Private Day Tour of Lijiang Old Town, Black Dragon Pool and Dongba Culture
Active
9h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Combine the important sights of Lijiang in a 9-hour private day tour with transportation in between. Get undivided attention from your dedicated guide as you visit Lion Hill, Mu Palace, Lijiang Old Town, the Dongba Culture Museum, and the Black Dragon Pool. Hotel pickup and drop-off in a private vehicle included.
Available options
Private Day Tour of Lijiang Old Town, Black Dragon Pool and Dongba Culture
Pickup included
What's included
Experienced tour guide
Private transportation
Admission tickets
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Begin your 9-hour private day tour of Lijiang with convenient pickup at your hotel anywhere in the city. With your private party, climb into the waiting vehicle and meet your dedicated guide. Your first stop is Lijiang Ancient Town and get views of the surrounding landscape from the Wangu Tower.
2
From the top of Lion Hill, see Jade Dragon Snow Mountain in the distance, then continue to Mu's Residence, the Forbidden City of Lijiang, where you'll learn about the Naxi people's culture and fine arts.
3
Stop for lunch, then move on to the Naxi Dongba Culture Museum and the Black Dragon Pool Park. There, in the company of your guide, you'll learn about the Naxi culture and art.
4
Next, you will be guided to visit the Black Dragon Pool Park to see its famous limpid pool. Then, you will continue to Dongba Culture Research Center and a small museum to discover the history, art, and culture of mysterious Dongba ethnic group. After the museum visit, you will be transferred back to your hotel where this tour concludes.
What's not included
Gratuities
Lunch
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Important information
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
About Lijiang
Lijiang is a picturesque ancient town in southwest China, renowned for its well-preserved Ming and Qing dynasty architecture. The town is famous for its intricate system of canals and waterways, earning it the nickname 'City of the Water.' Lijiang is also a gateway to the stunning landscapes of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain and offers a unique blend of ethnic Naxi culture.
Top Attractions
Old Town of Lijiang
A UNESCO World Heritage site, the Old Town of Lijiang is famous for its well-preserved Ming and Qing dynasty architecture and intricate system of canals and waterways.
Historical
Half day to full day
Free to explore, ¥50 for some historical sites
Jade Dragon Snow Mountain
A stunning mountain range with peaks reaching over 5,000 meters, offering breathtaking views and various outdoor activities.
Nature
Full day
Cable car: ¥150, Blue Moon Valley: ¥80, Impression Lijiang Show: ¥150-300
Black Dragon Pool Park
A beautiful park featuring a large pond reflecting the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, surrounded by lush gardens and traditional architecture.
Nature
1-2 hours
¥30
Must-Try Local Dishes
Crossing the Bridge Noodles
A traditional Naxi dish consisting of a clear soup with a variety of ingredients, including mushrooms, vegetables, and meat, served with rice noodles.
Lunch/Dinner
Vegetarian and non-vegetarian versions available
Yunnan Rice Noodles
A popular breakfast dish made with rice noodles, often served with a rich broth, meat, and vegetables.
Breakfast/Lunch
Vegetarian and non-vegetarian versions available
Steamed Fish from Lijiang
A local specialty featuring fish steamed with a variety of spices and herbs, often served with chili oil and garlic.
Dinner
Contains fish
Popular Activities
Hiking in Jade Dragon Snow Mountain
Tiger Leaping Gorge trek
Mountain biking
Tea tasting at local tea houses
Boat rides on canals
Spa treatments
Visiting Mu Palace
Exploring Dongba Culture Museum
Best Time to Visit
April to June, September to October
These months offer the best weather with mild temperatures and minimal rainfall. The landscapes are lush and vibrant, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
15°C to 25°C
59°F to 77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Chinese
- Widely spoken: Naxi, English (limited)
- English: Limited
Currency
Chinese Yuan (CNY)
Time Zone
GMT+8
Electricity
220VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Lijiang is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates. However, petty crimes like pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas.
Important Precautions:
- • Be cautious of your belongings in crowded areas.
- • Use reputable tour operators and taxis.
- • Avoid street money changers and use official exchange counters.
Getting there
By air
- Lijiang Sanyi International Airport • 25 km from city center
By train
Lijiang Railway Station
By bus
Lijiang Long-Distance Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are affordable and convenient, but schedules and routes can be confusing for tourists.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Didi
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Old Town
Shangri-La Road
Yulong Snow Mountain Scenic Area
Day trips
Shangri-La
150 km • Full day
A picturesque town known for its Tibetan culture, stunning landscapes, and historic sites.
Dali
200 km • Full day
A historic city known for its ancient towns, cultural heritage, and beautiful landscapes.
Tiger Leaping Gorge
100 km • Full day
One of the deepest gorges in the world, offering stunning views and challenging hikes.
Festivals
Lijiang Lusheng Festival • March
Naxi New Year • January (lunar calendar)
Lijiang Snow and Ice Festival • December to February
Pro tips
- Visit the old town early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the serene atmosphere.
- Try the local specialty, Crossing the Bridge Noodles, at a reputable restaurant for an authentic experience.
- Book tickets for popular attractions like the Impression Lijiang Show in advance to avoid long lines.
- Carry a map or use a reliable navigation app, as street signs can be confusing and English is not widely spoken.
- Bring layers of clothing, as temperatures can vary significantly throughout the day and year.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
