unique cave-style design where patrons sit around a traditional stove (fire pit), offering a cozy, pleasant, and rustic atmosphere.
Riding Alone for Thousands of Miles (束河店): Known for its Naxi-style architecture and ethnic singing and dancing, this branch in Shuhe Ancient Town offers a relaxed setting for drinks and food, with a nice sunbathing spot by the window during the day.
Stone the Crows: A Lijiang institution known for its reasonable prices and good beer, including a house-brewed pale ale called “Jaded Dragon.” It’s a bit of a hidden gem near Wuyi Street.
D diao bar (D调酒吧): Located in Yinyu Alley of Wuyi Street in Lijiang Old Town, this spot is a “paradise for folk lovers,” focusing on live folk music and human stories told through song.
Shuipo Liangshan Bar (水泊梁山酒吧): Situated in Lijiang Old Town, this bar is known for its heroic, hearty drinking spirit and traditional ambiance.
Blue Pawpaw: A cafe-bar located in Lijiang Old Town that not only serves coffee but also authentic Italian dishes, offering a casual option for drinks.
Mañana Cocktail Bar Lijiang: A friendly, mid-sized spot on Bar Street, known for a wide selection of classic cocktails.
Hiking Coffee & Bar (at Tea Horse Guesthouse): Located in the Tiger Leaping Gorge, this bar and cafe offers a well-deserved cold beverage to trekkers, famous for its stunning, open views of the mountains from its terrace.
Tigerbucks (at Zhongdu Guesthouse): Located in the Tiger Leaping Gorge, this is a unique cafe and small bar space on a terrace overlooking the cliff, known for its humor (parody of a famous coffee chain) and a comforting spot for weary hikers.
Huamei Club Bar: Found within the Huamei Club complex, about 10km from Lijiang’s city center, this hotel bar provides a comfortable and tranquil setting for drinks.
Zishuiyifang Bar (在水一方酒吧): Located next to Baisui Bridge on Xinyi Street in Lijiang Old Town, offering a great spot to enjoy the ancient town’s scenery while sipping a drink.