Lijiang: Yulong Snow Mountain, Blue Moon Valley & Show

If you’re looking for a well-rounded day trip from Lijiang that combines breathtaking scenery with cultural insights, this tour offers a compelling choice. It’s designed to take you into the heart of the Yulong Snow Mountain area, with highlights like a cable car ride to the glacier park, a serene walk through Blue Moon Valley, and a vibrant performance showcasing Naxi traditions.

What we love about this experience are three things: the chance to see Yulong Snow Mountain’s stunning peaks up close, the peaceful beauty of Blue Moon Valley’s mineral-rich waters, and the cultural richness of the Impression Lijiang show. Plus, the convenience of transport and a guide means you get to focus on enjoying each moment.

However, a potential consideration is the altitude — reaching over 4,500 meters — which might be challenging for some travelers with respiratory issues or altitude sickness. This tour is best suited to those who enjoy natural beauty, cultural performances, and are prepared for moderate physical activity at high elevation.

Key Points

• Stunning Views: The trip offers incredible vistas of snow-capped peaks and blue lakes that look like scenes from a postcard.
• Cultural Experience: The Impression Lijiang performance brings local Naxi traditions to life in an engaging way.
• Convenience and Value: All transportation, entrance fees, and a guide are included, making the day hassle-free.
• Altitude Considerations: The cable car and mountain elevation require some acclimatization and physical readiness.
• Family Friendly: It’s suitable for children over 1.2 meters, though keep in mind that younger kids pay only for transportation and a half meal.
• Additional Expenses: Some extras, like the electric car in Blue Moon Valley or personal expenses, aren’t included.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Day Itinerary

Starting Out in the Yulong Snow Mountain Scenic Area

This trip kicks off with a scenic drive from Lijiang to the Yulong Snow Mountain area. Once there, the first highlight is the cable car ride up to the glacier park. This isn’t just a transport method; it’s a jaw-dropping experience. You’ll ascend from 3,356 meters to 4,506 meters in a matter of minutes, passing through forests and snow-dusted landscapes. Many reviews mention that the ride is smooth and offers spectacular views of the surrounding peaks, making it a photo-worthy moment.

A real plus here is the guide’s attention to safety — a small oxygen bottle is provided, which many travelers find reassuring at high altitude. The cable car is a quick way to access the snow zone without the exhausting hike, so even those with limited mobility can enjoy the spectacle.

Ganhaizi and the Alpine Meadows

Next, you visit Ganhaizi — a vast, lush meadow at the foot of the mountains. It’s a peaceful spot, especially under a clear blue sky. Here, you can see cattle and horses grazing peacefully and take in the sweeping views of the snow-capped peaks. The scenery is picture-perfect, with wildflowers adding splashes of color and a gentle breeze rustling the grass.

Many visitors note that Ganhaizi feels like stepping into a painting, with some describing it as a “soft green carpet” that stretches endlessly. It’s an ideal place for a relaxed walk or simply soaking in the serene atmosphere.

Blue Moon Valley: A Mineral-Rich Marvel

From Ganhaizi, the tour continues to Blue Moon Valley, famous for its vivid blue waters. The lake’s mineral content gives it a striking hue, especially in the sunlight, creating a gradient from turquoise to deep blue. The reflection of Yulong Snow Mountain in the water offers a perfect photo opportunity, with many reviewers marveling at the surreal beauty.

A minor drawback here is the electric car fee — it’s not included in the package, so if you want to avoid walking, you’ll need to pay extra. Still, the walk along the lakeshore is worth it for the views and the tranquility of the environment.

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Cultural Insights with Impression Lijiang

In the afternoon, you’ll experience the Impression Lijiang show, a captivating live performance set against the backdrop of the snow-capped mountains. The show showcases Naxi culture through dance, music, and storytelling, often leaving viewers moved by its authenticity and energy.

