Dongba Palace

Introducing Dongba Palace

Dongba Palace is located on East Street in Lijiang Old Town. Its gatehouse is decorated with the Dongba's "five crowns," and wooden plaques with Dongba characters hang on both sides of the gate. "Dongba" is a Naxi word meaning "wise man" (also known as "Daba" in some areas), meaning wizard and priest. Dongba Palace, as the name suggests, is a place where wise men gather. 　　

Comprised of the Dongba Academy, the Dongba Society, and the Tea-Horse Culture Performance Hall, the Dongba Palace is a grand spectacle of Dongba culture, featuring sacrificial ceremonies, song and dance performances, a venue for Dongba heritage and teaching, and a series of products dedicated to Dongba cultural research and development. The inheritance and development of Dongba culture, from its writing, music, and dance, are integral to its inheritance and development.

In order to better spread Dongba culture, Dongba Palace has organized some famous old Dongbas, folk singers and some folk artists with special skills in the Naxi area. On the basis of preserving the original flavor, it focuses on Dongba culture and art, and excavates and organizes a group of wonderful programs with the richest local flavor and the most ethnic characteristics, so that tourists can appreciate the unparalleled Dongba culture and art, and experience the real Naxi ancient music and folk songs and dances.

Climate and best time to travel

The plateau has a monsoon climate; Dongba Palace is a small but comprehensive museum of ethnic culture and art, through which you can appreciate the unparalleled Dongba culture and art, and experience the authentic Naxi ancient music and the charm of folk songs and dances. It is suitable for travel in all seasons.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

It is recommended to play for 1-2 hours

Tickets

Free and open

Attraction opening hours

8:00-18:00

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Most Popular FAQs for Dongba Palace

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

Dongba Palace is a center of Naxi culture and religion, representing the unique Dongba spiritual practices and the Naxi people's rich heritage. The palace also plays a key role in preserving the Dongba script, an ancient pictographic writing system.

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

Located in Lijiang, Yunnan, Dongba Palace can be reached by taxi or bus from the Lijiang Old Town. The site is within a short walking distance from the downtown area.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The palace is open from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily. The best times to visit are in the spring and autumn months when the weather is pleasant and not overly crowded.

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

The entrance fee is typically around ¥60-¥80. Tickets can be purchased on-site or through local travel agencies, but online ticketing is not widely available.

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

Advance booking is not required, though it can be helpful during peak tourist seasons. It’s best to buy tickets on the day of your visit.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

A visit to Dongba Palace usually takes 1-2 hours to explore the main areas, watch performances, and learn about the Naxi culture.

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

Key highlights include the traditional architecture of the palace, the Dongba scriptures and artifacts, and the lively Naxi cultural performances and rituals.

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

Guided tours are available in Mandarin. However, English-speaking guides may be limited, so it's advisable to arrange in advance or use an app for self-guided tours.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best photography spots are the intricate wooden carvings of the palace, the surrounding lush gardens, and the majestic mountain backdrop visible from the palace grounds.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by entering the main temple area, explore the cultural exhibits, attend a performance if available, and end by walking through the tranquil gardens surrounding the palace.

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

Night visits or light shows are not available at Dongba Palace. The site is primarily a daytime attraction with cultural performances during the day.

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

The palace can get crowded during Chinese holidays and weekends. For a more relaxed experience, visit early in the morning or on weekdays outside of peak tourist seasons.

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

Basic facilities like toilets and rest areas are available. There are also small souvenir shops selling local handicrafts. However, food and drink options are limited on-site.

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

The palace is accessible to elderly and children, but some areas may have uneven paths or stairs. It might be difficult for disabled visitors due to the terrain.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is typically required for entrance fees and smaller purchases. Mobile payment methods like WeChat Pay and Alipay are also accepted in the area.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

While there are no restaurants inside Dongba Palace, several restaurants offering local Naxi cuisine are located nearby in Lijiang Old Town.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

There are vegetarian options in Lijiang, particularly in the restaurants around the old town. Vegan and halal food options may be available in certain restaurants in the area.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are many hotels and guesthouses in the Lijiang Old Town area, ranging from budget to luxury accommodations, all within a short distance from Dongba Palace.

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 Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. These sites are easily accessible and make for a wonderful day trip around Lijiang.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

There are small souvenir shops inside and near the palace selling Naxi cultural items, Dongba scripts, and traditional Naxi jewelry, crafts, and textiles.

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

Taxis, buses, and private transportation are readily available from Dongba Palace to continue your journey. Lijiang’s bus station and train station offer further travel options to other parts of Yunnan.