Lijiang Naxi Cuisine Cooking Class & Market Visit
Active
3h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Start the day by exploring Lijiang’s oldest market to shop for your cooking class, with hands-on instruction led by a local Naxi minority family. Each person will prepare and eat three dishes.
Available options
Lijiang Naxi Cuisine Cooking Class & Market Visit
What's included
Local English-speaking guide
Small-group tour (less than 10 people)
Individual cooking station
All food & drinks
Snacks
Lunch
Tea and Bottled Water
Detailed itinerary
1
You will visit Lijiang's largest Naxi minority market and then head to our cooking studio, hosted by a local Lijiang family, where you will prepare and eat three dishes with hands-on instruction.
What's not included
Gratuities
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
5 reviews
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Tripadvisor
5.0
40 reviews
5★
40
4★
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Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately
Please advise any specific dietary requirements at time of booking
Please wear comfortable walking shoes
Vegetarian option is available, please advise at time of booking if required
Please refer to your voucher ticket for meeting location details.
Meeting point
Meeting Location: Lijiang Elephant Hill Comprehensive Market (丽江象山综合市场). Your host will meet you under the market's large north gate/entrance on Xiangshan Road.
Show Your Taxi Driver: 您好，我们想去象山市场，象山路274号。谢谢。
Chinese Map: https://j.map.baidu.com/9d/AKCJ
Important notes
Meeting Location:
Lijiang Elephant Hill Comprehensive Market (丽江象山综合市场). Your host will meet you under the market's large north gate/entrance on Xiangshan Road.
Show Your Taxi/Didi: 丽江象山综合市场 (the address is 古城区象山路274号) (Please note: traffic will be heavy around this area during rush hour. Please allow plenty of extra time)
Google Map(requires a VPN in China): https://goo.gl/maps/SzHe5qkRrJEfdMVR8
Chinese Map: https://j.map.baidu.com/2b/1Pui
Please make sure you add us on WeChat using our phone number or ID Lostplate so we can send you a pin of our meeting location and introduce you to your host before your class.
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
