With rail and air travel ramping up to Lijiang in Yunnan, China PRC, tourists are also braving the less-traveled routes to see the more authentic experiences in this part of Asia. Naxi community villages, elegant traditional temples and gorgeous lakes and rivers stand only a few hours’ travel away from Lijiang, and are well worth the trip!
First Bend of the Yangtze RiverImage Courtesy of International Rivers (CC BY-NC-SA 2.0)
Yuhu Village
Located 15 kilometers north of Lijiang Old Town, Yuhu Village retains an ageless charm due to its unique stone houses made of “monkey head” stones, set against the natural backdrop of the clear, snowmelt-fed Yuhu Lake.
The village provides a glimpse into the traditional lifestyle of the Naxi people, making it a perfect day trip for those interested in history, culture, and nature.
Yuhu is also historically significant as the long-time residence of renowned botanist Dr. Joseph Rock, who lived here for 27 years studying the local Naxi culture and flora. Aside from visiting Dr. Rock’s former residence, visitors can participate in horseback hikes up the Jade Dragon Mountains from this village.
Shuhe Ancient Town
Shuhe Ancient Town is located four kilometers northwest of Lijiang Ancient City in Yunnan Province, China. Photo credit: CGTN /CFP
Shuhe Ancient Town is a well-preserved town on the Ancient Tea Route. Set about five kilometers from Lijiang, visitors can easily make a day trip here: they shop for handicrafts at Sifang Street, a market in the center of Shuhe village; check out the clear “Jiuding Dragon Pool”, a holy site for the Naxi peoples; and visit the Beiquan and Sansheng Temples.
Baisha Village
Photo credit: Ian91/ Trip.com
Baisha Village, just eight kilometers from Lijiang Old Town, offers an authentic Naxi cultural experience set some distance from the tourist crowds. Baisha was the birthplace of the Mu Family Governors – it’s no surprise that this was once a political, economic, and cultural center for all of Yunnan.
The biggest draw of the village lies in the famous Baisha Murals: a collection of 55 Ming-era artworks housed in Dabaoji Palace and Liuli Temple, which reflect a blend of Naxi, Han, Tibetan, and other ethnic influences.
Besides the Murals, other artworks worth seeing in Baisha include traditional tie-dye artworks and handiwork from the local embroidery school.
First Bend of the Yangtze River
The First Bend of the Yangtze River, located about 50 kilometers from Lijiang, is a scenic and historically significant site where the river makes a dramatic 90-degree turn. This area was a strategic crossing point for ancient armies and a trading hub for Tibetans.
Visitors can explore the Naxi town of Shiguzhen, visit the Red Army Memorial Hall, and hike around the stunning landscapes. The river bend offers activities such as boating and hiking, with opportunities to learn about the region’s rich history and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
Blue Moon ValleyPhoto by KaNhai Lei on Unsplash
Blue Moon Valley
Nestled within the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain Scenic Area, Blue Moon Valley is famed for its impossibly turquoise river that winds through a lush valley.
The river, fed by melting snow, forms four stunning lakes: Jade-Like Wine Lake, Mirror Pond, Blue Moon Lake, and Wave-Listening Lake. Each lake reflects the surrounding snow-capped mountains and lush greenery, creating a breathtakingly picturesque scene.
Visitors can stroll along the riverbanks, marvel at the terraced white waterfalls, and take in the valley’s otherworldly beauty.
