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Popular Lijiang Tourist Attractions on Map
1. Explore Lijiang Old Town - The Heartbeat of Lijiang
Lijiang Old Town is surely the first stop when you arrive in Lijiang. Many travelers even choose to stay right inside the town, in a cozy guesthouse hidden in the ancient lanes.
This UNESCO World Heritage Site has a history of more than 800 years. It’s known for its well-preserved wooden architecture, winding stone alleys lined with flowers and flowing canals, and lively bar streets that light up at night. You can easily spend half a day, or even a full day, soaking up its charm.
Things to Do in Lijiang Old Town:
Wander the maze-like alleys: Get lost in the crisscrossing streets. Each turn brings surprises—antique doors, quiet courtyards, and little shops full of local crafts.
Enjoy afternoon tea in a flower-filled shop: Find a peaceful café tucked among blossoms. Sip tea or coffee while the breeze brings in the scent of flowers and the sound of trickling water.
Experience the buzzing nightlife: When the sun sets, the old town glows. Bars come alive with music, lights, and laughter. Grab a drink, enjoy a live band, and maybe join a local dance party.
Dress up in ethnic costumes for a photo shoot: Rent a beautiful traditional outfit and take stunning photos in scenic corners of the old town. It’s a fun and unforgettable experience.
Taste the local street food: Follow your nose to the food stalls. Try Lijiang roasted fish, butter tea, and the famous "Crossing the Bridge" rice noodles. Every bite brings you closer to local life.
Find more interesting things to do in Lijiang Old Town.
2. Climb to the Top of Lion Hill to Get a Panoramic View
As you wander through the maze-like alleys of Lijiang Old Town, take a small detour west — up the gentle slope of Lion Hill.
This low-lying hill, at 2,400 meters above sea level, offers one of the best views of the old town. After a 20-minute uphill walk, you'll reach Wangu Tower, a five-story traditional pavilion perched at the summit. While the view from the top of the tower is already impressive, you might find some tree branches blocking your shot.
Here’s a local tip: walk down about 100 meters from the tower to find a dedicated viewing platform. From there, you’ll get a full, unobstructed view of the tiled rooftops, winding alleys, and wooden houses of Lijiang Old Town stretching out beneath you — with Jade Dragon Snow Mountain rising in the distance like a guardian.
In summer, consider coming in the evening. When the lights of the old town switch on, the golden glow against the backdrop of the night sky creates a magical scene you won’t forget.
3. Explore Mufu Palace – The Naxi Forbidden City
At the foot of Lion Hill stands a grand complex of ancient buildings — the Mufu Palace, once home to the powerful Mu family who ruled Lijiang for over 400 years.
Inspired by Beijing’s Forbidden City, Mufu was built along a central axis stretching 369 meters from east to west. As you walk through the Zhongyi Gate, you'll pass through majestic halls one by one — from the Executive Hall and Wanjuan Pavilion, to the Dharma Guardian Hall, Yuyin Pavilion, and finally the Sanqing Pavilion sitting high up on the hill.
Wandering through these halls, you'll witness the finest Naxi-style architecture and learn how the Mu family once governed this mountain city. Don’t miss the chance to climb up to Sanqing Pavilion — from there, the entire palace layout unfolds before your eyes like a miniature Forbidden City.
To fully appreciate the rich history, consider joining a guided tour. With stories and legends woven into every building, a guide can bring the old walls of Mufu to life.
4. Wander around Black Dragon Pool Park
After exploring Lion Hill and Mufu Palace, head north to a quieter corner of the city — Black Dragon Pool Park, nestled at the base of Elephant Hill.
This peaceful park is famous for its crystal-clear waters, lush gardens, and stunning reflections of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. It's one of the best spots in Lijiang for taking postcard-worthy photos, especially at sunrise when the golden mountain peak glows in the still waters.
For the best view, walk to Suocui Bridge in the southern part of the park. From here, you’ll get a perfect shot of Wukong Bridge, Deyue Pavilion, and the snowy mountain mirrored in the pool.
