Best Places to Visit in Lijiang: Lijiang City Area, Yulong Naxi County, Tiger Leaping Gorge,Shuhe Ancient Town

Lijiang is a picturesque ancient city known for its well-preserved Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, with charming cobblestone streets, traditional Naxi architecture, and vibrant local culture. Where are the best places to visit in Lijiang?There’s much more to explore beyond the Old Town when visiting Lijiang. Discover the breathtaking Jade Gragon Snow Mountain, Blue Moon Valley, and charming Shuhe Ancient town, Baisha town with Naxi minority culture in Yulong Naxi County, as well as the serene Lugu Lake in Ninglang Yi Autonomous County. These places, attractions and traditions offer a wide variety of experiences, from charming natural, cultural heritage to the ethnic traditions, attracting countless visitors from around the world every year.There are even more incredible places waiting for you to explore and uncover.Following is the best places to visit Lijiang .

Top 1: Lijiang Old Town

Lijiang Old Town

Lijiang Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is renowned for its well-preserved ancient architecture and rich Naxi culture. Key attractions include the picturesque Sifang Street, the historic Mu's Residence, and the scenic Black Dragon Pool Park. Visitors can also explore the intricate network of canals and bridges, as well as enjoy traditional Naxi music and dance performances at various venues throughout the town. The vibrant local markets and quaint teahouses further enhance the charm of this ancient town, and you can spend the evening on the Bar Street, experiencing the local nightlife.

Top 2: Yulong Naxi Autonomus County

Lijiang Old Town

Yulong Naxi Autonomous County, it is the only Naxi Autonomous County in China, located in Lijiang City, Yunnan Province, is a hub of ethnic diversity and the origin of Dongba culture. This area boasts a rich cultural history and numerous tourist attractions ,it is a hub for many of Lijiang's famous attractions. Highlights include "Heavenly Mountain,"- Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, Tiger Leaping Gorge, a place that one must hike at least once in your lifetime, the stunning Blue Moon Valley, Yak Meadow, Yunshan Meadow and Laojun Mountain. The county is rich in Naxi culture and traditions, you can visit local Naxi villages to interact with the community and learn about their traditional lifestyle, offering you a unique blend of ethnic heritage and breathtaking scenery. You can ride a horse to explore the Lahaishi Ancient Tea Horse Road, where tea, horses, and other goods were exchanged between regions in the ancient time.

From the Ancient Tea Horse Road to Baisha murals, Baoshan Stone Town, and the Jinsha River rock paintings etc. Every site reflects the charm of Dongba culture!

Shuhe Ancient Town, Baisha Ancient Town, and Dayan Ancient Town are collectively known as the "Three Great Ancient Towns of Lijiang."If you want to see ancient villages, leisurely strolling through these rustic and primitive settlements is the best choice.Watching the local Naxi people at work under the setting sun, chatting, and taking in the beautiful scenery creates a moving picture.

Shuhe Ancient Town

Shuhe Ancient Town, this is small town with 1,000 years history, located just a few kilometers from Lijiang, Yulong Naxi Autonomus County, is a well-preserved historic village known for its traditional Naxi architecture. Often referred to as the "Venice of the Orient" due to its canals and charming stone bridges, Shuhe offers a more peaceful alternative to the bustling Lijiang Old Town. Visitors can explore its ancient streets, traditional workshops, and cultural sites, such as the Square Market and the Sifang Street, while enjoying the serene beauty and rich heritage of this ancient town.

Baisha Ancient Town

Baisha Ancient Town, located about 10 kilometers north of Lijiang, in Yulong Naxi Autonomus County. It is a hidden gem nestled at the foot of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, and it is the closest ancient town to the mountain. It was also the earliest settlement of the Naxi people. Unlike the bustling, commercialized Lijiang Old Town, Baisha offers a more tranquil and traditional atmosphere. Here, you can leisurely admire the breathtaking views of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain from the streets of the town, While enjoying the beautiful views of the snow-capped mountains, having a bowl of the local specialty, Chicken Bean Jelly, is truly a perfect experience—there’s nothing like it.

