Morning: Lijiang Old Town & Sifang Street
Begin your day by exploring Lijiang Old Town, one of China’s most well-preserved ancient towns and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Take a stroll through the charming lanes and admire the traditional Naxi architecture—wooden buildings, cobblestone streets, and intricate carvings. The Old Town is a maze of narrow alleys and picturesque squares, with plenty of small shops selling local crafts and souvenirs.
Start from Sifang Street, the heart of Lijiang Old Town. It’s a lively square where you’ll find local artisans, food vendors, and a mix of traditional Naxi and modern shops. You can visit the Black Dragon Pool, just a short walk from Sifang Street. The pool is surrounded by scenic gardens, and you’ll see the reflection of the nearby mountains in the water—a perfect place for photos.
Lunch: Naxi Cuisine at a Local Restaurant
For lunch, head to one of the local restaurants in the Old Town to enjoy Naxi cuisine. You can try traditional dishes such as Naxi-style steamed chicken, Naxi Yakmeat, and Friedricenoodles with sour vegetables. For something unique, try the grilled fish or Naxi-style Hotpot, which blends fresh ingredients with local flavors.
After lunch, take a short walk to the Mu’s Residence, the former home of the ruling Mu family. This historical complex combines traditional Chinese and Naxi architecture and provides insight into Lijiang’s history. It’s a tranquil place to explore, with beautiful courtyards and fascinating architecture.
Afternoon: JadeDragonSnowMountain & BlueMoonValley
After visiting the Mu’s Residence, it’s time to head to JadeDragonSnowMountain. Take a taxi or arranged transportation for a 40-minute ride from the Old Town to the foot of the mountain. The majestic snow-capped peaks are an iconic symbol of Lijiang, offering stunning views and fresh mountain air.
You can take the JadeDragonSnowMountain cable car up to the glacier park to get a panoramic view of the mountain and its surroundings. The ride provides incredible views of the surrounding alpine forests and snowy peaks. At the top, take a moment to appreciate the untouched beauty of the area and perhaps even catch a glimpse of the mountain's glaciers.
Afterward, visit BlueMoonValley, located at the foot of the mountain. This valley is famous for its clear, blue-tinted lakes, surrounded by lush forests and rugged mountains. You can take a walk around the lakes or simply relax and enjoy the peaceful natural surroundings.
Evening: Lijiang Old Town Night Market & Bar Street
Return to Lijiang Old Town in the evening to enjoy its vibrant night scene. The town’s narrow streets are lit up with lanterns, and the charming atmosphere is perfect for a relaxing stroll. Visit the Old Town Night Market, where you can shop for local Handicrafts, enjoy street food, or simply soak in the lively atmosphere.
Lijiang is also known for its vibrant bar street. Whether you want to sip on a cocktail or enjoy local beers, the bar street offers a great variety of options. It’s an excellent place to unwind after a day of sightseeing, with live music, local performances, and a fun, friendly vibe.
Night: Naxi Cultural Performance
If you’re still up for more, consider watching a Naxi cultural performance at Impression Lijiang. This spectacular outdoor show, directed by Zhang Yimou, combines traditional Naxi music, dance, and theater with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. The performance captures the rich culture and spirit of the Naxi people, offering an unforgettable experience.
If you want to know more about Lijiang and itineraries, please contactus. Popular Tour Packages in Lijiang:
Dali and Lijiang Old Town Tour
