Yunnan Travel Diary – Lijiang & Shangri-La

Lijiang, for Jade Dragon Snow Mountain

Black Dragon Pool, witnessing the golden sunrise over Jade Dragon Snow Mountain.

Black Dragon Pool Park is located at the foot of Xiangshan Mountain in the north of Lijiang Ancient Town. Originally named Dragon King Temple, the park is home to numerous springs that converge into a pool, creating a picturesque landscape. Due to its beauty, it was granted the title of "Dragon God" by the emperors of the Qing Dynasty during the Jiaqing and Guangxu reigns, hence the name Black Dragon Pool. The park's crystal-clear spring water reflects the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, earning it the nickname "Jade Spring Park." Here, visitors can capture stunning views of the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, admire the ancient architecture within the park, and climb Xiangshan Mountain to overlook the ancient town. It is a key attraction within the ancient town.

Enter the park through the west gate and walk straight along the right side towards Suocui Bridge. By this time, the embankments on both ends of the bridge are already packed with layers of tourists, and the best viewing spots have long been occupied by photographers.

Although it was a sunny day, there was no morning glow, and the snow on the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain was sparse. As a result, the "Golden Mountain Sunrise" was not as breathtaking as imagined. Despite its fleeting moment, the sight still brought a touch of surprise, and I couldn’t help but hope that this golden sunrise would truly bring good luck!

The other scenery at Black Dragon Pool was rather ordinary. After bidding farewell to the park, we headed straight to the north gate of the ancient town and continued our journey to Baisha Ancient Town, hoping to catch more majestic and picturesque views of the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain.

Baisha Ancient Town, we gazed at the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain

From Baisha Ancient Town, you can see the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain more closely and clearly than from Black Dragon Pool.

Baisha Ancient Town is an essential part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Lijiang Ancient Town, and one of the important birthplaces of Naxi culture. To this day, it retains its original, rustic charm, making it the most authentic and well-preserved Naxi village. Sitting on the car heading toward Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, my desire to see it up close grows stronger with every passing moment.

If you want to gain a deeper understanding of Baisha Ancient Town, you must visit the Baisha Murals.

The murals are mainly housed in Dabaoji Palace and Liuli Hall, with Dabaoji Palace preserving 558 murals—the largest collection in Lijiang. These murals blend Han, Tibetan, and Naxi cultures, integrating various religious influences. They depict stories from Tibetan Buddhism, Confucianism, and Taoism, offering a fascinating glimpse into Lijiang's history and Naxi culture.

These murals are highly protected cultural relics, and photography of the originals is not allowed—only replicas can be photographed. To understand the stories behind the murals, you need to follow the tour guide. Otherwise, their meaning will remain a mystery.

Compared to the bustling crowds of Lijiang Ancient Town, Baisha Ancient Town feels much quieter. Yet, I find myself drawn to Baisha even more—it's the kind of place you visit once and long to return to.

Walking through its secluded alleys, I often pause to admire the traditional Naxi houses. Every now and then, a local villager dressed in traditional Naxi attire passes by, adding to the town’s timeless charm.

Lijiang Ancient Town - Dayan Ancient Town

From Lion Hill, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the ancient town beneath the snow-capped mountains.

We casually walked into a guesthouse and admired the graceful Jade Dragon Snow Mountain from their viewing platform.

Arriving at the Waterwheel Square signifies the start of a new journey.

Meili Snow Mountain

Bidding farewell to Lijiang, I set off for Shangri-La to witness another magnificent spectacle of the golden sunrise—Meili Snow Mountain.

Meili Snow Mountain is a sacred mountain in the hearts of the Tibetan people.

Head to Wunongding. Depart from Dukezong Ancient Town around 5 AM and return to the town around 2 PM.

Clear skies are the key to witnessing the golden sunrise. By the time I arrived, many tourists were already there.