[2025 Lijiang Attraction] Travel Guide for Yuhe Square (Updated Oct)

Stroll Through Lijiang’s Yuhe Square – Where Old Town Vibes Meet Scenic Charm 🍃🏯 Step into the heart of Lijiang’s ancient city at Yuhe Square, a spot that perfectly blends Chinese architecture, vibrant local life, and dramatic weather moods—from misty rain to bursts of sunshine. Whether you’re chasing those iconic tiled roofs or blossoming floral corners, this square is an Insta-worthy starting point in Old Town. How to explore Yuhe Square: Start by wandering through the main plaza to soak up the classic building close-ups—those wood-carved windows and flower-lined courtyards sparkle when sunlight breaks through the clouds! Don’t miss the edges of the square where you’ll see outdoor cultural landscapes and traditional archways; these make for amazing nature and architectural shots, especially on cloudy or rainy days (umbrellas and reflections add a magical touch). Head out early morning for gentle light, or swing by after a light shower for atmospheric photos. Must-dos: Snap away at the cluster of flowers along walkway fences—these pops of color contrast beautifully with dark brick backgrounds. Pause for a street snack and watch locals go about daily life, giving a real feel for ancient city living. Tips & precautions: Weather in Lijiang changes quickly! Bring a compact raincoat rather than an umbrella (wind picks up fast). Shoes should be comfy, as stone streets get slippery with drizzle. Arrive early for peaceful views and lighter crowds, and take your time photographing up close—some of the best nature and architecture details hide at eye level. #Lijiang #YuheSquare #ChineseArchitecture #TravelChina #OldTownVibes#travel

#yunnanspots Every turn down those cobblestone streets feels like stepping into a living history book—except way more fun. The place is buzzing with both locals and fellow wanderers, all soaking up the stunning views and chill atmosphere. I couldn’t get enough of the insane details everywhere—there’s traditional Naxi architecture, epic wood carvings, and splashes of street art that’ll blow up your Insta feed. 🎨 The soundtrack to my stroll was local musicians playing dreamy tunes, while the air was perfumed with the mouthwatering smell of Yunnan cuisine. (Pro tip: cook up your own foodie adventure at the endless snack stalls!) Lijiang is all about magical moments in hidden courtyards and ancient temples—seriously, don’t skip Mu’s Residence (No. 79, Guangyi Street, Gucheng District, Lijiang) for killer views and a history flex. Most places in the town open from early morning till around 9:00 pm, so you’ve got all day to explore! Whether you’re losing yourself in the maze of alleys or snapping pics by the canals, Lijiang Ancient Town is pure Yunnan magic. If you’re planning your own trip, check out trip.com to make it smooth sailing!

#yunnanspots 🌟Yuhe Square it is the official welcoming point to the magical Lijiang Old Town. My experience here was defined by an almost profound sense of wonder, as I stood amidst the energy of a bustling town square while taking in iconic landmarks like the Giant Waterwheels. This is a must-visit for anyone who wants to fully immerse themselves in the authentic and vibrant life of this ancient city. Detailed Information & A Professional’s Perspective 📌Location: Yuhe Square is perfectly situated at the northern entrance of Lijiang Old Town, at V6GM+CJ7, Gucheng District, Lijiang, Yunnan, China, 674100. Its position as the main gateway means it is a central hub for visitors and a natural starting point for exploring the Old Town's many alleyways and streams. 💸Pricing: There is no charge to enter Yuhe Square itself. While the square is free, it is part of the larger Old Town area. Therefore, you may be required to show a receipt for the Lijiang Old Town Preservation Fee to enter the surrounding ancient city. 🤩My experience at Yuhe Square was defined by its powerful narrative, which sets it apart from other scenic spots. This isn't just a place with beautiful scenery; it's a place where you can feel the energy and spirit of the Naxi people. • The Iconic Gateway: What truly sets Yuhe Square apart is its iconic status as the gateway to the Old Town. It is home to the famous Giant Waterwheels, a pair of enormous wooden waterwheels that serve as the most recognized landmark in Lijiang. They are a constant source of life, fed by the Jade River, and a favorite spot for visitors to take photos. • A Hub of Culture and Art: The square is more than just a transit point. It is a living, breathing part of the local community. It is home to a beautiful Dongba Wind Chime Corridor, where thousands of wind chimes carry handwritten blessings for love, friendship, and family. The sound of the chimes creates a peaceful and romantic atmosphere. The square also serves as a venue for important cultural events, such as the traditional Dongba Blessing Ceremony, which features unique Naxi dances and rituals to honor nature and bless the community.

