Overview
Lijiang Old Town (also known as Dayan Old Town), located in Yunnan Province, is a World Cultural Heritage site with over 800 years of history and the center of Naxi culture. It is recommended to allocate one day for a visit. While it can be visited year-round, the best times are spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) when the weather is mild and the scenery is at its most beautiful.
For a local experience, head to the Zhongyi Market for an early morning market, and enjoy the dazzling lights and lively bars of the old town at night.
How to Get There
Arriving in Lijiang from other cities, you can choose to fly (Lijiang Sanyi International Airport) or take the train (Lijiang Railway Station). From the airport, you can take an airport shuttle bus (approximately 20 RMB) or a taxi into the city center; from the railway station, there are buses (such as routes 103 and 104), taxis, or ride-hailing services that go directly to the outskirts of the Old Town. Exploring the Old Town itself is entirely on foot.
If you plan to visit the surrounding areas, we highly recommend the economical tourist bus routes: to Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, take bus 101 (departing from near Zhongyi Market, fare 15 RMB); to Shuhe Ancient Town, take bus 111 (fare 2 RMB); and to Baisha Ancient Town, there is a dedicated bus line (fare 5 RMB).
In addition, the newly opened snow mountain sightseeing train connects attractions such as Baisha Ancient Town, offering a unique sightseeing experience. A suggested route is to start from the Big Waterwheel at the entrance of the Old Town, pass through Sifang Street to Mu's Residence, and finally take a dedicated bus line extending to Shuhe or Baisha.
What to Expect
The entire interior of Lijiang Old Town is pedestrianized; motor vehicles are not allowed. Comfortable, non-slip shoes are recommended. Signage and a visitor service center (for inquiries or luggage storage) are located at the main entrance. Gift shops (souvenir shops) are scattered throughout the streets and alleys, mainly selling shawls, silverware, Dongba paper crafts, and flower cakes; bargaining is advisable.
Overall, the Old Town is well-developed commercially, but it retains a large number of historical buildings. Please respect the local culture when visiting.
Practical Tips
- Wake early to enjoy the town before tour groups arrive
- The northern area around Zhongyi Market is less touristy
- Attend a Naxi ancient music performance
- Many guesthouses are converted traditional courtyards
