Old Town of Lijiang

A Traveler’s Guide to Exploring the Enchanting Old Town of Lijiang

This guide will take you on a journey through the ancient and captivating Old Town of Lijiang, a UNESCO World Heritage Site nestled in the heart of Yunnan province, China.

Lijiang Old Town, also known as Dayan Ancient Town (大研古镇) is a vibrant tapestry woven from ancient history, cultural diversity, and breathtaking natural beauty. Prepare to be enchanted by its charming cobblestone streets, intricate canals, traditional architecture, and the welcoming spirit of the local Naxi people.

Why Visit Lijiang Old Town?

This ancient town offers a unique glimpse into the rich culture and history of the Yunnan region. Its cobbled streets, ancient bridges, and serene courtyards are steeped in the charm of the past, while the bustling atmosphere and vibrant shops showcase its lively present.

Here’s why Lijiang Old Town is a must-see for many tourists:

  • Cultural Immersion: Experience the unique culture of the Naxi people, an ancient ethnic group known for their traditional clothing, architecture, and cultural practices.
  • Historical Architecture: Marvel at the stunning architecture, with its traditional wooden houses adorned with intricate carvings and paintings, reflecting the ancient Naxi style and architectural prowess.
  • Natural Beauty: Explore the charming canals and cobblestone streets, soaking in the tranquility of this ancient town while enjoying the beauty of the surrounding mountains.
  • Adventure Activities: Venture beyond the city walls for activities like hiking, cycling, and exploring the ancient tea plantations and villages.

Exploring the Old Town:

The heart of Lijiang is its beautifully preserved Old Town. This charming destination transports you back in time with its traditional architecture and cobblestone streets.

  • Mu Family Mansion (牟家大院): A grand historical residence, this 19th-century masterpiece showcases the architectural prowess of the Naxi people. It’s a stunning example of the local “courtyard style” and offers a fascinating glimpse into the lives of wealthy merchants in the past.
  • Canal System: Explore the intricate network of canals that wind through the Old Town. They are not only picturesque but also hold cultural significance as they were originally built for irrigation and water transport, reflecting the ingenuity of the Naxi in adapting to their environment.

Ancient Architecture and Buildings:

  • The Three Ancient Towns (Lijiang, Shuhe, and Baisha): These towns are all within walking distance of each other and showcase the traditional architecture of the Naxi people.
  • Black Dragon Pool (黑龙潭): This beautiful park on the outskirts of the city offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle. The intricate carvings on the wooden structures, the tranquil waters reflecting the snow-capped peaks, and the lush greenery make it a captivating experience.

Exploring Beyond the Old Town:

  • Day Trips: Lijiang is also known for its breathtaking scenery beyond the historic center.

Here are some popular day trip destinations:

  • Jade Dragon Snow Mountain (玉龙雪山): This majestic mountain, with its snow-capped peaks and lush valleys, offers a stunning backdrop to the Old Town and is a must-see for its breathtaking views.
  • Baisha Village (白沙村镇): A charming village just outside the city where you can experience traditional Naxi architecture and culture.

Getting Around:

  • Walking: The best way to explore the old town is on foot. You can wander along the cobblestone streets and alleys, discovering hidden gems along the way.
  • Cycling: Rent a bicycle to navigate the Old Town and surrounding areas like a local.
  • Public Transport: Lijiang offers buses and taxis for getting around, but be prepared for traffic within the bustling old town.

Things to Do in Lijiang:

  • Wander through the ancient streets: The Old Town is a maze of charming cobblestone alleys and traditional Naxi architecture.
  • Explore the local shops:

You’ll find many shops selling beautiful handcrafted goods, like:

* **Naxi Handicrafts:**  Silverware (especially intricate jewelry), pottery, embroidered clothing and textiles, and locally made tea are popular souvenirs.
* **Markets:** The bustling markets of Lijiang offer a unique experience with stalls selling everything from fresh produce to traditional handicrafts.

  • Visit the Old Town’s cultural sites:

    • Jade Dragon Snow Mountain (Yulong Xueshan): Explore the stunning scenery and challenge yourself with a hike up the mountain for breathtaking views.

    • Old Town of Dayan: Stroll through the charming streets, wander past traditional Naxi houses, and cross over picturesque stone bridges.

      • Black Dragon Pool Park: Enjoy the tranquil beauty of this park, with its ancient pavilions, lush gardens, and stunning views of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain reflected in the water.