#holidayitinerary (Yuhe Square: 'The Living Water Heart of Lijiang Old Town' and the Earthly Starting Point of the Snowmelt River) This is not a square; it is a ceremonial basin where the mountain's gift is first welcomed into the human world, the grand foyer to a labyrinth of liquid streets. Yuhe Square marks the northern entrance to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Lijiang Old Town. It is here that the Yu River (Jade River), born from the sacred Black Dragon Pool fed by Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, formally divides into three main channels that will go on to weave through every street and alley of the ancient city. This is not a static monument; it is a dynamic celebration of water, the very element that defines Lijiang's existence, charm, and ingenious ancient water-supply system. Step into the square and trace the water's journey: 💧 The Trinity of Canals: The square's centerpiece is the stone-lined split where the Yu River divides. Watch the clear, rushing meltwater part ways into the West, Middle, and East Rivers, each destined to feed different quarters of the town. This is the master valve of Lijiang's aquatic network. 🎭 The Gateway Ritual: The square is a bustling hub of arrival and departure. Tour groups gather, maps are unfolded, and the iconic water wheels mark the symbolic passage from the modern city into the timeless, cobblestoned world of the old town. 🌉 The Bridge of Beginnings: Multiple small, elegant stone bridges cross the channels, offering perfect vantage points to look back towards the mountain or forward into the maze of streets. Standing on a bridge is to stand between two worlds. 🪷 The Sound of Life: The constant, energizing soundtrack is the sound of flowing water—a cheerful, rushing babble that promises cleanliness, coolness, and life, a stark contrast to the silent, arid landscapes beyond the valley.

Nice streets surrounded by streams, lots of trinket stores, tourist tatt shops, expensive coffee and tourists playing dress ups.

#GetDiscountsWithoutLuck Lijiang Old Town, if you come here and don't notice the rose-shaped mooncakes, it would be impossible. Because there are many brands and many shops selling them, everywhere. You can choose to buy them as souvenirs. In addition to Riedjiang, Kunming also sells quite a few rose-shaped mooncakes. If you forget to buy them, you can buy them at the airport. There are many brands for sale. The appearance of the mooncakes is thin dough. Inside is a rose filling. It is not too sweet and has a faint rose scent. It is even more delicious if you get a freshly baked piece. Eat it while it is still warm. Price: Price per piece 3 to 5 yuan Price per box 40-60 yuan

#AprilGoodDestinations2025 Absolutely amazing! In the ancient town of Lijiang, I unexpectedly broke into an ancient dreamland! ✨ Things to know before you go🚩 The ancient city of Lijiang is about 2,400 meters above sea level, and there is a big temperature difference between morning and night. Remember to bring a thick coat. Sisters who are allergic to altitude sickness can prepare some glucose! There are many cobblestone roads in the ancient city, so don’t wear high heels 👠 The best choice is to choose comfortable flat shoes! Must-visit attractions📸 • Big Waterwheel: the “face” of Lijiang Ancient Town! It is also the entrance sign of the ancient city and the birthplace of countless internet celebrity blockbusters. It has a great feel both during the day and at night. • Sifang Street: the center of the ancient city! This place is well connected. It is a bustling market during the day and turns into a bonfire party at night. Dancing in circles with the locals, the atmosphere is at its best! • Wangu Tower: the best viewing platform overlooking the panoramic view of the ancient city! Climbing up the Wangu Tower, you can see rows of green tile roofs everywhere. It is simple during the day and bright at night🌃 • Mu Mansion: Known as the "Little Forbidden City in Lijiang", it is the residence of the chieftain of the Mu clan. The building is magnificent and gorgeous, with red walls, golden tiles, carved beams and painted buildings. It is a must-see for lovers of ancient style! Food recommendations 🍜 • Yunnan rice noodles: a variety of flavors to choose from, delicious soup, chewy rice noodles, even more delicious with some chili oil! • Steam Pot Chicken: The chicken soup is slow-cooked with pure steam, so delicious that it will make your eyebrows drop. The chicken is soft and tasty, and drinking a bowl of it will warm your stomach! • Grilled milk fan: a local specialty snack! It has a rich milky flavor, coated with rose jam or white sugar, sweet, fragrant and crispy, you will fall in love with it at first bite! • Dongba barbecue: pork belly with alternating fat and lean meat, grilled over charcoal, with a crispy crust and sprinkled with cumin and chili, the aroma is intoxicating! Accommodation Guide 🏠 There are many characteristic homestays in the ancient city. It is recommended to stay near Sifang Street or Wuyi Street. It is convenient for travel and you can also experience the nightlife of the ancient city at night. If you want to be quieter, you can choose a homestay in the marginal area, which is more affordable. A little reminder💡 ✅ Vehicles are not allowed in the ancient city. If you have a lot of luggage, please contact the owner of the B&B in advance to help with the transportation. ✅ The city of romance is well-known, but be careful of wine-selling scams and various "routines" ✅ You can bargain when buying souvenirs, and put your bargaining skills to good use!