Lijiang in October: Ancient Charm Hidden in Zhuyixuan

Lijiang in October: Ancient Charm Hidden in Zhuyixuan In October, Lijiang is wrapped in the cool autumn breeze, Jade Dragon Snow Mountain is dusted with a light layer of snow, and the scent of osmanthus flowers drifts along the ancient city's cobblestone streets. Avoid the crowds and slip into Zhuyixuan · Yueshe Youting Inn beside Sifang Street, as if stepping into an ink painting—the wooden courtyard is surprisingly quiet, outside the walls is the bustling Qiyi Street, inside is a Naxi courtyard filled with the aroma of tea. The owners are two handsome guys born in the 1980s, chatting in the local accent, even helping guests carry luggage into the ancient city, as thoughtful as old friends. Stay in a twin room with thick soft-soled slippers, a smart toilet, a bathroom with separate wet and dry areas, and pillows chosen for the perfect softness and firmness. In the evening, sit on a rattan chair by the fish pond, watch the sunset turn the flying eaves of the Mu Family Mansion golden, while a folk band downstairs hums a tune, and look up to see a sky full of stars. During the day, stroll around the ancient city, stopping by the Big Waterwheel and the Mu Family Mansion, and in the evening, go to Lion Hill for a panoramic view. If you want liveliness, there’s a bonfire dance at Sifang Street every night at 7 pm, where you can dance in circles with Bai ethnic aunts; if you prefer tranquility, the light and shadow show during the night tour of Black Dragon Pool will mesmerize you with the reflection of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. No worries about food—the inn owners can recommend authentic cured pork rib hotpot, and the chicken bean jelly on Qiyi Street costs only 10 yuan a bowl. Before leaving, remember to bring a box of fresh flower cakes; Jiahua’s rose filling is sweet but not greasy, perfectly paired with Pu’er tea. Come to Lijiang in October, don’t rush, spend a few days at Zhuyixuan being a “local”—wake up to birdsong, bask in the afternoon sun, count stars at night, and even time slows down.