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Ancient Town of the Naxi
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Lijiang's Old Town is a maze of cobblestone streets, traditional wooden buildings, and flowing canals against the backdrop of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. Home to the Naxi ethnic minority with their unique Dongba script and music. The perfect base for exploring Yunnan's stunning landscapes and diverse cultures.

Baisha Old Town is the earliest settlement of the Naxi Kingdom and serves as a tranquil alternative to the bustling Lijiang Old Town. Located at the foot of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, this historic village offers a glimpse into authentic local life with its traditional cobblestone streets and well-preserved mud-brick houses. Visitors can explore the famous Baisha Murals, which depict a unique fusion of Taoist, Buddhist, and Tibetan art, and wander through quiet courtyards away from the commercial crowds. The town retains a slow-paced, rural atmosphere, making it perfect for those seeking cultural immersion and relaxation. It is an ideal spot for photography and enjoying a cup of local tea while watching the world go by.
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Rising to 5,596 meters, this sacred Naxi mountain dominates the Lijiang skyline. A cable car ascends to 4,506m - the highest cableway in China - where boardwalks offer views of glaciers and snow peaks. Lower slopes feature alpine meadows, the Impression Lijiang show, and Blue Moon Valley with its turquoise lakes. Oxygen is thin at the top - acclimatization is essential.
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A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Lijiang's 800-year-old old town is a maze of cobblestone streets, traditional Naxi wooden buildings, and flowing canals. Unlike most Chinese ancient towns, Lijiang was never walled and developed organically along its waterways. The Naxi minority culture, with its unique Dongba script and music, remains visible despite heavy tourism.
historicalMonthly climate overview for Lijiang
10-20°C
Mar - May
25-35°C
Jun - Aug
10-22°C
Sep - Nov
-5-5°C
Dec - Feb
Best time to visit
April to May, September to October
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