Lijiang: A Hidden Gem Beneath the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain
Nestled beneath the snowy peaks of the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, the Old Town of Lijiang boasts narrow cobbled streets where clear mountain streams flow gently through, offering a serene and picturesque atmosphere.
The Magic of Lijiang’s Old Town
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Featured in the Channel 4 documentary ‘Beyond the Clouds’, this World Heritage Town is steeped in history and beauty. As you walk along the ancient streets, you’ll be surrounded by traditional Naxi-style architecture, giving you a glimpse into a unique culture that has stood the test of time.
Naxi Culture and Traditions
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Lijiang is the heart of the Naxi people, known for their matriarchal Dongba culture. This fascinating culture blends shamanism with a unique pictographic language, making it a truly intriguing area for cultural exploration.
Things to See in and Around Lijiang
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Jade Dragon Snow Mountain: A stunning backdrop for the town and a must-see for nature lovers.
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Baisha Frescoes: Ancient paintings that offer insights into the region’s rich history.
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Lugu Lake: A serene and scenic destination just outside Lijiang, perfect for nature walks and reflection.
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Giant Camelia Tree: A 500-year-old tree that stands as a testament to the region’s natural beauty and history.
The region surrounding Lijiang is one of the most beautiful and culturally rich in China, attracting explorers and naturalists, such as Joseph Rock, who dedicated his life to studying its flora and indigenous cultures.
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Our itineraries will give you suggestions for what is possible when you travel in Lijiang, and they showcase routes we know work particularly well. Treat them as inspiration, because your trip will be created uniquely by one of our specialists.
Our expert guides to exploring Lijiang
Written by our specialists from their own experiences of visiting Lijiang, these guides will help you make the most of your time there. We share both our practical recommendations and the best ways to appreciate Lijiang at its best.