Push open the door to a thousand years of history – your ultimate guide to Lijiang Old Town is here!

Lijiang Old Town is one of the four best-preserved ancient cities in China and a World Cultural Heritage site, renowned for its unique Naxi culture, ancient architecture, and picturesque scenery of "small bridges, flowing water, and households." Below is a detailed travel guide to Lijiang Old Town, covering attractions, food, accommodation, and itinerary suggestions. --- ### 1. Must-See Attractions in Lijiang Old Town 1. **Sifang Street (Square Street)** - The heart of the Old Town, once a trading hub on the Tea Horse Road, it still retains a lively atmosphere and often features Naxi song and dance performances. - **Recommended activities**: Experience the nightlife of Bar Street in the evening, and watch Naxi "da tiao" (traditional dance) during the day. 2. **Mu's Residence (Mufu Palace)** - Known as the "Forbidden City of Lijiang," it was the official residence of the Naxi Tusi (chieftain), blending Han, Tibetan, and Bai architectural styles. - **Tickets**: Include free guided tours; a 1-2 hour visit is recommended. 3. **Lion Hill & Wangu Tower** - The highest point in Lijiang Old Town, offering panoramic views of the Old Town and the distant Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, especially suitable for sunrise and night views. - **Tickets**: Separate tickets are required for Wangu Tower (about 50 yuan). 4. **The Big Water Wheel** - A landmark of Lijiang Old Town, where tourists often make wishes and hang prayer plaques. It is brilliantly lit at night. 5. **Black Dragon Pool Park** - Located at the northern end of the Old Town, with clear lake water reflecting Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. Ideal for morning or evening strolls. 6. **Shuhe Ancient Town & Baisha Ancient Town** - **Shuhe**: Quieter than Dayan (Lijiang) Old Town, suitable for cycling or relaxing. Jiuding Dragon Pool and Qinglong Bridge are recommended. - **Baisha**: Preserves the original Naxi style and is famous for the Baisha Murals. Fewer tourists visit here. --- ### 2. Lijiang Old Town Food Recommendations 1. **Dried Pork Rib Hot Pot (Lappai Guohuo)** - A Lijiang specialty, savory and rich. "Apo Lappai Guohuo" is recommended. 2. **Chicken Pea Jelly (Jidou Liangfen)** - A traditional Naxi snack, sour and spicy, perfect for summer. 3. **Naxi Grilled Fish** - Tender fish grilled with local spices. "Dianxi Wangzi" restaurant is recommended. 4. **Lijiang Baba** - Sweet and savory varieties, similar to shortbread. Can be eaten for breakfast or as a snack. 5. **Lijiang Yogurt** - Rich and creamy, readily available throughout the Old Town. --- ### 3. Accommodation Recommendations 1. **Guesthouses in the Old Town** - Recommended near the South Gate or Qiyi Street, priced at 80-200 yuan/night. Naxi courtyard style, some with viewing platforms. 2. **High-end Hotels** - Such as "InterContinental Lijiang Ancient Town Resort" and "Hotel Indigo Lijiang Ancient Town," close to the Old Town with complete facilities, suitable for families or couples. --- ### 4. Itinerary Suggestions (3-4 Days) **Day 1: Strolling through the Old Town** - Morning: Sifang Street → Mu's Residence → Lion Hill & Wangu Tower (panoramic view) - Afternoon: Qiyi Street → Zhongyi Market (experience local life) - Evening: Bar Street or Dayan Flower Lane night view **Day 2: Surrounding Ancient Towns** - Morning: Shuhe Ancient Town (Jiuding Dragon Pool, Qinglong Bridge) - Afternoon: Baisha Ancient Town (Baisha Murals, Jade Pillar Reaching Heaven) **Day 3: Natural Scenery** - Optional day trip to Jade Dragon Snow Mountain + Blue Moon Valley, or horseback riding and boating at Lashihai. --- ### 5. Travel Tips 1. **Transportation**: From Lijiang Sanyi Airport, take a taxi (about 80 yuan) or airport bus (20 yuan) to the Old Town. 2. **Tickets**: The Old Town is free, but there is a 50 yuan Old Town maintenance fee (some guesthouses collect this on behalf of the town). 3. **Sun Protection**: Strong UV rays, so bring sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses. 4. **Altitude Sickness**: Lijiang is at an altitude of 2400 meters, generally no altitude sickness occurs, but for Jade Dragon Snow Mountain (4506 meters), bring oxygen tanks. Lijiang Old Town is a city best explored slowly. Whether it's the historical architecture, Naxi culture, or natural scenery, it will leave a lasting impression. We hope this guide helps you plan an unforgettable trip!