Discovering Lijiang – A Journey of Nature, Culture, and Unexpected Thrills

Lijiang greeted us with crisp mountain air and an enchanting blend of tradition and adventure. Horseriding: One of our most memorable experiences was horse riding at Shashihai Wetland. With mountains in the distance, we trotted along quiet paths once used in the Ancient Tea Horse Road. The horses were gentle, the guides kind, and the scenery absolutely serene—it felt like riding through a living painting. It is kid friendly even for 9-year old. Tip: Bring along hat and apply lots of sunblock. Yulong Snow Mountain: Our next highlight was the majestic Yulong Snow Mountain. Taking the cable car up offered jaw-dropping views, the altitude was generally ok. The challenging piece was climbing up to the peak. Kids were able to race through the altitude with the help of the oxygen can. A cylinder was more than sufficient. The glacier sparkled under the sun, and we truly felt on top of the world. Amusement Park: Adding a touch of fun and friendly competition, we headed to Lei Yi Gu, where we tried our hand at a shooting game. It was unexpected and full of laughs, especially as we tried to beat each other’s scores. It added a playful twist to the trip and gave everyone a bit of adrenaline. Ancient town: Apart from Lijiang old town, we also visited several other ancient towns like Shuhe, Baisha etc. Generally the ancient old towns are more or less the same. These old towns are the ancient trade routes where the merchants will pass by to rest. Particularly preferred Yu Hu Chun and kids were able to “rent” sheep to walk around and carry it. Photography place: At Xiang Ba La, the atmosphere was welcoming. Photography lovers in our group were especially thrilled with our stops here and at Wen Ting. These areas offered postcard-perfect views—from traditional tiled rooftops to dramatic mountain backdrops and golden-hour light filtering through the trees. We took our time, capturing quiet moments and scenic wonders that felt almost surreal. Overall: Lijiang turned out to be more than just a pretty town. It was a rich blend of natural beauty, cultural exploration, and lighthearted family fun. Every moment, from riding horses to breathing in icy mountain air, added a new layer to the experience. It’s a place we’ll treasure for its depth, diversity, and unforgettable snapshots in time. #summervacay #familytrip