History of Lijiang
The earliest recorded history of the city can be traced back to the Warring States Period (476 BC-221 BC). With the advent of the Tang Dynasty (618-907), the local economy reached a peak with the development of the Ancient Tea-Horse Road which made a great contribution to both commercial and cultural communication between Tibet, Sichuan and Yunnan Provinces. In its long history, the local residents have established their splendid Dongba Culture which has absorbed aspects of the culture of Tibet and the Central Plains along the middle and lower reaches of the Yellow River. Customs of Dongba Culture are still kept in many towns and villages drawing many researchers’ interests all over the world.
What to see in Lijiang?
There are a number of places of historical interest and natural scenic spots in Lijiang, awaiting your exploration.Splendid landscapes, the exotic ways of the Naxi ethnic group and the precious Dongba Culture make up the unique city of Lijiang. Each year it attracts a great number of visitors from home and abroad. To find a fairyland far from the bustling metropolises, please do not hesitate to come here.
Lijiang Ancient Town | Jade Dragon Snow Mountain | Black Dragon Pool |
Shuhe Ancient Town | Baisha Ancient Village | Tiger Leaping Gorge |
Lugu Lake | Lashi Lake |
When to visit Lijiang?
Lijiang climate allows visitors to get there at any time. However, summer and autumn are the most favorable seasons, considering the fairly wide variation in day-and-night temperature in spring and winter.
Lijiang weather is generally mild, with abundant rainfall and plenty of sunshine. Lijiang has three different climatic zones, ranging from subtropical in the southeast, to warm temperatures in the centre, and cold temperatures in the northwest. In addition, the characteristics of vertical climate in some highlands can also be seen in Lijiang. For example, Jade Dragon Mountain, with its higher altitude, has five different climatic zones, from warm temperate to alpine.
How to get to Lijiang?
Lijiang in Northwest Yunnan is one of the best destinations in China. It is 500 km (216 miles) away from Kunming, the provincial capital. Many travelers choose to get to Kunming first (there are many more air routes connecting with other cities and the world), and then continue their trip to Lijiang and other parts of Yunnan.
That explains why more and more visitors travel to Lijiang in recent years. Lijiang’s transportation then has also developed quickly. With the steadily improvement of the transportation network, Lijiang is no longer that remote or desolate and now accessible by air, highways and railways. Travelers also find it is much easier to go to the nearby attractions of Lijiang and the surrounding destinations like Lugu Lake, Baisha Town and Shuhe Old Town.
Lijiang Travel Tips
Useful Phone Numbers:
Tourist Complaint: 5123432
Lijiang Airport Inquiry Telephone: 5173081
Scheduled Flights and Ticket Inquiries: 5161289 5161291 5173079