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A Long Weekend in Yunnan's Ancient Kingdoms

From Lijiang's Cobblestones to Jade Dragon Snow Mountain

Trip Overview

This carefully curated 3-day itinerary immerses you in Yunnan's most enchanting destination: Lijiang and its surroundings. Experience the UNESCO-listed Old Town of Lijiang with its maze of canals and traditional Naxi architecture, venture to the magnificent Jade Dragon Snow Mountain with its pristine Blue Moon Valley, and explore lesser-known ancient villages that preserve centuries-old customs. The pace balances active mountain exploration with leisurely cultural wandering, allowing time to savor local cuisine, browse artisan workshops, and absorb the unique atmosphere of this historic crossroads on the ancient Tea Horse Road. Perfect for travelers seeking authentic cultural experiences combined with stunning natural scenery in one of China's most photogenic regions.

Pace
Moderate
Daily Budget
$80-120 per day
Best Seasons
March to May and September to November (avoid July-August crowds and winter cold)
Ideal For
First-time visitors to Yunnan, Culture and history enthusiasts, Photography lovers, Couples seeking romantic settings, Active travelers who enjoy hiking

Day-by-Day Itinerary

1

Arrival & Ancient Town Exploration

Lijiang Old Town
Settle into Lijiang's enchanting Old Town, explore its labyrinthine streets and waterways, and discover the cultural heritage of the Naxi people at Mu Palace.
Morning
Arrival and Old Town of Lijiang orientation
After arriving in Lijiang, check into your accommodation and begin exploring the UNESCO World Heritage Old Town of Lijiang. Wander through the cobblestone streets lined with traditional wooden houses, cross the ancient stone bridges over flowing canals, and observe local Naxi women in traditional dress. Start at Sifang Street, the main square where locals gather and traditional music often fills the air.
3 hours $0 (no entrance fee)
Lunch
A traditional Naxi restaurant near Sifang Street serving local specialties
Naxi cuisine (try baba flatbread and yak meat dishes) Budget
Afternoon
木府 (Mu Palace) and surrounding areas
Visit the magnificent 木府, the former residence of Lijiang's hereditary Naxi rulers. This sprawling complex showcases traditional palace architecture with beautifully painted halls, courtyards, and gardens. Climb to the rear pavilion for panoramic views over the Old Town's tiled roofs. Afterward, explore 万古楼 (Wangu Tower) on Lion Hill for sunset views, offering the best vantage point to photograph the entire ancient town with Jade Dragon Snow Mountain in the background.
3-4 hours $15-20
Purchase tickets on-site; arrive at Wangu Tower before 6 PM for sunset
Evening
Evening stroll and traditional Naxi music
Explore the Old Town as lanterns illuminate the canals. Dine at a courtyard restaurant featuring live traditional Naxi music. The evening atmosphere with flowing water, red lanterns, and ancient architecture creates magical photo opportunities.

Where to Stay Tonight

Within or adjacent to Old Town of Lijiang (Traditional guesthouse with Naxi-style courtyard)

Staying in the Old Town allows easy exploration on foot and experiencing the area's evening ambiance without transportation concerns

The Old Town gets extremely crowded between 10 AM-6 PM. Explore the quieter northern sections and back alleys early morning or after 8 PM for a more authentic, peaceful experience.
Day 1 Budget: $80-100
2

Jade Dragon Snow Mountain Adventure

玉龙雪山 and Blue Moon Valley
Experience Yunnan's most iconic mountain scenery with a full-day excursion to Jade Dragon Snow Mountain and the stunning Blue Moon Valley at its base.
Morning
玉龙雪山 (Jade Dragon Snow Mountain) exploration
Depart early for 玉龙雪山, a sacred mountain rising to 5,596 meters. Take the cable car to the highest accessible point at approximately 4,680 meters for breathtaking views of glaciers and surrounding peaks. The thin air and dramatic alpine scenery create an unforgettable experience. Wooden walkways allow you to explore safely at high altitude. Oxygen canisters are available for purchase if needed due to the elevation.
4 hours $60-80 (including entrance, cable car, and shuttle bus)
Book tickets online 1-2 days in advance, especially during peak seasons. Daily visitor numbers are limited. Bring warm layers as temperatures drop significantly at elevation.
Lunch
A simple restaurant at the mountain tourist center
Chinese and basic international options Mid-range
Afternoon
Blue Moon Valley exploration
Descend to Blue Moon Valley, located at the mountain's base. This stunning valley features a series of brilliant turquoise-blue lakes fed by glacial meltwater, creating otherworldly colors against white limestone terraces. Walk along the valley's wooden boardwalks, crossing small waterfalls and pools. The contrast between the white snow-capped peaks above and the vivid blue waters below creates spectacular photography opportunities throughout the afternoon.
2-3 hours Included in mountain ticket
Evening
Return to Lijiang and relaxation
After a full day at altitude, enjoy a lighter evening. Have dinner at a restaurant specializing in Yunnan mushroom hotpot, then take a gentle evening walk through 丽江黑龙潭 (Black Dragon Pool Park) if energy permits, where the moon pool reflects Jade Dragon Snow Mountain.

