Discover Lệ Giang Ancient Town: A Complete Travel Guide from Start to Finish

Where is Lệ Giang Ancient Town located?

Situated in the northern part of Yunnan Province, China, covering an area of over 21,000 square kilometers, Lệ Giang now includes the Old Town District (Lệ Giang Ancient Town), two counties—Vĩnh Thắng and Hoa Bình—and two autonomous counties, Ngọc Long of the Naxi ethnic group and Ninh Lạng of the Yi ethnic group.

Known as one of China's four great ancient towns, visitors on a Lệ Giang tour will experience a journey back in time, immersing themselves in the historic atmosphere and original architecture. The enduring cultural values are reflected in every doorframe and house structure. These elements stand as historical testaments, earning Lệ Giang Ancient Town its UNESCO World Heritage status in 1997.

Lệ Giang Ancient Town is deeply rooted in historical and cultural significance (Photo: @chinaculturetour.com)

Strolling through the ancient town, visitors are sure to encounter picturesque scenes, where willow trees are planted in front of every house, their branches gracefully draping over flowing streams, turning this place into a soul-soothing haven for anyone escaping the hustle and bustle outside.

Lệ Giang Ancient Town typically charges an entrance fee for visitors, with costs varying based on the number of people, averaging around 80 CNY (~280,000 VND). If you join a guided tour, the admission fees are usually included in the package.

The historical formation of Lệ Giang Ancient Town

Lệ Giang Ancient Town boasts a history of over 800 years, dating back to the late Song Dynasty and extending into the Yuan Dynasty. It is also known as Dayan Ancient Town and is home to ethnic groups such as the Naxi, Bai, Pumi, and Lolo.

In the local dialect, Lệ Giang Ancient Town means 'granary' and 'marketplace,' a name derived from its historical role as one of Yunnan's largest agricultural trading hubs. This bustling trade center was often referred to as the 'Southwestern Silk Road' of China.

The unique architecture of Lệ Giang Ancient Town

Water is considered the 'lifeblood' of the town, which is why Lệ Giang has been meticulously planned with an intricate network of rivers and canals for centuries. Crystal-clear water flows throughout the town, occasionally adorned with charming bridges, creating a scene reminiscent of a traditional ink painting.

Meanwhile, the residential architecture in Lệ Giang Ancient Town is constructed using materials like earth, stone, and wooden frames, blending the traditional cultures of the Naxi and Bai ethnic groups with the innovative influences of Han merchants who traded in the region.

Immerse yourself in the picturesque scenery of Lệ Giang Ancient Town (Photo: @chinadestinations)

Adding to the unique architectural charm are the intricate carvings on the windows. These detailed and lively engravings, crafted by skilled carpenters and ethnic artisans, are often considered more significant than the furniture itself by the locals.

Top attractions in Lệ Giang Ancient Town

Visiting Lệ Giang Ancient Town allows travelers to authentically explore its historical flow through culturally rich landmarks. These traces of history are preserved and visible in every alley, street, and mansion.

Lijiang Mufu

The Mufu, or the Mu family mansion, served as the capital under Naxi rule for 470 years from the 13th to the 20th century. The complex features 162 rooms, showcasing not only ancient architecture but also intricate carvings and designs reminiscent of royal palaces. Additionally, the entire structure faces east, symbolizing 'the vitality brought by the rising sun.'

Visiting the Mufu in Lệ Giang Ancient Town, travelers can admire the magnificent architecture of this golden lineage, including the Wanquan Tower for storing knowledge, the Hufa Temple for ancestral worship, the Guangbi Library, and the Yuyin Pavilion for grand banquets.

Explore the historical journey at Lijiang Mufu (Photo: @bbergen)

Wangu Tower

Perched at the highest point of Lệ Giang Ancient Town and serving as an eternal symbol atop Lion Mountain, Wangu Tower is entirely constructed from wood, standing 33 meters tall to represent the 330,000 residents of Lệ Giang Autonomous County. Visitors to Wangu Tower can enjoy a panoramic view of the ancient town, including the fertile riverside villages along the Jade River and the mystical Jade Dragon Snow Mountain.

