Ancient Town x Snow Mountain: A Cultural and Natural Journey in Lijiang

This trip focuses on two hidden gems at the foot of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain: Baisha Ancient Town and Wenhai Village. The itinerary offers a hands-on guide to experiencing the pristine beauty of Lijiang's nature while immersing yourself in the ancient customs of the Naxi people and enjoying horseback riding in the wilderness. From the Chinese aesthetics and cultural stories of the ancient town to the vast wetlands, lakes, and nature reserves deep in the grasslands of Wenhai, every step takes you into the 'green' and 'serenity' of Yunnan. If you're looking for a different side of Lijiang, away from the overly commercialized old streets, follow this route for a unique adventure!

🎈 Highlights of the Itinerary
- Admire the well-preserved Naxi residences in Baisha Ancient Town, away from the crowds, and capture the charm of Chinese architecture and tranquil ancient streets.
- Explore Wenhai Village with its grasslands, lakes, and wetlands, relax in the oxygen-rich nature, try horseback riding or hiking, and, if lucky, spot nationally protected bird species.
- Suitable for all weather conditions, the changing scenery of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain offers a unique charm in both sunny and rainy weather.

🌿 Recommended Attractions

🚩 First Stop: Baisha Ancient Town
Baisha Ancient Town is one of the oldest Naxi settlements in Lijiang. Unlike the commercialized Dayan Ancient Town, it exudes a sense of tranquility and nostalgia. The Chinese architecture here is well-preserved, with old stone houses, painted walls, and weathered tile roofs that create a timeless aesthetic. On sunny days, the streets frame the distant snow-capped mountains, making every photo a masterpiece; on rainy days, the ancient alleys take on a poetic charm. You can also experience traditional Naxi customs here, and if you happen to encounter a local festival, take a moment to enjoy the vibrant culture.
- Address: Yulong Naxi Autonomous County, Lijiang City, Yunnan Province
- Opening Hours: Open all year round
- Tip: Find a small teahouse to rest, watch the daily life of the locals through the window, and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere.

🚩 Second Stop: Wenhai Village
Located about a 30-minute drive from the ancient town, Wenhai Village represents another side of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain's 'pristine and hidden' beauty. The village is built along the mountains, backed by highland lakes and vast wetlands, making it a paradise for flora and fauna. It also houses a national nature reserve, where spring and summer bring blooming wildflowers, and lucky visitors might encounter wild cranes and other birds. Several ranches offer horseback riding experiences, perfect for families or small groups of friends. Walking along the edges of the grasslands and wetlands, breathing in the fresh highland air, feels like stepping into a scenic postcard. For a deeper retreat, consider booking a night at a local guesthouse; the village's tranquility at sunset is indescribable.
- Address: Wenhai Village, Lijiang City, Yunnan Province
- Opening Hours: Open all year round, 08:00-18:30

📝 Practical Tips for the Trip
- Baisha Ancient Town is less crowded in the morning; start early to enjoy the peace and quiet, avoiding peak hours (10:30-15:30).
- Wenhai Village is at a higher altitude, with cooler temperatures in the morning and evening. Bring a jacket and sunscreen, especially in spring and autumn.
- Follow the ranch's guidelines when horseback riding and avoid disturbing free-roaming animals.
- Local cuisine in the village mainly features farm-to-table dishes. Try the local free-range chicken and stir-fried wild vegetables for an authentic taste.

🚗 Transportation Guide
- Baisha Ancient Town is about a 20-minute drive from Lijiang Old Town and can be easily reached by taxi or private car.
- Wenhai Village is relatively remote; self-driving or hiring a car is recommended, or arrange for a pick-up service with your guesthouse.

🌟 Food Recommendations
- Baisha Ancient Town: Try the local rice stove restaurant, featuring must-try Naxi roasted meat and honey pastries.
- Wenhai Village: Every household offers authentic wild vegetable dishes. Don't miss the mountain chicken and fried potatoes.