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Jade Dragon Snow Mountain Facts
Chinese Name: 玉龙雪山
Location: 30 Kilometers north from Lijiang City of Yunnan
Opening Time: 7:00 - 18:00
Recommended Duration: one whole day
Tickets:
| Type | Cost | Cable Car | Ticket |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entrance fee | 100 yuan | Spruce Meadow Cable Car | 60 yuan |
| Shuttle Bus in Blue Moon Valley | 50 yuan | Yak Meadow Cable Car | 65 yuan |
| Impression Lijiang Show Tickets | 280-348 yuan | Glacier Park Cable Car | 140 yuan |
Jade Dragon Snow Mountain is renowned for its stunning natural beauty. The mountain range consists of 13 peaks reaching an altitude of over 4,000 meters, with Shanzidou being the highest, reaching an elevation of 5,596 meters (18,360 feet). The peaks are often snow-capped year-round, creating a captivating sight against the blue sky. The pristine glaciers, deep gorges, lush forests, and alpine meadows make for a breathtaking landscape.
The Main Event: Ascending to the Glacier Park (4,506m)
The Journey Up: From Valley to Sky
Your adventure begins at the visitor center, where every traveler must switch to the park's shuttle bus system. The ride winds you through pine forests and alpine valleys, giving teasing glimpses of snowy peaks ahead. Excitement builds as you approach the base station of the Grand Cableway—the real gateway to Jade Dragon Snow Mountain's icy world.
The Grand Cableway: A Ride into the Clouds
Stepping into the cable car, you'll feel the slow, steady pull skyward. In just over 20 minutes, you're whisked from 3,356 meters up to 4,506 meters—a jaw-dropping vertical leap. Below, the forests shrink into toy-sized pines, while ahead the snow-capped ridges stretch like the spine of a silver dragon. Clouds drift past the glass windows, sometimes wrapping the cabin in mist, sometimes parting to reveal glittering glaciers. It's a ride that makes your ears pop and your heart race at the same time.
The Final Ascent: Walking Above the World
At the upper station, you're already higher than most mountain peaks in the world. But the adventure isn't over. A network of wooden boardwalks leads you even higher, step by step, to the 4680m viewing platform—the highest point open to the public. Here, the air is thin, your breath short, but the reward is beyond words:
- Jagged glaciers glint under the sun.
- The vast sweep of Yunnan spreads out far below, with Lijiang like a distant toy town.
- Snowfields meet rock cliffs, and the mountain's legendary 13 peaks form a dramatic horizon.
It's a moment that feels both humbling and exhilarating—standing literally on top of the world, surrounded by silence broken only by the wind. Few places on Earth make such epic scenery so accessible, and this is what makes Jade Dragon Snow Mountain unforgettable.
Beyond the Peak: What Else to See in the Park
Jade Dragon Snow Mountain isn't just about glaciers and high-altitude thrills—it's a whole scenic world waiting to be explored. Once you've conquered the heights, there's plenty more magic at lower altitudes.
Blue Moon Valley: A Mini Jiuzhaigou
At the foot of the mountain lies Blue Moon Valley (Shanyuegu), a dazzling series of milky-blue pools fed by snowmelt. With cascading terraces, white limestone, and turquoise waters, it looks like something out of a dream—earning it the nickname “Little Jiuzhaigou of Yunnan.” You'll also spot white yaks near the pools, perfect for photos that look straight out of a postcard.
How to Explore:
Stroll along wooden walkways past
Yuye Lake, Jingtan Lake, Blue Moon Lake, and Tingtao Lake
. Allow about an hour. For an easier visit, hop on the park's eco-vehicles (extra ¥50). Don't miss the white yaks grazing by the water—perfect for photos.
Impression Lijiang: Culture on a Grand Stage
Directed by the legendary Zhang Yimou (yes, the man behind the 2008 Beijing Olympics opening ceremony), this outdoor performance brings Naxi culture to life on an epic scale. Hundreds of local performers sing, dance, and chant with the snow-capped mountain as their backdrop. It's not just a show—it's an unforgettable cultural spectacle that ties the mountain to its people.
Details:
- Performed 3–4 times daily, lasting 1 hour.
