Lijiang Old Town Museum

Introducing Lijiang Ancient Town Museum

The Mu Mansion Museum is located within the Old Town of Lijiang, Yunnan. The Mu Mansion is known as the "Grand View Garden" of Lijiang Old Town. The Naxi chieftains, the Mu family, inherited the Lijiang prefecture from the Yuan Dynasty. Throughout the Yuan, Ming, and Qing dynasties, the Mu family held the title of chieftain of Lijiang for 470 years, spanning 22 generations. Among the chieftains of the southwest, they were renowned for their knowledge of poetry, literature, courtesy, and righteousness.

The Mufu Museum occupies 46 mu (approximately 1.6 acres) with a central axis 369 meters long. The entire complex faces east, embracing the rising sun and capturing the energy of wood. The wooden memorial archway, inscribed with the characters "天雨流芳," is a homophone of the Naxi word for "reading," reflecting the Naxi people's reverence for knowledge. The three-story, stone memorial archway is a masterpiece of Chinese stone architecture. The conference hall, dignified, spacious, and imposing, served as the seat of the Tusi for political deliberation.

The Wanjuan Pavilion houses the quintessence of two thousand years of cultural heritage, including thousands of volumes of Dongba scriptures, hundreds of volumes of Tibetan Buddhist scriptures, poetry collections of the Six Lords, and numerous calligraphy and paintings by renowned scholars, all of which are treasures of the Imperial Academy and academic circles. The Dharma Protector Hall, also known as the Back Meeting Hall, was where the chieftains discussed family matters. The Guangbi Pavilion, the gatehouse to the back garden, is known historically as "the best in western Yunnan." The Yuyin Pavilion was where imperial edicts were received and where music, dance, and feasting were held. The Sanqing Hall, a product of the Taoist spirit promoted by the Mu clan chieftains, is also home to the indigenous religious venues where they offered sacrifices to heaven, ancestors, and the nature deity, "Shu," deep within the ancient cypresses of Shishan Mountain. The Mu Mansion fully embodies the Naxi people's open-minded spirit of absorbing diverse cultures.

Climate and best time to travel

Plateau monsoon climate; Mu Mansion Museum is a splendid garden of architectural art, which fully reflects the style and temperament of the Central Plains architecture of the Ming Dynasty, while retaining the lingering charm of the ancient and rough style of the Central Plains architecture of the Tang and Song Dynasties. It is suitable for travel in all seasons.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Loyalty Stone Archway, Wanjuan Tower, Sanqing Hall, Yuyin Tower, and Meeting Hall;

It is recommended to play for 3-4 hours

Tickets

40 yuan/person

Attraction opening hours

09:00-17:00

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Most Popular FAQs for Lijiang Old Town Museum

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

The Lijiang Old Town Museum is a central site for understanding the cultural and historical significance of Lijiang, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The museum showcases the history of the ancient Naxi people, their unique Dongba culture, and the city’s development over centuries, highlighting the blend of Tibetan, Han, and Naxi cultures.

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

The Lijiang Old Town Museum is located in the heart of Lijiang Old Town, which is easily accessible by walking. You can also take a taxi from the city center or from Lijiang Railway Station. The museum is within walking distance of many key landmarks in the Old Town.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The museum is open daily from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best times to visit are in the morning when the museum is less crowded, particularly on weekdays. Weekends and public holidays tend to see larger crowds.

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

The entrance fee is approximately ¥40. Tickets can be purchased at the museum’s entrance, and there may be discounts for students or groups. It’s also possible to buy tickets online through local travel platforms or the museum’s official website.

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

Booking tickets in advance is not necessary for individual visitors, but it is recommended for group tours or during peak travel seasons. You can book tickets a day or two in advance for convenience.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

A visit to the museum typically takes about 1 to 2 hours, depending on your interest in the exhibits and the pace at which you explore. If you plan to read through all the displays and enjoy the surroundings, you might want to set aside more time.

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

The must-see highlights include the exhibits on Naxi culture, the Dongba script, and traditional instruments. The museum also showcases beautiful Naxi costumes and an impressive collection of ancient artifacts, including pottery and religious items from the region.

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

Guided tours are available in Mandarin and can be arranged at the museum. Audio guides in multiple languages, including English, are also offered, providing detailed information about the exhibits.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The museum’s architecture provides excellent photo opportunities, especially the traditional Naxi-style buildings. You can also take photos of the exhibits showcasing ancient artifacts and traditional costumes. The Old Town itself, with its winding streets and scenic views, is perfect for photography.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start with the main exhibit halls that focus on the history and culture of the Naxi people. Explore the sections dedicated to the Dongba religion, traditional music, and art. Finish by visiting the smaller exhibits featuring local crafts and pottery. If available, consider joining a guided tour for a more in-depth experience.

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

The museum does not typically offer night visits or light shows. Special tours or events may be held occasionally, particularly during festivals, but it is best to check the museum’s website or inquire locally for any updates.

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

The museum can get crowded during peak tourist seasons, especially on weekends. The least crowded times to visit are in the morning on weekdays, particularly during the off-peak season (November to March).

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

The museum has basic facilities, including toilets, a small café offering light refreshments, and a gift shop selling local crafts and souvenirs. There are also rest areas where visitors can relax and enjoy the surroundings.

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

The museum is generally accessible for elderly visitors and families with children, with ramps and elevators available for ease of access. However, some areas may be less accessible for visitors with mobility challenges due to the layout of the Old Town.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cards and mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) are widely accepted at the museum for ticket purchases, in the gift shop, and at the café. Cash is still accepted, but digital payment methods are more common and convenient.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are several cafés and restaurants nearby offering local Yunnan cuisine, including traditional Naxi dishes. The area around Lijiang Old Town has many dining options, including outdoor restaurants with views of the old town.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Yes, vegetarian and vegan options are available in many nearby restaurants. Halal food can also be found in specific eateries catering to Muslim visitors in the Lijiang Old Town area.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are various accommodation options near the museum, ranging from budget guesthouses to more upscale hotels. Some well-known options include Lijiang Old Town Boutique Hotel and the Crowne Plaza Lijiang.

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

Nearby attractions include the Black Dragon Pool, Lijiang Old Town itself, and the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. All these landmarks are within a short distance and can easily be combined in a day trip.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes, there are souvenir shops near the museum and in the Old Town, selling items such as handmade Naxi crafts, traditional clothing, jewelry, and local tea. The Naxi-style artwork and musical instruments are also popular souvenirs.

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

After visiting the museum, taxis, buses, or walking are good options to continue exploring the Old Town or other nearby attractions. For longer trips, the Lijiang Bus Station and Railway Station are easily accessible from the museum for further travel within Yunnan Province.