Overview
Key takeaway
UNESCO old town with cobblestone streets, canals, and Naxi wooden houses. Very touristy but atmospheric. Free entry (maintenance fee ¥50 for some areas).
Time & cost
Plan Half day to full day. Budget: Free. Hours: Always open.
Best for
Best for first-time Lijiang visitors who want a clear Half day to full day stop without guesswork.
Practical
PriceFree
DurationHalf day to full day
HoursAlways open
Getting thereWalk from city center; Didi to south gate
Tips
On site
Get lost in the side alleys away from the main drag.
Timing
Sunrise is magical and empty.
Also
Try Naxi barbecue at night.
Also
Avoid peak season (National Day).
Timing
Leave with hours in mind (Always open). Weekends and holidays need extra queue time.
Pay
Nearby stalls usually take Alipay or WeChat. Foreign-card terminals are rare — set up Alipay before you go.
Location & how to go
Lijiang Old Town, Lijiang
MetroIf there is no direct metro pin, ride metro to a central Lijiang hub, then transfer by bus or Didi to Lijiang Old Town.
BusWalk from city center; Didi to south gate
Taxi / DidiDidi or a licensed taxi is the simplest door-to-door. Set destination to “丽江古城” and pay in-app with Alipay/WeChat.
