Sitting in the courtyard, watching the sunlight filter through the greenery and cast dappled shadows by the water system

Deep within Lijiang Old Town, find a poetic dwelling infused with Naxi charm The water flows gently, the ancient bridge stands quietly. In the winding depths of the cobblestone streets of Lijiang Old Town, I found the legendary five-star guesthouse—Boxin Yun She. The moment you step into Boxin Yun She Wenyuan, time seems to slow down.🌿 A perfect blend of Naxi ancient charm and modern comfort, this guesthouse hidden in the heart of the old town incorporates the architectural essence of the Naxi, Bai, and Yi ethnic groups, with flying eaves and carved doors and windows, each detail telling the ancient stories of this land. Morning sunlight streams through the floor-to-ceiling windows into the room, and the organic breakfast prepared by the hostess fills the air with an inviting aroma. Sitting in the courtyard, watching the sunlight filter through the greenery and cast dappled shadows by the water system, the babbling water and the occasional chime of wind bells weave the most healing melody. A casual snap with your phone captures stunning shots that need no editing. 🗺️ Strolling the Old Town, encountering the timeless charm of Lijiang Setting off from Boxin Yun She, exploring the old town becomes the most anticipated daily ritual.🌄 Recommended route: Big Waterwheel → East Street → Lijiang Old Town History and Culture Exhibition Hall → Naxi Ancient Music Concert → Sifang Street → Naxi Pictographic Painting Experience Center. Sifang Street is the heart of the old town, with roads radiating in all directions and deep alleys around it. It was once a bustling hub for merchants. Standing here, you can almost hear the footsteps of caravan horses carrying tea and silk along the Ancient Tea Horse Road. Dashiqiao Bridge is an excellent spot to admire Lijiang’s water scenery. The wide, slow river is crystal clear, and if you catch the reflection of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain in the water, it’s the most beautiful gift of the journey. 🏯 Cultural treasures not to be missed The Mu Residence, known as the “Forbidden City” of the Naxi people, is just steps away from Boxin Yun She. With red walls and golden roofs, carved beams and painted rafters, climbing to the viewing platform of the Sanqing Hall offers a panoramic view of the blue-tiled roofs of Lijiang Old Town and a distant view of the majestic snow-capped mountains. Opening hours: 8:30 AM - 6:00 PM (last entry at 5:30 PM) Admission: 40 RMB 🍂 Travel tips Best season: October in autumn, when the old town looks like an animation, with fewer tourists in the off-season and perfect for photography—every shot is an artistic masterpiece. What to wear: The cobblestone streets of the old town are uneven, so be sure to wear comfortable flat shoes. You can rent Naxi ethnic costumes near Zhongyi Market for about 50 RMB to get a full set with headwear and fully immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. Food experience: For breakfast, try Naxi baba at Snack Shop No. 88; in the afternoon, find a teahouse to enjoy a cup of butter tea and savor the daily flavors of Naxi life. Hidden photo spots: At dusk, climb to the rooftop “Mirror of the Sky” at Boxin Yun She Courtyard No. 5 to gaze at the magnificent snow mountains and overlook the entire old town—an indescribable feeling. Or climb Lion Hill to watch the city lights come on one by one and experience another charm of the old town. During my days in Lijiang Old Town, I stayed at Boxin Yun She, waking to the wind in the morning and stargazing at night, feeling the Naxi way of life that teaches you to “slow down.” As an old Naxi man once said in the ancient town: “If you spend your whole life walking in the same direction, why rush?” Boxin Yun She is not just a place to stay on your journey, but a refuge for the soul.