Lijiang Itinerary 3 Days: A Journey Through Ancient Towns and Snowy Peaks (2026)

Upon arrival at Lijiang Sanyi International Airport, take a taxi or pre-booked shuttle to your accommodation within the ancient walls of Dayan, the Old Town of Lijiang. Settle in and then set out to explore the magical labyrinth of cobblestone streets, canals, and traditional Naxi architecture. Your first stop should be Sifang Square (Square Market), the bustling heart of the Old Town, where you can soak in the lively atmosphere and watch street performers. From there, get lost in the maze of alleyways, discovering hidden courtyards, quaint shops selling local handicrafts, and charming teahouses. In the afternoon, make your way to Lion Hill (Shizishan) and climb to the top of Wangu Tower for breathtaking panoramic views of the Old Town's rooftops against the backdrop of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. As the sun begins to set, the Old Town transforms, with red lanterns casting a warm glow over the streets. For dinner, indulge in a traditional Naxi hotpot at a restaurant like V Sherry Restaurant (云雪丽餐厅), known for its authentic local flavors. After dinner, you can experience Lijiang's vibrant nightlife with a stroll along the bar street or enjoy a quiet drink by one of the canals.

Start your day with a visit to the Black Dragon Pool (Heilongtan), a beautiful park just a short walk north of the Old Town. On a clear day, you can capture the iconic photograph of the Moon-Embracing Pavilion with the reflection of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain in the tranquil waters of the pool. Afterward, take a taxi or local bus to Shuhe Ancient Town, a quieter and more preserved version of Lijiang's Old Town. Here, you can enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere as you stroll along the canals, browse the shops, and admire the traditional Naxi architecture without the crowds of Dayan. In the afternoon, continue your journey to Baisha Ancient Town, the original capital of the Naxi Kingdom. Baisha is even more rustic and authentic than Shuhe, offering a glimpse into the traditional way of life of the Naxi people. The main attraction here is the Baisha Murals, a collection of well-preserved frescoes dating back to the Ming Dynasty, which depict Tibetan Buddhist, Taoist, and Naxi religious themes. For lunch, try some local Naxi cuisine at a family-run restaurant in Baisha. In the evening, return to Lijiang Old Town for dinner. Cornerstone Cafe is a popular choice for both Western and Chinese dishes.

Today is dedicated to an unforgettable journey to Jade Dragon Snow Mountain (Yulong Xueshan), a sacred mountain for the Naxi people. It's best to book a tour in advance, as arranging transport and tickets independently can be complicated. The tour will typically include a ride on the Spruce Meadow (Yunshanping) or Yak Meadow (Maoniuping) cable car, which will take you up to a scenic meadow with stunning views of the mountain's glaciers. From there, you can hike along wooden boardwalks and enjoy the pristine alpine scenery. A highlight of the trip is the spectacular 'Impressions Lijiang' show, an outdoor performance featuring hundreds of local actors, singers, and dancers from the Naxi, Yi, and Bai ethnic minorities, all set against the backdrop of the mountain. After the show, visit Blue Moon Valley (Lanyuegu), a series of four beautiful lakes with turquoise-blue water, formed by the melting snow from the mountain. You can walk along the lakes or take an electric cart. In the late afternoon, you will be transferred back to Lijiang. For your farewell dinner, try the highly-rated N's Kitchen for a delicious meal.