2025 The Old Town of Lijiang Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in April)

#cherryblossom25 If you're planning a spring escape, don’t miss Lijiang Old Town and Shuhe Ancient Town—two of the most enchanting places to witness cherry blossoms in full bloom. The streets come alive with soft pink petals, ancient rooftops, and mountain air that feels like poetry. Start your stroll in Lijiang Old Town, where pink petals frame cobblestone paths, and the ancient rooftops glow beneath soft blossoms. Then head to Shuhe Ancient Town, quieter, slower—like time paused just to let you breathe in the bloom. Best time to visit: Late February to Mid April. Tip: Visit early in the morning for fewer crowds and golden light. Don’t forget: A good camera, comfy shoes, and time to simply pause. Every corner’s a postcard, every breeze carries spring. In Yunnan, cherry blossoms don’t just bloom— they tell stories.

So beautiful view from the hill. Even in the Starbuks at the 2nd floor. You may enjoy coffee or tea one of the cafes on the hills. So peaceful and relaxing day. The day we visited was not so crowded, so it was great.

#discoverchina Lijiang Old Town at night is truly magical. The ancient Chinese-style buildings glow under soft lantern light, creating a warm and romantic atmosphere. Stone-paved streets wind through wooden houses with carved balconies, red lanterns swaying gently above. Reflections of lights shimmer in the canals, making the whole town look like a painting. The mix of old architecture and gentle music from nearby bars adds to the charm. It feels like stepping into a fairy tale. Every corner is picture-perfect, especially with the backdrop of mountains. The beauty of lights and traditional Chinese design makes Lijiang unforgettable after dark.

#discoverchina Lijiang is a must-visit—way more fun to explore than Dali! 🏡✨ The fresh sunlight, blue skies, and the feeling of absolute freedom make it unforgettable. 🍽️ Food Highlights: Lunch: Dianxi Prince – a local chain from Dali, great flavors! Dinner: A Sichuan restaurant in the old town—massive portions, bold flavors, absolutely delicious! 🔥🌶️ Night Market: Packed with people and exotic fruits, including one that looked unfamiliar but tasted exactly like cucumber! 🥒😆 📸 Experience: Makeup & Photoshoots: Plenty of options—choose carefully for the best quality! Local Bars: Stumbled upon a cozy spot and tried the famous "Wind, Flower, Snow, and Moon" liquor. 🍶 Bonus: Ended the night by chilling with a giant fluffy dog on the way back to the guesthouse. 🐶✨ #myitinerary #travel

#travelinginchina Lijiang’s nightlife is so unique—it’s not about clubs or bars, but about lantern-lit streets, live music, and cozy tea houses. I spent an evening listening to traditional Naxi music in a little courtyard, and it was so magical. The whole town feels alive at night, but in a peaceful, enchanting way. #LijiangNights #LanternVibes #CulturalNights

#ancienttownvibes Lijiang is more than just stunning architecture—it’s a place where culture, nature, and history come together in perfect harmony. I took a detour from the bustling streets and found myself in a peaceful courtyard surrounded by ancient trees. The soft rustling of leaves, the delicate fragrance of incense from a nearby temple, and the faint hum of a traditional folk song playing in the distance—pure magic. I stopped at a small, family-run teahouse, where the owner told me stories of Lijiang’s past while pouring steaming cups of Pu’er tea. The wooden interiors, adorned with calligraphy scrolls and antique furniture, made me feel like I had stepped into an old Chinese drama. And then, just when I thought the day couldn’t get better, I stumbled upon a hidden waterfall garden, where a small bridge led to a tucked-away shrine. A moment of true serenity. If you visit Lijiang, don’t just stick to the main roads. The real magic lies in the hidden corners. 🌿 Hidden gems: Tea houses, peaceful courtyards, secret shrines 🛍 What to buy: Handmade Naxi embroidery, traditional calligraphy ✨ Best time to explore: Early morning or just before sunset

#chinatrip Lijiang Old Town greeted me with its iconic waterwheels, a symbol of the town’s rich history and harmony with nature. These ancient wheels have stood the test of time, blending perfectly with the red stone carvings that tell stories of the past. Walking through the cobblestone streets felt like stepping into a living museum. Each turn revealed something new – charming bridges over clear streams, intricately carved wooden signs, and shops bursting with local handicrafts. The famous Square Market was a delightful maze of color and tradition. It’s not just a market; it’s a meeting point of history and culture. As the sun set, the warmth of a crackling fire in the square brought people together, creating a magical ambiance. Lijiang Old Town is not just a destination but an experience that lingers in your heart.

Jingli Coffee is a cozy café in Lijiang Old City, perfect for relaxing after exploring. The coffee is great, and they offer a variety of snacks and light meals. For Muslim travelers, this café doesn’t have a halal sign, so you’ll need to choose carefully. Stick to vegetarian options or ask about the ingredients if unsure. Overall, it’s a nice spot to enjoy good coffee and the charming atmosphere of Lijiang Old City.

#travelanywhere Lijiang’s old town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its well-preserved ancient architecture, which reflects the rich history and cultural heritage of the Naxi people. The traditional buildings offer a glimpse into the past, showcasing historical styles and construction techniques. It is really good to visit these ancient architecture to have a feel how it was in the past and have some good memories photos 😍 #chinatrip

#chinatrip Nestled in the historic setting of Dayan Ancient Town, 狮子山夜市 (Lion Hill Night Market) offers a lively blend of local cuisine and entertainment under the stars. As night falls, the market transforms into a bustling hub of activity, where locals and tourists alike gather to indulge in a sensory feast. The night market is renowned for its array of food stalls, each offering a tempting selection of Yunnan specialties and other popular Chinese snacks. From savory grilled meats and fresh noodles to sweet treats and local delicacies, there's something to satisfy every palate. The aromas of cooking food fill the air, inviting visitors to sample the diverse flavors of the region. Adding to the market's vibrant atmosphere is a live band that performs nightly. The music ranges from traditional Chinese to contemporary hits, creating a joyful backdrop to the evening's festivities. Visitors can enjoy their meals while listening to the lively tunes, which add a layer of cultural immersion to the dining experience. Lion Hill Night Market is not just a place to eat; it's a venue for entertainment and socializing, where you can enjoy the lively spirit of Lijiang. Whether you're there to grab a quick bite, enjoy some great music, or simply soak in the lively atmosphere, 狮子山夜市 is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Lijiang Ancient Town. #LijiangNightMarket #LionHillNightMarket #YunnanCuisine #LiveMusic #FoodMarket #LijiangAncientTown #CulturalExperience #Nightlife #TravelChina #FoodieHeaven

Dayan Ancient Town is rich in cultural heritage, with a plethora of historical buildings and traditional folk customs. The Mu Mansion is a must-visit, where you can listen to a Naxi guide explain in detail the history and layout of the Mu Mansion, as well as the traditional culture of the Naxi people. Dayan Ancient Town is also the liveliest among the ancient towns in Lijiang. As night falls, Bar Street, Sifang Street, and July First Street are probably the busiest and most crowded places in Dayan Ancient Town. Additionally, tasting the local cuisine is essential; you can try Yunnan's unique mushrooms and Naxi traditional delicacies such as chicken bean jelly, sour fish, and so on.