If you're up for a little more adventure, take a 30-minute hike up Elephant Hill (2,500 meters). The trail leads to different viewpoints where you can look out over both the Old Town and Jade Dragon Snow Mountain — a quiet, refreshing escape from the busy streets below.
5. Discover the Naxi Culture in Dongba Culture Museum
Just outside the north gate of Black Dragon Pool, you’ll find a special place that tells the story of Lijiang’s people — the Dongba Culture Museum.
Built in the style of a traditional Naxi courtyard, the museum has four exhibition halls, each offering a window into the unique Naxi culture.
- Hall 1: Learn where the Naxi people come from, explore traditional costumes, and see old treasures from the Lijiang area.
- Hall 2: Step into the world of Dongba divination, with tools and stories used by ancient Naxi priests.
- Hall 3: Dive into the magical world of the Dongba pictographic script, one of the few ancient picture-writing systems still in use today.
- Hall 4: Enjoy special temporary exhibits from time to time.
Spend about an hour here, and if you take a guided tour, you’ll come away with a much deeper understanding of the local traditions, beliefs, and symbols — maybe even enough to try writing a Dongba character or two!
6. Jade Dragon Snow Mountain - The Soul of Lijiang
After visiting Lijiang Old Town and its surrounding attractions, it’s time to head to the soul of Lijiang – Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. As soon as you arrive in Lijiang, you might spot a towering snow-capped mountain in the distance.
Also known as Yulong Snow Mountain, this majestic range is famous for its jagged peaks, deep valleys, and year-round snow. You can see it from many places in the city — from Black Dragon Pool to Shuhe and Baisha villages — but nothing compares to getting up close.
Top Highlights of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain
Blue Moon Valley (蓝月谷)
Nicknamed “Little Jiuzhaigou,” this dreamy valley is known for its bright turquoise lakes, small waterfalls, and green forests. You can stroll along the paths or take an electric shuttle to soak in the peaceful, postcard-like scenery — all with the snow mountain rising in the background.
Glacier Park (冰川公园)
Want to stand face-to-face with the glacier? This is your spot. At 4,680 meters high, Glacier Park is the highest point of the scenic area. A 20-minute cable car takes you most of the way up, followed by a short (but breathless!) climb to the viewing deck. It’s stunning — but also popular, so expect long waits for the cable car during busy times.
Spruce Meadow (云杉坪)
Just a short cable car ride from Blue Moon Valley, this alpine meadow sits at 3,240 meters. Surrounded by dense spruce forests and backed by mountain peaks, it’s a quiet place for a peaceful walk and fresh mountain air.
Yak Meadow (牦牛坪)
If you're up for a bit more adventure, head 20 km north to this highland meadow at 3,700 meters. After an hour-long drive and a scenic cable car ride, you’ll arrive at a wide-open meadow where you can see all 13 peaks of the Jade Dragon range. It’s quieter here, with fewer crowds and more space to enjoy nature.
Check the best itinerary in Jade Dragon Snow Mountain Guide.
7. Be Mesmerized by the Impression Lijiang Show
Tired after a full day exploring the scenic spots of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain? Take a break and enjoy a truly unique performance — the Impression Lijiang Show.
Staged in the open air at Ganhaizi Meadow, right at the foot of the majestic Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, this grand-scale outdoor show is the brainchild of famous director Zhang Yimou. It blends traditional Naxi music, folk dances, and cultural rituals with innovative visual effects and a breathtaking mountain backdrop.
With over 500 performers, colorful ethnic costumes, and the dramatic alpine setting at 3,100 meters above sea level, this is more than just a show — it’s a cultural spectacle that brings the spirit of Lijiang to life.
Tips for Enjoying the Show:
Tickets: Regular tickets are 280 yuan, VIP tickets 348 yuan. Note that if you're not visiting Jade Dragon Snow Mountain Park on the same day, you may need to buy an additional 100-yuan entry ticket to access the theater.