  • Experience the Old Town’s charm: The Old Town is a great place to wander and explore local culture.

Enjoy the Activities:

  • Hiking and Trekking: Explore the picturesque trails surrounding the Old Town, taking in the beauty of the mountains and the serene atmosphere.

  • Cycling: Rent a bike and cycle through the countryside enjoying the fresh air and beautiful scenery.

  • Cycling: Rent a bike and cycle up to the ancient villages of the old town:

    • Yuhu Village (玉湖村): Known for its traditional architecture, this village offers stunning views of the mountains and the surrounding area.
    • Shigu Town (石鼓镇): Take a trip to the “Stone Drum” town, known for its beautiful scenery and its famous ancient stone bridge.

Exploring the Old Town:

  • Walking: Explore the charming streets at your own pace, taking in the unique atmosphere of this historic town.

  • Shopping: The Old Town is a shopper’s paradise, with traditional markets offering everything from fresh produce to clothing, jewelry and crafts.

  • Visit the Ancient Villages:

    • Explore the charm of ancient towns: Take a walk back in time by visiting the charming villages surrounding the town center.
    • Traditional Naxi Architecture: Admire the unique architecture of the Naxi villages, with their traditional wooden houses and courtyards.

The Old Town’s History:

Lijiang Old Town, also known as “Dayan” (古城) in Chinese, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site for a reason.

  • Ancient City Walls: Explore the history of the ancient town by walking along its well-preserved

    • City Walls (城墙): Explore the architecture and history of the city walls, which date back to the Ming Dynasty.

  • Discover the Culture: The Old Town is a great place to experience the traditional culture of the Naxi people.

The Weather:

  • Plan for all Seasons: Basing your plans on the weather can be tricky in Lijiang, as it varies significantly throughout the year.

  • Temperatures:

    • Summer (June-August): Hot and humid, with average temperatures between 18°C and 25°C (64°F and 77°F) - perfect for exploring the Naxi villages.

  • Altitude: Lijiang is located at a high altitude, so be prepared for the possibility of altitude sickness.

Travel Tips:

  • Stay Hydrated: It’s crucial to drink plenty of water, especially while hiking or trekking, as Lijiang is situated in a mountainous region and the air is dry.
  • Pack Layers: Be prepared for cool evenings and mornings by packing a sweater, jacket, and/or scarf.

Accommodation:

The Old Town has a wide range of accommodation options:

  • Traditional Inns (客栈): Experience the charm of Lijiang by staying in one of the many traditional inns located within the city walls.
  • Hostels: Budget-friendly and social, hostels offer a great way to meet other travelers and enjoy a communal atmosphere.
  • Hotels: For comfort and luxury, choose from Lijiang’s selection of modern hotels outside the Old Town.

Food:

  • Explore Local Flavors: Indulge in delicious local cuisine while exploring the Old Town.

  • Local Markets: Discover fresh ingredients and unique culinary experiences in the bustling markets of the old town.

  • Restaurants: Find a variety of restaurants offering traditional Naxi dishes, like

    • Naxi Cuisine: Enjoy dishes like “steam pot chicken” (清蒸鸡) which is a local delicacy.
    • Western Options: Indulge in pizza, burgers, and other international delights

available at the many eateries within the Old Town.

Food Markets: Discover the unique flavors of the Naxi people with dishes featuring yak meat, local mushrooms, and wild herbs.

  • Try the Local Specialties: Explore the diverse culinary offerings of the old town’s markets and sample delicacies like “baba” (肉包子) - savory steamed buns filled with meat and vegetables, or “tianyuan” (奶酪) - a variety of traditional cheeses.
  • Experience Naxi Cuisine: Enjoy dishes like “Shao Mai” - delicate steamed dumplings, often enjoyed in restaurants near the ancient town’s scenic beauty.

Accommodation Options:

  • Budget-Friendly Guesthouses: The Old Town offers charming guesthouses with traditional architecture and amenities at an affordable price.
  • Luxury Hotels: For a more comfortable stay and stunning views of the surrounding mountains,

consider Lijiang’s luxury hotels.

Culture and Tradition:

  • Explore the Ancient City: Enjoy the beauty of the Old Town while learning about the local culture.
  • Discover the Culture of the Naxi: The Naxi are an ethnic group with a rich history and unique culture,

including their architecture, cuisine, and traditional crafts.

