About
Lijiang (丽江) is a city in Yunnan Province in southwest China. Its old town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for well-preserved architecture and for the living Naxi culture that shapes it.
The old town
Walking through the old town is the main reason most visitors come. Its streets, canals and traditional buildings reflect the Naxi people, whose customs and way of life remain part of daily life here. Wandering without a fixed plan suits the area well, with time to notice the details of the houses and the small squares.
Nature around the city
Lijiang is also a gateway to landscapes beyond the town. Two places are often mentioned together:
- Tiger Leaping Gorge, a deep river gorge that attracts walkers and hikers.
- Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, a snow-capped peak that rises above the surrounding area.
Many visitors combine a few days in the old town with an excursion to one or both of these, since they lie within reach of the city.
Is it right for you?
Lijiang suits travellers interested in heritage, local culture and mountain scenery. It works well as a slower stop, with the old town for the evenings and the surrounding countryside for the days.