Timing: Performances usually take place in the morning and afternoon, lasting about 1 hour. Contact us to check current showtimes.
Sun Protection: It's an outdoor theater, so bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen — especially on sunny days.
Altitude Note: While most people won’t feel the elevation, keep in mind the theater is at 3,100 meters. If you’ve just come down from Glacier Park, allow your body to adjust.
8. Travel to Yuhu Village (玉湖村) to Trace Locke's Footsteps
On your way back from Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, don’t rush back to Lijiang just yet. Make a stop at Yuhu Village (玉湖村) — one of the most charming and authentic villages nestled under the snow-capped mountain.
Yuhu is most famous as the former home of Joseph Rock, the Austrian-American botanist and explorer who lived here in the early 20th century. He spent decades researching the Naxi culture and the region’s plant life, introducing Lijiang to the world through his National Geographic articles. His stone-and-wood residence has been preserved as a museum, offering insight into his life and legacy.
The village itself is a quiet, scenic place with traditional stone houses, gray-tiled rooftops, and peaceful rural vibes. It’s perfect for a slow walk, breathing in the mountain air, and watching the rhythms of village life unfold.
If you're feeling adventurous, consider horseback riding to Longnv Lake (龙女湖) — a beautiful hidden lake said to be the prison of a legendary Naxi princess. Whether you're here for history, nature, or cultural immersion, Yuhu is a peaceful stop that many travelers overlook — but shouldn’t.
9. Visit Baisha Village – Home of the Ancient Murals
Just 10 kilometers from Lijiang Old Town, Baisha Village offers a peaceful step back in time. It’s one of the oldest Naxi villages and is best known for the Baisha Murals, a priceless treasure of Ming and Qing Dynasty art.
These colorful wall paintings are full of stories — of gods, daily life, and Naxi legends — and blend elements of Buddhism, Taoism, and Tibetan culture.
Where to See the Murals:
- Wenchang Palace: Tells the history of Baisha through paintings and old photos.
- Liuli Temple: Houses 16 small but precious Ming-era murals.
- Dabaoji Palace: The main highlight, with 12 large, well-kept murals that glow with centuries of color.
- Dading Pavilion: Features 16 murals, some repainted during the Qing Dynasty.
Things to Do in Baisha Village:
- Visit traditional Naxi homes and meet the friendly locals.
- Try your hand at making Naxi Baba — a tasty flatbread filled with sweet or savory flavors.
- Watch (or join) skilled artisans in the art of Naxi embroidery.
- Learn to write Dongba pictographs — a unique and ancient script like no other in the world.
Baisha is quiet, slow, and full of charm. It’s a place where history lives on in every wall and smile.
10. Step Back in Time in Shuhe Ancient Town
Only 6 kilometers from Lijiang Old Town, Shuhe Ancient Town is a hidden gem — less busy, more peaceful, and full of old-world charm.
Like its bigger sister, Shuhe is part of the UNESCO World Heritage site and shares the same Naxi-style stone houses, wooden bridges, and cobbled streets. But here, the pace is slower. There are fewer crowds, and it feels more like a real village.
A Nice Walking Route:
Start at the South Gate, wander through the music-filled Sifang Tingyin Square, then pass Feihua Chushui, the commercial heart with cafes and shops by the water. Cross the 400-year-old Qinglong Bridge, and follow the stream to Jiuding Longtan — a lovely pool surrounded by ancient trees.
Why You’ll Love Shuhe:
- Enjoy live Naxi music and dance in the square.
- Relax in riverside teahouses and small bars.
- Explore narrow lanes without getting lost.
- Experience the quiet beauty of old Lijiang — without the noise.
11. Taste Lijiang Cuisine and Street Food
While exploring the ancient Naxi villages beneath the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, don’t forget to indulge in Lijiang’s rich culinary scene — a flavorful reflection of its diverse ethnic roots.
