Town Hall Square

Introducing Municipal Square

Municipal Plaza is located in central Lijiang City, southeast of the intersection of Fuhui Road and Shangri-La Avenue, in front of the Guanfang Hotel, and within the upper section of Qixing Street in Xi'an Subdistrict. It stretches 50 meters north-south and 50 meters east-west, covering an area of ​​2,500 square meters. Completed in 1996, it earned its name because it was the largest municipal public facility at the time.

Municipal Square, located next to Lijiang Old Town, is a landmark building in Lijiang. A statue of Chairman Mao, with the inscription "Great Leader," stands on the square. It's a great place to soak up the sun. Many children play here, some on electric scooters and some on skateboards. There are also a few puppies running around. Transportation is also convenient. The air is pleasant, making it a perfect place for a rest.

Climate and best time to travel

Plateau monsoon climate; Municipal Square is Lijiang's landmark building and 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

Open all day

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Most Popular FAQs for Town Hall Square

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

Town Hall Square is located in the heart of Lijiang, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its well-preserved ancient architecture and cultural heritage. The square has been a center for social and cultural activities for centuries, and it reflects the Naxi people's vibrant culture and history.

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

Town Hall Square is located in Lijiang Old Town, which is easily accessible by taxi or walking from nearby hotels. There are no metro services in Lijiang, but local buses also connect various parts of the city to the square.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The square is open 24/7 as it is an open-air public space. The best time to visit is during the early morning or late afternoon when the light is soft, and the area is less crowded.

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

There is no entrance fee for Town Hall Square as it is a public space. However, entry to surrounding attractions or performances may have fees.

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

There is no need to book tickets in advance for the square itself. If you plan to attend any specific events or performances, booking tickets in advance is recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

You can fully explore Town Hall Square in about 1-2 hours, depending on whether you plan to explore nearby attractions or just enjoy the local shops and cafes.

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

The main highlights of Town Hall Square include its traditional Naxi-style architecture, street performances, and local markets. The surrounding old town, with its winding alleys and historic buildings, is also worth exploring.

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

Guided tours are available in multiple languages, including English and Mandarin. You can book a guide at nearby tourist information centers or through local hotels.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

Great photography spots include the square itself, especially during sunset when the light hits the traditional buildings. The surrounding streets, with their vibrant local life, also offer great photo opportunities.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start your visit at the Town Hall Square, take time to explore the surrounding streets and local shops, then visit nearby attractions like Black Dragon Pool or the Ancient Town of Lijiang. Walking is the best way to explore the area.

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

While there are no light shows specifically in the square, the area comes alive at night with local performances, street food stalls, and bustling markets. It's a great spot for evening strolls.

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

Town Hall Square can be crowded during the day, especially in the afternoon and on weekends. Early mornings and late evenings are the best times to avoid large crowds.

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

The square has public restrooms nearby. There are also plenty of food stalls and cafes offering local snacks, as well as souvenir shops selling traditional crafts and clothing.

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

The square is accessible by foot, but due to the cobblestone streets, it may be challenging for those with mobility issues. There are some ramps and paved paths in certain areas, but they are limited.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is still commonly used in the area, especially in smaller shops and food stalls. However, mobile payments like Alipay and WeChat Pay are widely accepted, particularly in larger establishments.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are many restaurants and cafes near Town Hall Square, offering both local and international cuisine. You can enjoy Naxi dishes like yak meat, rice noodles, and Tibetan-style food.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Yes, there are vegetarian and vegan options at many of the local restaurants. Some places also offer halal food, especially in areas catering to Muslim tourists.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are numerous hotels and guesthouses around Town Hall Square, ranging from budget options to mid-range hotels. Popular choices include the Lijiang Old Town area hotels, which offer easy access to the square and nearby attractions.

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

Nearby attractions include the Black Dragon Pool, the Ancient Town of Lijiang, and the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. These sites can easily be combined into a full day of exploration.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes, there are many souvenir shops around the square selling traditional Naxi handicrafts, Tibetan jewelry, local textiles, and wooden carvings. You can also find local teas and herbs as souvenirs.

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

After visiting, taxis or buses are the best options to continue your journey around Lijiang or to other nearby attractions. For longer trips, you can take a bus or taxi to the Lijiang Railway Station or Lijiang Airport.