Salmon Fish in Lijiang

Lijiang Salmon is different from the well-known marine salmon. It grows in the pristine waters formed by the melting glaciers of Yulong Snow Mountain (玉龙雪山). Feeding on small fish and shrimp in the water, it is a type of plateau freshwater salmon. The growing environment of Lijiang Salmon is unparalleled. The glacial meltwater from Yulong Snow Mountain is cold, clear, and rich in oxygen and minerals, creating an ideal habitat for the salmon. This environment ensures that the flesh of Lijiang Salmon is tender and highly nutritious.

The most common and distinctive way to enjoy Lijiang Salmon is through “one fish, three ways to eat.” The first method is salmon sashimi. Fresh Lijiang Salmon is sliced into evenly thin pieces and eaten raw, allowing you to fully appreciate the tenderness, smoothness, and original flavor of the fish. The delicate texture of the fish spreads across your tongue the moment it enters your mouth. The second method involves using the head, tail, and bony parts of the salmon for hot pot. Simmered in the rich broth, the fish absorbs the flavors, resulting in tender meat and soft, flavorful bones that leave a lasting impression. The third method is deep-frying the fish skin until it is crispy and golden brown, making it a perfect snack to enjoy with a glass of wine. The combination of a sip of wine and a bite of crispy fish skin is a delightful culinary experience.

If you want to taste authentic Lijiang Salmon, the following restaurants are worth visiting:

Located at Xiaoshi Bridge, Wuyi Street, Lijiang Ancient Town (丽江古城五一街小石桥). Here, you can not only enjoy delicious salmon but also immerse yourself in the rich Naxi food culture and experience the unique culinary traditions of the Naxi ethnic group.

Address: No. 19 Huama Street, Lijiang Ancient Town (丽江古城花马街 19 号). The restaurant is renowned for its exquisite cooking skills, which bring out the full flavor of Lijiang Salmon, offering diners an unforgettable gastronomic experience.

Located at the east end of the crossroads in the middle section of Huama Street, Lijiang Ancient Town (丽江古城花马街中段十字路口向东 50 米). This restaurant specializes in salmon dishes. Both the quality of the sashimi and the flavors of the other “one fish, three ways” preparations have received high praise from diners.

Address: Huama Street, Lijiang Ancient Town (丽江古城花马街). The restaurant offers a pleasant dining environment. Its Lijiang Salmon is prepared with great attention to color, aroma, and taste, attracting many food lovers.

In Lijiang, while admiring the majestic scenery of Yulong Snow Mountain, you can savor the unique Lijiang Salmon. This experience will leave you with a deep and wonderful memory, allowing you to fully appreciate the perfect integration of Lijiang’s cuisine and natural landscapes.