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Visitors to Baisha Murals can explore the ancient murals, which showcase the unique blend of Tibetan, Naxi, and Han cultural influences. You can visit the old temples, including the famous Baisha Temple, and learn about the history behind each mural. It’s also recommended to explore the surrounding village, which offers local handicrafts and traditional Naxi culture.
Located in the beautiful and ancient Baisha Old Town, the Baisha Murals are renowned for their unique painting style. Located approximately 16 kilometers north of Lijiang City, Baisha Old Town is home to the Naxi people of Lijiang, the birthplace of the Mu clan chieftains and the political center of the Naxi people.
The Baisha murals primarily focus on the Dabaoji Palace. Entering the gate with its carved beams and painted rafters, one is greeted by a tranquil courtyard. Buildings flanking the murals were built to protect them, revealing a series of exquisite paintings. However, due to their age, many of the murals are becoming tarnished or even flaking, a pity. The Baisha murals cover a wide range of subjects, including galloping horses, blooming lotuses, mountains, fields, flowers, birds, insects, and other natural scenery, making them extremely valuable to view.
Subtropical monsoon climate;
Suitable for all seasons
It is recommended to visit for about 1 hour
50 yuan cultural relics protection fee
8:00-17:30
Baisha Murals date back to the Ming and Qing Dynasties and are one of the most important artistic legacies of the Naxi people. These murals, found in the Baisha Village temples, offer a unique window into the region’s history, depicting a mix of Tibetan Buddhism, Taoism, and local Naxi beliefs. The murals are a reflection of the cultural exchange along the ancient Tea Horse Road.
Baisha Murals are located in Baisha Village, about 10 kilometers from Lijiang Old Town. You can reach the site by taxi, private car, or a local bus from Lijiang. Walking is also an option, but it would take about an hour. A taxi is the most convenient method to get there directly.
The Baisha Murals are open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best time to visit is during the spring and autumn months when the weather is mild. Early mornings or late afternoons tend to be quieter, providing a more peaceful experience for visitors.
The entrance fee to the Baisha Murals is around 40 CNY per person. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the entrance. It is not necessary to buy tickets in advance, but for special events, it’s recommended to check the availability online or at the ticket booth.
Booking tickets in advance is generally not required, as the site is not heavily crowded. However, if you're visiting during peak tourist seasons (e.g., Chinese holidays), it’s advisable to book at least a few days in advance, especially for special events or guided tours.
You can spend around 1-2 hours to fully explore the Baisha Murals and the surrounding Baisha Village. This allows time for a detailed look at the murals and a stroll around the area. If you’re interested in learning more about the art and history, consider spending more time here with a guided tour.
The main highlights include the murals in the Baisha Temple, particularly those depicting Tibetan Buddhism and the fusion of local Naxi culture. Other key areas include the surrounding temples and the village, which offer a glimpse into traditional Naxi life. Don't miss the opportunity to talk to locals for insights into the history and significance of the murals.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin and occasionally in English, though availability may vary. You can book a tour at the entrance or through your hotel. Audio guides are not commonly offered, but a guide will be able to provide detailed explanations of the murals' history and symbolism.
The best photography spots are around the temples, particularly those with murals on the walls. The surrounding mountains and Baisha Village also offer great views, especially in the early morning or at sunset. These views provide a unique perspective of the murals with the mountains as a backdrop.
Start by visiting the Baisha Temple and explore the main murals there. Then, walk around the village to see other temples and enjoy the rural atmosphere. If time allows, visit the local markets where artisans sell Naxi crafts and textiles.
Currently, there are no night visits or light shows at Baisha Murals. The site is best visited during daylight hours. Occasionally, there might be special cultural events or exhibitions, but it’s recommended to check in advance for such events.
Baisha Murals are generally not crowded, but during peak tourist seasons (such as Chinese holidays), the site can get busy. For a quieter experience, visit in the early morning or late afternoon, especially on weekdays or during the off-season (spring and autumn).
Basic facilities are available at the site, including toilets and rest areas. There are small shops selling local crafts, but food options are limited within the site itself. It’s a good idea to bring your own water and snacks, especially if you're planning to spend more time exploring the area.
Baisha Murals is accessible for elderly visitors and children, though some areas of the village may have uneven terrain. It may be difficult for those with mobility issues to navigate the steps and uneven ground in certain parts of the village and temple complex.
Cash is commonly accepted at Baisha Murals, but mobile payments such as WeChat Pay and Alipay are also widely used, especially in shops and for ticket purchases. Credit cards are generally not accepted, so it's best to carry cash or use mobile payments.
While there aren’t many restaurants inside the Baisha Murals site, there are a few local eateries in Baisha Village offering traditional Naxi food. For more variety, head to Lijiang Old Town, where you can find a wide range of restaurants and cafes.
Vegetarian food is commonly available at local eateries in Baisha Village, especially dishes that cater to Buddhist dietary restrictions. Vegan options may also be available. Halal food options may be more limited, so it’s advisable to check in advance if you have specific dietary requirements.
There are a few guesthouses and hotels in Baisha Village, offering simple, traditional accommodation. For a wider range of options, including luxury hotels, you can stay in Lijiang Old Town, which is about 30 minutes by car from Baisha Murals.
Other nearby attractions include Lijiang Old Town, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. You can also visit the Black Dragon Pool or the Naxi culture museum in Lijiang, both of which can easily be combined in a day trip.
Yes, there are souvenir shops selling Naxi handicrafts, including textiles, pottery, jewelry, and artwork. Traditional Naxi paper-cutting and embroidered items are particularly popular souvenirs.
After visiting Baisha Murals, the best transportation options to continue your trip are by taxi or private car. Alternatively, you can take a bus or rent a bike for exploring the surrounding countryside and nearby attractions like Jade Dragon Snow Mountain.
