Mu Mansion

Introducing Mufu

Mufu, the common name for the Mu clan chieftain's yamen in Lijiang, lies at the foot of Lion Rock in Lijiang Old Town, serving as the "Grand View Garden" of Lijiang Old Town culture. The entire complex, oriented west and east, is a magnificent garden of architectural art. Like the Forbidden City in the north and the Mufu in the south, the Mufu is a magnificent architectural gem. It fully reflects the elegance and grace of Ming Dynasty Central Plains architecture while retaining the lingering charm of the rustic and rugged architecture of the Tang and Song dynasties. Its west-facing, east-facing layout, with its crisscrossing jade canals and flowing streams, evokes the spirit of traditional Naxi culture. A saying goes in Lijiang tourism: "If you haven't visited Mufu, you haven't visited Lijiang."

Climate and best time to travel

Subtropical monsoon climate;

Suitable for all seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Mufu Winery

Mu Laoye Liquor is a Lijiang specialty liquor that embodies over 500 years of Lijiang's history and culture, from the late Song Dynasty to the Yongzheng reign of the early Qing Dynasty. This liquor was the imperial wine of the Mu chieftain family, who ruled Lijiang for nearly 500 years, passing through 22 generations from the Song Dynasty to the Yongzheng reign, before Emperor Yongzheng implemented the policy of "reform of the chieftain system" in southwestern minority areas.

Wanjuanlou

One of Yunnan's largest libraries, this building, situated on the central axis of the Mu Mansion, the former residence of the Lijiang Tusi during the Ming Dynasty, embodies the Mu Tusi's reverence for culture. It houses the quintessence of two thousand years of cultural heritage, including Dongba scriptures, the Tripitaka, and numerous paintings and calligraphy by renowned scholars, all of which are treasures of the Imperial Academy and academic circles.

Yuyin Tower

Located on the central axis of the Mu Mansion, the residence of the Lijiang Tusi Yamen in the Ming Dynasty, it was the place where the Tusi sang, danced and feasted. The imperial edict was also received in this building.

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 Mu Mansion

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

Mu Mansion, also known as the Mu Family Residence, is a historic complex located in Lijiang's Old Town. It was once the residence of the Mu family, who ruled over the area for several centuries during the Ming and Qing dynasties. The mansion is a symbol of the wealth, power, and culture of the Naxi people. It is a significant cultural and architectural landmark in Lijiang, reflecting the unique blend of Han and Tibetan influences.

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

Mu Mansion is located in the heart of Lijiang Old Town, easily accessible by foot from most points within the Old Town. Taxis and buses are also available for visitors staying further from the area. There are no metro services in Lijiang.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Mu Mansion is open daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best times to visit are in the early morning or late afternoon, avoiding the midday crowds. Spring and autumn are the ideal seasons for pleasant weather and fewer tourists.

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

The entrance fee is approximately 50 CNY. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance, and some local travel agencies may offer online booking. However, it is most convenient to buy tickets on-site.

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

Booking tickets in advance is not necessary for Mu Mansion. Tickets can be purchased on the day of your visit. However, during peak travel seasons, such as holidays, it may be helpful to arrive early to avoid long queues.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

You can explore Mu Mansion in about 1-2 hours, depending on how much time you spend in the gardens and museum. If you enjoy photography and exploring the surrounding Old Town, you may want to allow 2-3 hours for a more relaxed visit.

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

• The central courtyard with its beautiful traditional Naxi architecture.
• The garden area, which reflects the aesthetic principles of traditional Chinese landscaping.
• The museum within the mansion, showcasing artifacts related to the history and culture of the Naxi people.
• The grand hall, which offers a glimpse into the luxurious lifestyle of the Mu family.

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

Guided tours are available in Mandarin. English-speaking guides may be available upon request, but it's recommended to check in advance. Audio guides are not typically provided, though some tour groups offer their own audio services in multiple languages.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best photography spots are in the central courtyard, with its impressive architecture, and the upper floors of the mansion, which offer a great view of the surrounding Lijiang Old Town and nearby mountains. The garden area also provides excellent opportunities for scenic photos.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by exploring the central courtyard and the grand hall. Then, proceed to the gardens for a leisurely walk, followed by a visit to the museum inside the mansion. You may also want to explore the surrounding areas of the Old Town after visiting Mu Mansion.

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

Night visits and light shows are not typically available at Mu Mansion. However, the mansion's surroundings, including the Old Town, are beautifully lit up in the evening, providing a picturesque view from the outside.

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

Mu Mansion can get crowded, particularly during weekends and public holidays. The least crowded times are in the early morning or late afternoon on weekdays, especially outside of peak tourist seasons.

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

Basic facilities like toilets are available near the entrance and within the mansion. There are no major restaurants inside the mansion, but small vendors sell snacks and drinks nearby. Lijiang Old Town offers plenty of dining and shopping options.

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

Mu Mansion is accessible to children and elderly visitors. However, the terrain may be challenging for those with mobility issues, particularly if walking around the mansion's large garden area. It's best to check the accessibility options available on-site if you are traveling with someone who has limited mobility.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is accepted at the entrance, but mobile payments such as WeChat Pay and Alipay are commonly used in Lijiang. It's advisable to have both payment options available for convenience.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are several restaurants and cafes in Lijiang Old Town, offering a variety of local and Chinese cuisine. You can find places to enjoy Naxi specialties, such as hotpot and yak dishes, close to Mu Mansion.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan options are widely available in Lijiang, particularly in the Old Town. Some restaurants may also offer halal food, catering to Muslim visitors.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are numerous hotels and guesthouses in the vicinity of Mu Mansion and Lijiang Old Town. These range from budget options to luxury boutique hotels. Many accommodations are within walking distance of the mansion.

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

• Lijiang Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its preserved architecture and cultural history.
• Black Dragon Pool, a scenic park with a beautiful view of the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain.
• Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, a majestic mountain known for its hiking trails and stunning views.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops in Lijiang Old Town offer a variety of items, such as traditional Naxi clothing, handcrafted jewelry, local art, and other cultural souvenirs. The area is known for its wood carvings and ethnic textiles.

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

• Public buses and taxis are available throughout Lijiang.
• If you plan to visit attractions like the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, it's recommended to take a guided tour or hire a private vehicle for convenience.