Ancient City History and Culture Exhibition Hall

Introducing Ancient City History and Culture Exhibition Hall

The Lijiang Old Town History and Culture Exhibition Hall is located in Bailong Square, Guangyi Street, at the south gate of the Old Town. Built in 2015, it focuses on the historical development and heritage preservation of Lijiang Old Town, using technology to showcase the city's most distinctive historical and cultural elements.

Based on the "Chronicles of Lijiang Old Town, a World Cultural Heritage," the exhibition hall comprehensively showcases the history, cultural characteristics, heritage preservation, and environmental protection of Lijiang Old Town through displays, graphics, audio, light, electronic, multimedia, and digital presentations in both Chinese and English. The hall is divided into four sections: Accumulation (Lijiang through time); Culture (Lijiang in life); Observation (Lijiang in dreams); and Home (Lijiang in nature). The hall showcases and educates on the value of Lijiang Old Town, a World Cultural Heritage site, showcasing the beauty of Lijiang's history, culture, nature, and harmony.

Climate and best time to travel

Plateau monsoon climate; the exhibition hall replaces the traditional one-way, didactic display method with interactivity, artistry, fun and knowledge, interpreting the Lijiang Ancient Town from different perspectives in a panoramic and in-depth manner, and showing a Lijiang you don’t know from multiple dimensions such as history, architecture, planning, human stories and scenery, which is suitable for travel in all seasons.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

The four exhibition halls in the exhibition hall are: Accumulation - Lijiang in time; Culture - Lijiang in life; Overlooking - Lijiang in dreams; Home - Lijiang in nature;

It is recommended to play for 2-3 hours

Tickets

Free and open

Attraction opening hours

09:30-17:00

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Most Popular FAQs for Ancient City History and Culture Exhibition Hall

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

The Ancient City History and Culture Exhibition Hall showcases the historical development of Lijiang, one of China’s most famous ancient cities. It tells the story of the Naxi people, the region's integration with the rest of China, and the preservation of its unique cultural heritage. The exhibition plays a vital role in educating visitors about Lijiang's significance as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

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

The exhibition hall is located in the heart of Lijiang Old Town. It can be easily accessed by walking if you're already in the old town. Alternatively, taxis and buses are also convenient options to reach the site from other parts of the city.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The Ancient City History and Culture Exhibition Hall is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. To avoid crowds, it's best to visit in the morning or late afternoon during weekdays, especially outside peak tourist seasons.

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

The entrance fee is generally around 30 RMB. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the entrance. There is no need for online booking.

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

Booking tickets in advance is not necessary. You can purchase tickets directly at the venue when you arrive.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

It will take around 1-1.5 hours to fully explore the exhibition hall and its collections, depending on how much time you spend reading the exhibits and taking in the information.

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

The must-see highlights include the exhibits on the history of Lijiang's ancient city, the Naxi culture, the Ming and Qing dynasties' influence, and the cultural artifacts from the area. The architecture of the hall itself, designed in traditional Naxi style, is also noteworthy.

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

Guided tours in Mandarin are available. Audio guides are typically in Mandarin, though some services may offer basic English support. It’s recommended to check for language availability when you arrive.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best photography spots are around the main exhibits and the traditional Naxi architecture of the hall itself. The nearby streets in Lijiang Old Town also offer great views of the surrounding area, perfect for capturing the historic ambiance.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by exploring the main exhibit areas, where you'll learn about the ancient city’s history. Afterward, take a walk through the smaller exhibits focused on the local culture and customs. The last part of the exhibition is a section dedicated to the Naxi people and their contributions to the region.

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

Night visits and light shows are not available. The exhibition hall is mainly a daytime attraction, focusing on historical education.

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

The exhibition hall can get crowded, especially on weekends and during holidays. To avoid crowds, visit early in the morning on weekdays, preferably during the off-peak tourist seasons.

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

There are toilets available within the exhibition hall. However, there are no food or beverage facilities inside the hall, though several shops and restaurants are located nearby in the Old Town area.

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

The exhibition hall is relatively accessible for elderly and children, though the Old Town itself may present some challenges with uneven streets. It's advisable to check ahead for any specific mobility accommodations.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is accepted, but mobile payments like WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely used in the area. Credit cards may not always be accepted, so it’s best to carry cash or use mobile payment apps.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are numerous restaurants and cafes nearby in Lijiang Old Town, offering both local Naxi cuisine and popular Chinese dishes. Some cafes offer traditional teas and snacks perfect for a break after the exhibition.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan options are available in several local restaurants near the exhibition hall. Halal food is somewhat limited, but there are a few halal-friendly eateries in Lijiang Old Town.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are various hotels and guesthouses near the exhibition hall, ranging from budget accommodations to mid-range hotels. For a more luxurious stay, several high-end hotels are located a short distance away in the city center.

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

Nearby attractions include Lijiang Old Town, Black Dragon Pool, and the Yulong Snow Mountain. These sites are within easy reach and can be combined for a full day trip in the area.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes, there are several souvenir shops in the vicinity of the exhibition hall selling traditional Naxi handicrafts, embroidery, wooden carvings, and local tea. Other popular souvenirs include clothing and jewelry inspired by the region's ethnic culture.

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

Taxis, buses, and private car hires are available for transportation to other nearby attractions. The public transportation system in Lijiang is convenient for visiting more sites in the area. Alternatively, you can rent a bike or take a leisurely walk around the Old Town.