From Beijing Chaoyang to Donghe Ancient Town: More Than Just Scenery?

Have you ever imagined leaving behind the hustle and bustle of Beijing Chaoyang and heading to a distant ancient town to uncover stories and beauty hidden deep in time? Today, let’s take you to Donghe Ancient Town (Shuhe Ancient Town) in Lijiang, Yunnan, for a unique journey. How to Get from Beijing Chaoyang to Donghe Ancient Town - **By Air**: First, take the subway, bus, or taxi from Beijing Chaoyang to Beijing Capital International Airport, then board a direct flight to Lijiang Sanyi International Airport (approx. 3.5 hours). Upon arrival, take the airport shuttle to downtown Lijiang, then transfer to minibus No. 3-8 (¥1/person) to Likelong Supermarket. From there, take a minivan or minibus labeled "Longquan" or "Shuhe Ancient Town" to reach your destination. Alternatively, take a taxi directly from the airport (approx. 30 km, 40 minutes, ¥100–150). - **By Train**: Take the Z161 express train from Beijing West Station (departs at 11:55 AM, arrives at Kunming Station the next day at 11:10 PM, approx. 35 hours 10 minutes, with stops in Shijiazhuang, Zhengzhou, Wuhan, Changsha, and Guiyang). From Kunming, take a bus from Kunming West Bus Station to Lijiang (4–5 hours), then transfer to a minibus or taxi to Shuhe Ancient Town (approx. 20 km, 30 minutes). Alternatively, take a train from Kunming to Lijiang Railway Station (approx. 8 hours), then transfer to a bus or taxi in downtown Lijiang. - **By Car**: The drive is approx. 3,200 km via the Jingha, Daguang, Xuguang, Quannan, and Shankun Expressways, taking about 35 hours. Enjoy diverse landscapes along the way, but ensure proper rest breaks for long-distance driving. Recommended Nearby Hotels - **Lijiang Jinmao Pureluxe Mountain Hotel**: Nestled between Donghe Ancient Town and Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, this is the only luxury resort within the 5A-rated Jade Dragon Snow Mountain Scenic Area. Rates start at ¥2,250 for two days and one night. Rooms offer 180-degree panoramic mountain views, with excellent privacy. The hotel also offers nature exploration activities and traditional Dongba cultural experiences. - **Lijiang Jinlin Wyndham Hotel**: Located at No. 202 Qingxi Road, Donghe Ancient Town, this hotel features a tranquil environment, spacious grounds, and shuttle service. Some rooms and public terraces overlook Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. Facilities are well-equipped, and the breakfast buffet offers both Chinese and Western options, with Japanese sashimi and live seafood cooking in the evening. Rates start at ¥2,182. - **Haitangwan Homestay**: Enjoy distant views of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain and serene countryside scenery. Conveniently located, rooms are clean and tidy, some with smart toilets and large bathtubs. The rooftop offers mountain views. Rates: ¥300–800/night. - **Nanshan Caotang Inn**: Situated in the heart of Shuhe, this charming inn offers comfortable lodging, coffee, drinks, and light meals. Rooms are spacious and clean, with rates ranging from ¥200–500/night. Nearby Attractions Stroll along Donghe Ancient Town’s cobblestone streets, where history whispers tales of ancient caravans. Sifang Street is the town’s heart, bustling with Naxi elders in the morning and lively bonfire parties at night. The Ming-era Qinglong Bridge, a landmark, gleams with age-worn stones. Jiuding Longtan’s crystal-clear waters mirror the snow-capped mountains and sky like a painting. Don’t miss Naxi delicacies like Grandma’s Cured Pork Ribs, Naxi Grilled Fish, and Rose Cakes in the food street. Beyond the town, explore Lijiang Old Town (6 km away), brimming with ethnic charm, lively bars, and shops. Jade Dragon Snow Mountain’s majestic peaks are crowned with eternal snow, while Blue Moon Valley at its base dazzles with turquoise waters. Lashihai is perfect for birdwatching, horseback riding, and boating, offering a close encounter with nature. Donghe Ancient Town blends timeless culture with breathtaking landscapes and abundant activities—a must-visit destination. Pack your bags and embark on a journey to find your own poetry and distant dreams!