The architecture of Wangu Tower features 2,300 intricate carvings, preserving the cultural imprints of 23 ethnic groups in Lệ Giang. The structure is supported by 16 pillars, a number symbolizing luck and abundance, deeply rooted in feng shui and spiritual significance.

Wangu Tower embodies the essence of feng shui in Lệ Giang (Photo: @ertg.shn)

Wufeng Tower

Constructed during the Ming Dynasty in 1601 at Fuguo Temple, Wufeng Tower stands 20 meters tall and is designed to resemble five phoenixes soaring into the sky, which inspired its name.

Wufeng Tower represents a cultural fusion between the architectural styles of the indigenous Naxi people and the influences brought by Han and Tibetan traders.

Heilongtan Park

Situated at an altitude of 2,500 meters above sea level, Heilongtan Park, also known as Jade Spring Park, is an ideal destination for visitors seeking to immerse themselves in the majestic mountain scenery and the poetic charm of willow trees reflecting on the water.

Heilongtan is regarded as one of the most significant landmarks, symbolizing the prosperous era of Lệ Giang Ancient Town, where the surreal beauty perfectly encapsulates the architecture and culture of ancient China.

The picturesque Heilongtan in Lệ Giang (Photo: @snapshot_____story)

Sifang Street

In addition to the remarkable attractions of Lệ Giang Ancient Town, visitors should not miss exploring Sifang Street, renowned for its culturally rich festivals and as a culinary haven offering traditional Yunnan rice noodles.

Sifang Street, located in the heart of Lệ Giang Ancient Town, has been a bustling trade hub for centuries, contrasting sharply with its otherwise serene atmosphere.

Baisha Ancient Town

Once the economic and political center before the Ming Dynasty, Baisha Ancient Town is a historical and cultural landmark nestled against the mountains. Despite the passage of centuries, it retains its ancient charm and tranquil ambiance.

The highlight of Baisha Ancient Town lies in its 13th-century murals, remarkably preserved over hundreds of years, showcasing the traditional religious values of Lệ Giang's ethnic groups.

Baisha Ancient Town in Lệ Giang (Photo: @travel2china88)

Kegongfang Building

Kegongfang, or Ke Gong Fang, is located on Sifang Street and was constructed during the feudal era of the Qing Dynasty. The name 'Ke Gong Fang' translates to 'Merit Lane,' symbolizing gratitude for the contributions of the local government and residents who supported the construction of the building for the Yang family, which produced three successful imperial scholars.

Unlike the Mufu, Kegongfang is a three-story structure that still embodies the rich cultural and architectural traditions of Lệ Giang Ancient Town.

Lệ Giang Ancient Bridge

As a land that reveres water, Lệ Giang Ancient Town is renowned for its intricate network of canals and numerous interconnected bridges. Over five centuries, spanning the Ming and Qing Dynasties, 354 bridges were constructed, with the most notable being the Dashishi Bridge, built by the Mu family on Sifang Street.

This 10-meter-long bridge features a traditional Chinese arch design, constructed from slate and paved with colorful stones, exuding both grandeur and timeless charm.

Ancient bridges in Lệ Giang Ancient Town (Photo: @holidayindochina)

The best time to visit Lệ Giang

Lệ Giang Ancient Town is blessed by nature with year-round beauty and a cool climate. Each season here offers a unique charm, providing distinct experiences for visitors.

Visiting Lệ Giang from March to May during spring allows you to witness the vibrant yellow rapeseed flowers blooming across the Yangtze Bay. The warming temperatures and blossoming flora create a refreshing and lively atmosphere.

According to travel tips for China, summer from June to August can be quite hot and humid, but frequent rains during this time enhance the ancient, serene ambiance of the town, offering an authentic experience of its timeless charm.

Autumn, from September to November, is considered the best time to explore Lệ Giang Ancient Town. The picturesque scenery, with golden and red leaves blending against the snowy peaks and blue skies, is breathtaking. Additionally, autumn hosts numerous festivals and opportunities to savor local culinary delights.

Winter, from December to February, brings a chilly atmosphere to Lệ Giang Ancient Town. The landscape is blanketed in snow, making it an ideal time for those who adore the romantic sight of snow falling against the backdrop of ancient houses.

Tips for a self-guided trip to Lệ Giang and the best time to visit (Photo: @chenfeng_luck)

Each season in Lệ Giang has its unique charm, but pinpointing the ideal time to visit can be subjective. For travelers looking to capture stunning photos and enjoy the scenery, mornings are highly recommended. The golden sunlight from the east illuminates the town, creating a magical atmosphere perfect for unforgettable moments.

How to travel to Lệ Giang Ancient Town?

By Air

For travelers coming from afar, flying to Lệ Giang Ancient Town is the most efficient option, saving significant time. Sanyi Airport, located about 30km from the ancient town, offers connecting flights from Vietnam starting at 3,500,000 VND (excluding taxes and fees).

However, Sanyi Airport is not a major hub, so reaching it often requires layovers in Kunming, Guangzhou, or Shanghai. Additionally, purchasing individual tickets can be challenging.

Distance from Sanyi Airport to Lệ Giang

By Train

From Vietnam to China, there are several international train routes departing from Gia Lam Station (Hanoi). Travelers opting for trains to Lệ Giang can consider the Hanoi - Nanning - Kunming - Lệ Giang route. Besides being cost-effective with tickets starting at 1,000,000 VND, passengers can also enjoy the picturesque scenery along the border of the two countries.

While convenient, traveling to Lệ Giang by train often takes considerable time, including transfers or changes in transportation from Nanning to Kunming and then to Lệ Giang.

By Taxi

Taxis are a common and easily accessible mode of transport in China. However, using a taxi to reach Lệ Giang Ancient Town is generally recommended only for short distances due to the relatively high cost, starting at 35,000 - 40,000 VND for the first 3km and decreasing thereafter.

Traveling to Lệ Giang Ancient Town by taxi (Photo: @fefeawangsamad)

Where to stay when visiting Lệ Giang Ancient Town?

Full Moon Inn

Full Moon Inn is a budget-friendly hotel in Lệ Giang, redesigned with a modern touch while preserving the traditional charm and scenic value of an ancient town.

• Address: No.28 End Village, Longquan Community, Shuhe Street Old Town, Lệ Giang.
• Price: 749,000 VND/night/room

Traditional hotels in Lệ Giang Ancient Town (Photo: @tripadvisor)

Qingxi Inn

Where to stay in Lệ Giang Ancient Town? Qingxi Inn is the answer for those seeking an authentic experience in a house built by local ethnic people. Rich in historical value and located in the heart of the ancient town, it offers great convenience for exploration.

• Address: No.88 Bayi Down Section, Qiyi Street, Ancient Town, Lệ Giang.
• Price: 972,226 VND/night/room

Lijiang Lize Graceland Merry Inn

Lijiang Lize Graceland Merry Inn is a mountain-top hotel designed in a traditional Chinese style. Guests here can enjoy a traditional tea ceremony space and a panoramic view of the ancient town from above.

• Address: No.19 Huangshan Up Section, Xinhua Street, Gucheng District, Lệ Giang.
• Price: 1,347,000 VND/night/room

Lijiang Lize Graceland Merry Inn with a tea corner overlooking the town (Photo: @tripadvisor)

Banyan Tree Lijiang

Built within a private estate featuring stone-clad architecture and wooden-framed houses, Banyan Tree Lijiang is perfect for those seeking tranquility and a deep connection to the serene ambiance of Lệ Giang Ancient Town.

• Address: Yuerong Road, Shuhe, Gucheng District, Lệ Giang.
• Price: 4,943,922 VND/night/room

Banyan Tree Lijiang in Lệ Giang Ancient Town (Photo: @tripadvisor)

Shujia Yulu

A luxury hotel located at the foot of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, Shujia Yulu is the ideal answer for travelers wondering where to stay in Lệ Giang Ancient Town. Designed with a blend of modern and traditional Naxi culture, the hotel is surrounded by rivers and snow-capped mountains, offering picturesque views.

• Address: Shujia Yulu Villa Resort, Ngọc Long Autonomous County, Lệ Giang.
• Price: 5,125,983 VND.

