Just got back from Lijiang, this lazy ancient town really has magic! I've put together a 5-day, 4-night slow travel guide to help you avoid the crowds and experience the purest moments in Lijiang

Just got back from Lijiang, this lazy ancient town really has magic! I've put together a 5-day, 4-night slow travel guide to help you avoid the crowds and experience the purest moments in Lijiang✨ 🏔️ Highlights - Beat the crowds and enjoy the tranquility of Dayan Ancient Town early in the morning - Experience intangible cultural heritage tie-dyeing in Shuhe Ancient Town - Climb Jade Dragon Snow Mountain to see the glacier wonders - Discover lesser-known photo spots with amazing shots 📅 Daily Itinerary Day 1: Stroll around Dayan Ancient Town ▪️ Visit Sifang Street at 7 AM to feel the ancient town without tourists ▪️ Explore the Mu Residence (ticket 40 RMB) to learn about Naxi Tusi culture ▪️ Afternoon tea recommendation: Rose Latte at "Two Cats Café" ▪️ Night tour of Wuyi Street, the "Ama Yi" restaurant in the alley is super authentic Day 2: In-depth experience in Shuhe ▪️ Listen to Naxi ancient music at the old teahouse by Qinglong Bridge ▪️ Try handmade paper making at "Dongba Paper Workshop" ▪️ Must-eat: cured pork rib hotpot at "Shuhe Huotang" ▪️ Go to Jiuding Longtan at dusk to capture sunset reflections Day 3: One-day tour of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain ▪️ Book Glacier Park cable car tickets 3 days in advance ▪️ Arrive at Blue Moon Valley before 10 AM ▪️ Oxygen tanks are cheaper at the ancient town pharmacy ▪️ After descending, head straight to "Yunxueli" for wild mushroom hotpot Day 4: Around Baisha Ancient Town ▪️ Visit the "Baisha Murals," Ming Dynasty art treasures ▪️ Horse riding experience in Yuhu Village (bargain down to 80 RMB/hour) ▪️ Off-the-beaten-path spot: Dongba Valley starry sky campsite ▪️ Dinner recommendation: "Naxi Xiyuan" for steamed chicken in a pot Day 5: Farewell at Black Dragon Pool ▪️ Best time for snow mountain reflections is 7-8 AM ▪️ Shop at Zhongyi Market for wild mushroom souvenirs ▪️ Have a plum wine at "Da Bing's Little House" before leaving 🍲 Must-eat list - Lijiang Baba (make sure to buy freshly baked!) - Chickpea jelly (from the old lady at Sifang Street) - Naxi barbecue (amazing with mint leaves) - Butter tea (the salty version is the authentic way) 📌 Practical Tips 1. Pulling luggage on the ancient town’s stone pavements is tough; backpacks are recommended 2. Sunscreen! The UV rays here can be brutal 3. When buying silverware, look for the "Lijiang 999" mark 4. June to August is the rainy season, always carry an umbrella 5. When taking ethnic portraits, remember to bargain; a 198 RMB package can be negotiated down to 150 RMB Never thought walking 20,000 steps a day in Lijiang could feel so comfortable—probably healed by the town’s lazy vibe~ Next time, I’ll bring my parents to visit again!