Lijiang – A Hidden Gem Wrapped in Snow and Story.

Yifan Wang

Last updated: 25 Apr 2025

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1. Transportation
Getting to Lijiang from Thailand
Currently, there are no direct flights from Thailand to Lijiang. Travelers can connect through major Chinese cities. Two popular routes are:
Route 1: Bangkok Kunming Lijiang
Airlines: Thai AirAsia, China Eastern, China Southern
Travel time: approx. 57 hours (including layover)
Tip: Kunming is the capital of Yunnan and a common transit hub
Route 2: Bangkok Chengdu Lijiang

Airlines: Thai Smile, Thai Airways, Sichuan Airlines
Good option for those planning to visit Chengdu as well
Lijiang Sanyi Airport (LJG) is located about 28 km from the city. Taxis and airport shuttle buses are available.
Getting Around Lijiang
Taxi: Convenient and inexpensive, starting from 8 RMB
Local Bus: Efficient with clear routes, costs 12 RMB per ride
Bike/Scooter Rental: Great for exploring nearby villages
On Foot: Ideal for the Old Town and surrounding areas

2. Accommodation
Lijiang offers a wide range of accommodations, from luxury resorts to charming boutique hotels and budget hostels.
Recommended Stays
Banyan Tree Lijiang (Luxury)
5-star resort with breathtaking views of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain
On-site spa, pool, and gourmet breakfast
Ideal for honeymooners or romantic getaways
Lijiang Wangfu Hotel (Boutique)
Located in the Old Town, built in traditional Naxi architectural style
Comfortable and affordable
Mama Naxi Guesthouse (Budget)
Friendly homestay, clean rooms, homemade breakfast
Popular with backpackers and solo travelers

️ 3. Attractions
Lijiang is a dream destination for travelers who love culture and nature.
Must-Visit Places
Lijiang Old Town (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
Ancient cobbled streets, canals, traditional houses
Lively at night with shops, bars, and live music
Jade Dragon Snow Mountain
Over 5,000 meters above sea level
Take a cable car to Glacier Park or Yunshanping viewing platforms
Tip: Bring a winter jacket and portable oxygen canister
Black Dragon Pool (Heilongtan)
Located in Yuquan Park
Known for its scenic reflection of the snow-capped mountains
Baisha & Shuhe Ancient Villages
Traditional Naxi communities
Handicrafts, frescoes, and chill cafes
Tiger Leaping Gorge
One of the worlds deepest gorges
Ideal for trekking and adventurous hikes (23 days optional trek)

4. Food
Yunnan cuisine is unique and flavorful, combining Chinese and Tibetan influences.
Local Must-Try Dishes
Naxi-style Sticky Rice with Chicken
Corn Noodles made from Yunnan corn flour
Yunnan Hot Pot rich broth and fresh local ingredients
Rose Cakes sweet treats made with local rose petals
Recommended Restaurants
Ns Kitchen Fusion and Western cuisine
Lamus House of Tibet Authentic Tibetan dishes like yak butter tea
Blue Papaya Thai Great option for Thai food cravings

️ 5. Shopping
Lijiang is a great place to shop for traditional handicrafts and local specialties.
Where to Shop
Old Town Market Streets
Tribal clothing, home decor, silver jewelry, souvenirs
Zhongyi Market
Local produce, preserved snacks, and tea
Tea Shops
Famous for Puer tea and elegant tea sets for souvenirs

6. Airlines
Flights from Thailand to China (with layover)
Thai Airways, Thai Smile, AirAsia
China Eastern, China Southern, Sichuan Airlines
Domestic Flights in China
China Eastern Airlines flights from Kunming to Lijiang
Lucky Air budget-friendly Yunnan-based airline
Spring Airlines low-cost carrier for city-hoppers

7. Suggested Itinerary: 5 Days 4 Nights

Day 1
Arrival in Lijiang
Check-in Explore Old Town Dinner with local cuisine
Day 2
Jade Dragon Snow Mountain
Cable car ride Black Dragon Pool Evening in town
Day 3
Tiger Leaping Gorge
Full-day hike Scenic viewpoints Return to Lijiang
Day 4
Shuhe & Baisha Villages
Visit artisan studios Relax in cafes Shop for souvenirs
Day 5
Final day & Departure
Morning shopping Light stroll Airport transfer

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Yifan Wang