Locke House

Introducing Locke House

Traveling a little over ten miles north from Lijiang Old Town, you'll reach Xuesong Village, part of the Yuhu Administrative Village, at the southern foot of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. The village's name in Naxi is "Wuluken," meaning "village at the foot of the snow-capped mountain." In 1922, Austrian-American Joseph Rock (1884-1962), an explorer, writer, and photographer for National Geographic magazine, entered Yunnan, China, from the Thai-Myanmar border. He then journeyed from Simao in southern Yunnan to Lijiang in northwestern Yunnan, where he resided for 27 years at the foot of Jade Dragon Mountain, most of which he spent in Yuhu Xuesong Village.

Based in Xuesong Village, Yuhu, Rock collected tens of thousands of plant specimens and seeds in northwest Yunnan, and took thousands of rare photographs of plants and folk customs. He also translated hundreds of Dongba scriptures and compiled major works such as "The Ancient Naxi Kingdom of Southwest China" and "A Naxi-English Encyclopedia," transforming himself from a botanist into an anthropologist. He continuously sent his expedition reports and precious photographs back to the United States, where they were published in the influential National Geographic magazine.

Locke's former residence, a unique, small house built entirely of stone, displays numerous historical photos and a collection of Locke's belongings in Lijiang, including a woolen coat, a hunting rifle, dental instruments, artisan tools, and a leather trunk with aluminum nails, all of which Locke brought from the West.

Climate and best time to travel

Subtropical monsoon climate;

Suitable for all seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

It is recommended to visit for 1 to 2 hours

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

8:00-18:00

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Most Popular FAQs for Locke House

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

Locke House is significant for its traditional Naxi architecture, which reflects the cultural heritage of the Naxi people in Lijiang. The house has historical value as it was home to prominent local figures and offers insight into the living conditions of the time.

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

Locke House is located in the old town of Lijiang. It can be easily reached by taxi or a short walk from the city center. Public buses are available, though taxis are more convenient for tourists unfamiliar with the area.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The house is typically open from 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM daily. Early mornings or late afternoons are ideal for visiting to avoid the midday crowds and enjoy the quieter atmosphere.

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

The entrance fee for Locke House is around ¥40. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the entrance. There are no online ticket sales for this attraction.

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

No advance booking is required for Locke House. Tickets are available at the entrance, and it’s generally not crowded enough to require reservations.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

You will need around 1 hour to fully explore Locke House. This includes time for the tour and to enjoy the surrounding area for photography.

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

The main highlight of Locke House is its well-preserved architecture, including the traditional wooden beams, courtyards, and furniture. The interior gives a sense of the historical lifestyle of the Naxi people.

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

Guided tours are available in Mandarin, with limited English-speaking guides. You can check for an English guide on arrival. Audio guides are generally not offered.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best photography spots are around the courtyards of the house, as well as from the surrounding streets. The traditional Naxi architecture provides a unique backdrop for photos.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start with a walk through the main courtyard, then explore the different rooms. Pay special attention to the traditional furniture and woodwork. Afterward, enjoy the exterior views and the surrounding neighborhood.

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

Locke House is not open for night visits or light shows. The best time to visit is during daylight hours to appreciate the architecture and natural light.

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

Locke House can get busy, especially on weekends or during holidays. The least crowded times are early mornings or weekdays.

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

There are basic facilities available, including public toilets. However, there are no restaurants or shops inside the house. You can find local restaurants and shops in the nearby old town of Lijiang.

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

The attraction is relatively accessible for elderly and children, but the uneven paths and traditional architecture might make it challenging for visitors with mobility issues.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is accepted, but mobile payment methods like WeChat Pay and Alipay are commonly used. Credit cards may not be accepted at the entrance, so it’s best to have cash or use mobile payment apps.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are several local restaurants and cafes in the old town of Lijiang, just a short walk from Locke House. You can try traditional Naxi dishes or enjoy local tea in these nearby eateries.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan options are available at several restaurants in the Lijiang Old Town. Halal food may be more limited, but there are some restaurants that cater to Muslim dietary requirements.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are plenty of accommodations near Locke House, including guesthouses, boutique hotels, and luxury resorts. Options are available within walking distance in the old town of Lijiang.

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

Nearby attractions include the Lijiang Old Town, Black Dragon Pool, and the Mu Palace. These can easily be combined for a full day trip around the area.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

There are many souvenir shops in Lijiang Old Town, where you can find local crafts such as Naxi-style textiles, jewelry, and carved wooden items. Traditional teas and incense are also popular souvenirs.

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

After visiting Locke House, taxis and private cars are the most convenient options for continuing your journey. Public buses are also available for travel to other parts of Lijiang.