Strolling around the old town of Lijiang

#TravelChina

Lijiang Old Town – A UNESCO World Heritage Site

If you enjoy strolling through old towns with a romantic atmosphere, Lijiang could easily become your favorite city in China. This ancient city of the Naxi ethnic group retains its traditional wooden architecture, traces of small canals winding through the alleys, shops decorated with red lanterns, and the aroma of baked goods wafting through the air.

📍 Getting there

From Lijiang Sanyi Airport to the Old Town Take a taxi or DiDi for about 30 minutes (60–80 yuan).

From Lijiang Railway Station, take bus number 4 or 16 and get off near the Old City Gate.

🕒 Recommended time to walk:

Morning walks (8:00–10:00 AM) are less crowded, making it ideal for photography.

Evening walks (5:00–9:00 PM) feature red lanterns and live music at the canal-side bars.

💡 Recommended places to walk:

Square Street (Sifang Street) is the heart of the old city, filled with shops.

Three Wells Canal is a popular photo spot.

Wangu Pavilion offers views of the old city and the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain in the distance.

Bar Street is ideal for music and drinks at night.

🍜 Recommended restaurants and cafes:

Lamu's House of Tibet – Authentic Tibetan food, butter milk tea, and momo dumplings.

Prague Cafe – Drip coffee, homemade cakes, and canal-side views.

Yunnan Arabica Coffee – Yunnan-origin coffee beans.

88 Snack – Yunnanese Local Restaurants

❤️Tips

Wear comfortable shoes, as the cobblestone streets are bustling with walking.

Carry a little cash, as some smaller shops don't accept cards.

If you're staying in the old city, choose a hotel/hostel with a porter service, as some alleys are closed to vehicles.