1-Day Lijiang Dongba and Naxi Culture Private Tour
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About this experience
Take in the breathtaking vistas of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain from various scenic viewpoints while immersing yourself in the rich Naxi culture, an essential part of life in Lijiang. This is an experience you won’t want to miss! Spend a day delving into the fascinating world of Dongba culture and the daily life of a traditional Naxi family. Learn the art of writing ancient Dongba hieroglyphs from an authentic Dongba disciple, discover the significance of traditional Naxi dances, and even try your hand at making delicious local dumplings. At the end of your cultural journey, enjoy the fruits of your labor by sharing a home-cooked Naxi dinner with the family. A perfect day of culture, tradition, and unforgettable memories!
Available options
1 Day Lijiang Culture Tour
Naxi and Dongba Culture<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Supplement for the meals for the tour guide and driver
Entrance tickets to the attractions listed in the itinerary
Experienced and licensed local English-speaking tour guide
2 half-liter bottles of drinking water per person per day
gas， tolls and parking fees and including all pick-ups and drop-offs
24/7 English-speaking customer services
Government taxes
Meals as listed in the itinerary: 1 dinner per person
Tourism-licensed and safety-checked private vehicle with skilled driver
Detailed itinerary
1
Get picked up at your hotel in Lijiang Old Town， Head to the Black Dragon Pond Park， one of the most iconic views in China of the impressive Jade Dragon Snow Mountain in the background of a beautiful traditional Chinese garden. Stop by the Dongba Museum right next door， a little gem where you can learn about the Naxi minority and the Shamanic Dongba culture and the unique matriarchic Naxi sub branch of the Mosuo Minority living around Lugu Lake.
2
Later， we stop by Dongba Cultural Museum， exploring the unique culture of the Naxi people， focusing on their Dongba traditions. It features ancient Dongba scriptures， ritual items， folk art， and traditional clothing， offering a glimpse into the history and spiritual practices of this ethnic group.
3
In the afternoon， embark on a 30-minute drive to visit a Naxi family in either Shuhe or Jade Dragon Village， depending on the family’s availability. Upon arrival， a Dongba disciple will guide you in the art of writing the ancient Dongba characters， a unique living hieroglyph still in use by the Naxi people today. Next， enjoy an immersive introduction to Dongba dance， an integral part of Naxi culture and religion. This dance， which mimics the movements of animals， is performed during various ceremonies， including sacrificial rites， and offers insight into the Naxi people's ancient social life. After the cultural experience， join the family in preparing traditional local dishes and enjoy a delicious homemade dinner together， offering a true taste of Naxi hospitality.
Following the meal， you’ll return to Lijiang Old Town or your hotel around 6:00 PM， concluding your enriching experience.
What's not included
Chinese visa
International and domestic flights and/or train
Accommodation
Personal travel insurance
Meals not listed in the program (breakfast and lunch)
Attractions not in the itinerary
Additional days caused by unexpected nature disasters. e.g. landslides etc.
Personal expenses
Tips for drivers and guides (highly appreciated but not requested)
Anything not listed in inclusions
Available languages
Guide guide
CMN
EN
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Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Specialized infant seats are available
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
A maximum of 10 people per booking
Children must be accompanied by an adult
Passport name, number, expiry and country is required at time of booking for all participants
Full payment will be collected in advance, including all admission fees, fuel, and equipment rental.
Important notes
A current valid passport is required on the day of travel
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