- Tickets: ¥280 (standard) or ¥346 (VIP).
- Remember: The show is inside the park, so you'll also need the ¥100 park entry fee.
It's the only Zhang Yimou “Impression” show performed in daylight, and with the mountain as its stage, it's an unforgettable way to connect nature and culture in one sweeping experience.
Spruce Meadow: A Forested Retreat
Nestled at 3,240 meters, Spruce Meadow (Yunshanping) is a serene plateau wrapped in dense spruce forest. Naxi legends tell of star-crossed lovers who sacrificed themselves here, giving the meadow an air of romance and mystery. Today, it's the easiest alpine area to reach—ideal for a light stroll, a picnic, or simply soaking in the crisp mountain air without the crowds of the glacier.
Today, it's one of the easiest spots to reach, perfect for a light stroll among towering spruces and alpine air. Plan 1–2 hours here if you want a quieter alternative to the glacier crowds.
Yak Meadow: The Grand Viewpoint
For sweeping, picture-perfect views, head to Yak Meadow (3,700m) at the park's northern edge. This high-altitude pasture is where yaks graze under the gaze of all 13 snow-capped peaks of Jade Dragon. It takes longer to get here, but the reward is panoramic vistas and fewer tourists—a peaceful spot where the mountain's scale really sinks in.
How to Get There:
Take the shuttle from Ganhaizi (about 50 minutes), then a 20-minute cable car ride. The meadow is less visited, making it an excellent escape from the busier attractions.
Pro Tip: Many travelers combine the glacier experience with Blue Moon Valley and the Impression Lijiang show, making the most of a full-day trip. That's exactly why it pays to plan ahead—so you don't miss a single highlight.
Jade Dragon Mountain Cable Cars with Map
Jade Dragon Snow Mountain offers 3 cable cars that provide convenient access to different parts of the mountain and its attractions. The Glacier Park Cable Car is the most popular and frequently used cable car in Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. The Spruce Meadow Cable Car provides access to the Spruce Meadow area. The Yak Meadow Cable Car takes visitors to the Yak Meadow.
| Name | Glacier Park Cable Car | Spruce Meadow Cable Car | Yak Meadow Cable Car |
|---|---|---|---|
| Duration | 20 minutes | 15 minutes | 20 minutes |
| Tickets | 140 yuan | 60 yuan | 65 yuan |
| Altitude Change | 3,556 - 4,506 | 2,900 - 3,240 | 3,400 - 3,700 |
| Opening Time | 07:00 - 17:00 | 07:30 - 17:00 | 8:00 - 16:00 |
| Number in one carriage | 8 People in enclosed carriage | 8 People in enclosed carriage | 2 People in Semi-enclosed carriage |
Can I Take 3 Cable Cars in One Day?
To be honest, it's quite challenging to take all three cable cars and visit three different areas in Jade Dragon Snow Mountain within a single day, unless you wake up very early and skip visiting Blue Moon Valley. Even then, it would require favorable conditions without long queues for the cable cars.
In general, we recommend a day itinerary that includes visiting Blue Moon Valley and one of the cable car rides, followed by watching the Impression Lijiang Show to conclude your day trip to Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. This allows for a smoother and more comfortable experience, minimizing waiting times in queues. However, if you have a particular interest in Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, you can certainly spend an additional day to take the remaining two cable car rides and explore the sights.
Tips to Make Your Cable Car Ride More Smooth
- When purchasing tickets, you will need to select a time slot for your cable car ride, usually within a 30-minute interval.
- The cable car ride cannot be taken earlier than the selected time slot but can be delayed by up to 30 minutes. For example, if you have a ticket for 8:00-8:30, you can take the cable car between 8:00 and 9:00.
- If you arrive late, you will be scheduled for the last available ride of the day, usually after 16:00.
- The Glacier Park cable car tends to have the longest queues and waiting times, followed by the Spruce Meadow cable car. The Yak Meadow cable car usually has fewer queues as it is the farthest from the entrance.
- The cable car ticket includes the cost of eco-friendly transportation within the designated areas. However, it does not cover eco-friendly transportation within Blue Moon Valley.
