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Experience the best of Lijiang over three immersive days, blending ancient heritage, alpine landscapes, and thrilling river canyons. LuxTourCN (LTC) has crafted this panoramic tour to help you discover the top 14 attractions around Lijiang, with optional extensions to the First Bend of the Yangtze and Lugu Lake.
Day 1 – Discover Lijiang Old Town and Surroundings
Morning
- Lijiang Old Town: Begin at the UNESCO-listed maze of cobblestone streets, wooden bridges, and flowing canals. Wander alleys, browse artisanal shops, and savor a street-food breakfast of Crossing the Bridge Rice Noodles.
- Mufu Palace: Explore the Mu family’s 17th-century residence modeled after the Forbidden City. Climb to Sanqing Pavilion for panoramic rooftop views.
Afternoon
- Black Dragon Pool Park: Stroll among lotus ponds and pavilions, with Jade Dragon Snow Mountain mirrored in the water.
- Dongba Culture Museum: Delve into Naxi traditions in four exhibition halls, from pictographic script to divination rituals.
- Lion Hill: Hike 20 minutes to Wangu Tower, then descend to the unobstructed viewing platform for a sweeping vista of Old Town and mountain peaks.
Evening
- Return to Old Town for lively nightlife: sample Lijiang baba flatbreads, order butter tea, and enjoy traditional Naxi music in cosy bars.
Day 2 – Alpine Majesty and Ethnic Villages
Morning
- Jade Dragon Snow Mountain: Head north to the scenic area. Choose one cable car—Spruce Meadow for gentle elevation, Glacier Park for high-altitude panoramas, or Yak Meadow for solitude.
- Blue Moon Valley: Explore the “Little Jiuzhaigou” on wooden walkways or by eco-shuttle.
Midday
- Impression Lijiang Show: Watch Zhang Yimou’s grand outdoor performance at Ganhaizi Meadow, where over 500 local performers bring Naxi legends to life against the mountain backdrop.
Afternoon
- Yuhu Village: Visit Joseph Rock’s former home and museum, then wander stone lanes and traditional cottages.
- Shuhe Ancient Town: Enjoy riverside cafés and artisan boutiques. Cross Qinglong Bridge and pause at Jiuding Longtan pool.
- Baisha Village: Discover Ming and Qing dynasty Baisha Murals in Dabaoji Palace, Liuli Temple, and Wenchang Palace. Try a Naxi embroidery demonstration or a quick Dongba script lesson.
Day 3 – Tiger Leaping Gorge and First Bend of the Yangtze
Early Morning
- Depart for Tiger Leaping Gorge, a two-hour drive north.
- High Trail Hike (2–3 days) or Day-Hike Section: Tackle the famed High Trail for dramatic cliffside views, or opt for the easier lower path to feel the river’s roar.
Late Morning
- First Bend of the Yangtze: On the return drive, stop at Shigu Town to admire the Jinsha River’s sharp horseshoe turn from dedicated viewing platforms.
Afternoon
- Return to Lijiang or continue onward to Shangri-La. If you choose to return, enjoy a leisurely dinner in Old Town.
Optional Extension – Lugu Lake (2 Additional Days)
For deeper exploration, add two days to visit Lugu Lake, 200 km northeast of Lijiang:
- Day 4: Scenic drive to the lake; evening boat ride on wooden canoes, followed by Mosuo folk performances.
- Day 5: Visit the Walking Marriage Bridge, hike to Goddess Bay for sunset, and sample Mosuo cuisine in Luoshui Village before returning to Lijiang.
Tips for a Smooth Journey
- Book early: Cable cars, show tickets, and guesthouses fill up quickly in spring and autumn.
- Layer up: Temperatures vary from warm valley days to chilly mountain nights.
- Stay hydrated: Altitude can affect stamina—carry water and consider portable oxygen for Glacier Park.
- Support local: Choose family-run guesthouses and artisan workshops to contribute directly to the community.
Read More
Explore Baisha Village in Lijiang: Ancient Murals, Naxi Culture & Timeless Charm
Discover Shuhe Ancient Town in Lijiang: A Tranquil Naxi Village Near Jade Dragon Snow Mountain
Ultimate Lijiang Travel Guide 2025: Street Food & Tiger Leaping Gorge
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