Where to Stay Tonight

Old Town of Lijiang area (Same accommodation as Day 1)

Returning to the same base minimizes packing and maximizes rest after an active mountain day

Start your mountain visit as early as possible (7-8 AM) to avoid crowds at the cable car and enjoy clearer morning views before afternoon clouds potentially obscure the peaks.
Day 2 Budget: $100-130
3

Ancient Villages & Cultural Immersion

Shuhe Ancient Town and Jade Water Village
Discover quieter ancient settlements surrounding Lijiang, experiencing traditional Naxi culture, sacred springs, and artisan crafts before departure.
Morning
Shuhe Ancient Town exploration
Visit Shuhe Ancient Town, a beautifully preserved settlement that predates Lijiang Old Town and served as an important stop on the Tea Horse Road. This smaller, less touristy village offers authentic glimpses of traditional Naxi life with its clear streams, stone bridges, and historic buildings. Browse local workshops where artisans practice traditional crafts including leather-making, silverwork, and indigo dyeing. The peaceful atmosphere provides a lovely contrast to bustling Lijiang.
2-3 hours $6-8
Lunch
A family-run restaurant in Shuhe Ancient Town with courtyard seating
Local Yunnan dishes and fresh vegetables Budget
Afternoon
Jade Water Village cultural experience
Visit Jade Water Village, a living museum of Naxi Dongba culture nestled at the foot of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. Explore the sacred springs that form crystal-clear pools filled with rainbow trout, visit the Dongba temple to learn about the ancient pictographic writing system, and witness traditional Naxi architecture and customs. The village showcases the spiritual relationship between the Naxi people and their natural environment, with beautiful gardens and water features throughout.
2 hours $8-10
Evening
Final evening in Lijiang Old Town and departure preparation
Return to Lijiang for last-minute souvenir shopping in the Old Town's artisan quarter. Purchase local specialties like Pu'er tea, Dongba art, or handmade silver jewelry. Enjoy a farewell dinner at a rooftop restaurant overlooking the illuminated ancient town before preparing for departure.

Where to Stay Tonight

Near airport if departing early next morning, otherwise Old Town (Depends on departure time)

Choose location based on your departure schedule to minimize travel time

白沙古镇 (Baisha Ancient Town) is another excellent alternative if you have extra time. It's even more traditional and less commercial than Shuhe, with impressive Ming Dynasty frescoes in the village temple.
Day 3 Budget: $70-90

Practical Information

Getting Around

Lijiang Sanyi Airport connects to major Chinese cities. Within Lijiang, the Old Town is walkable. For 玉龙雪山, join a day tour or hire a private driver (recommended, approximately $50-70 for the day). Taxis and ride-sharing apps work well for reaching Shuhe Ancient Town and Jade Water Village (15-30 minutes from Lijiang). Electric bikes can be rented for independent exploration. Local buses are available but less convenient with luggage. The compact nature of this itinerary minimizes transportation needs.

Book Ahead

Book 玉龙雪山 tickets 1-2 days ahead online (daily quotas apply). Reserve accommodation during peak seasons (October, Chinese holidays). Cable car tickets for the mountain should be secured in advance. Everything else can be arranged upon arrival.

Packing Essentials

Layered clothing for variable temperatures, warm jacket for high altitude, comfortable walking shoes, sun protection (strong UV at elevation), hat and sunglasses, oxygen canister for sensitive individuals, camera with extra batteries, personal medications, and cash (smaller vendors don't accept cards)

Total Budget

$250-320 for 3 days (excluding flights and high-end shopping)

Customize Your Trip

Budget Version

Stay in hostels in the newer part of Lijiang instead of Old Town guesthouses (save $20-30/night). Pack lunch for mountain day instead of restaurant meals. Skip cable cars and explore lower altitude trails and valleys. Use local buses instead of private transport. Eat at local noodle shops and street food stalls. Focus on free attractions like wandering ancient towns. Total budget can drop to $150-180 for 3 days.

Luxury Upgrade

Stay at a five-star resort with mountain views and spa facilities. Arrange private guided tours with dedicated driver and expert guide throughout. Book VIP cable car access to skip queues at 玉龙雪山. Dine at upscale restaurants featuring refined Yunnan cuisine with wine pairings. Include a private Naxi music performance. Add spa treatments and traditional Chinese medicine consultations. Upgrade to include helicopter tour over the mountains. Budget increases to $500-800 for 3 days.

Family-Friendly

Base entirely in one accommodation to avoid packing/unpacking. Shorten the mountain visit and skip the highest cable car if traveling with young children. Focus more time in Jade Water Village where kids can feed fish and explore gardens. Add interactive activities like dumpling-making classes or traditional craft workshops. Choose restaurants with varied menus beyond local specialties. Build in more rest time and flexibility. Consider visiting 丽江黑龙潭 park for easy walking and playgrounds. Same budget with adjusted activities.

Book Activities for Your Trip

Tours, tickets, and experiences in Yunnan

Continue Planning Your Trip

Things to Do

Top attractions and activities for Yunnan

Budget Guide

Trip costs and money tips for Yunnan

Getting Around

Transport options and tips for Yunnan

Where to Stay

Accommodation guide for Yunnan

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