Shujia Yulu, a hotel at the foot of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain (Photo: @tripadvisor)

Savor local delicacies in Lệ Giang Ancient Town

Crossing the Bridge Noodles

The first dish you must try when visiting Lệ Giang Ancient Town is Crossing the Bridge Noodles. This Yunnan specialty is famous for its romantic backstory about a devoted wife who brought noodles to her husband daily as he studied for exams. To keep the noodles fresh, she separated the broth from the ingredients, creating the unique serving style we know today.

To prepare this dish, the chef pours piping hot broth into a bowl and arranges the accompanying ingredients on a separate tray. Diners then add the ingredients one by one, allowing them to cook gradually and absorb the rich flavors.

• Price: 340,000 VND.

Crossing the Bridge Noodles, a Yunnan specialty (Photo: @zhilulu0919ii)

Yak Beef Hotpot

Yak Beef Hotpot is made with Himalayan beef, known for its fragrant and tender texture, suitable for grilling, hotpot, or stews. Locals in Lệ Giang Ancient Town often enjoy this hotpot with vegetables and mushrooms, creating a unique and flavorful dish.

• Price: 630,000 VND.

Baba Cake

Baba Cake, or Lệ Giang Baba Cake, is not filled with turtle meat as its name might suggest. Similar to fried dough or rice cakes, it comes in both savory and sweet varieties, made from flour and water, shaped into round pieces about 20cm in diameter, and topped with sesame or sugar before being evenly fried on both sides.

• Price: 180,000 VND.

Lệ Giang Baba Cake (Photo: @jtravel)

Chicken and Potato Hotpot

A traditional dish of the Naxi ethnic group, the Chicken and Potato Hotpot in Lệ Giang Ancient Town is a standout delicacy. It is typically made with free-range chicken, resulting in firm, sweet, and chewy meat that pairs perfectly with potatoes, creating an irresistible hotpot flavor.

• Price: 637,000 VND.

Mung Bean Jelly

A famous snack in Lệ Giang, Mung Bean Jelly is made from ground mung beans mixed with water and stirred in a pan until it turns opaque and thick. Once cooled, it is refrigerated and served with a mix of seasonings like scallions, garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil. It’s especially refreshing during the summer.

• Price: 90,000 VND.

Famous Mung Bean Jelly snack in Lệ Giang (Photo: NgocHoang)

What to buy when visiting Lệ Giang Ancient Town

Dongba Carpet

Lệ Giang is one of the few places that still preserves and develops Dongba culture, a religious essence closely tied to Tibetan culture, offering visitors an authentic glimpse into local traditions.

When visiting Lệ Giang Ancient Town, travelers can purchase Dongba carpets as souvenirs. These handmade rugs are woven from fine wool unique to the region and adorned with handwritten scripts or auspicious patterns.

• Price: 350,000 - 700,000 VND.

Lệ Giang Snow Tea

Lệ Giang Snow Tea grows at altitudes above 4,000 meters, with a snow-white appearance and a bittersweet taste. Besides its cooling and health benefits, it also aids in detoxification, reducing blood fat, and stabilizing blood sugar.

• Price range: 179,000 - 2,200,000 VND.

Buying snow tea during a trip to Lijiang (Photo: @Tratienvua)

Dongba wood carvings

Similar to Dongba carpets, Dongba wood carvings also reflect the unique cultural traits of the local people. These artworks are meticulously and delicately carved from rhododendron wood, making them meaningful souvenirs when visiting the ancient town of Lijiang.

• Reference price: 1,147,000 VND.

Lijiang Snow Peach

A unique peach variety from the Lijiang region, packed with high nutritional and mineral content. The snow peach boasts a refreshingly cool flavor, making it a must-try local delicacy and a perfect gift for loved ones when visiting the ancient town.

• Price range: 70,000 - 170,000 VND/kg.

Lijiang Snow Peach, a specialty of the ancient town (Photo: @bcd_fruits)

Xiaoliangshan Apples

Xiaoliangshan apples are a unique local produce, known for their vibrant red color and sweet, refreshing, juicy flavor. These apples are rich in minerals and vitamins, making them a meaningful gift for family and friends when traveling to Lijiang.

