A vast expanse of stars, why not hide in the stunning autumn scenery of Lijiang?

Number of days：3 days
Time: August
Average cost: 2000 yuan
With whom: husband and wife
Updated: 2021.08.19

Live somewhere else. This saying has been embraced by countless people as a life motto, lived and practiced. Here, this somewhere else is particularly crucial. It must bring peace of mind, a place where restlessness fades away. And you, as if instantly forgetting everything, simply to be there.

A fleeting encounter a few years ago made me fall in love with Lijiang, and I've never forgotten it. In my dreams, I've returned here countless times, to the winding mountain roads of the ancient city. There, birds chirp, flowers bloom, and the bustle remains undimmed. The sun caresses every inch of my skin with infinite tenderness. In the distance, a vast sea of flowers blooms, and beneath the azure sky, the clouds resemble oversized marshmallows.

Different people have very different feelings about Lijiang. Some see it as just a place for a quick fling, a quick visit and then a goodbye. My long-standing love for Lijiang is a sentiment, a feeling so deep in my heart that it's hard to put into words. From the moment I left, I've felt a strong urge to return here, to this poetic habitat, the dream home of all wanderers.

No other place gives me such a strong sense of retreat. Only after experiencing the hustle and bustle of the world can one appreciate the preciousness of this tranquility. I finally understand why so many people are willing to give up everything in the big city to come here, rebuild their homes, and never care about the world again.

From the first time we met, to the time I've spent every year here, the days here are quiet and ordinary, unchanging. I long to conserve these peaceful days. Even if it's just sitting by the window, quietly watching the clouds, the occasional birds flying across the sky, the occasional wind ruffling my hair, it's a kind of happiness.

Hi, Lijiang, long time no see, I hope you're all well!

Over the years, I've explored many places with my feet.

But like the mountain wind that carries a thousand miles,

you are still my favorite.

Whenever I visit, I always want to stroll through the ancient city. Due to the epidemic, the ancient city no longer has the prosperity it once had.

However, this thousand-year-old city still holds its unique charm, and countless people travel thousands of miles just to witness its splendor. Walking through the streets of the ancient city, one feels not only a rich historical atmosphere, but also an unparalleled tranquility.

Ancient city walls, smooth cobblestone streets, shops lined with a dazzling array of handicrafts, snacks hawked along the streets, and fashionable young men and women carrying a variety of bags, all give the impression of a lively atmosphere.

This is a living ancient city. It is also the place where many people's dreams begin and a home where their hearts find peace. During the day, I stroll through every secluded alley in the ancient city, admiring the blue-tiled houses and mottled walls. Then, I go to a spacious courtyard, order a cup of hot tea or coffee, and quietly enjoy the passing of time.

Lishui Jinsha

You are a beautiful prose poem,

In every song and dance,

millennia of time have passed.

Memories are like a storyteller,

with a tone full of local accent,

and you are an indispensable part.

I'm so glad I came this time,

and you're still here.

Lishui Jinsha is located in Red Sun Square, only about 300 meters from the ancient city, very convenient.

Rui Palace and Langyuan. Listen to the music of the Emperor of Heaven, how many times have I heard it? It's like the human world, a new story of picking lotus. Willow waists slender, orioles chirping. Free and unrestrained in the mist and waves, who can restrain me? But the heavenly steps have already urged me to turn. But I ride the colorful phoenix, and the lotus looks askance. I wish I could attend this feast every year.

Watch them sometimes place their hands on their chests; sometimes gently touch their foreheads and caress their arms; sometimes they line up in a row; sometimes they split into three columns. It's like a game of hide-and-seek with friends, leaving us unable to avoid them.

In the revelry of dancing, they forget both the audience and themselves. They simply gave their all, transforming their movements to tell the moving poetic story of "Lishui Jinsha."

Rewatching "Lishui Jinsha" after so many years, I felt a renewed sense of emotion. I was struck by how time has changed, yet the place remains the same as before. The show has been improved upon, with even more dazzling lighting. The performance has been streamlined, but the stage presence remains just as stunning.

Dongba Valley Tea Horse Road Horseback Riding Ranch

A bit less bustling than the more well-known Lashi Lake, the Dongba Valley Horseback Riding Ranch, located within the Dongba Valley Park, is a crucial section of the Lijiang Tea Horse Road heading north to Tibet. Backed by Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, it offers many hidden gems along the way. The horseman even took photos for us. When we reached the finish line, ethnic minority artists were already waiting, singing a welcome song. The red bridge stood out against the green mountains, against a backdrop of blue sky and white clouds. Tourists were merrily chatting on the bridge, their laughter echoing through the mountains.

We also participated in their dance. Unlike the dance performances in the ancient city, this was a Lisu dance, very participatory. Accompanied by local music and dancing in the breeze, it was a truly worthwhile trip.

The park also features a charming pink wall, where we can take photos. With Jade Dragon Snow Mountain as the backdrop and the blue sky as the background, the photos look beautiful even without any retouching!

In addition to the pink castle, there is also a lake with snow-capped mountains reflected in the lake. Unknown flowers are already blooming by the lake. I really want to live here. It’s quiet and beautiful.

There are also RVs and cabins available within the scenic area. For convenience, we chose to stay here. The homestay's decor is modern, simple, and elegant, while also carefully integrating the local characteristics of Lijiang, making it instantly clear that you're in Lijiang.

Backed by snow-capped mountains and facing the lake, the entire B&B is a single-family homestay, very private and spacious. The room has a large floor-to-ceiling window with a view of the lake. It feels worth the trip!

If life is a journey, then no matter how prosperous or desolate it is, it is all fleeting, and what remains in the end is just the joy of enjoying the scenery. This trip to Lijiang was wonderful. The scenery was just as I remembered it, and I encountered new things along the way. I think I'll definitely come back next time!

Travel during special periods

1. For those traveling to Yunnan from non-key epidemic areas, the airline will show you a QR code before boarding and you need to fill out a form before boarding.

2. Wear a mask throughout the boarding process and the flight attendants will measure the temperature of passengers on the plane.

3. After arriving at the airport, you need to fill in the Yunnan Health Code again and leave only after one-on-one verification.

4. During your stay in Yunnan, you still need to wear a mask when entering and leaving public places. The hotel will also measure the temperature of guests staying in the hotel and disinfect the guest rooms.

5. For personal epidemic prevention, remember to bring more masks, disinfectant wipes, hand sanitizer, etc., and cooperate with temperature measurement in public places.

Things to note when visiting

1. Sunglasses, hats, parasols, and sun-protective clothing are all necessary when going out. The local UV coefficient is strong, unless you are not afraid of getting tanned.

2. Bring an umbrella and raincoat, as the weather is unpredictable and can change suddenly, so it's best to bring them with you in case of emergency.

3. The temperature difference between morning and evening in Lijiang is quite significant. It's hot during the day and cold at night, so you should still bring a coat to be careful of catching a cold.