The ancient town is not large, but you will discover many unique experiences, such as learning to write Dongba script, trying your hand at Naxi embroidery, or creating traditional Wamao (tile cats). These activities provide the perfect opportunity to explore the authentic lifestyle of the Naxi ethnic group.

Baisha Town offers a glimpse into the region's rich history and heritage.The town is home to several ancient buildings from the Ming Dynasty, including the Dabaoji Palace, Liuli Temple, and Wenchang Palace. It is a very authentic village with little tourism commercialization. Known for its well-preserved ancient murals, traditional Naxi architecture, and tranquil atmosphere, Visitors can explore the Baisha Murals, dating back to the Ming Dynasty, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings while experiencing the unique culture and traditions of the Naxi people.

Yuhu Village

Yuhu Village, located at the foot of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, is a quaint and picturesque village known for its traditional Naxi stone houses and stunning natural surroundings. It was once the residence of Austrian-American explorer Joseph Rock, who documented the region's rich culture and biodiversity. Visitors to Yuhu Village can explore Rock's former home, now a museum, and enjoy the serene environment, with clear streams, lush greenery, and breathtaking views of the snow-capped mountains. This village offers a peaceful retreat and a glimpse into the traditional Naxi way of life.

Shigu Ancinet Town

Shigu Ancinet Town located on the way to Tiger Leaping Gorge, is named after a white marble drum-shaped stone tablet in the town. It has historically been a strategically important location, often fought over by military forces. The town is ancient, picturesque, and peaceful, but on the 3rd, 6th, and 9th days of each lunar month, the town comes alive with the Shigu Market Day, attracting locals from nearby areas. The market, set on the hillside, is bustling with activity as people trade a variety of goods, including tea, herbal medicine, fruits, and mountain products.

Shigu Town is also famous for its exquisite grass weaving crafts. You can find straw hats, baskets, pot lids, and other handmade items sold along the streets. One of the town’s specialties is Chickpea Bean Jelly (鸡豆凉粉), which is a must-try dish. If you're passing through, don't miss the chance to enjoy a bowl of this local delicacy.

Top 3: Ninglang Yi Autonomous County

Lugu Lake

Ninglang Yi Autonomous County，it is famous for the Lugu Lake, situated at an altitude of 2,680 meters, with the deepest point reaching 93 meters. The water is clear and blue, with a visibility of 12 to 14 meters, making it one of the deepest freshwater lakes in China. Mosuo people live here and still maintain a matriarchal family structure and are known as the "Mystical Kingdom of Women." Take a boat on Lugu Lake, Enjoy a traditional Mosuo bonfire party in the evening. The county town boasts alpine meadows, the picturesque Yaoshan Panren Ancient Village, as well as Zhamei Monastery and Yongning Hot Springs.

Customize Your Unique Lijiang Tour

If you are interested in one of the Lijiang itineraries mentioned above, please contact us, and we will be happy to customize it and provide a quote tailored to your preferences.

Alternatively, if you would like to customize your Lijiang Tour, please visit our Lijiang Tour Customized Center. We assure you that you will receive a reply within 24 working hours.

Informative Articles for Your Lijiang Trip

Naxi Ethnic in Lijiang

• Travel Guide: attractions, seasons, hotels, food, itineraries, etc.
• Top destinations: places to visit in Lijaing
• Travel itineraries: best itineraries for your reference
• Weather: the best time and seasons to visit Lijaing
• Top attractions:well-selected top attractions in Lijaing
• Cultural immersions: hands-on activities to spotlight your trip
• Unique perspective: top different things to do
• Local food: what to eat while traveling in Lijaing
• Luxury hotels: where to stay in Lijaing
• Lijiang Tours: tailor-made Lijiang Tours for your reference