Lijiang cuisine is a fusion of Naxi, Tibetan, Bai, Yi, and Yunnan influences. It’s bold, earthy, and often uses fresh mountain ingredients, from wild mushrooms to homemade cheese. Whether you’re eating in the bustling streets of the Old Town or a quiet village courtyard, every bite brings you closer to the soul of this land.
Must-Try Dishes in Lijiang:
Cured Pork Ribs Hotpot (腊排骨火锅): A local favorite! These smoky, tender ribs are simmered with vegetables in a hearty broth — perfect for chilly mountain evenings.
Crossing the Bridge Rice Noodles (过桥米线): Yunnan’s signature dish. It features silky rice noodles in rich broth, with toppings like meat, tofu, and egg added just before serving.
Erkuai Roast Chicken & Steam Pot Chicken: Yunnan-style chicken dishes that highlight the region’s unique flavors and preparation methods.
Sour Bamboo Shoots with Beef: A tangy, spicy dish that pairs perfectly with rice — and packs a flavorful punch.
Naxi Snacks to Try:
- Chicken Bean Cold Rice Noodles (鸡豆凉粉): A savory, refreshing dish served cold.
- Lijiang Baba (丽江粑粑): A crispy, pancake-like bread that’s stuffed or plain — great as a snack or light meal.
- Rushan (乳扇): Think grilled cheese, Naxi-style! This chewy, smoky local cheese is usually served rolled up on sticks.
- Wild Mushrooms: Lijiang’s mountain forests are rich in edible fungi — and local chefs know exactly how to bring out their delicate, earthy flavors.
Where to Eat in Lijiang:You’ll find delicious local food almost everywhere, but the best spots include Lijiang Old Town, Shuhe Ancient Town, Baisha Village, Huama Street (花马街), and the bustling Zhongyi Market (忠义市场). These areas offer everything from tiny food stalls and night market bites to cozy restaurants serving home-style meals.
12. Tiger Leaping Gorge - Nature’s Grand Drama
Perhaps you have heard of Tiger Leaping Gorge? Behind Jade Dragon Snow Mountain flows the upper stretch of the mighty Yangtze River — called the Jinsha River here. And right along its roaring path lies one of China’s most dramatic landscapes: Tiger Leaping Gorge.
This deep, narrow canyon stretches about 15 kilometers (9 miles) and is framed by cliffs that soar nearly 4,000 meters (13,000 feet) above sea level. It’s named after a legend — people say a tiger once jumped across the river at its narrowest point to escape a hunter.
Why Visit Tiger Leaping Gorge?
If you love hiking, this place is a dream. The most famous route is the High Trail, a scenic path that winds along the upper edge of the gorge. It gives you jaw-dropping views of the cliffs, the rushing river below, and the snow peaks far above.
The trail takes you through quiet villages, green terraces, waterfalls, and lookout points that make you stop in awe. Most people take 2–3 days to hike it, staying in local guesthouses along the way. If you’re short on time, there are also shorter sections you can do in a day.
As you walk, you'll hear the roar of the river, feel the wind from the canyon, and see nature in its wildest, most beautiful form. It’s a raw, powerful place — and one that stays with you long after you leave.
Check details of Tiger Leaping Gorge hiking in Yunnan Hiking Trails.
13. First Bend of the Yangtze – Where the Mighty River Turns Back
On your way back from Tiger Leaping Gorge to Lijiang, don’t miss a quick detour to witness one of China’s most fascinating river bends — the First Bend of the Yangtze River.
Located near Shigu Town (石鼓镇), about 50 kilometers north of Lijiang, this scenic spot marks the dramatic point where the Yangtze River — known as the Jinsha River in this section — suddenly swerves from a southward flow to a sharp northward turn, creating a natural V- or horseshoe-shaped bend. It’s a striking geographical twist in the river’s 6,300-kilometer journey across China.
