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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.
Jade Dragon Snow Mountain Maps
Top 5 Attractions in Yulong Snow Mountain
Yulong Snow Mountain National Park consists of various attractions, including Glacier Park (冰川公园), Blue Moon Valley (蓝月谷), Spruce Meadow (云杉坪), Ganhaizi Meadow (甘海子), and Yak Meadow (牦牛坪). Each of these attractions has its unique charm and features.
Glacier Park - Beautiful but Crowded
Glacier Park is the highest point at an elevation of 4,680 meters (15,354 feet) in Yulong Snow Mountain National Park. From here, you can admire the largest glacier of the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, the Baishui No. 1 Glacier. On clear days, the immense glacier and the ice towers refract sunlight, displaying shades of blue and green. It appears like a massive piece of ice jade, intricately embedded among the peculiar rocks of the snow-capped mountain.
How to Visit Glacier Park
To reach the Glacier Park in Yulong Snow Mountain, follow these simplified steps:
- Shuttle Bus: Take a 20-minute shuttle bus ride from the parking lot to the cable car boarding point.
- Cable Car Ride: Enjoy a 15-minute cable car ride to the Glacier Park at 4,506 meters above sea level.
- High-Altitude Hike: Begin a half-hour uphill hike on a wooden walkway, covering around 500 meters. Reach the 4,680-meter viewing platform.
- Viewing Platform: Spend approximately 30 minutes at the viewing platform, marveling at the stunning mountain views.
- Safety and Altitude Sickness: If you experience discomfort or altitude sickness, descend promptly and take the cable car back down. Consider carrying a portable oxygen cylinder if needed.
Remember to take it easy, stay hydrated, and prioritize your well-being while enjoying the remarkable Glacier Park in Yulong Snow Mountain.
Blue Moon Valley - Little Jiuzhaigou with Lakes
Blue Moon Valley, also known as Baishui River, is located at an altitude of 2,800 meters. It is actually a crescent-shaped mountain valley with mesmerizing blue waters. On sunny days, the lakes' water appears a deep blue and glistens, hence the name Blue Moon Valley. The continuous lakes and the resemblance to the famous Jiuzhaigou Valley in Sichuan have earned it the nickname "Little Jiuzhaigou". it’s recommended to spend about 1-2 hours in Blue Moon Valley.
How to Explore Blue Moon Valley
The main lakes in Blue Moon Valley are Yuye Lake (玉液湖), Jingtan Lake (镜潭湖), Blue Moon Lake (蓝月湖), and Tingtao Lake (听涛湖).
Along the lake shores, there are wooden walkways where you can stroll and admire the changing colors of the water and the beauty of the valley, experiencing the magic and charm of nature. It takes about 1 hour to walk and explore all the lakes.
Additionally, there are designated driving lanes in the area. Visitors with limited physical stamina can take environmentally friendly vehicles within the scenic area to explore Blue Moon Valley at an additional cost of 50 yuan.
Spruce Meadow - Easy to Reach
Spruce Meadow, also known as Yunshanping 云杉坪, is a high-altitude meadow located halfway up the main peak of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, at an elevation of 3,240 meters. According to Naxi ethnic mythology, it is believed to be the place where young couples from the mythical "Third Kingdom of Jade Dragon" sacrificed their lives for love.
Spruce Meadow is a smaller and more accessible area near Blue Moon Valley. It features dense spruce forests, where you can take a leisurely stroll or hike through the charming forest. Appreciate the tall and upright spruce trees and enjoy the peaceful ambience of nature. It is recommended to spend around 1-2 hours exploring the meadow before returning the same way.
Yak Meadow - Snow Mountain Observation Deck
Yak Meadow, situated at the northernmost end of the park, is the farthest among the five major attractions, with an elevation of 3,700 meters. This high-altitude meadow provides the best vantage point to admire the 13 peaks of the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. Yak Meadow is a picturesque high-altitude grassland where visitors can immerse themselves in the stunning scenery.
How to Visit Yak Meadow
From the Ganhaizi area, visitors can take the park shuttle bus to reach Yak Meadow. The bus will pass by the Blue Moon Valley parking lot and take approximately 50 minutes on a winding mountain road to reach the cable car boarding point. From there, a 20-minute cable car ride will transport you to the 3,700-meter-high Yak Meadow. It is recommended to spend around 1-2 hours exploring the meadow before returning the same way.
Ganhaizi Meadow: Entrance & Best for Yulong Sunrise Viewing
Ganhaizi Meadow is situated at the entrance of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain Park, at an elevation of 3,100 meters. It was originally a glacial lake formed by the erosion of ice in the high mountains. However, over time, the lake dried up due to the rise of the snow line and reduced water accumulation, earning it the name "Ganhaizi," meaning "dried-up sea" in Chinese.
Surrounded by mountains on three sides, Ganhaizi is a plateau meadow that offers a stunning panoramic view of the entire Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. It serves as an excellent vantage point to witness the awe-inspiring sunrise over the majestic mountain range. In the early morning when the weather is fine, you can enjoy the magnificent sunrise of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain by the lake in Parking Lot 3.
Furthermore, the renowned live performance "Impression Lijiang" takes place every night at the theater in this region. We’ll introduce the show in details later.
3 Cable Cars of Jade Dragon Mountain - Best Way to Explore
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.
Impression Lijiang Show under the Yulong Snow Mountain
The Impression Lijiang Show, directed by Zhang Yimou, is an awe-inspiring outdoor theatrical performance held at the foot of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain near Lijiang. This visually stunning production combines the natural beauty of the mountain with the rich cultural heritage of the Naxi ethnic minority. With hundreds of local performers, intricate costumes, and traditional music, the show depicts the traditional way of life and stories of the Naxi people.
Impression Lijiang Show Time and Tickets
The Impression Lijiang Show is the only performance in Zhang Yimou's Impression series that takes place during the daytime. The show lasts about 1 hour and is performed 3-4 times in one day. You can contact us to check the specific show times.
The regular ticket price is 280 yuan per person, and there is also a VIP ticket option available for 346 yuan per person.
It's important to note that since the Impression Lijiang Show takes place within the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain scenic area, an additional entrance fee of 100 yuan is required before entering the theater. Therefore, it is recommended to combine watching the show with a visit to Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, maximizing your experience by enjoying the performance during your exploration of the area.
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.
- 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.
Yulong Snow Mountain Altitude & Tips to Avoid Altitude Sickness
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
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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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