• Reference price: 100,000 - 170,000 VND/kg.

Explore Lijiang Ancient Town combined with other nearby destinations

Kunming

Traveling to Lijiang Ancient Town is often combined with Kunming due to convenient transportation and numerous international flights from Vietnam. Although Lijiang is quite far from Kunming, approximately 518 km, traveling between the two locations is relatively easy with domestic flights and high-speed trains, taking about 1 hour on average. By car, the journey takes around 6 hours.

Distance from Kunming to Lijiang

As the capital of Yunnan Province, Kunming is a famous Chinese tourist destination known for its poetic landscapes, majestic mountains, and spring-like weather year-round. It is also a cultural hub with unique attractions such as Jinma Biji (Jinbi) Square, featuring traditional ethnic architecture, the Golden Temple, Daguan Pavilion, Dianchi Lake, the Stone Forest, and Yuantong Mountain.

Traveling to Kunming (Photo: @xlth)

Dali

Dali consistently ranks among the top destinations in Yunnan, which is why visitors often combine trips to Lijiang Ancient Town with Dali. Located about 200 km apart, travelers can easily commute between Dali and Lijiang in 2-3 hours by car, train, or high-speed rail.

Distance from Dali to Lijiang

Fans of the movie 'Where the Wind Blows' will undoubtedly remember Dali for its serene landscapes and romantic coastline stretching to the horizon. Dali is also renowned for its famous attractions, including the Ancient City of Dali, once a prosperous kingdom of the Bai people, Erhai Lake, Cangshan Mountain Range, and Chongsheng Temple.

Traveling to Dali

Shangrila

Shangrila (Shangri-La) is located in the northwest of Yunnan Province, nestled deep within the Himalayas. This mystical destination is less than 190 km from Lijiang Ancient Town, reachable by car in just over 3 hours. Its unique geographical position makes it a cultural crossroads between Yunnan, Tibet, and Sichuan.

Distance from Shangrila to Lijiang

Shangrila is often referred to as a 'mini Tibet,' featuring towering snow-capped mountains, crystal-clear lakes, and endless grasslands. Visitors can immerse themselves in unique cultural experiences at Dukezong Moonlight Ancient Town, Yila Grassland, Balagzong - the Kingdom of Shambhala, Meili Snow Mountain, and Songzanlin Monastery.

Traveling to Shangrila (Photo: @travel2china88)

Travel tips for Lijiang Ancient Town

According to self-guided travel experiences in Lijiang, there are some unwritten rules to keep in mind when visiting this ancient town.

• Clothing: Each season in Lijiang Ancient Town has distinct temperatures and weather. Besides preparing suitable clothing for the season, travelers should bring sports shoes, umbrellas, and hats for walking. Additionally, there are many spots around Lijiang offering traditional Yunnan ethnic costumes for photoshoots, often including makeup, hairstyling, and accessories.
• Visa: Vietnamese travelers visiting Lijiang independently must apply for a Chinese visa. The processing time is at least 15-20 days if done independently or 5-7 days through a service. Plan your visa application and results collection to align with booking accommodations and flights. Tour packages to Lijiang Ancient Town typically include visa assistance.
• Travel Etiquette: Respecting local culture and regulations is crucial wherever you travel. In Lijiang, a quiet and clean ancient town, maintaining cultural respect is especially important.
• Travel SIM: China often blocks foreign social media platforms. A travel SIM ensures uninterrupted communication and internet access. It’s advisable to purchase a travel SIM from Vietnam to avoid time-consuming registration processes in China.
• Camera and Tripod: Known as one of China’s four great ancient towns, Lijiang offers countless photo opportunities. Always carry a camera, fully charged phones, and a tripod to capture every moment.
• Learn Basic Chinese Phrases: While written Chinese can be challenging, spoken Chinese is relatively easier to pick up due to similarities with Vietnamese. Learning simple phrases for directions and prices is helpful, as locals rarely use foreign languages.

For those who have explored Lijiang Ancient Town, it’s undoubtedly a 'must-visit' destination. The beauty of its traditional culture and preserved historical value makes Lijiang a dream stop on any journey through vast China.

Author: Dung

Image Source: Dung & Internet