Lijiang | A Romantic Encounter with Wind, Flowers, Snow, and Moonlight

Hey guys👋, if you're still undecided about where to travel, Lijiang is definitely a treasure destination you can't miss! Here you'll find the romance of the ancient town, the purity of the snow-capped mountains, and the tranquility of the lakes—each place will captivate you. Now, let's start this Lijiang journey together✨! Preparation ● Documents: ID card, student ID (don’t forget if you have discounts). ● Clothing: Lijiang has a big temperature difference between day and night. Except for summer, bring a thick jacket like a windbreaker or down jacket. Of course, beautiful dresses are a must for stunning photos📷. ● Skincare: Lijiang is quite dry, so pack moisturizing skincare products, lip balm, and sunscreen. ● Medicine: Prepare some cold medicine, stomach medicine, and motion sickness pills just in case. Itinerary Day 1: Lijiang Ancient Town → Sifang Street → Mu Palace ● Morning: After arriving in Lijiang, check into your booked guesthouse and rest well to relieve travel fatigue. Then stroll along the stone-paved streets of Lijiang Ancient Town, feeling its simplicity and tranquility. There are many unique shops along the way where you can browse and buy souvenirs🎁. ● Noon: Find a restaurant in the ancient town to try Naxi specialty dishes like cured ribs, Naxi grilled fish, and chicken bean jelly. ● Afternoon: Head to Sifang Street, the heart of the ancient town, bustling with people. You can also visit Mu Palace to experience the history, culture, and architectural art of the Naxi people. It’s known as "The Forbidden City of the North, Mu Palace of the South"🏯. ● Evening: Enjoy the night view of the ancient town, brightly lit, and the bar street starts to get lively. Choose a cozy bar to listen to music and relax🎶. Day 2: Jade Dragon Snow Mountain → Blue Moon Valley ● Morning: Set off early for Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. It’s recommended to book tickets and cable car passes online in advance. Take the main cable car to Glacier Park to get close to the majestic snow mountain. Remember to prepare oxygen tanks and warm clothes to prevent altitude sickness. ● Noon: Have lunch at a restaurant near the snow mountain and taste local mountain delicacies. ● Afternoon: Visit Blue Moon Valley, where the lake water is crystal blue, like a gem embedded in the valley💎. Walk along the lakeside, enjoy the scenery, and take amazing photos. ● Evening: Return to Lijiang Ancient Town and rest well. Day 3: Shuhe Ancient Town → Lashihai ● Morning: Head to Shuhe Ancient Town, which is quieter and more rustic compared to Lijiang Ancient Town. Rent a bike and ride around the town to enjoy a leisurely time🚲. ● Noon: Try local snacks in Shuhe Ancient Town, such as grilled milk fan and highland barley cakes. ● Afternoon: Go to Lashihai to experience horseback riding and boating. Enjoy the pastoral scenery on horseback, then row a boat on Lashihai, feeling the peace and beauty of nature🌊. ● Evening: Return to Lijiang city center and end a pleasant day. Day 4: Baisha Ancient Town ● Morning: Visit Baisha Ancient Town, the birthplace of the Naxi people, preserving many ancient buildings and traditional culture. Visit the Baisha Mural Gallery to admire exquisite mural art🎨. ● Noon: Have lunch at a restaurant in the ancient town and try local farmhouse dishes. ● Afternoon: Wander around the town, find a café, sit down for a cup of coffee, read a book, and enjoy a relaxing afternoon☕. ● Evening: Pack your bags and prepare to return. Food Recommendations ● Cured Ribs: A signature dish of Lijiang, ribs are marinated and dried, tender and flavorful. ● Naxi Grilled Fish: Crispy outside, tender inside, with unique seasoning—super delicious. ● Chicken Bean Jelly: Smooth texture, a refreshing snack to cool down. ● Wild Mushroom Hotpot: Various wild mushrooms cooked together, fresh and tasty soup, rich in nutrients. Accommodation Suggestions ● Lijiang Ancient Town: Staying in the ancient town is convenient for travel and offers beautiful night views. Choose a characteristic guesthouse to experience Naxi living culture. ● Shuhe Ancient Town: Quiet and peaceful, perfect for those who like tranquility. Many uniquely styled homestays make you feel at home. Notes ● Lijiang has strong UV rays, so be sure to take sun protection measures. ● When visiting Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, be cautious of altitude sickness and avoid strenuous exercise. ● When horseback riding at Lashihai, follow the guide’s instructions and pay attention to safety. Guys, the beauty of Lijiang is waiting for you to discover. Hurry up, pack your bags, and start this romantic Lijiang journey💕!