5 Things to Do in Lijiang, China

Lijiang Map

Lijiang, a charming city in the Yunnan province in the southwest part of China, is famous for its breathtaking natural scenery and unique ethnic minority's culture. And Lijiang has always been included in the tour itinerary of visitors who travelling in China.

5 Things to Do in Lijiang, China

According to the local recommendation and tourists' feedbacks, we share the following top 5 things to do in Lijiang, which will bring you to discover the beautiful city from different angles and enjoy a wonderful journey. 

1. Enjoy the relaxed time in the bar of Lijiang Old Town

Lijiang Old Town

There are many bars and clubs in Lijiang. Bar-hopping has been an important part of nightlife of locals and visitors. The bars are carefully designed and exquisitely decorated, creating an easy and relaxed atmosphere. You can drink cocktails, whisky, brandy, vodka, rum and any other you like. You immerse yourself in the music and dance, and watch the cultural performances by local minorities. Some famous bars are Riding Along for Thousands of Mile, A Meter Sunshine, Sakura. It is not only a chance to enjoy a relaxed time in the old town, but also can get a close touch to the local people's life.

2. Trek along Tiger Leaping Gorge

Tiger Leaping Gorge

About 50 kilometers away from Lijiang Old Town, Tiger Leaping Gorge is one of the deepest and most beautiful gorges around the world. It runs approximately 15 kilometers along a torrential river flanked by the spectacular Jade Dragon Snow Mountain (5,596 meters) in the side of Lijiang and Haba Snow Mountain (5,396 meters) in the side of Shangri-La. Standing at the foot of the steep 4,000-meter cliffs and look up, the cliffs soar high into thin air. The series of the rapids roar and the voice resounds through the gorge. Its undulating trails on the mountain lead us to the stunning beauty. Hence, the Tiger Leaping Gorge has been one of the most popular trekking routes in China and attracts a large number of foreign trekkers to challenge the wonder of nature. Just bring along your spirit of adventure and expect to be mesmerized by dramatic beauty.

3. Admire the natural beauty in Lashi Lake Nature Reserve and Wenhai Lake

Lashi Lake Nature Reserve

Located the center of the Lashihai Watersheld Nature Reserve and surrounded by green mountains, Lashi Lake occupies an area of 265.6 square meters and is a haven of over 30,000 migratory birds. From the end of October to early April, the birds come here to escape winter, when is the best time to have a bird watching. Besides birdwatching, the popular activities around the lake are cycling, boating, and riding horse.

The Lashi Lake and Wenhai Lake areas which are rich in forest, water resources and have pleasant climate and fecund soil, are the super places for animals, plants, but also home for the local Naxi, Yi, Han and Tibetan people. You also can go to explore the nearly village to get to know the indigenous cultures and experience their simple life.

4. Explore the "Oriental Kingdom of Women" in Lugu Lake and experience the matriarchal way of life

Situated on the border between Yunnan province and Sichuan province, Lugu Lake is about 200 kilometers away from the Lijiang Old Town. It is renowned for its total natural beauty and mostly for it unique culture of the local Mosuo people who are still remain the matriarchal way of life.

Mosuo people do not formally marry. Rather, they carry a special 'walking marriage' custom, namely the intimate relationships last only as long as they like and freely change their lover. In the matriarchal society, the women are responsible for production and management, and the men are in charge of taking care of the housework. The children are raised by the women and get the surnames of their mothers'. It is believed to be the last practicing matriarchal society in the world and many other Naxi customs lost in Lijiang are still in evidence here.

5. Enjoy the grand cultural show "Impression Lijiang"

"Impression Lijiang" is a grand outdoor cultural show directed by China famous director Zhang Yimou. Using the spectacular Jade Dragon Snow Mountain as the background, the show is presented by over 100 horses and 500 local ethnic Naxi, Bai and Yi people selected from 16 different towns and villages, and vividly showcases the traditions and lifestyles of the local people. The well-design stage, beautiful costumes and attractive story will not disappoint you.

Have you attracted by Lijiang? Take a tour to this ancient town combining the dramatic natural beauty and unique culture, which will give you a wonderful journey of a lifetime! A Lijiang tour covering the above top 5 things will be a big surprise to you.