Many reviewers highlight how this performance is a highlight of the trip — it offers a meaningful glimpse into local traditions and the resilience of the Naxi people. The performers are highly skilled, and the setting makes it even more special. Check the schedule in advance, as show times can vary.

The Climb to the Peak

For those wanting a closer look at the glaciers, the tour includes a ride on the Yak Meadow Cableway. This quick ascent takes you to over 4,680 meters, providing panoramic views of the surrounding snowfields and glaciers. Standing at the top, many say they’re struck by how vast and pristine the ice formations are — a moment of true awe that captures the power of nature.

Practical Aspects and Tips

This tour is designed for comfort and safety. The guide will handle all entrance fees, transportation, and coordination, so you can focus on the scenery. The group size tends to be manageable, allowing for personalized attention and easier navigation.

Remember to wear comfortable shoes and warm clothing; high-altitude mountain weather can change quickly. Bringing a camera is essential for capturing the incredible vistas, and a small bottle of oxygen is provided, though additional bottles can be purchased if needed.

What’s Not Included and Extra Costs

A few expenses are outside the package price. The electric car at Blue Moon Valley requires an extra fee if you prefer not to walk, and the Lijiang Ancient Town maintenance fee isn’t covered. Personal expenses, souvenirs, or optional activities also fall outside the basic package.

The tour’s value lies in its inclusive approach — covering entrance fees, transportation, a guide, lunch, and even a cold suit for warmth. This makes it a good choice for travelers who want a seamless experience without worrying about hidden costs.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for nature lovers eager to see China’s stunning mountain scenery, as well as culture enthusiasts interested in Naxi traditions. It’s suitable for families with children over 1.2 meters and active travelers comfortable at high elevations.

However, those with heart, respiratory, or altitude issues should consult their doctor before booking. The physical aspects of the cable rides and high-altitude exposure mean it’s better suited to relatively healthy travelers.

Final Thoughts

This tour of Yulong Snow Mountain and Blue Moon Valley offers a well-balanced mix of natural beauty, culture, and convenience. The highlight for many is the chance to see breathtaking mountain landscapes that look straight out of a dream, complemented by authentic cultural performances.

The inclusion of transportation, guides, and entrance fees makes it a good value for those wanting to maximize their time and minimize hassle. It’s ideal for travelers seeking a comprehensive and memorable day out from Lijiang, especially if you want to experience the majestic scenery without the stress of planning every detail yourself.

While the high altitude and extra costs at Blue Moon Valley are considerations, the overall experience promises stunning views and meaningful cultural encounters that will likely stay with you long after the trip.

FAQ

How long does the tour typically last?
The tour generally lasts a full day, starting in the morning and wrapping up in the late afternoon or early evening, depending on the schedule.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children over 1.2 meters are recommended to book at the adult price. Very young children pay only the fare and half the meal, with other expenses paid at their own expense.

What should I wear for this tour?
Bring comfortable shoes, warm clothing, and a camera. Weather at high altitudes can change quickly, so layer up, especially if you plan to go to the glacier peak.

Are there any optional activities?
Yes, the electric car fee in Blue Moon Valley and personal expenses are not included and are considered optional extras.

Can I purchase additional oxygen if needed?
Yes, additional oxygen bottles can be bought at the Yulong Snow Mountain Oxygen Center, which can be helpful if you feel altitude effects.

Is it easy to access the scenic spots?
The cable cars and walking paths make it manageable, though some areas, like Blue Moon Valley, may require walking or paying extra for electric vehicles.

How do I prepare for the high altitude?
Stay hydrated, avoid strenuous activity immediately upon arrival, and consider the small oxygen bottle provided. If you have respiratory or heart issues, consult your doctor beforehand.

This Yulong Snow Mountain and Blue Moon Valley tour combines the best of natural scenery with cultural richness, all wrapped up in a convenient package that makes exploring southwestern China a breeze. It’s a memorable way to experience the grandeur of the Himalayas without the hassle of organizing each detail yourself.

You can check availability for your dates here: