Lijiang's Newest Gem丨Hou Yuan: Wake Up to Golden Sunlight on Jade Dragon Snow Mountain

From the moment I stepped into Hou Yuan, I was in awe! The common areas are stunning! It's no wonder this is the work of Professor Li Xiaodong, director of the Architectural Design and Research Institute at Tsinghua University. Every glance captures a sense of Zen, every step reveals a new world. Strolling through Hou Yuan, you'll find picture-perfect moments at every turn. Passing through the bamboo-lined corridors evokes a sense of secluded tranquility. Descending the steps, the view opens up dramatically. A lychee tree sits serenely in the center of the water courtyard, exuding an air of Eastern Zen and tranquility. It feels like stepping into a paradise far removed from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Sound, light, flowing water, and landscaping blend seamlessly with Naxi culture, while classical Chinese elements and modern style complement each other perfectly. The second-floor platform and rooftop offer a 360° viewing terrace. In the morning, you can gaze upon the sun-kissed, golden peaks of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, and at night, marvel at the starlit sky. The picturesque snow-capped mountains seem close enough to touch. Even simply relaxing and taking in the scenery brings a sense of joy. No need to rush out early or stay up late – at Hou Yuan, you can capture stunning photos with the snow mountain as your backdrop! ✅About the Rooms The rooms are named after the months of the Naxi lunar calendar. I stayed in the "Hua Mei" room. The room is spacious, bright, and filled with stylish wooden furniture that creates a warm and inviting atmosphere. It was spotlessly clean and tidy, with a separate bathroom and a huge bathtub🛁. The entire room is equipped with a smart control system, and underfloor heating keeps it cozy even in winter. The environment is truly exceptional. Large floor-to-ceiling windows frame the pristine natural scenery. Imagine waking up to the sight of the sun illuminating the golden peaks of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, and then falling asleep under a blanket of brilliant stars. Every hour of the day brings a new and delightful surprise. ✅About the Service There's a dedicated butler providing one-on-one service! From check-in to check-out, I was taken care of incredibly well. They contacted me a few days in advance to arrange airport pickup, allowing me to arrive at the guesthouse relaxed and refreshed. In the evening, there were even thoughtfully prepared desserts. There are also plenty of activities to enjoy, including ancient village hikes, bonfires and dancing, exploring Naxi Dongba culture, classic movie nights, and stargazing. These are all unforgettable local cultural experiences that will keep you entertained throughout your stay. ✅About Location & Transportation Hou Yuan is located in Yuhu Village, known as the "first village to see the snow mountain." It's just a few minutes' walk from Longnv Lake Meadow and the former residence of Joseph Rock. It's only about a 20-minute drive from Baisha Ancient Town and about 30 minutes from the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain scenic area. ✅About the Restaurant The Water Courtyard Restaurant is a feast for both the eyes and the palate, where you can enjoy all three meals. Imagine savoring a complimentary afternoon tea at the foot of the snow mountain, basking in the warm sunshine, and watching the clouds drift by. It's the perfect way to slow down and unwind. Here, you can sample a variety of authentic Yunnan delicacies, including small pot rice noodles, pork rib hot pot, roasted baba, chicken pea jelly, and flower cakes. They're all incredibly delicious!