Why Is Jade Dragon Snow Mountain So Famous?
Jade Dragon Snow Mountain (玉龙雪山, Yulong Snow Mountain) is often called the calling card of Yunnan tourism. Rising dramatically just north of Lijiang Old Town, it is the southernmost snow-capped mountain in the Northern Hemisphere.
The range has 13 peaks, which stretch like a dragon lying across the sky. Its main summit, Shanzidou (扇子陡), reaches 5,596 meters. Unlike Mount Everest, which has been climbed many times, Shanzidou has never been conquered by humans due to its steep cliffs and extreme environment. This untouched peak adds mystery, making the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain both a natural wonder and a cultural symbol of Yunnan.
What Makes Jade Dragon Snow Mountain Sacred to the Naxi People?
Before heading up the mountain, it helps to learn about the Naxi people, the main ethnic group of Lijiang. Their culture is deeply tied to the snow-capped peaks.
- Dongba Script: The Naxi still use the Dongba pictographs, the world’s only living pictographic writing system. You’ll see them on murals, manuscripts, and even souvenirs in Lijiang. Each symbol reflects both daily life and spiritual beliefs.
- Prayer Flags (经幡): Colorful flags fluttering in the wind aren’t just decorations. Each color carries a meaning: blue for the sky, white for clouds, red for fire, green for water, yellow for earth. Together they represent harmony between people and nature.
- The Sacred Mountain: For the Naxi, Yulong Snow Mountain is more than scenery—it’s the embodiment of a guardian spirit. Visiting the mountain is like stepping into a landscape that carries centuries of faith, myths, and cultural memory.
What Are the Four Main Attractions of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain?
1. Glacier Park – Hiking on the Snow Mountain
- Highlights: At 4,500–4,700m, accessible via the main cable car. Wooden walkways lead across snow and ice with glaciers towering overhead.
- Best Season: January–May, when snow is thick and skies are clearest.
- Altitude & Oxygen Tips:
- Oxygen canisters are essential (buy in Lijiang Old Town to save money).
- Plan 1–3 bottles per person, depending on fitness.
- If you feel dizzy or weak, stop immediately, rest, or descend.
- Oxygen canisters are essential (buy in Lijiang Old Town to save money).
- Clothing & Gear: A waterproof/windproof jacket, gloves, sunglasses, and sunscreen are a must. Weather changes quickly at high altitude.
2. Blue Moon Valley (蓝月谷) – The Turquoise Lakes
- Highlights: Nicknamed “Little Jiuzhaigou”, this valley has four stunning lakes: Yuye, Jingtan, Lanyue, Tingtao. Depending on the light, the water shifts from jade to deep turquoise.
- How to Visit:
- Walk along the boardwalk for the best photo spots.
- Take the electric shuttle car if you prefer less walking.
- Walk along the boardwalk for the best photo spots.
3.Spruce Meadow (云杉坪) – A Forest in the Clouds
- Highlights: At 3,200m, it’s surrounded by pristine spruce forest, often misty and mysterious. According to legend, it was a romantic site where Naxi lovers pledged eternal devotion.
- Access: Reached via a smaller cable car.
- Experience: A relaxed area for walking, nature photography, and enjoying the forest calm.
4. Yak Meadow (牦牛坪) – Grasslands Beneath the Thirteen Peaks
- Highlights: At 3,600m, this meadow offers the closest panoramic view of the 13 peaks of Yulong Snow Mountain. Yaks graze freely in alpine pastures.
- Access: Longer cable car ride required.
- Tips: In summer, be careful of leeches in grassy or damp areas.
What About the Impression Lijiang Show?
If you want a cultural experience beyond scenery, don’t miss Impression Lijiang (印象丽江):
- What It Is: A large outdoor performance directed by Zhang Yimou, featuring 500+ performers from Naxi, Yi, and Tibetan communities.
- Setting: Staged at 3,100m, with Jade Dragon Snow Mountain as the dramatic backdrop.
- Highlights: Drumming, dancing, and rituals that showcase Yunnan’s ethnic traditions.
- Schedule: Usually two shows daily—check ahead for exact times.
How Should You Plan Your Visit?
With four major attractions, it’s impossible to see everything in a single day. Choose wisely:
- Relaxed Travelers: Pick one attraction (e.g., Glacier Park / Blue Moon Valley), then return to Lijiang.
- Standard Visitors: Two attractions is the sweet spot (most popular combo: Glacier Park + Blue Moon Valley).
- Energetic Tourists: Up to three attractions in one day—but it’s exhausting at this altitude.
👉 Tip: Don’t rush. Quality over quantity makes for the best Yulong Snow Mountain experience.
Where to Stay When Visiting Yulong Snow Mountain
- Lijiang Old Town (丽江古城): Lively, full of boutique hotels, restaurants, and nightlife. Best for first-timers who want convenience and culture.
- Shuhe Ancient Town (束河古镇): Quieter, less touristy, with traditional charm. Ideal for those seeking a balance of comfort and authenticity.
- Baisha Ancient Town (白沙古镇): Peaceful, with ancient murals and Naxi village life. Perfect if you want a slow-paced, crowd-free stay.
How to Book Tickets for Jade Dragon Snow Mountain
All tickets are real-name registered—you’ll need your passport.
- Where to Book:
- Official Lijiang Tourism Group WeChat mini program (丽江旅游集团小程序).
- Major travel apps like Ctrip (携程).
- Official Lijiang Tourism Group WeChat mini program (丽江旅游集团小程序).
- What to Book:
- Entrance ticket + specific cable car (Glacier Park, Spruce Meadow, Yak Meadow).
- Optional: Impression Lijiang show.
- Optional: On-site electric shuttle cars.
- Entrance ticket + specific cable car (Glacier Park, Spruce Meadow, Yak Meadow).
- When to Book: During peak seasons (Chinese New Year, May Day, National Day), secure tickets 1–2 weeks in advance.
Final Tips for Visiting Yulong Snow Mountain
- Acclimatize First: Spend a night in Lijiang before heading up.
- Gear Up: Oxygen canisters, warm clothing, sunscreen, and rainproof layers are musts.
- Health First: If altitude symptoms worsen, stop, rest, or descend.
- Plan Wisely: Don’t try to do everything – enjoy at your own pace.
- Respect the Culture: Remember, this is a sacred mountain for the Naxi people.
Why Visit Jade Dragon Snow Mountain with Big Panda Tours?
Planning a Jade Dragon Snow Mountain trip yourself means juggling tickets, transport, and altitude challenges. With Big Panda Tours’ 7-Day Yunnan Group Tour, you can leave the logistics to us:
Includes Jade Dragon Snow Mountain (with guided support for Glacier Park & Blue Moon Valley)
Comfortable hotels selected for convenience and style
Professional local guides who understand Naxi culture
Stress-free booking—we handle tickets and transport
With our budget-friendly group tours, you can simply enjoy Yunnan’s breathtaking beauty while we take care of everything else.
Click here to learn more about our 7-Day Yunnan Tour.
