Jade Dragon Snow Mountain Cableway

Introducing Jade Dragon Snow Mountain Cableway

The Yulong Snow Mountain Cableway runs approximately 35 kilometers north from Lijiang Old Town and 5 kilometers west from Ganhaizi Snow Mountain Resort. The route arrives at the lower station at the foot of the snow-capped mountains. This is the starting point of the cableway, nestled in a lush primeval forest at an altitude of 3,356 meters. From there, the cableway ascends to the upper station just below the main peak of the snow-capped mountains, Fanzidou, at an altitude of 4,506 meters. The cableway is 2,914 meters long, with a vertical drop of 1,150 meters, making it one of the highest tourist passenger cableways in my country.

The scenery along the way is beyond words spectacular and shocking.

Climate and best time to travel

Plateau mountain climate;

Recommended travel time: December to February

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

It is recommended to play for 2 to 3 hours, because the queue may take a long time

Tickets

140 yuan

Attraction opening hours

07:00-18:00

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Most Popular FAQs for Jade Dragon Snow Mountain Cableway

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

The Jade Dragon Snow Mountain is a sacred site in Naxi culture and is considered one of the most significant natural landmarks in the region. The cableway offers visitors a chance to experience this breathtaking mountain up close while preserving the natural beauty of the landscape. It’s an essential part of Lijiang’s tourism, providing access to areas that are otherwise difficult to reach.

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

The Jade Dragon Snow Mountain Cableway is located about 15 kilometers north of Lijiang, in Yunnan Province, China. Visitors can take a taxi, bus, or a private car to reach the cable car station. The journey from Lijiang takes about 30 minutes by car.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The cable car operates from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with extended hours during peak seasons. The best time to visit is during spring (April to May) and autumn (September to October), when the weather is mild and the views are clear. Winter (November to February) offers a chance to see snow-covered landscapes but can be colder.

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

The entrance fee for the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain Cableway is around ¥100-¥150, depending on the package and route you choose. Tickets can be purchased directly at the cable car station or online through various tourism platforms like Ctrip or local travel agencies.

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

While tickets can be bought on-site, it’s advisable to book them in advance during peak tourist seasons (such as summer or Chinese New Year). Booking 1-2 days ahead should be sufficient, especially for busy weekends or holidays.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

It typically takes 3-4 hours to fully explore the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain Cableway and its surrounding attractions. This includes the cable car ride, visits to scenic spots, and photography stops. For a more relaxed experience, you can spend a full day exploring the mountain area.

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

• The cable car ride up to the summit of the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, offering panoramic views of the peaks and valleys.
• The Glacier Park, where visitors can see ice formations and walk on glaciers.
• Blue Moon Valley, known for its crystal-clear water and serene landscape.

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

Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and there are some English-speaking guides during peak seasons. Audio guides in English and Mandarin are also available at the cable car station for a self-paced visit.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• The top of the cable car ride offers the best views of the surrounding snow-covered mountains and valleys.
• Blue Moon Valley is a perfect spot for tranquil and scenic photography, especially with the clear blue waters and green landscape.
• The Glacier Park area provides excellent opportunities for close-up shots of ice formations and the high-altitude terrain.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

• Take the cable car to the summit and enjoy the panoramic views.
• Explore the Glacier Park area and walk along the designated trails to see the ice formations.
• Visit Blue Moon Valley to relax and take in the serene surroundings.
• Return via the cable car and stop for any additional photography or scenic views along the way.

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

Night visits are not available at the cableway. However, some special tours may be available during holidays or busy seasons. It's best to check with local tour operators for night-time activities or light shows.

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

The cableway can get crowded during weekends and holidays. The least crowded times are weekdays, especially early mornings or later in the afternoon. The off-peak seasons (spring and autumn) are generally less crowded, offering a more peaceful experience.

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

There are basic facilities at the cable car station, including toilets, food stalls, and rest areas. You can find shops selling souvenirs and snacks near the station. It’s advisable to bring your own water, especially if planning to hike in the Glacier Park area.

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

The cableway is accessible for elderly, children, and disabled visitors, providing a relatively easy way to access the mountain's scenic spots. However, some hiking trails and areas may be more challenging for those with limited mobility.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Mobile payments (such as Alipay and WeChat Pay) are widely accepted, along with cash. Credit card payments may not be as common in some areas, so it’s advisable to carry cash or use mobile payment methods for convenience.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

• There are food stalls near the cable car station offering local snacks and light meals, including noodles and rice dishes.
• In Lijiang, you can find a wide variety of restaurants offering traditional Yunnanese food, including hotpot and yak meat dishes.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan options are available in Lijiang’s restaurants, with dishes like stir-fried vegetables, tofu, and rice. Halal options can be found in local restaurants catering to Muslim travelers.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• Luxury options like the InterContinental Lijiang and Banyan Tree Lijiang are located nearby.
• Mid-range hotels and boutique guesthouses are also available in Lijiang’s Old Town, about 15-20 minutes away from the cableway.

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

• Lijiang Ancient Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is nearby and can be easily combined in a day trip.
• The Black Dragon Pool, located near Lijiang, offers another scenic spot to explore.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops are located near the cableway station and in Lijiang, selling local handicrafts, jade jewelry, scarves, and traditional Naxi embroidery.

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

After visiting the cableway, you can take a taxi or private car back to Lijiang. If you're heading to other nearby attractions like Lijiang Ancient Town or the Black Dragon Pool, public buses or taxis are the most convenient options.