Viewing platforms have been thoughtfully placed along the riverbank, allowing visitors to admire the full grandeur of the bend and the surrounding valleys. Whether you're a nature lover or photography enthusiast, this quick stop offers panoramic views that are sure to impress — especially in the early morning or late afternoon light.
14. Lugu Lake – Where Nature Meets Mosuo Traditions
Tucked away in the mountains on the border of Yunnan and Sichuan, about 200 kilometers from Lijiang, lies Lugu Lake, a hidden gem that rewards those willing to take the 4-hour scenic drive. Most travelers choose to stay at least one night to soak in the lake’s beauty and unique culture.
Lugu Lake is not just stunning — it’s culturally rich, home to the Mosuo people, one of the last remaining matrilineal societies in the world. Here, you’ll encounter the intriguing “walking marriage” tradition, where couples form bonds without formal marriage or cohabitation, maintaining their own family homes.
Things to Do Around Lugu Lake:
Paddle across the lake in a traditional canoe (猪槽船) — glide through still waters surrounded by forested hills and small islands.
Visit the Walking Marriage Bridge (走婚桥) in Caohai wetlands — learn about Mosuo courtship customs and take in the peaceful scenery.
Hike to Goddess Bay (女神湾) — a perfect sunset-watching spot where golden light dances across the lake.
Try Mosuo cuisine in Luoshui Village (洛水村) — dishes are fresh, hearty, and flavored with highland ingredients.
Climb to Lige Peninsula (里格半岛) for postcard-perfect panoramic views — one of the most photographed locations on the lake.
See the water blossoms in summer — especially the delicate wavy-leaved sea lettuce (水性杨花) with tiny white flowers floating in bloom clusters, adding a dreamy charm to the lake.
How to Plan a Lijiang Panoramic Tour?
To fully immerse yourself in Lijiang and explore the top 14 attractions, it is recommended to allocate at least 3 days for your visit.
Day 1: Focus on Lijiang Old Town and nearby attractions such as Mufu Palace, Black Dragon Pool Park, Dongba Culture Museum, and Lion Hill. If you arrive in the late afternoon, you may need to prioritize and skip some attractions. Don't miss out on experiencing the vibrant nightlife of Lijiang Old Town and trying the delicious street food.
Day 2: Explore Jade Dragon Snow Mountain and its surroundings, including the Impression Lijiang Show, Yuhu Village, Shuhe Ancient Town, and Baisha Village. Keep in mind that there may not be enough time to visit all attractions, so adjust your itinerary based on your preferences.
Day 3: Take a trip to Tiger Leaping Gorge, and on the way, make a stop at the First Bend of the Yangtze River. This can be part of your Lijiang to Shangri-La itinerary, or you can return to Lijiang after visiting the gorge.
If you plan to visit Lugu Lake, you will need an additional 2 days for a round trip.
Optimizing your time and prioritizing attractions based on your interests will ensure a fulfilling experience in Lijiang.
Travel with Asia Odyssey Travel (AOT) to Explore Lijiang, Yunnan
Travel to Lijiang with Asia Odyssey Travel (AOT) and indulge yourself in the enchanting beauty and vibrant culture of Yunnan. With over a decade of experience in the region, AOT is a trusted travel partner that provides a variety of customizable Lijiang tour packages, catering to the preferences of every traveler. Whether you're looking for a old town explore, a snow mountain adventure, a romantic escape, or a cultural exploration of Lijiang and its Naxi minority heritage, AOT has the expertise to curate the perfect itinerary for your needs. Immerse yourself in the wonders of Lijiang with AOT and create unforgettable memories in this captivating destination.
Popular Attractions: Lijiang Old Town, Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, Tiger Leaping Gorge
Tour Packages: Lijiang Tours, Lijiang Shangri-La Tours, Kunming Lijiang Tours
Embark on an extraordinary adventure with Asia Odyssey Travel and explore the beauty, culture, and warm hospitality of Lijiang. Contact us today to start planning your dream vacation.
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