Bikes Rental in Lijiang

Lijiang, a UNESCO World Heritage city located in the northwest of Yunnan Province, is a fantastic destination for cyclists. Surrounded by majestic mountains, beautiful lakes, and ancient towns, cycling in Lijiang allows you to experience its natural beauty and cultural heritage in a unique way. Here are the best options for renting bikes and exploring Lijiang by bike.

Where to Rent Bikes in Lijiang

1. Lijiang Bike Rental

Located in the Old Town area, Lijiang Bike Rental offers a variety of bikes, including mountain bikes, city bikes, and electric bikes. They cater to both locals and tourists and provide rentals on a daily or hourly basis. This is one of the most popular bike rental shops in Lijiang for those who wish to explore the city or venture into the surrounding nature.

• Location: Lijiang Old Town
• Bikes Available: City bikes, mountain bikes, electric bikes
• Rental Options: Daily or hourly rentals

2. N’s Bike Rental

N’s Bike Rental is another well-known option in Lijiang, offering high-quality bikes and excellent customer service. They provide a range of bikes suited for different terrains, whether you want to cycle through the city streets or tackle more rugged mountain trails. The shop is known for its friendly staff and reliable bikes.

• Location: Central Lijiang (near the Old Town)
• Bikes Available: Mountain bikes, hybrid bikes, city bikes
• Rental Options: Flexible daily or hourly rentals

3. Hotels and Guesthouses

Many hotels and guesthouses in Lijiang offer bike rental services for their guests. If you’re staying in the Old Town or in nearby villages, check with your accommodation provider about bike rentals. Some hotels offer guided bike tours along with the rental service, making it a convenient option for exploring.

• Location: Many hotels and guesthouses around Lijiang Old Town
• Bikes Available: Generally city bikes or hybrid bikes
• Rental Options: Daily rentals, sometimes included with tours

4. Local Tour Agencies

Several local tour agencies in Lijiang provide bike rentals as part of their adventure packages. These agencies often offer guided bike tours to famous attractions like Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, Tiger Leaping Gorge, or the villages around Lijiang. If you’re new to the area or want a more structured experience, booking a bike through a tour agency might be the best option.

• Location: Around Lijiang Old Town and surrounding areas
• Bikes Available: Mountain bikes, city bikes, hybrid bikes
• Rental Options: Rentals with guided tours, package deals

How Much to Rent a Bike in Lijiang? (Price Estimates)

The cost of renting a bike in Lijiang depends on the type of bike and the duration of your rental. Below are some general price estimates:

1. City Bikes

• Hourly Rate: ¥15–¥30 per hour
• Daily Rate: ¥40–¥80 per day
• Weekly Rate: ¥250–¥500 per week

2. Mountain Bikes

• Hourly Rate: ¥30–¥60 per hour
• Daily Rate: ¥80–¥150 per day
• Weekly Rate: ¥400–¥800 per week

3. Electric Bikes

• Hourly Rate: ¥50–¥80 per hour
• Daily Rate: ¥150–¥250 per day
• Weekly Rate: ¥800–¥1,200 per week

Note: Prices can fluctuate depending on the season, bike model, and rental shop. It’s always a good idea to check the bike’s condition before renting and confirm the rental duration and price.

Lijiang Biking Tour Routes

Lijiang’s diverse landscape offers a variety of biking routes, from easy city tours to challenging mountain trails. Below are some of the top cycling routes in and around Lijiang.

1. Lijiang Old Town to Baisha Old Town

• Distance: 10–15 km (round trip)
• Difficulty: Easy
• Description: This is a relatively easy and scenic route that takes you from Lijiang Old Town to Baisha Old Town, passing through traditional Bai villages and lush farmland. Baisha is known for its ancient murals and peaceful atmosphere.

2. Lijiang to Tiger Leaping Gorge

• Distance: 70–90 km (one-way)
• Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
• Description: This challenging route takes you from Lijiang to Tiger Leaping Gorge, one of the deepest gorges in the world. The road to the gorge is winding, with some steep climbs and descents, making it a more strenuous ride, but the views are absolutely stunning.

3. Lijiang to Jade Dragon Snow Mountain

• Distance: 50–60 km (one-way)
• Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
• Description: Cycling to Jade Dragon Snow Mountain offers breathtaking views of the snow-capped peaks and alpine meadows. This route is slightly uphill and can be physically demanding, especially at higher altitudes, but it’s a great option for experienced cyclists.

4. Lijiang to Lugu Lake

• Distance: 150–180 km (one-way)
• Difficulty: Challenging
• Description: Lugu Lake, also known as the “Mother Lake,” is located on the border of Yunnan and Sichuan. Cycling from Lijiang to Lugu Lake takes you through remote mountain roads and offers stunning views of forests, lakes, and traditional Mosuo villages.

5. Lijiang to Wenhai Lake

• Distance: 20–30 km (round trip)
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Description: Wenhai Lake is located about 20 km from Lijiang and offers an easy to moderate cycling route. The lake is surrounded by beautiful scenery, and you can also enjoy a peaceful visit to local Naxi villages along the way.

6. Lijiang to Lashihai Lake

• Distance: 30–40 km (round trip)
• Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
• Description: Lashihai Lake is a beautiful area located to the west of Lijiang. The route is fairly easy and takes you through picturesque farmland, traditional villages, and scenic spots around the lake.

7. Lijiang to Tiger Leaping Gorge, Haba Snow Mountain, Baishuitai, Shangri-La

• Distance: 150–200 km (multi-day)
• Difficulty: Challenging
• Description: This multi-day cycling route takes you through some of the most iconic spots in the Lijiang region. You’ll cycle past Tiger Leaping Gorge, Haba Snow Mountain, Baishuitai (White Water Terrace), and finally reach Shangri-La, known for its Tibetan culture and stunning landscapes.

8. Lijiang to Lijiang Cycling Tour

• Distance: Variable, customizable
• Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
• Description: A city cycling tour of Lijiang allows you to explore the Old Town, local markets, and nearby scenic spots. This is ideal for those who want to explore the city at a more relaxed pace.

Lijiang Cycling Travel Tips

1. Check the Altitude: Some cycling routes around Lijiang, like those to Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, involve high altitudes. Make sure you’re prepared for the thinner air, and take it easy if you’re not used to altitude changes.
2. Bring Sun Protection: The sun can be intense in Lijiang, even in the cooler months. Wear sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself from UV rays.
3. Pack Hydration and Snacks: On longer rides, especially to places like Lugu Lake or Tiger Leaping Gorge, bring water and energy snacks to keep your energy levels up.
4. Wear Comfortable Clothing: Choose comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for cycling. Bring light layers, as the temperature can change quickly in the mountains.
5. Understand Local Traffic: Lijiang Old Town can be quite busy, so be cautious when cycling through narrow streets. Be respectful of pedestrians, and always follow traffic rules when riding on the roads.
6. Bike Maintenance: Ensure your rental bike is in good condition before setting off. Check the brakes, tires, and gears, especially if you plan on tackling more rugged trails.
7. Guided Tours: If you’re unfamiliar with the area, consider joining a guided bike tour. Many agencies offer bike rentals with guides who can show you hidden gems and provide local insights along the way.

Cycling in Lijiang offers a unique way to explore the region’s stunning natural beauty, ancient towns, and diverse culture. Whether you’re cycling through Lijiang’s historic Old Town, venturing to Tiger Leaping Gorge, or tackling the challenges of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, there’s a route for every level of cyclist. Renting a bike is easy, with a variety of options available, and the memories of your cycling adventure will stay with you long after you’ve left this incredible region.