Live Your Best Lives
Yulong Snow Mountain is located in Yulong Naxi Autonomous County, Lijiang City, Yunnan Province. It is the southernmost snow mountain in China and a famous mountain in the southern section of the Shaluli Mountains of the Hengduan Mountains. It is the mountain with the lowest latitude and the highest altitude in the northern hemisphere of the world.
Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, known as "Boshi'olu" in the Naxi ethnic group, means "silver rock with white sand." It is considered a sacred mountain by the Naxi and other ethnic groups in Lijiang. Known for its ruggedness, beauty, and unique beauty, the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain boasts scenic beauty, including the Black and White Water River, Ganhaizi, Yunshanping, Yaoniuping, and Shanzidou. Yunshanping, also known as the "Place of Death of Love," stands at an altitude of 3,240 meters and is considered a sacred site by the Naxi people. Its thirteen snow-capped peaks stretch endlessly, resembling a giant dragon soaring and dancing, earning it the name "Jade Dragon." Because its rock formations are primarily limestone and basalt, with distinct black and white, it is also known as the "Black and White Snow Mountain." It is a sacred mountain for the Naxi people, and is said to be the incarnation of the Naxi patron saint, "Sanduo."
The mountain climate is cold and snowy year-round; the best time to travel is autumn and winter
Blue Moon Valley
Formerly known as the "White Water River," it lies in a valley north of Ganhaizi and south of Yunshanping at the eastern foot of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. Originating from the melting snow of the mountains, it flows down the cliffs, gathering into mountain streams and creeks before finally forming a crystal clear, sweet river in the deep valley upstream of Blue Moon Valley. On clear days, the water appears blue, and the crescent-shaped valley resembles a blue moon set at the foot of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, hence the name Blue Moon Valley.
Yushuizhai
Located 15 kilometers north of Lijiang Old Town, at the foot of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, at an altitude of 2,500 meters, it is one of the main sources of water flowing through Lijiang Old Town. It is a sacred site for the inheritance of Lijiang's Dongba culture and a base for the Baishaxi music and Leba dance. Its interior also showcases ancient Naxi architecture. It also boasts numerous attractions rich in ethnic and local characteristics, including the Shenlong Sandieshui Waterfalls, salmon farming ecotourism, ancient trees, and Jade Dragon Snow Mountain's largest sacred spring.
Glacier Park
Located on Jade Dragon Snow Mountain north of downtown Lijiang, Yunnan, this park is a prime example of modern glaciers. The park, comprised of caves and grottoes carved by glacial erosion, is a relic of Quaternary glacial formations and is known as the "Glass Palace of Lucerne." In autumn, winter, and spring, the area is blanketed in snow. In summer, glaciers formed over 40,000 years ago can be seen, allowing visitors to experience the snow-capped mountains up close.
Yulong Snow Mountain Scenic Area: 225 yuan/person
7:00-18:00
Ticket sales stop at 16:00
Jade Dragon Snow Mountain is a sacred site in Chinese culture, especially for the Naxi people. It has spiritual significance and is considered a symbol of the region. The mountain is part of a range of snow-covered peaks and is the southernmost glacier in China, making it a popular spot for both cultural and outdoor enthusiasts.
Jade Dragon Snow Mountain is located about 15 kilometers from Lijiang in Yunnan Province. The best way to get there is by taxi or private car from Lijiang, which takes about 30 minutes. Local tour buses also provide transportation to the mountain's base and cable car station.
The mountain is open year-round, but the best times to visit are during the spring and autumn months (April-May and September-November), when the weather is mild, and the mountain is at its most scenic. Winter and summer can be crowded, with winter offering great snow views, and summer being warmer but busier.
The entrance fee for Jade Dragon Snow Mountain varies depending on the areas you visit. A ticket for the mountain and cable car can cost around ¥200-¥300, with additional fees for visiting Glacier Park and other specific areas. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance or online through local tour agencies or travel websites.
It is recommended to book tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons (summer and holidays). Booking 1-2 days in advance is typically sufficient, but for high-demand times, it’s better to book a week ahead.
To fully explore Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, you should allocate a full day. This allows time for the cable car ride, a visit to Glacier Park, walks around the Blue Moon Valley, and enjoying the scenic spots. A guided tour may take around 5-6 hours.
Guided tours are available in both English and Mandarin. Audio guides are also available for rent in several languages, including English, for visitors who prefer a self-guided experience.
Start your visit with a ride on the cable car to the summit for panoramic views, then head down to Glacier Park to explore the glacier and surrounding areas. Afterward, take a walk through Blue Moon Valley for a peaceful atmosphere and scenic photography opportunities. You can end your day at the Yak Meadow for a relaxing retreat.
Jade Dragon Snow Mountain is primarily a daytime attraction. There are no light shows or night visits, but the mountain offers a serene and beautiful experience during the day, with its landscape changing with the weather and time of day.
The mountain can get quite crowded, especially during peak seasons such as Chinese holidays and summer months. The best time to visit is during the spring and autumn when the weather is still pleasant but the crowds are thinner, particularly on weekdays.
There are public toilets, food stalls, and souvenir shops at various points around the mountain, including near the cable car station. Rest areas are available for visitors to take breaks while enjoying the surroundings. Water is available for purchase, but it's advisable to bring your own water as well.
Jade Dragon Snow Mountain is partially accessible to elderly and disabled visitors, especially near the cable car station and lower areas. However, the terrain and altitude may pose challenges for those with mobility difficulties. Children will enjoy the cable car ride and scenic spots, but they should be monitored closely in certain areas due to the terrain.
Cash is accepted at various points, but mobile payment methods such as WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely used and more convenient. Credit cards may be accepted in some larger areas, but it’s better to have mobile payments or cash available.
There are several restaurants and cafes near the base of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, offering local Yunnan cuisine, such as yak meat, mushrooms, and rice noodles. More dining options are available in Lijiang, about 30 minutes away.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available, including vegetable dishes, tofu, and local mushrooms. Halal food options may be limited but can be found in Lijiang or at some specialty restaurants.
There are a variety of accommodations near Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, including resorts, guesthouses, and hotels in Lijiang. Some higher-end resorts offer great views of the mountain and easy access to the attractions.
Souvenir shops offer local crafts, including Naxi embroidery, wooden carvings, and traditional clothing. You can also purchase local tea and jade items.
After visiting, you can take a taxi, private car, or local bus back to Lijiang. If you're continuing your trip to other nearby destinations, it’s easiest to rent a car or join a guided tour.