Accommodation Options:

  • Budget-Friendly Hotels: Find affordable options in guesthouses located in the heart of Lijiang’s Old Town.

  • Luxury Hotels: Enjoy upscale accommodations with breathtaking views near the ancient villages, often featuring amenities like private pools or balconies overlooking the ancient architecture.

Things to Consider:

  • Altitude Sickness:

Lijiang is located at a relatively high altitude (2400 meters/7874 feet), so it’s important to be aware of the symptoms and how to prevent it.

  • Weather: The weather in the Old Town can be unpredictable, even within the same season. Be prepared for rain and varying temperatures.

  • Altitude:

Remember to acclimatize yourself to the altitude.

  • Altitude Sickness: Drink plenty of fluids and avoid strenuous activity immediately after arriving.

Acclimatization is Key:

  • Travel Insurance: Lijiang’s high altitude can be unpredictable, so it’s crucial

to have adequate travel insurance in case of an emergency.

Activities:

  • Hiking:

Explore the beauty of the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, a popular destination for hikers and adventurers.

  • Traditional Villages:

Experience the rich culture and history of the Lijilichao (丽江潮) village and its

surrounding areas.

  • Cultural Immersion: The Old Town is a great place to experience local markets and cuisine, but be prepared for crowds and potential language barriers.

Culture and History:

  • Naxi Culture: The Naxi are an ethnic group known for their unique culture, including their traditional architecture (check out the intricate carvings of the Black Dragon Pool) and

a variety of cultural practices.

  • Cultural Immersion: The old town offers a glimpse into the past with its ancient villages and historical sites.

  • Traditional Villages: Consider visiting Naxi villages to experience their

unique culture and traditional architecture.

The Beauty of Lijiang:

  • Ancient Architecture: Explore the intricate details and craftsmanship of the Black Dragon Pool’s

traditional architecture, a testament to the Naxi people’s cultural heritage.

  • Biking through the Old Town: Enjoy the scenic views and explore the charm of the surrounding villages.

Food Experiences:

  • Traditional Markets:

Discover the local flavors and experience the culture of the region.

  • Try the Local Cuisine:

Sample dishes from “Naxi” families like:

  • Yunnan cuisine: Explore the unique flavors of the Naxi people’s traditional cuisine, which is a blend of Naxi and other Chinese culinary influences.

Local Markets:

  • Lijiang Ancient Town Market: Immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere of the local market, experiencing the vibrant culture firsthand.

Food and Drink:

  • Traditional Markets: Try local delicacies like “Yunnan rice noodles” (米线)

and “Naxi yogurt” (酸奶).

Other Options:

  • Old Town: Consider exploring the local markets outside the Old Town for a unique experience, including:

    • Jade Dragon Snow Mountain: The beautiful villages of the Naxi people are a great place to find authentic crafts and learn about their traditional way of life.

Local Villages:

  • Explore the Charm: Visit the “Old Town” during your stay, and meet local artisans who showcase traditional crafts like:

    • Lijiang’s Ancient Towns: Enjoy the unique architecture and culture of these charming villages (like Baisha) and learn about their history.

Food and Drink:

  • Local Markets: Discover the variety of local food products, such as dried mushrooms, honey, and yak butter tea (酥油茶), which are commonly sold and consumed in the region.

  • Lijiang’s ancient villages: These are often a great place to find unique

and handcrafted goods from the local people.

Accommodation Options:

  • Local Markets: Many guesthouses and homestays offer accommodation with an authentic cultural experience, allowing you to stay close to the traditional architecture and lifestyle.
  • Local Cuisine: The variety of cuisines available in the Old Town are a highlight of the cultural experience.

Other things to remember:

  • Enjoy the beauty: Explore the ancient streets, hike through the surrounding hills, and discover the unique charm of the “local village” markets.

  • Pack Layers: Bring layers of clothing as the weather can change quickly in the mountains.

  • Stay hydrated: The high altitude requires extra attention to hydration.

Drink plenty of fluids and avoid alcohol or caffeine which can dehydrate you.

Food and Drink:

  • Hydration: Drink plenty of water and fluids, especially during your first few days in the region.

  • Explore the local culture:

Try traditional dishes and drinks.

Remember to:

  • Respect: Local customs are a vital part of their heritage.
  • Stay curious:

The Lijiang Old Town is a treasure trove of history and traditions, but there are always new things to learn and discover.

Enjoy your trip to the charming old town!