6-Day Tour of Lijiang and Dali, Yunnan: Comprehensive Guide
by Liam Simmons_71
Jan 20, 2025
Just after the start of summer, May in Lijiang is truly comfortable and absolutely worth staying for a while.
🔹 Pleasant climate: Average temperature of 15-20°C in May, with warm sunshine and gentle breezes during the day, and slightly cool but not freezing nights—perfect for strolling through the ancient town or hiking up the snow-capped mountains.
🔹 Fewer crowds, stunning views: Avoid the summer and National Day holiday crowds, savor the beauty and leisurely slow-paced moments, and capture cinematic photos effortlessly.
🔹 MAX value for money: Flights and homestays are budget-friendly, and May-June is considered Lijiang's off-peak season, making it the perfect time to visit for the best deals.
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🏔 Must-try travel experiences in spring
1️⃣ Jade Dragon Snow Mountain + Blue Moon Valley
This season offers fewer crowds and breathtaking scenery, making it ideal for photography. Don’t miss Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. Now you can take the panoramic sightseeing train with its massive dome windows, feeling like you’re in a European town as you pass through pastoral villages straight to the foot of the snow-capped mountains—perfect for photos.
📍 Recommended spots: Blue Moon Valley, Spruce Meadow
2️⃣ Slow living in Lijiang Ancient Town
Wander the ancient town in the early morning when it’s peaceful and serene. Watch Naxi elders basking in the sun at Sifang Street, or visit Zhongyi Market to experience the local life and vibrant atmosphere.
3️⃣ Hiking into nature
Around Lijiang, there’s Tiger Leaping Gorge and Ganheba, with relatively easy hiking trails that can be done in a day. If you love natural scenery and want to immerse yourself in nature, these are great options.
4️⃣ Deep dive into Naxi culture
Stay at [Zhiyun Mansion] homestay, which includes a [Lijiang Intangible Cultural Heritage Experience]. Activities include tie-dyeing, Jia Ma printing, handmade pottery, and leather crafting—get hands-on with Lijiang’s intangible heritage and connect with local culture.
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❤️ Practical tips
✔️ Outfits: T-shirt + windproof jacket, as temperatures vary between day and night; the ancient town’s cobblestone streets call for comfortable sneakers.
✔️ Sun protection: The high-altitude UV rays in Lijiang are strong! Sunglasses and sunscreen are a must, and remember to drink plenty of water and eat your veggies. 🥬
✔️ Accommodation: Inside Lijiang Ancient Town → [Zhiyun Mansion] offers complimentary intangible cultural heritage experiences and seasonal goodnight soups. The latest addition, "Good Fortune Soup," is now available!!
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💌 Lijiang’s early summer is a whisper between snow-capped mountains and peach blossoms, the aroma of coffee drifting over cobblestone streets.
While the time is just right, come and live as a Naxi girl for a while~
Post by LeoNelson | May 19, 2025























