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Lijiang Old Town, also known as Dayan Town, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Yunnan Province, China.
It’s famous for its well-preserved old town architecture, network of canals, and laid-back atmosphere. The town is centered around the Yuquan River, which splits into three waterways that flow throughout the town.
These canals are lined with traditional wooden houses and weeping willows, and many boast beautiful flowers growing along the banks. This is why Lijiang Old Town has earned the nickname “The Venice of the East”.
The flowers along the canals are not just for show – they play an important role in the town’s ecosystem. The flowers help to filter the water in the canals, and they also provide habitat for a variety of insects and birds. The most common flowers that you’ll see along the canals are roses, marigolds, and impatiens. The best time to see the flowers in bloom is in the spring and summer, but there are always some flowers in bloom year-round.
The best time to witness the flowers in full bloom in Lijiang Old Town is during the spring and summer months. Typically, from April to June, you’ll encounter a vibrant display of blooms lining the canals, including roses, marigolds, and impatiens, enhancing the town’s picturesque charm.
To truly appreciate the beauty and charm of Lijiang Old Town, you’ll want to allocate at least two to three days for your visit. This timeframe allows you to leisurely explore the ancient streets, wander along the canals, visit cultural landmarks like the Mu Residence and the Wangu Tower, and perhaps even venture into the surrounding scenic areas such as the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. Additionally, having a couple of days gives you the flexibility to soak in the laid-back atmosphere of the town without feeling rushed, ensuring a more enjoyable and fulfilling experience.
Besides admiring the beautiful flowers along the canals, there are several other activities to enjoy near Lijiang Old Town’s picturesque waterways:
Stroll Through Ancient Streets: Take a leisurely walk through the narrow cobblestone streets of Lijiang Old Town, lined with traditional wooden houses, boutique shops, and charming cafes. Explore the intricate network of alleyways and discover hidden gems around every corner.
Visit Cultural Sites: Explore cultural landmarks such as the Mu Residence (Mu’s Mansion), a well-preserved complex of traditional Naxi architecture, and the Wangu Tower, offering panoramic views of the town and surrounding mountains.
Try Local Cuisine: Indulge in the local cuisine at one of the many restaurants and eateries scattered throughout the old town. Sample delicious dishes like Naxi fried rice cakes, yak meat hotpot, and butter tea while enjoying the ambiance of traditional courtyard dining.
Experience Traditional Culture: Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of the Naxi ethnic minority by attending a traditional music and dance performance or participating in a cultural workshop where you can learn about traditional crafts like embroidery and woodcarving.
Take a Boat Ride: Hire a boat and leisurely cruise along the canals, taking in the serene beauty of the surroundings from a different perspective. Enjoy the tranquil atmosphere as you glide past ancient architecture and blooming flowers.
Photography: Capture the beauty of Lijiang Old Town and its flower-lined canals through photography. From the charming architecture to the vibrant colors of the flowers, there are plenty of opportunities for stunning shots.
Relaxation and Reflection: Take some time to simply relax and soak in the peaceful ambiance of the canals. Find a quiet spot along the water’s edge, sit back, and reflect on the beauty of your surroundings.
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WHY WE RECOMMEND: The property is beautifully decorated and the staff are friendly. It is set in a quiet neighborhood of Lijiang Ancient Town, 656 feet from Mufu Palace, 1640 feet from Square Street, 0.6 mi from Water Wheels and 0.9 mi from Black Dragon Pond. It is 0.6 mi from Lijiang Bus Terminal, 4.3 mi from Lijiang Railway Station, while Lijiang Sanyi Airport is 14 mi away.
WHY WE RECOMMEND: Centrally located in Lijiang Ancient Town, Xilu Xiaoxie Inn features cozy accommodations with traditional Chinese furnishings and modern facilities.
WHY WE RECOMMEND: The location is very nice and quiet. Right on the water, but far from the noise and only a short walking distance to the attractions in the ancient city.
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