DestinationsLijiang
Lijiang
丽江A UNESCO-listed ancient Naxi town with cobblestone streets, red lanterns, and the stunning Jade Dragon Snow Mountain as a backdrop. One of China's most romantic destinations and a backpacker favorite.
Best Time
Mar-May, Sep-Nov
Payment
Good mobile payment in Lijiang Old Town. Some small shops ma...
Airport
Sanyi Airport→Old Town: Airport Bus (~¥20, 40min), Taxi (~¥8...
Telecom
Tourist SIM recommended. Signal is average in old town, weak...
Emergency
Police: 110 | Ambulance: 120 | Fire: 119 | Tourism Complaint...
Climate
Highland subtropical. Mild days, cool nights (altitude 2,400...
Visa & Entry Tips
Lijiang Sanyi International Airport (LJG). Altitude 2,400m — be aware of altitude effects on arrival.
Payment Overview
Good mobile payment in Lijiang Old Town. Some small shops may only accept cash.
Getting Around
Airport to City Center
Sanyi Airport→Old Town: Airport Bus (~¥20, 40min), Taxi (~¥80-100).
Local Transport
Old Town is walk-only. Hire cars for surrounding areas. Shuhe Ancient Town is 6km from main town.
Staying Connected
Tourist SIM recommended. Signal is average in old town, weak in mountains.
Must-See Attractions
1
Lijiang Old Town
UNESCO-listed Naxi ancient town with canals and red lanterns
2
Jade Dragon Snow Mountain
Sacred snow mountain reaching 5,596m, a Naxi holy site
3
Blue Moon Valley
Stunning turquoise glacial lakes at the base of Jade Dragon
4
Shuhe Ancient Town
Quieter alternative to Lijiang Old Town with authentic atmosphere
5
Black Dragon Pool
Scenic park with reflections of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain
Food You Must Try
Naxi Grilled Fish
Whole fish grilled with local herbs and spices
Lijiang Baba
Flaky flatbread, sweet or savory, a local staple
Chickpea Jelly
Cold chickpea jelly with spicy sauce
Cured Rib Hot Pot
Hot pot with air-dried pork ribs, a Naxi specialty
Trout
Fresh mountain trout, grilled or sashimi-style
Local Tips
1. Altitude is 2,400m — take it easy on day one; 2. Lijiang Old Town is most magical at night with lanterns lit; 3. Jade Dragon Snow Mountain cable car reaches 4,500m — warm layers essential; 4. Shuhe is quieter and more atmospheric than the main town; 5. Blue Moon Valley is a shorter alternative to the full mountain.
