Baoshan Stone City

Introducing Baoshan Stone City

Baoshan Stone City, located in the Jinsha River Gorge 110 kilometers north of Lijiang City, gets its name from the fact that over a hundred families live together on a single mushroom-shaped boulder. Within the city, tiled houses crisscross the city walls, and alleyways crisscross the city walls. Lijiang's Naxi people built their houses by carving into the rock face, with pillars and curbstones carved into the natural contours of the landscape. This quaint, naturalistic, and breathtakingly beautiful structure is unparalleled.

Baoshan Stone City is known as the "Machu Picchu of the East," reflecting its extraordinary status and value. Surrounded by cliffs on three sides and a stone slope plunging directly into the Jinsha River, Lijiang's Baoshan Stone City boasts only two stone gates, one in the north and one in the south, offering a truly fortified city.

Baoshan Prefecture lies nestled in the First Bend of the Yangtze River, surrounded on three sides by the river, shaped like a pocket. The area is crisscrossed with mountains and rivers, with deep river valleys, dense primeval forests, and abundant flora and fauna. The climate varies greatly from place to place: cool in the mountains and dry in the valleys.

Climate and best time to travel

Autumn is Lijiang's most beautiful season, with clear skies and vibrant colors. It's best to avoid visiting the Stone City during the rainy season. Winter and spring offer the most beautiful views of the plateau, especially snowy scenery, but you might have to avoid some scenic spots with poor access if it snows. April and May are the perfect time to visit Lijiang and enjoy all the other scenic spots. It's also the best time to visit Laojun Mountain and Baoshan Stone City.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

1-3 hours

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

All day

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Most Popular FAQs for Baoshan Stone City

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Baoshan Stone City dates back to the Ming Dynasty and was once a key strategic military outpost to defend the region. Its unique stone buildings are a marvel of ancient engineering, designed to blend with the natural landscape. The city played a role in the defense against external threats, and today, it serves as a historical and cultural site, showcasing the ancient Naxi culture and architecture.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Baoshan Stone City is located in the Yunnan province, near the town of Lijiang, around 40 kilometers from the city center. Visitors can take a taxi or private car to reach the site. There is no direct metro or bus route, so walking from the drop-off point is necessary to reach the stone city, which involves a short hike up the mountain.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Baoshan Stone City is open year-round. The best time to visit is during spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October), when the weather is mild and the surroundings are most beautiful. Early mornings or late afternoons are ideal to avoid the heat and crowds.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

The entrance fee for Baoshan Stone City is approximately 60-80 CNY. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance on-site, or in some cases, through local tour agencies. Online ticket purchasing may not always be available, so it’s best to confirm beforehand.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Booking tickets in advance is not required unless you are visiting during peak travel seasons, such as Chinese New Year or the summer months. However, it’s advisable to purchase tickets a day or two in advance if you're planning to visit during busy periods to avoid long queues.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

To fully explore Baoshan Stone City, plan for about 2-3 hours. This includes walking up to the site, exploring the stone buildings, and taking in the panoramic views. If you wish to hike further or enjoy a more leisurely visit, you may want to spend a bit more time.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

The main highlight is the ancient stone city itself, with its buildings made from large stones carved into the cliff. The panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and the Yangtze River are also a major draw. The ancient watchtower and various stone paths within the city are key points of interest for visitors.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and some guides may offer limited English-language services. Audio guides are typically not available, so it’s recommended to join a guided tour for a more in-depth experience. Tours can be arranged on-site or through local hotels.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best viewpoint is from the top of the city walls, where visitors can see the dramatic landscape of the Yangtze River and surrounding mountains. Another great spot for photography is the entrance to the city, with its iconic stone steps and architecture in the foreground.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by walking through the main entrance and explore the stone structures. Climb to the top of the city for panoramic views, then continue around the walls and inner courtyards. If you enjoy hiking, you can venture further into the surrounding nature for a more secluded experience.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Night visits and light shows are not available at Baoshan Stone City. The site is best visited during the day for natural light and clear views of the surrounding landscape. Special tours may be available on request through local travel agencies.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

The site can get crowded, especially during weekends and holidays. To avoid the crowds, it is best to visit early in the morning or on weekdays, particularly in the off-season months of spring or autumn.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

Basic facilities like toilets and small rest areas are available near the entrance. There are no large restaurants or food outlets within the site, so it’s advisable to bring your own water and snacks. Small souvenir shops may be found at the entrance area.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Baoshan Stone City is not fully accessible for elderly or disabled visitors due to the nature of the site, which involves hiking up a mountain path. Children may find the walk challenging as well. However, with assistance, elderly visitors may still be able to enjoy parts of the area.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is commonly accepted, and mobile payment methods like WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely used. Credit cards may not be accepted at smaller shops, so it’s a good idea to carry some cash or use mobile payments.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are a few small restaurants near the entrance of Baoshan Stone City offering basic local meals. For more dining options, visitors can head to Lijiang, where a wide variety of restaurants and cafes are available.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available at some of the local restaurants, but halal food options are limited. It’s advisable to check in advance or carry snacks if you follow a specific dietary restriction.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are a few guesthouses and local inns near Baoshan Stone City, but for more luxurious accommodations, Lijiang Old Town offers a wide range of hotels, from budget to high-end.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

Nearby attractions include Lijiang Old Town, the Black Dragon Pool, and Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. These sites can easily be combined with a visit to Baoshan Stone City for a comprehensive day trip around Lijiang.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

There are small souvenir shops near the entrance of the site selling local handicrafts, including stone carvings, Naxi jewelry, and textiles. For a wider range of souvenirs, visit Lijiang Old Town.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

After visiting Baoshan Stone City, taxis or private cars are the best way to continue your journey, especially if you’re heading to other attractions in Lijiang or surrounding areas. Public buses are also available but may require transfers.