Ride the Yunshanping Cableway for breathtaking views of the Lijiang valley and surrounding mountains. You can also explore the nearby nature trails, enjoy scenic photography spots, and experience the panoramic vistas from the cableway's observation points.

The Yunshanping Cableway, also known as the "Small Cableway," is 1,000 meters long and has a 300-meter elevation difference. Its lower station is located beside the Baishui River in Jinxiu Valley, Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. The cableway takes you halfway up the mountain, offering the perfect vantage point for panoramic photos. From the Baishui River, you ascend directly to the upper station, the Yunshan Plank Road. The ride takes about three minutes.
Legend has it that Yunshanping is the place where the first Naxi couple committed suicide for love. Legend has it that Kaimei and Yulepai, the pioneers of love suicide among the Naxi, were said to have shared a life of love as sweet as honey, but their polygamous marriage tore them apart. Yearning for a freer love life, they both went to Yunshanping to commit suicide. Therefore, during the Torch Festival in June, young men and women from villages near Yulong Mountain make paper figurines depicting Kaimei and Yulepai and travel to Yunshanping to pay tribute to the first couple who committed suicide for love.
Plateau mountain climate;
The scenery of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain is spectacular in all seasons.
It is recommended to play for about 1 to 2 hours
60 yuan
07:00-18:00 (Ticket sales stop at 16:00)
Through bus departure time: 07:00, return time: 17:00
The Yunshanping Cableway is a popular tourist attraction that offers visitors a stunning aerial view of the Lijiang valley, the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, and surrounding natural landscapes. It is part of the region's efforts to promote eco-tourism and highlight the beauty of Yunnan’s mountainous terrain.
The Yunshanping Cableway is located near the foot of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, a short drive from the Lijiang city center. Taxis and private transport are the most convenient options for getting there, though public buses are available for the budget-conscious.
The cableway operates from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily. The best time to visit is early in the morning to avoid crowds and to capture the morning light on the mountains.
The entrance fee for the Yunshanping Cableway is approximately ¥80-¥100. Tickets can be purchased on-site, but it is recommended to buy tickets in advance during peak seasons to avoid long queues.
Booking tickets in advance is not mandatory, but it is highly recommended during peak tourist seasons (spring and summer) to secure a spot and avoid waiting in line.
Plan for around 2 to 3 hours to fully explore the cableway ride and nearby walking trails. This allows time for photography and enjoying the views.
The main highlight is the cableway ride itself, which offers stunning aerial views of the valley and Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. The observation platforms at the top provide excellent spots for photography.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, but English-speaking guides may be limited. Audio guides in multiple languages may also be available, depending on the season.
The best photography spots are from the cableway itself, especially when crossing over the valleys and forests. The observation platforms at the top offer panoramic views of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain and the surrounding landscapes.
Start with the cableway ride to the top, enjoy the views and take photos. Afterward, explore the walking trails around the observation platform. Finish by returning on the cableway to descend.
The Yunshanping Cableway is not open for night visits, light shows, or special evening tours. It is recommended to visit during daylight hours for the best views.
The cableway can get crowded during peak tourist seasons, particularly during Chinese holidays and weekends. The least crowded times are early mornings on weekdays, especially in the off-peak months of autumn and winter.
Basic facilities are available, including public toilets, water stations, and rest areas. There are also small shops selling souvenirs and snacks at the base and summit of the cableway.
The cableway is accessible for elderly and children, but those with mobility issues may face difficulties at the observation platforms, which may require some walking. The cableway ride itself is safe and comfortable for all ages.
Mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) are commonly accepted, as well as credit cards. It is advisable to have a mobile payment app set up, as cash may not be widely used at all locations.
There are several local restaurants and cafes in the nearby area, including traditional Yunnanese eateries and small cafes offering snacks and drinks.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available at many of the restaurants in the area, though halal food may be more limited. It's best to check with restaurants in advance if you have dietary preferences.
Several hotels and guesthouses are located near the Yunshanping Cableway, including options in the Lijiang city center and close to the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain area. Options range from budget to mid-range hotels.
Nearby attractions include the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, Blue Moon Valley, and the Lijiang Old Town. These can be easily combined for a full day trip.
Souvenir shops are available near the cableway station, selling items like local handicrafts, jade jewelry, and traditional clothing from the Naxi people.
After visiting the cableway, taxis and private cars are the most convenient options for continuing your journey. Public buses are also available for those on a budget.