Back from Yunnan Lijiang, I sincerely recommend planning a trip for July or August because it's absolutely stunning!

Attention friends planning a trip to Lijiang! A well-organized itinerary can double your travel experience. Based on my personal journey, I've compiled this super practical guide to help you avoid pitfalls and fully immerse yourself in Lijiang's romance and poetic charm. 1. 4-Day 3-Night Highlight Itinerary Day 1: Slow Living in the Ancient Town - Morning: Upon arrival in Lijiang, head straight to Zhongyi Market. This local treasure is where residents shop, filled with the aroma of freshly baked flower cakes (crispy outside, sweet inside). You can also pick up fresh fruits and local snacks. - Noon: Stroll to Mu Residence, known as "Lijiang's Forbidden City," showcasing Naxi ethnic history and culture through its red walls and green tiles that reflect the former glory of the Tusi family. - Afternoon: Climb Lion Hill to Wan Gu Pavilion for a panoramic view of Lijiang Ancient Town. The blue-tiled, white-walled buildings cascade beautifully with distant snow-capped mountains peeking through—perfect for photos. - Evening: Wander through the ancient streets and find a riverside restaurant or bar. Enjoy the relaxing nightlife with flowing water and folk melodies. Day 2: Exploring Jade Dragon Snow Mountain & Blue Moon Valley - Early morning: Book a shuttle to Jade Dragon Snow Mountain in advance to avoid crowds. - Morning: Arrive at Jade Dragon Snow Mountain and choose a cableway based on your preference (Big Cableway to Glacier Park, Small Cableway to Yak Meadow, or Spruce Meadow Cableway for hikers). Don’t forget oxygen bottles (cheaper in town at ~¥15/bottle) and warm clothing. - Noon: Pack lunch as dining options in the scenic area are limited and pricey. - Afternoon: Visit Spruce Meadow for a serene forest walk, then head to Blue Moon Valley, where crystal-clear turquoise waters mirror the snow-capped peaks—absolutely breathtaking. Day 3: Tranquil Time in Shuhe & Baisha - Morning: Explore Shuhe Ancient Town, quieter than Dayan Ancient Town. Check out Jiuding Longtan (Nine-Dragon Pool), where emerald waters blend with historic architecture like a fairy tale. - Noon: Enjoy local delicacies in Shuhe before heading to Baisha Ancient Town. - Afternoon: Baisha retains the most authentic Naxi culture. Capture stunning shots of the town with snow mountains from 7sea Café’s balcony, and browse unique handicraft shops for souvenirs. Day 4: Lugu Lake Loop Tour - Full day: Start your Lugu Lake day trip. First stop: Lige Viewing Platform for the iconic heart-shaped bay. Walk across the "Marriage Bridge" in Grass Sea, then end at Goddess Bay for a mesmerizing sunset over the lake. - Accommodation tip: Stay at a lakeside homestay in Langfang Village (~¥150/person) for a 270° lake view—wake up to mountains and water. 2. Food Recommendations 1. Naxi Grilled Fish: Crispy outside, tender inside, served with spicy secret sauce. 2. Naxi Roast Pork: Perfectly grilled fatty pork, crispy yet not greasy. 3. Naxi Blood Sausage: Steamed glutinous rice and pork blood in casing—a traditional savory delight. 4. Watery Yanghua Soup: Made with Lugu Lake’s unique aquatic plants, light and nutritious. 5. Naxi Stir-Fried Erkuai: Sliced rice cakes stir-fried with meat and veggies—chewy and flavorful. 3. Practical Tips 1. Transportation: Cobblestone streets in the ancient town are tough for luggage—arrange pickup with your homestay. 2. Shopping: Pashmina prices vary; don’t pay over ¥35 (same items cost ~¥18 in Zhongyi Market). 3. Scenic Transport: Take Bus 101 from Zhongyi Market directly to Jade Dragon Snow Mountain—affordable and reliable. Avoid solicited rides. 4. Oxygen Bottles: Buy in town (cheaper) before heading to the mountain. 5. Accommodation: Book early in peak season, especially Lugu Lake’s lakeside rooms. Lijiang’s beauty hides in the misty snow mountains, ancient streets, and every bite of local food. Follow this guide for your own romantic Lijiang adventure!