4 Days Lijiang Highlights & Tiger Leaping Gorge Hiking Tour

Day-by-day Itinerary

1. Day 1: Lijiang Arrival, Lijiang Ancient Town Tour
   Visit the Spectacular Ancient Ethnic Architecture

   Welcome to Lijiang! Upon arrival, the local guide and driver will transfer you to the hotel in Lijiang Ancient Town. As a World Heritage-listed site, Lijiang Old Town boasts spectacular ancient architecture and diverse minority cultures.

   

   After checking in, visit Mufu Palace, one of the iconic attractions of Lijiang Ancient Town. There are numerous majestic architectures with exquisite carvings, reflecting the excellent architectural art of ancient times. Climb up to the Sanqing Hall to overlook the panoramic view of Lijiang Ancient Town and the wonderful natural landscape.

   Then explore the Sifang Street Square, the center of Lijiang Ancient Town. It is a great place to buy beautiful souvenirs, taste delicious Yunnan cuisine and watch Naxi traditional performances.

   

   Optional activity: Climb Lion Hill for a panoramic view of the magnificent ancient city. At the top of the hill, you can visit the five-story Wanggu Tower, the symbol of Lijiang.

   Meal: Lunch

   Accommodation: in Lijiang Ancient Town

2. Day 2: Lijiang Highlights Tour
   Explore the Profound Naxi Historical and Cultural Heritage

   After breakfast, start today’s Lijiang tour from Yuhu Village at the foot of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. Explore the Naxi dwellings built of stones and admire the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain in the distance.

   

   Next head to Baisha Village, one of the birthplaces of the Naxi minority. Observe the most famous Baisha Mural Paintings here, which portray the religious culture and social life of the ancient Naxi people.

   Optional activity: Learn to make the colorful Baisha embroidery from a local craftsman. Baisha embroidery is a traditional handicraft of the Naxi people, known for its exquisite patterns.

   After lunch, move to Shuhe Ancient Town with a history of over 1,000 years. There are many traditional Naxi ancient architectures, showing the history and customs of the Naxi people. Also watch traditional Naxi folk performances at the square to experience the lively life of the locals.

   

   Later go to the Dongba Culture Museum. There are over 12,000 artifacts, including Dongba texts, Dongba paintings, ritual objects, and living tools of the Naxi people. Finally, walk to Black Dragon Pool Park with beautiful mountains and clear water. Stand on the bridge and admire the magnificent views of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain in the distance.

   Meal: Breakfast + Lunch

   Accommodation: in Lijiang Ancient Town

3. Day 3: Lijiang to Tiger Leaping Gorge, Hiking Tour
   Marvel at the Breathtaking Canyon Views

   Today, start your exciting Tiger Leaping Gorge hiking tour. You will drive from Lijiang to Tiger Leaping Gorge in Shangri-La. On the way, stop at the spectacular First Bend of the Yangtze River. The Yangtze River turns suddenly at Shasongbi Village in Shangri-La, forming a rare V-shaped bend. Capture the rolling hills, lush forests, and fancy Danxia landform.

   Continue driving to Tiger Leaping Gorge, which is known as one of the world’s top ten classic trekking destinations. The starting point of the hike is a Naxi Family Guesthouse, which offers a good place to rest.

   

   The first section of the hike is the Upper Tiger Leaping Gorge section, which is about 11 kilometers long and takes 3-5 hours. Along the way, marvel at breathtaking pictures of the roaring rivers and towering cliffs.

   The 28 Bends is a challenging section of the hike. This section is characterized by poor road conditions and steep slopes. As you stand at the end of the ridge, you will see the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain in the distance. Passing through this section, you will reach the Tea Horse Guesthouse and have a rest here. Relax in the serene atmosphere and enjoy the wonderful canyon sunset.

   Meal: Breakfast

   Accommodation: Tea Horse Guesthouse

   

4. Day 4: Tiger Leaping Gorge Hiking Tour, Lijiang Departure
   Explore Fun Guesthouses and Immerse in the Diverse Gorge Scenery

   Your hiking adventure continues today. The second section of the hike is a descend hike that is easier than the first day. The trail is about 10 kilometers long, which takes about 4 to 5 hours. Along the way, you will pass by a number of guesthouses, villages, and waterfalls. Also, admire the breathtaking scenery of the different sections of the gorge.

   Hiking route today: Halfway Guesthouse - Tina’s Guesthouse - Teacher Zhang’s Guesthouse - approach Middle Tiger Leaping Gorge at the bottom.

   Start from the Halfway Guesthouse, a great spot to enjoy the views of the canyon. The second stop is Tina's Guesthouse, where you can have lunch and take a short break.

   

   The next stop is Teacher Zhang’s Guesthouse, located on the essential road to Middle Tiger Leaping Gorge. Take a stroll here to enjoy the beautiful picture of the surrounding mountains and blue sky. The highlight of the today is Middle Tiger Leaping Gorge, which is the narrowest section of the river. There is a prominent rock lying in the middle of the river. On the way, observe the raging river through the narrow gorge and feel the power of nature.

   After the visit, hike back to Teacher Zhang’s Guesthouse. The 4-day Lijiang and Shangri-La Tiger Leaping Gorge hiking tour ends here. The local guide and driver will escort you to the Lijiang airport for your departure.

   Good to know: The hiking tour usually ends around 3:00 pm, so it is recommended that you schedule a flight after 8:00 pm.

   Meal: Breakfast

   Accommodation: N/A