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As the birthplace of the Mu clan, the Tusi family accumulated experience in town planning in Baisha. Baisha is the ancient capital of the Naxi people and a world-class "Ancient Naxi Kingdom." It was once the political, economic, commercial, and cultural center of Lijiang and is part of the World Cultural Heritage "Old Town of Lijiang."
With its subtropical monsoon climate, the best time to visit is from April to October, offering stunning scenery. From March to August, a variety of flowers bloom, especially in recent years, with the sea of flowers near Baisha Ancient Town offering breathtaking views. Spring in Lijiang is known for its strong winds and dry weather, so be extra careful about fire safety, sun protection, and moisturizing.
Baisha murals
Baisha Ancient Town boasts a renowned attraction: the Baisha Murals. These murals, a product of the Naxi people's openness to society during the Ming Dynasty, were created over a period of more than 300 years, from the early Ming to the early Qing dynasties. The late Ming and early Qing dynasties marked the peak of Lijiang mural art, boasting a 500-year history.
The surviving Ming Dynasty murals in temples such as the Baisha Glazed Hall, Dabaoji Palace, and Dading Pavilion are extremely valuable cultural relics. The Dabaoji Palace murals are the largest in Lijiang, painted during the Wanli period of the Ming Dynasty. They comprise 12 panels and depict 167 figures. While the murals are religious in theme, they are unique in that they incorporate Buddhist and Taoist figures, as well as Lamaist figures, a rare blend of diverse religious traditions.
Sifang Street
The center of Baisha Ancient Town, known as Sifang Street, was once a bustling trading center. Later, when the Naxi ancestors established Shuhe Ancient Town and Lijiang Old Town, they adopted Baisha's planning model, transforming the center of the ancient town into a hub for commerce and trade. This street, named Sifang Street, means "connected in all directions, with power extending to all directions." Because Baisha's Sifang Street was built much earlier, it's less formal and well-developed than its counterparts in Shuhe and Lijiang Dayan.
Today, Sifang Street is still the primary destination for local grandmothers selling vegetables. The authentic side dishes and the grandmothers, dressed in traditional Naxi clothing, are a common sight on Sifang Street. In the past, the elderly in Baisha Ancient Town were reluctant to have their photos taken, but now there are so many people taking photos, so be prepared for them to ask for pocket money if you do.
Archway
On the south side of Sifang Street stands a two-story archway with a plaque inscribed with "Baisha, the Capital of the Ancient Naxi Kingdom, a World Cultural Heritage." Just south of the archway lies the peaceful and tranquil Naxi homestead. For over 1,000 years, the Naxi people have plowed in spring, harvested in autumn, and stored in winter, leading a secluded life. Even today, walking through the village, you'll feel as if time has stopped. The sky is as blue as a shimmer, the snow-capped mountains are majestic, the street dogs are carefree and at ease, and the entire ancient town is as simple and serene as the Naxi people themselves.
Dashiqiao
About 200 meters west of Sifang Street, you will find the Dashi Bridge in Baisha Ancient Town, the oldest Dashi Bridge in Lijiang. It is the predecessor of Qinglong Bridge in Shuhe Ancient Town and Dashi Bridge in Dayan Ancient Town in Lijiang. Dashi Bridge is the main road connecting Baisha Ancient Town and Yanjiao Village, and it was also one of the necessary routes for the horse caravans on the Tea Horse Road in history.
1 day
Free; Baisha mural ticket 30 yuan/person
All day
Baisha Ancient Town is one of the oldest towns in Lijiang, dating back over 1,000 years. It served as the political and cultural center of the Naxi people during the Ming Dynasty. The town is renowned for its well-preserved murals, which blend Tibetan Buddhism, Daoism, and Confucianism, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of the area.
Baisha Ancient Town is located about 10 kilometers north of Lijiang's Old Town. The most convenient way to reach Baisha is by taxi or private car from Lijiang, which takes approximately 20 minutes. Alternatively, you can take a local bus from Lijiang Bus Station to Baisha.
Baisha Ancient Town is open year-round, and since it is an open-air area, there are no specific opening hours. The best times to visit are during spring (April-May) and autumn (September-November), when the weather is pleasant, and the crowds are fewer. It can get quite crowded during the summer tourist season.
The entrance to Baisha Ancient Town is generally free, but certain attractions, such as the Baisha Mural and temples, may require a small entrance fee (around ¥20-¥30). Tickets for these can be purchased on-site or through local tour operators.
Booking tickets in advance is not required for general visits to Baisha Ancient Town. However, if you plan to visit specific attractions or book a guided tour, it is advisable to book a day or two in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.
To fully explore Baisha Ancient Town and its main attractions, you should allocate around 3-4 hours. This allows you to visit the murals, temples, explore the town, and enjoy some local cuisine.
Guided tours are available for visitors and are offered in both English and Mandarin. Audio guides can be rented at some attractions, such as the Baisha Mural, for a more in-depth understanding of the site’s history and artwork.
Start by visiting the Baisha Mural, then explore the Baisha Village Temple. Afterward, take a walk through the ancient town to appreciate its architecture and local culture. End your visit by browsing the markets or sitting at a local cafe to relax and soak in the atmosphere.
Baisha Ancient Town is primarily a daytime attraction. There are no major night visits or light shows. However, the town’s tranquil atmosphere in the evening can be an enjoyable experience, especially for those who want to experience a quieter side of Lijiang.
Baisha Ancient Town can get busy during peak tourist seasons, especially in the summer months (June-August). The least crowded times to visit are during weekdays in the spring and autumn months when the weather is still pleasant but the crowds are thinner.
Baisha Ancient Town has several public toilets, food stalls, and small shops selling traditional Naxi crafts and souvenirs. There are also cafes and restaurants where you can sample local dishes, such as yak meat and Naxi rice noodles.
Baisha Ancient Town is relatively accessible, but some parts of the town have uneven cobblestone streets, which may be difficult for elderly or disabled visitors. It’s best to take it slow and plan your route accordingly. Children will enjoy the open-air atmosphere and the markets.
Cash is widely accepted in Baisha Ancient Town, but mobile payments like WeChat Pay and Alipay are also commonly used. Credit cards are accepted in some larger establishments but are less common in small shops and food stalls.
There are several restaurants and cafes in Baisha offering local Yunnan cuisine, including dishes such as Naxi rice noodles, yak meat, and wild mushrooms. Some cafes also serve coffee and Western-style meals.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available in many of the local restaurants, especially in the form of vegetable dishes, tofu, and rice. Halal food options are limited but may be available in some specialty restaurants.
There are several guesthouses and boutique hotels in the Baisha area, as well as larger hotels in nearby Lijiang. Accommodations range from budget options to more luxurious stays.
Souvenir shops in Baisha sell traditional Naxi handicrafts, including embroidered textiles, jewelry, wooden carvings, and local tea. These make for unique and authentic gifts.
After visiting Baisha, you can take a taxi or bus to nearby attractions like the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain or Lijiang Old Town. Private cars or guided tours are also convenient options for continuing your trip.
