Top five amazing things to do in Lijiang, China

China, one of the fastest-growing economies and technologically advanced countries, is also one of the ancient nations in the world. Much like the megacities of Shanghai and Beijing depict the developed façade of the country, certain places are serving as testimony to the old-world charm of China.

Lijiang is one such town in the northwestern part of China’s Yunnan Province that remained uninvaded by urbanization and stayed away from the stupefying bustle of the metropolises.

This town is largely inhabited by the ethnic majority groups, and it is the best example of cultural diversity in China. The year-long pleasant weather, fresh air, clear skies, playful streams, snowy peaks characteristic of this town draw a large number of tourists, especially nature lovers. Suppose you are looking for a refreshing getaway, book flights to China with iEagle and travel to Lijiang. Do not miss out on these best things to do in Lijiang!

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Top 5 amazing things to do in Lijiang

Walking through Lijiang Old Town:

The World Heritage Site Lijiang Old town is a UNESCO and the top Lijiang attraction. Steeped in a history of more than 800 years, this unaltered ancient town introduces you to the ethnic diversity of the region. Walking through the cobbled lanes of this town is one of the best things to do in Lijiang.

This pretty town features flower-lined paths, traditional wooden buildings, beautiful boutiques, pretty little shops, picturesque canals – all against the backdrop of stunning mountains.

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Viewing the spectacular Jade Dragon Stone Mountain:

This 35-kilometre-long and 20-kilometre-wide mountain stretch with 13 snowy peaks looks like a mammoth jade dragon and hence came to be known as Jade Dragon Stone Mountain! It is considered holy by the Naxi people. Hiking this mountain is the most exciting thing to do in Lijiang.

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The highlights in this area are cable car rides to Glacier Park, Spruce Meadow, Yak Meadow, with other attractions being the White River and the highest Shanzidou peak with an altitude of 5,596 m.

Relaxing at Black Dragon Pool Park:

Towards the north of Lijiang Ancient Town sits this scenic park, also known as Jade Spring Park. With the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain forming the background, the park features a grand pool at the foot of the Elephant Hill. The pool named as Heilongtan Pool (Black Dragon Pool) is surrounded by chestnut trees and impressive ancient monuments like the Longshen Temple, the Deyue Pavilion, and the Hanyue Stage.

A beautiful five-arch bridge (Suocui Bridge) overlooks this clear pool sprawling over an area of 40 hectares. This park is unarguably one of the famous Lijiang attractions.

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Visiting the Mufu Palace:

Today’s Mufu Palace is a reconstructed version of the old mansion, which was destroyed by a terrible earthquake. Located in the southwest of the Lijiang Old Town, this complex mansion was the official residence of the Mu family, the ruling family of Lijiang during the Yuan, Ming and Qing Dynasties.

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The massive palace and its gardens spreading across an area of eight acres is an essential landmark in Lijiang and a great place to learn about the history, architecture, and culture of ancient China. Mufu mansion’s resemblance to Beijing’s Forbidden city earned it the sobriquet ‘the mini Forbidden City.’

Trekking along the Tiger Leaping Gorge:

This one is for nature lovers and adventure seekers. One of the deepest river canyons in the world and also one of the best hiking trails in China, Tiger Leaping Gorge is located on the Jinsha River between the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain and Haba Snow Mountain. It is a part of Three Parallel Rivers of Yunnan Protected Areas, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

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The well-established trail offers breathtaking views of the river, stunning waterfalls, and snow-kissed mountains. Hiking along this path is the best thing to do in Lijiang. Above everything else is the sense of tranquillity you’ll experience at this dramatic place, which is just unmatchable!