- Cable car operations may be affected by extreme weather conditions such as high winds or heavy snowfall. Please consult our travel advisor for weather updates before your visit.
Jade Dragon Snow Mountain Weather & Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Jade Dragon Snow Mountain is during the autumn months from September to November. You'll be rewarded with clear skies, comfortable temperatures, breathtaking views, and higher chance of seeing these snow-capped mountains.
Explore Yulong Snow Mountain in Different Seasons
Spring (March to May):
Spring brings pleasant temperatures, with average highs ranging from 15°C (59°F) to 23°C (73°F). However, spring can also be a bit unpredictable with occasional wind and rain showers.
Summer (June to August):
Summers are mild with average highs around 25°C (77°F). However, this is the wettest season with frequent afternoon rain showers. Be prepared for these occasional downpours if you visit during this time.
Autumn (September to November):
Autumn is widely considered the best time to visit the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. The skies are clear, with average highs ranging from 18°C (64°F) to 23°C (73°F), offering stunning views of the snow-capped peaks. There's also less chance of rain showers compared to summer.
Winter (December to February):
Winters are the coldest season, with average highs around 10°C (50°F). Snowfall is more frequent at higher altitudes, making it a great time for winter sports enthusiasts. However, some hiking trails might be closed due to snow and icy conditions.
How to Get to Jade Dragon Snow Mountain from Lijiang?
Jade Dragon Snow Mountain is just 30 kilometers away from Lijiang City. To get to Jade Dragon Snow Mountain from Lijiang, you have a few transportation options:
Public Bus
Bus route 101 operates from the Zhongyi Market at the South Gate of Lijiang Old Town directly to the parking lot of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, specifically the Ganhaizi area. The bus ticket is 15 yuan, and the journey takes approximately 1 hour. Buses run from 7:00 to 16:00, with departures approximately every 10 to 30 minutes.
Sightseeing Trum
Here's the fun, scenic option. The brand-new Yulong Snow Mountain Sightseeing Train departs from the new Visitor Center in Lijiang and glides 20.7 km through alpine meadows and snowy backdrops to reach Ganhaizi Snow Mountain Tourist Port. The trip takes about 35 minutes, with trains running every 30 minutes. It's not just transport—it's part of the experience.
Taxi or Private Car Service
Taking a taxi or hiring a private car is a quicker and more convenient way to reach Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. The journey takes around 40 minutes, and the cost is typically around 60-80 yuan. Sharing a ride with other travelers at the South Gate of Lijiang Old Town is also an option to reduce individual costs.
Organized Tour
Many travel agencies in Lijiang offer organized tours to Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. These tours provide transportation from Lijiang to the mountain, tickets for the cable cars, and sometimes a guide. Opting for an organized tour is a convenient option if you prefer a hassle-free experience with transportation and arrangements taken care of for you.
Once you arrive at the base of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, you can access the various scenic spots and cable cars to explore the mountain further. It's essential to check the operating hours of the cable cars and plan your visit accordingly.
The Crucial Question: Understanding and Managing Altitude Sickness
Visiting Jade Dragon Snow Mountain is also about altitude. The leap from Lijiang's 2,400m to the Glacier Park's 4,506m–4,680m is big, and your body will feel it. The thinner air means less oxygen, which can cause headaches, dizziness, or shortness of breath. But don't worry—with a little preparation, almost everyone can enjoy the experience safely.
What Is Altitude Sickness?
Think of it as your body adjusting to "life in the fast lane" at high elevation. It's not dangerous in mild form, just uncomfortable. Symptoms include light headaches, fatigue, or feeling out of breath after a short walk. The good news? These usually pass once you descend.
Jade Dragon Snow Mountain itself has a high altitude, with its highest peak reaching 5,596 meters (18,360 feet). The elevations of various scenic spots within the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain scenic area are as follows:
| Attraction | Elevation | Attraction | Elevation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Blue Moon Valley | 2,800 meters (9,186 feet) | Glacier Park | 4,680 meters (15,354 feet) |
| Ganhaizi Meadow | 3,100 meters (10,170 feet) | Spruce Meadow | 3,240 meters (10,630 feet) |
| Yak Meadow | 3,800 meters (12,467 feet) |
How to Avoid Altitude Sickness in Yulong Snow Mountain
- Slow down and pace yourself: Take your time and avoid overexertion. If possible, choose transportation options like the Blue Moon Valley shuttle to conserve energy.
- Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated. Consider bringing a cola bottle to higher-altitude areas like Glacier Park or Yak Meadow.
- Carry a portable oxygen canister: If you experience noticeable symptoms of altitude sickness, having a portable oxygen canister can provide relief.
- Medication: Consider taking medication for altitude sickness, if necessary. Follow the prescribed dosage and instructions carefully.
- Limit time at high-altitude areas: Particularly in the Glacier Park region, it's advisable to limit your stay to reduce the risk of altitude sickness.
- Travel light: Minimize the weight of your backpack and avoid carrying unnecessary items.
How to Plan a Day-Tour to Yulong Snow Mountain?
Option 1: Combine Yulong Snow Mountain with Shuhe Ancient Town and Baisha Village
To make the most of your itinerary, it is recommended to spend half a day exploring Yulong Snow Mountain and then visit the ancient villages at the foot of the mountain.
In the morning, head to Yulong Snow Mountain and visit the Blue Moon Valley, taking one of the three cable cars available. It is advisable to take the Spruce Meadow cable car as it is less crowded than the Glacier Park cable car, which often has long queues. The Yak Meadow cable car is farther away and takes more time.
In the afternoon, you can visit Shuhe Ancient Town and Baisha Village. Shuhe Ancient Town is simpler and closer to the snow mountain compared to Lijiang Old Town. Baisha Village is famous for its ancient murals, which are not to be missed. If you want to include the Impression Lijiang Show in your itinerary, you can watch it in the afternoon and then proceed to Baisha Village.
Option 2: Spend the Whole Day in Yulong Snow Mountain
If you have enough time in Lijiang or a strong interest in the snow mountain, you can choose to spend a whole day exploring Yulong Snow Mountain. It's worth noting that it would be challenging to ride all three cable cars and explore within a single day. Instead, you can choose to visit the Blue Moon Valley, taking two of the cable cars (recommended: Spruce Meadow cable car and Glacier Park cable car), and enjoy the Impression Lijiang Show.
Extend Your Yulong Snow Mountain Tour in Yunnan
Your Yulong Snow Mountain adventure in Yunnan doesn't have to end there! The surrounding region boasts a treasure trove of natural wonders, cultural experiences, and historical sites waiting to be explored. Here are some captivating options to extend your Yunnan adventure:
Kunming (1-2 days)
As the capital city of Yunnan, Kunming offers a mix of modernity and natural beauty. Visit the stunning Stone Forest (Shilin), an otherworldly limestone formation with labyrinthine paths. Explore the tranquil Green Lake Park, wander through the vibrant flower and bird markets, and immerse yourself in the local culture at the Yunnan Nationalities Village. Kunming also serves as a gateway to other destinations in Yunnan.
Dali (2-3 days)
Located northwest of Kunming, Dali is a charming ancient town nestled between the Cangshan Mountains and Erhai Lake. Explore the well-preserved old town, characterized by traditional Bai architecture. Visit the Three Pagodas, a symbol of the region, and take a bike ride on Erhai Lake to appreciate its beauty. Experience the Bai culture through activities like tie-dyeing and sample local delicacies.
Shangri-La (2-3 days)
Journeying further north, you'll reach the enchanting town of Shangri-La, which is heavily influenced by Tibetan culture. Explore the Songzanlin Monastery, one of the largest Tibetan Buddhist monasteries in Yunnan. Discover the stunning landscapes of Pudacuo National Park, home to pristine lakes, forests, and rare flora and fauna. Visit local Tibetan villages, such as Dukezong Ancient Town, and immerse yourself in the unique traditions and customs of the region.
These destinations can be reached by road or air from Lijiang, providing a seamless extension to your Yulong Snow Mountain adventure. Remember to allocate sufficient time to fully immerse yourself in the local culture, explore the natural beauty, and appreciate the historical sites. Yunnan's diversity and captivating attractions will undoubtedly leave you with unforgettable memories.
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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