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Shuhe Ancient Town is perfect for a leisurely stroll, with its traditional Naxi architecture, peaceful canals, and charming alleyways. Explore the ancient cobblestone streets, visit the local markets, and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere. For those interested in culture, visit the Shuhe Ancient Town Museum to learn about the area's history. You can also hike to nearby scenic spots such as the Black Dragon Pool, or take a bike ride along the beautiful countryside surrounding the town.
Located northwest of Lijiang Old Town, Shuhe Ancient Town is nestled between mountains and water, making it even more tranquil and quaint than Dayan Ancient Town. The hills behind the town are the remnants of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, offering lush greenery and verdant trees.
The town's Dashiqiao and Dajue Palace are well-preserved, with murals depicting Buddhist figures. Because the Longquan Temple, built in the Qing Dynasty and dedicated to Sun Bin, the founder of leather crafts, is located within the town, it is a distribution center for leather goods in Lijiang. Enter through the large archway bearing the inscription "Shuhe Ancient Town" and walk along the stone pavement to Sifang Street, the heart of the ancient town.
It is suitable for all seasons. Spring is a time of blooming flowers, summer is a time to cool down, autumn is a time of clear skies, and winter is a time of abundant sunshine.
Open all day
Shuhe Ancient Town dates back to the Tang Dynasty and is one of the best-preserved ancient towns in the Lijiang region. It was historically an important stop on the ancient Tea Horse Road, a trade route that connected China with Tibet. The town is famous for its traditional Naxi culture, with well-preserved architecture and ancient customs that reflect the town’s rich cultural heritage.
Shuhe Ancient Town is located in Lijiang, Yunnan Province, about 6 kilometers north of Lijiang Old Town. You can get there by taxi, bus, or even walk from Lijiang Old Town if you're up for a pleasant walk through scenic countryside. Taxis are easily available and affordable for short distances.
Shuhe Ancient Town is open year-round, but the best time to visit is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild and the area is less crowded. The town is accessible all day, but it’s recommended to visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the views and local activities.
The entrance fee to Shuhe Ancient Town is generally free, although some specific attractions or museums may have a small fee. For example, entry to the Shuhe Museum costs around 30 CNY. Tickets can be bought at the entrance or directly at the individual attractions, and there is no need for advance booking unless you're visiting specific events or exhibitions.
For most attractions within Shuhe Ancient Town, advance booking is not necessary. However, if you plan to visit specific exhibitions or events, it's recommended to book tickets a few days in advance to secure your spot.
To fully explore Shuhe Ancient Town, including walking through its narrow lanes, visiting the local museum, and relaxing by the canals, you would need approximately 2 to 3 hours. If you want to hike or explore surrounding areas, you may need a whole day.
Highlights include the ancient cobblestone streets, traditional Naxi houses, the Shuhe Ancient Town Museum, and the beautiful canals. Don’t miss the stunning views of the surrounding mountains from the edge of town and nearby hiking trails.
Guided tours are available, and you can often find guides who speak both Chinese and English. Some areas of the town, such as the museum, also offer audio guides in various languages. It's best to book a guide in advance if you're looking for a more in-depth tour of the town.
Shuhe Ancient Town offers plenty of photography opportunities, especially along the canals and the traditional wooden bridges. The best views of the town are from the small hills around the area, where you can capture the town’s layout and the backdrop of the surrounding mountains. Sunset and sunrise are ideal times for photography.
Start by walking through the main streets of the town, exploring the traditional architecture. Visit the Shuhe Ancient Town Museum for insight into the local history. Wander through the charming alleyways, and spend time near the canals. If you have more time, take a short hike to nearby scenic spots like the Black Dragon Pool.
Shuhe Ancient Town is a peaceful destination, and there are no specific night visits or light shows. However, the town is beautiful in the evening, with many of the local cafes and restaurants offering a cozy atmosphere. You can enjoy a leisurely evening walk under the town’s soft lighting.
Shuhe Ancient Town is relatively less crowded than Lijiang Old Town, but it still gets busy during holidays and weekends. To avoid crowds, it’s best to visit early in the morning or during the off-peak season, typically between November and February.
There are plenty of facilities in Shuhe Ancient Town, including public toilets, local food stalls, cafes, and souvenir shops. Rest areas are also available, where visitors can relax and enjoy the surroundings. Most of the shops sell traditional Naxi crafts and snacks.
Shuhe Ancient Town is relatively easy to navigate, but some areas may have uneven paths or steep steps. Elderly visitors and those with mobility issues may find it challenging to explore certain parts of the town. Children will enjoy the open spaces and the scenic beauty of the area.
Most places in Shuhe Ancient Town accept mobile payments (like WeChat Pay and Alipay) and credit cards. However, it's always a good idea to carry some cash for small purchases, as not all local vendors may accept digital payments.
Shuhe Ancient Town has a variety of local restaurants and cafes serving traditional Naxi cuisine. Popular options include small family-run eateries and larger cafes offering western-style food and drinks. Nearby, you can also find restaurants offering Tibetan food and other regional specialties.
Vegetarian options are widely available in Shuhe, with many local dishes using vegetables and tofu. Vegan options may require some adjustments, but they can generally be found. Halal food options are more limited, but there are some halal-friendly restaurants in the area, particularly in Lijiang Old Town.
There are several guesthouses and boutique hotels within walking distance of Shuhe Ancient Town. For a more luxurious stay, you can choose accommodations in Lijiang Old Town, just a short drive away. These include traditional Naxi-style hotels, as well as modern hotels offering all amenities.
Nearby attractions include Lijiang Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as well as the Black Dragon Pool and Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. All of these can be easily combined in a day trip from Shuhe Ancient Town.
Shuhe Ancient Town has a variety of souvenir shops offering traditional Naxi crafts, including hand-woven textiles, jewelry, pottery, and paintings. Other popular items include locally made teas and snacks. These make for unique and authentic gifts to take home.
After visiting Shuhe Ancient Town, you can take a taxi or bus back to Lijiang Old Town. For further travel, Lijiang has good bus and train connections to other cities in Yunnan, and there are also options for private car rentals for a more flexible trip.
