Lijiang in the off-season is legendary! Baisha’s sunlit golden mountains and autumn flower seas are breathtaking

Who would have thought! October in Lijiang is far from the off-season; it’s a treasure season favored by the gods! Shedding the hustle and bustle of peak season, the ancient town’s cobblestone streets reflect the clear sky, and the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain 🏔️ in the autumn sunshine looks even more sacred—this ancient town, founded in the Southern Song Dynasty, was an important post on the Tea Horse Road. The Naxi ancestors thrived here, and between the blue tiles and white walls lies the millennia-old Dongba cultural code, with the unique cultural atmosphere of northwest Yunnan drifting even in the wind.

Baisha Ancient Town is an even greater surprise! As Lijiang’s oldest ancient town, it lacks the commercialization of Dayan Ancient Town but preserves the Naxi people’s original lifestyle. The Ming and Qing dynasty timber houses are built along the mountainside, and Dongba totems quietly flow in the corners of the walls. Walking here feels like traveling back to the prosperous days of the Tea Horse Road. Even better, it coincides with the town’s chrysanthemum exhibition, where golden and soft pink chrysanthemums bloom in courtyards and alleys, paired with Naxi tie-dye fabrics. The warm atmosphere feels like spring brought into autumn 🧚🏻‍♀️, and every snapshot looks like a naturally filtered masterpiece!

The much-anticipated "Jianshan Courtyard" truly did not disappoint! Before setting off, I saw many warnings and felt uneasy, but the moment I opened the door, all worries vanished—it’s not a deliberately crafted trendy spot but an old courtyard steeped in time. Wooden tables and chairs have a natural patina, green plants climb the corners, and dried wildflowers are placed in pottery jars. It feels like returning to grandma’s courtyard, full of unpretentious warmth.

The relaxed vibe here is ingrained in the bones! No need to rush, find a window seat to lie back, and look up to see the full view of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. Watching clouds roll over the peaks, the past and present leisure of the Tea Horse Road overlap at this moment, and all life’s pressures are quietly carried away by the mountain breeze. The most amazing sight is the morning golden sunlight on the mountain! As the sacred mountain in the hearts of the Naxi people, Jade Dragon Snow Mountain carries the ancient belief of the “Three Flowers Festival.” When the first ray of sunlight around 7:20 AM shines on the snowy peak, golden light flows down the mountain, instantly enveloping it in a sacred aura. That kind of awe will be remembered for a lifetime!

📝 Handy tips for your trip:

1. Jianshan Courtyard opens at 6:30 AM. Be sure to arrive early to secure a viewing spot! One person, one consumption. After watching the golden sunlight on the mountain, you can enjoy a delicate brunch and start a leisurely day.

2. The best time for photos is between 3-4 PM to avoid harsh overhead light. Stroll along the ancient town’s riverside for shots with cobblestones, flowing water, distant mountains, and flower seas all in one frame, maximizing the atmosphere.

3. In October, Lijiang’s temperature ranges from 10-20°C with a big day-night temperature difference. Remember to wear a light jacket and a long skirt for warmth and great photos.

4. Baisha Ancient Town is about a 20-minute drive from Dayan Ancient Town. It’s recommended to spend half a day exploring deeply to experience the Naxi people’s original lifestyle and maybe even meet an old craftsman making Dongba paper by hand.

October in Lijiang offers the sacredness of snowy mountains, the depth of ancient towns, the romance of flower seas, and the relaxed moments at Jianshan Courtyard. This beautiful blend of culture and nature is truly worth experiencing in person~

Post by Liam44 Ward_ | Oct 25, 2025