Lijiang Old Town and Jade Dragon Snow Mountain Highlights
Stroll Lijiang Old Town, visit the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain Glacier Park and Blue Moon Valley, then see Black Dragon Pool and Shuhe. A core three-day introduction to Lijiang.
On day one, adjust to the altitude in the Old Town and watch the sunset from Wangu Tower. On day two, spend the full day at Jade Dragon Snow Mountain via the large cable car and at Blue Moon Valley. On day three, visit Black Dragon Pool and Shuhe in the morning before heading to the airport. The pace is moderate, ideal for first-time visitors. Nearby sights like Lashi Lake and Tiger Leaping Gorge are left out.
Snow mountain visits require advance real-name booking. The glacier cable car may be suspended on windy days.
Day by day
Day 1 · Arrival and First Look at Dayan Old Town
Lijiang Old Town & Jade Dragon Snow Mountain(Lijiang Water Wheels、Sifang Square、Mu Mansion、Wangu Pavilion (Lion Hill))
Take an airport bus or taxi about 40 minutes to the Old Town entrance. From there, walk the entire time, since vehicles cannot enter the Old Town.
Lijiang sits at about 2,400 meters. On day one, drink less alcohol and walk slowly.
Stay: Lijiang Old Town
Day 2 · Jade Dragon Snow Mountain and Blue Moon Valley
Lijiang Old Town & Jade Dragon Snow Mountain(Glacier Park, Jade Dragon Snow Mountain、Ganhaizi Meadow、Blue Moon Valley、Impression Lijiang)
Early in the morning, take the snow mountain shuttle or a shared car about 40 minutes to the scenic area. Transfer to electric shuttles inside, then return to the Old Town in the evening.
The Glacier Park is above 4,500 meters. Bring plenty of warm clothing and oxygen.
Stay: Lijiang Old Town
Day 3 · Black Dragon Pool and Shuhe Before Departure
Lijiang Old Town & Jade Dragon Snow Mountain(Black Dragon Pool、Shuhe Ancient Town)
Walk about 20 minutes from the Old Town to Black Dragon Pool, then take a taxi about 15 minutes to Shuhe. In the afternoon, take a taxi about 50 minutes to the airport.
Early morning is the best time at Black Dragon Pool for photos of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain's reflection.
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