Old Town of Lijiang

The basics

Travelers visiting Lijiang have various options for seeing the city and its surrounding attractions. Many visit Lijiang on private tours, which offer flexibility in terms of pickup locations such as Lijiang Airport, the train station, or their hotel. These tours typically cover highlights such as the Old Town of Lijiang, combined with the Snow Mountain and Blue Moon Valley in a day. Others may join longer multi-day tours which include visits to Yuanyang Rice Terraces and Tiger Leaping Gorge.

Things to know before you go

• Cars aren’t allowed in Lijiang Old Town, so be prepared to carry any luggage over cobbled streets.

• Travelers have to purchase a special ticket to contribute to the maintenance of Lijiang Old Town. This is typically valid for a week.

• If you get lost in the Old Town, simply walk upstream to return to the center.

• Be cautious of slippery cobbled streets and bridges, especially when wet.

• The wooden townhouses make for an atmospheric stay, but be prepared for poor noise insulation.

How to get there

Starting from Lijiang Sanyi International Airport, about 18 miles (29 kilometers) south of the town, you have various transportation choices. You can opt for a 50-minute taxi ride directly to the Old Town, or take a bus to Lijiang Blue Sky Inn, then hop on bus #11 or #13 for a short ride to the Old Town, or continue by taxi instead.

When to get there

Lijiang Old Town is best visited from late March to May and mid-October to November, with pleasant temperatures and clear skies. Spring brings abundant flowers, while fall offers the most beautiful weather and the best air quality. The winter can be cold, with temperatures near freezing, so warm clothing is essential. The rainy season lasts from June to September, so bring an umbrella and rain gear, and watch out for slippery cobblestone streets.

Where to eat in the Old Town of Lijiang

For a taste of authentic Lijiang cuisine, head to Qiyi Street, which is known for its local snacks and quick bites. The Old Town of Lijiang also has many mid-range restaurants that cater to tourists, such as the Old Town Beef Restaurant (also known as Ha's Beef Restaurant), and N's Kitchen, which offers burgers, pizzas, and Western food.