Discovering Blue Moon Valley and Baisha Ancient Town

If you think going to Lijiang is just to take pictures of the ancient city and eat white yak hot pot, then you are really too Low! This time I headed straight to Yulong, focusing on the "Blue Moon Valley" and the "White Sand Ancient Town" recommended by hidden hipsters.

Blue Moon Valley: The fairy-filled fantasy lake valley
There is a legendary fairyland "Blue Moon Valley" at the foot of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. The lake is bluer than the sky, and it looks like the cover of a magazine. The most shocking part is that it is surrounded by snow-capped mountains, the color of the water changes with the sun and sky, and every angle is beautiful. It doesn't take too much effort to walk in. The whole scenic area has comfortable trails, and you can slowly enjoy the sense of wonderland as you walk.
📍Address: In the Yulong Snow Mountain National Scenic Spot, 15 kilometers away from Yulong Naxi Autonomous County, Lijiang City
⏰ Opening Hours: 07:00-17:00 (Entrance closes at 16:30)

Tips: The best time to visit Blue Moon Valley is in the morning, less crowded, the lake is particularly transparent under the sun, want to take beautiful photos really have to go out early;

Baisha Ancient Town: A literary and authentic Yunnan village experience
Unlike the bustling business of Lijiang Ancient Town, Baisha Ancient Town is more simple and full of Naxi style. The ancient streets are flanked by century-old houses, with handmade silverware shops, specialty cafes and quiet B&Bs from time to time. The most interesting thing is to see the letterpress murals (white sand murals) and without so many tourists, you can really feel the slow life of the ancient town.
📍Address: Yulong Naxi Autonomous County, Lijiang City, Yunnan Province
⏰ Opening hours: all day year round

Tips: It is recommended to reserve half a day to walk slowly, the ancient town alleys casual walk is a surprise. Remember to come and sit at the White Sand Mural Museum and nearby coffee shops to feel the Naxi culture. For an in-depth exchange, you can chat with a local artisan and see his land making silverware or drawings for top healing.

Itinerary recommendation: Yulong Snow Mountain - Blue Moon Valley + White Sand Ancient Town perfect combination
- Morning: From Lijiang, go straight to the Yulong Snow Mountain National Scenic Area, first enter the Blue Moon Valley, see the clearest lake water, snow mountain reflection;
- Noon: Mountainous dining options are limited, it is recommended to bring your own simple dry food or solve at a scenic restaurant.
- Afternoon: Transfer to the ancient town of Baisha and walk freely to visit the Naxi Culture and Mural Museum. Remember to bring cash, some shops in small towns accept cash only.

Transportation Tips:
The nearest transportation from Lijiang Ancient Town to Blue Moon Valley is by car or carpool, about 40 minutes drive (you can use Trip.com to book Lijiang car service, or the hotel to call in advance);

Food Recommendations:
There are a few specialty snacks in Baisha Ancient Town. "Naxi Barbecue" and "Matsutake Fried Rice" are must-try choices. In addition, the Yunnan bean coffee in a local coffee shop tastes amazing. You might as well take a break when you are tired of shopping.

The ultimate warm tip:
1. High altitude UV rays, remember to do enough sunscreen (hat, sunglasses essential);
2. The weather is cold in the morning and evening in the mountains, be sure to bring a thick jacket;
3. Baisha Ancient Town consumption negotiable, remember to put down your body and exchange with locals, experience more in-depth;
4. Want to take the most beautiful photos of Blue Moon Valley, avoid crowded periods, morning entry into the park is most perfect.

#Jade Dragon Snow Mountain #Blue Moon Valley #White Sand Ancient Town #Naxi Culture #Yunnan Travel