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.
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### 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.
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### 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.
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### 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.
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### 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.
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### 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!