If you’re visiting Lijiang for the first time and prefer slow, meaningful travel over rushing between tourist spots, this 3-day Lijiang itinerary is for you. No Jade Dragon Snow Mountain this time—just alleys, teahouses, local flavors, and cultural gems.
Day 1: Discovering Lijiang Old Town
Where to Stay:
Choose a traditional courtyard inn near the South Gate of Lijiang Old Town. Many are run by Naxi locals and offer a peaceful stay with wooden architecture, inner courtyards, and the occasional cat on your windowsill.
Morning:
Forget the map and explore Qiyi Street on foot.
- Stop by Baisha Bookstore for Dongba-script souvenirs.
- Enjoy coffee at Dayan Café, with views of street performers below.
Lunch:
Try Ama’s Cured Ribs Hotpot — a local favorite. Add yam and tofu, and enjoy it with plum wine.
Afternoon:
Visit Mufu Mansion (60 RMB) for Naxi history and beautiful hilltop views. Then stroll toward the Big Waterwheel, exploring craft shops along the way.
Evening:
Skip noisy bars. Head to Youjian Music Bar for acoustic live music in a cozy space. Great for solo travelers or couples.
Day 2: Shuhe Old Town & Black Dragon Pool
Morning:
Take a 15-minute ride to Shuhe Ancient Town, a quieter version of Lijiang Old Town.
Recommended spots:
- Calla Lily Café – Water views and sunshine.
- Horseback ride on part of the Tea Horse Road.
- Silver ring workshop – Make your own with a Naxi artisan.
Lunch:
At Songzanlin Courtyard, try grilled Naxi-style fish and chilled chickpea jelly.
Afternoon:
Back in town, visit Black Dragon Pool Park — clear water, mountain views, and peaceful paths.
Next door, stop by the Dongba Culture Museum if you’re curious about ethnic scripts and heritage.
Evening:
Explore hidden lanes behind Sifang Street for local night snacks:
- Fresh flower cakes
- Yak skewers
- Savory Lijiang baba
Day 3: Baisha Village and Naxi Culture
Morning:
Head to Baisha Old Town, the most authentic stop of the trip.
Don’t miss:
- Baisha murals – faded but powerful.
- Old banyan tree and alleyways – atmospheric and photogenic.
- Dongba script class – turn your name into ancient writing and mail it as a postcard.
Lunch:
Dine at Baisha Kitchen or Cloud Restaurant, both with mountain views and refined Naxi dishes.
Afternoon:
Back in Lijiang, visit:
- Xieyang Alley for traditional-style photography
- Yigulou rooftop café for a coffee and sweeping old-town views
Wrap up your trip at Huayu Teahouse with rose pu’er tea and local storytelling. A soft, reflective goodbye to Lijiang.
Final
This slow-paced Lijiang trip offers:
- Authentic Naxi culture
- Lesser-known ancient towns
- Hands-on craft experiences
- Travel that feels personal, not commercial
If you’re looking for a journey that touches the heart instead of checking boxes, this is your Lijiang.
