From the shamanistic Naxi people to the matriarchal Mosuo, with the most diverse population of ethnicities in China, Lijiang is about as colourful, eclectic and charming as a little city can get. An intricate network of babbling waterways and canals lattice the ancient, paved streets in the UNESCO Heritage Site of Lijiang’s Old Town.

At the foot of the Tibetan plateau this quaint city of timber courtyard homes provides not only a melting pot of local cultures, but also stunning mountain views of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. Old Town provides an endless array of shops and photo opportunities, and when you tire of tourist shops, simply turn off the main path and wander down a grey cobblestone back alley to step back in time to the well-preserved early days of trade along the southern Silk Road. Otherwise, take a bike ride along the flat, farm-speckled Baisha valley to enjoy the verdant countryside and meet with friendly locals.

lijiang HIGHLIGHTS

A selection a some of the many incredible experiences that await you

Lijiang proved to be one of the highlights. While lacking the sophistication of large cities, the beauty of the area, excellent hotel, interactions with Naxi culture, clean air & no high rises make this city a must.

F.A., USA

Custom Itineraries

Explore lijiang through the eyes of a local

Lijiang’s position on the Tea and Horse caravan trail to Tibet has been the chief reason for its historic prosperity. Home to the largest Naxi population in China, Lijiang is a relaxing spot to interact with some of China’s ethnic minorities.

We customize each of our itineraries based on your interests and traveling style. The itinerary below forms a base to start the conversation.

Day01
ARRIVE IN LIJIANG
Upon your arrival in Lijiang you will be taken to your beautiful Naxi-style hotel.
Day02
OLD TOWN, TEA HORSE TRAIL SHOW & NAXI LUNCH
Spend your morning exploring the cobblestone streets of the beautiful Old Town. We will then take you to a Zhang Yimou spectacular celebrating cultural traditions of the area. After a unique Naxi lunch you will visit a Dongba shaman before heading back to your hotel to relax.
Day03
BIKE RIDING, OLD TOWN OR SPA
Before departing Lijiang you will have time to wander back into old town or to jump on a bike and ride from village to village along the valley floor.

Luxury Accommodations

Naxi architecture, comprising one and two storied timber courtyard homes with upturned tiled rooves, is incorporated in the beautiful resorts here.

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Amandayan

Perched on a hill overlooking Lijiang's old town, Amandayan’s 35 suites are arranged within the traditional timber courtyard homes of the Naxi people.

Banyan Tree Lijiang

When Banyan Tree opened in Lijiang in 2006, it was the first five star resort to do so in China; it earned itself a reputation that defines and enhances the brand to this day. Naxi architecture is incorporated within a range of villa and town houses with views onto Jade Dragon mountain.

Your Personal Traveling Concierge

Our China Hosts

Our China Hosts are part of what makes us unique; they help explain our success for over twenty years. Our China Hosts have been hand selected and expertly trained to provide you with the most unforgettable journey. From seamlessly ensuring flawless logistics, to deepening your cultural immersion, to effecting last minute adjustments, in the words of a guest, they take a trip "from excellence to perfection". Before you travel with us, it's hard to imagine what a China Host brings to the party. After, it's hard to imagine traveling without one.

suggested guide: jack

Having worked as an electrician for six years in the nearby provincial capital of Kunming, Jack was inspired to become a tour guide by his passion for people and culture. Being a proud member of the Bai ethnic minority, who also inhabit Lijiang, Jack aimed to help preserve his local culture by teaching others about it. With a strong sense of responsibility and a natural ability to relate to people, working as a tour guide has proven to be a perfect fit. Jack takes great pride and honour in sharing the traditions and beauty of his home and people with visiting travelers.

Fine Dining & Authentic Cuisine

Experience the finest in Chinese and Western cuisine

Lijiang "baba" or flat wheat breads, salty or sweet, are a delicious Naxi snack often savored for breakfast. "Crossing the bridge" rice noodles will remind you of a Vietnamese pho. A focus on fresh, local ingredients result in a series of salads, such as lotus leaf or chick pea salad. You will also be able to try lots of mixed mushroom dishes.

Demographics

  • Population: 1.25m (2010)
  • Many ethnic minorities, predominantly Naxi, Bai, Mosuo, Yi, Lisu and Pumi.

Brief History

  • 120 BCE – 1450 – Lijiang, is a center of silk embroidery and the most important trading town along the Southwestern Silk Road route, also called the Ancient Tea and Horse Road
  • 658 – 1107 – Baisha Old Town is the political, commercial and cultural center of the Naxi population and other ethnic groups
  • 658 – The Dabaoji Palace of the Baisha Fresco is built
  • 1961 – Lijiang Autonomous County is established
  • December 4, 1997 – Lijiang’s Old Town is registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site

Geography

  • Located in the northwestern portion of Yunnan at the bottom of the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain.
  • Elevation: 2,400m (7,874ft)
  • Main Rivers: Lijiang River
  • Total area coverage: 21,219 km2 (8,193 sq mi)
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