Things to Do at Jade Dragon Snow Mountain

Complete Guide to Jade Dragon Snow Mountain in Yunnan

About Jade Dragon Snow Mountain

Jade Dragon Snow Mountain (Yulong Xueshan) is one of those peaks that actually lives up to its dramatic name - a jagged limestone massif that rises abruptly from the valley floor near Lijiang, creating one of Yunnan's most striking skylines. At 5,596 meters, its highest peak has never been successfully climbed, which gives you a sense of just how imposing this mountain really is. The range stretches for about 35 kilometers and is home to 13 peaks, all draped in glaciers and snow year-round. What makes Jade Dragon particularly fascinating is its incredible biodiversity - you'll find everything from subtropical plants at the base to alpine meadows higher up, all within a relatively small area. The mountain is sacred to the local Naxi people, and you can feel that reverence when you're there. It's definitely become touristy, but the sheer scale and beauty of the place tends to dwarf any crowds, especially if you venture beyond the main cable car areas.

What to See & Do

Glacier Park Cable Car

Takes you up to 4,506 meters for genuinely panoramic views of the glaciers and surrounding peaks. The ride itself is quite an experience, and the viewing platform at the top offers spectacular photo opportunities, weather permitting.

Blue Moon Valley

A series of terraced pools with impossibly blue water that changes color throughout the day. It's the kind of place that looks almost artificial in photos but is surprisingly peaceful in person, especially early in the morning.

Spruce Meadow

Accessible by a shorter cable car ride, this alpine meadow is particularly beautiful in spring and summer when wildflowers bloom. It's less crowded than the glacier area and offers excellent hiking opportunities.

Yak Meadow

Another high-altitude meadow where you might actually spot yaks grazing. The walking paths here are gentle, and it's a good option if you want mountain views without the intense altitude of the glacier park.

Impression Lijiang Show

An outdoor performance staged against the mountain backdrop, featuring hundreds of local performers. It's quite spectacular, though obviously very touristy - worth it if you're into large-scale cultural shows.

Practical Information

Opening Hours

Daily 7:00 AM - 6:00 PM (cable cars stop running earlier, usually around 4:30 PM). Hours can vary seasonally and due to weather conditions.

Tickets & Pricing

Entrance fee around 130 RMB, plus cable car fees (140-180 RMB depending on route). Glacier Park cable car is the most expensive. Book online in advance during peak seasons as daily visitor numbers are limited.

Best Time to Visit

April to June and September to November offer the best weather and visibility. Winter can be beautiful but very cold at altitude. Summer tends to be cloudy with afternoon rain.

Suggested Duration

Full day recommended if visiting multiple areas. Half-day possible if focusing on just one cable car route. Allow extra time for altitude adjustment if going to Glacier Park.

Getting There

Most visitors stay in Lijiang Old Town, about 15 kilometers away. Tourist buses run regularly from the old town for around 20 RMB, or you can join a day tour that covers all transport. Taxis cost more. If you're driving, parking fills up fast during peak times-arrive early. The drive from Lijiang gives you impressive mountain views along the way. Worth the trip itself.

Things to Do Nearby

Lijiang Old Town
UNESCO World Heritage site with traditional Naxi architecture, cobblestone streets, and canal system. Can get crowded but genuinely atmospheric, especially in early morning or evening.

Baisha Village
Less touristy than Lijiang with well-preserved traditional buildings and famous ancient murals. About 10 kilometers north of Lijiang and much quieter.

Tiger Leaping Gorge
One of the world's deepest gorges, about 60 kilometers north. Excellent hiking opportunities and dramatic scenery, though it requires a separate day trip.

Shuhe Ancient Town
Smaller and more relaxed alternative to Lijiang Old Town, with similar architecture but fewer crowds. Good for a quieter evening stroll.

Tips & Advice

Bring warm clothing even in summer - temperatures drop significantly with altitude and weather can change quickly

Consider spending a day or two in Lijiang to acclimatize before attempting the highest cable car routes

Weather can obscure mountain views completely, so check conditions before heading up and have backup plans

Book cable car tickets online in advance during peak seasons (Chinese holidays, summer) as daily quotas fill up quickly