Explore Lijiang, China

With a history dating back at least 800 years and possibly as far back as the Song Dynasty, Lijiang guards the division of the Jade River into three streams, from which canals and waterways were cut to flow along the old town streets. A book by an American commissioner brought the town some fame in the 19th century and foreign tourists began to return in the 1980s. Local people opened restaurants and cafes, which helped attract people to the lifestyle and beautiful surroundings. The well preserved Lijiang Old Town, a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site, is home to the famous Bar Street, where ancient traditions and modern fashions are combined. The local Naxi People, one of China’s 55 ethnic groups, are from this area, and you can see their influence in the food and culture. Lijiang is an area of natural beauty, offering scenic locations including the stunning Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, Black Dragon Pool and Tiger Leaping Gorge.