Disappointed in Lijiang - Yulong

Question

Our Jade Dragon Snow Mountain tour was cancelled as the agency couldn't secure us tickets on the glacier park cable car and then couldn't secure us tickets on the other cable cars either. Tickets are allocated late at night, so it's very late and you're dealing with messages and it's too late to organise anything else.

So, you can book a tour months in advance and it's still a lottery as to whether you will go up the mountain. Very disorganised from the way the mountain is managed.

Fortunately trip.com is very quick with refunds, I got my full refund in the morning. But I've got a day to waste in Lijiang and not much to see here (been to Baisha, don't need more old town wandering, train schedules not conducive to a day trip to Dali.)

Answer

It’s understandable to feel disappointed with the situation at Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. The ticket allocation system for the glacier park cable car can indeed be frustrating, as it often operates on a lottery basis, even for tours booked months in advance. This can leave travelers with very little flexibility, especially if other cable car options are also unavailable.

Since your tour was cancelled and you’ve received a refund, you can still make the most of your day in Lijiang. While Baisha and the Old Town are well-trodden, there are other options within Lijiang or nearby that could provide a worthwhile experience:

Black Dragon Pool (Heilongtan Park): A serene park with traditional Chinese architecture and scenic views of the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain on a clear day. Great for photography and a peaceful walk.
Mu’s Residence (Mu Family Mansion): A historical mansion that provides insight into the local Naxi culture and history. Less crowded than Old Town.
Shuhe Ancient Town: A quieter alternative to Lijiang Old Town with charming cobbled streets, small cafes, and local crafts. It’s only about 20–30 minutes by taxi from the main town.
Local Naxi cultural experiences: Short visits to Naxi music performances, small local markets, or tea houses can be a relaxing way to spend a few hours.

If you are willing to explore slightly further, consider:

Baishui Terrace: Natural terraces with a view of the snow mountain, about an hour drive from Lijiang. A scenic alternative if the glacier cable car isn’t accessible.
Lashi Lake: Approximately 20 minutes from town, this lake offers boating opportunities and birdwatching, especially for migratory birds in certain seasons.
Day hiking or short trails around Yulong Village: Gentle trails provide mountain views and rural Naxi village experiences without requiring cable car access.

Even though the main attraction was missed, these alternatives can make your day in Lijiang enjoyable, providing cultural immersion, natural beauty, and some relaxation before your next destination.

Disappointed in Lijiang - Yulong

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