Yulong Reservoir in Lijiang
Location
Weather and Best Time to Visit
Weather Conditions
Best Time to Visit
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Season: The best time to visit is from May to October. This period coincides with the rainy season in Lijiang, when the vegetation around Yulong Reservoir is lush and green, the reservoir is full of water, and the scenery is particularly beautiful. Wildflowers bloom all over the mountains, adding a touch of vibrant color to the whole area.
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Specific Time: If you plan to hike or climb, it is recommended to start in the morning when you are energetic and the weather is relatively stable. For sightseeing, the afternoon is ideal, as the soft light provides a great visual experience whether you are admiring the shimmering water of the reservoir or looking out over the vast plateau of Lijiang. If you plan to have a picnic on the mountain top, be sure to plan your time well to avoid being caught in the dark.
Recommended Attractions
Yulong Reservoir
Surrounding Hiking Trails
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Yulong Snow Mountain First Peak Hiking Trail: Starting from Yulong Reservoir, this is an excellent starting point for climbing the first peak of Yulong Snow Mountain. The trail has a total elevation drop of about 1,000 meters and offers stunning views of the majestic snow mountain, unique alpine meadows, and diverse alpine vegetation. However, this route is challenging and requires good physical fitness and outdoor experience. It is recommended to go with a professional guide.
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Yulong Village – Yulong Reservoir Hiking Trail: Starting from Yulong Village at the foot of the mountain, it takes about two hours to reach Yulong Reservoir, with an elevation drop of 600 meters. Along the way, you can enjoy the perfect combination of pastoral and forest scenery, experiencing the tranquility of nature. After arriving at the reservoir, you can choose to return the same way or continue hiking to Wenhai for further exploration.
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Small Hilltop Stroll Trail: After crossing the reservoir dam, you can start climbing the small hill. The elevation drop is about 150 meters, and the hilltop is at an altitude of around 3,400 meters. From here, you can see the shimmering Yulong Reservoir on one side and the vast Lijiang Plateau on the other, with a distant view of Yuhu Village (玉湖村). Although the path is rugged, the beautiful scenery at the top is worth the effort. The hilltop has a wide view and is an ideal place for a picnic.
Transportation Guide
By Car
By Taxi
By Public Transport
Food Recommendations
Baisha Ancient Town Cuisine
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Naxi Roast Pork: This is a traditional Naxi dish, made by marinating fresh pork belly and roasting it over charcoal. The skin is crispy and golden, while the inside is tender and juicy, not greasy. It tastes wonderful with the special dipping sauce. You can find this dish in many restaurants in Baisha Ancient Town.
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Chicken Bean Jelly: A local specialty of Lijiang, it is made from chicken beans. The jelly is black and has a smooth texture, which can be served cold or pan-fried. The cold version is mixed with soy sauce, vinegar, chili oil, and Sichuan pepper oil, giving it a tangy and spicy flavor. The pan-fried version has a crispy outer layer and soft interior, with a unique taste.
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Naxi Rice Sausage: Made by mixing glutinous rice and rice, adding spices and pig’s blood, and then stuffing the mixture into pig intestines and steaming it. The rice sausage is soft and fragrant, with a blend of rice and meat flavors and is nutritious. When eating, you can cut it into small pieces and dip it in sauce.
Picnic Food Preparation
Shopping Recommendations
Baisha Ancient Town Souvenirs
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Dongba Paper: Dongba paper is a traditional Naxi handmade paper made from the bark of the Daphne plant using ancient techniques. The paper is strong and resistant to insect damage, with a long shelf life. It usually features beautiful Dongba characters or patterns, making it valuable for both art and collection.
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Naxi Embroidery: With a long history, Naxi embroidery is characterized by delicate stitching and bright colors. The embroidery themes include flowers, birds, figures, and landscapes, each piece reflecting the cultural essence and ethnic charm of the Naxi people. You can buy embroidered handkerchiefs, bags, and accessories as souvenirs.
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Wood Carving Crafts: Lijiang’s wood carving is exquisite, using high-quality wood to carve various lifelike patterns and shapes. There are many types of wood carvings, including pendants, ornaments, and furniture, which are both practical and decorative. They are great for personal collection or as gifts for friends and family.
Accommodation Suggestions
Accommodation in Baisha Ancient Town
Accommodation in Lijiang City
One-Day Itinerary Plans
Leisurely and Relaxing Itinerary
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Morning: Set off from Baisha Ancient Town by taxi or car to Yulong Reservoir. Upon arrival, take a walk around the reservoir to enjoy the beautiful lake and mountain views and take photos.
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Midday: Have a picnic on the hilltop near the reservoir, savoring delicious food while admiring the magnificent surroundings.
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Afternoon: Take a leisurely stroll along the small trail near the reservoir to a nearby hilltop, enjoying the scenery and relaxing. Afterwards, return to Baisha Ancient Town to wander around, taste local delicacies, and purchase souvenirs.
Hiking Challenge Itinerary
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Morning: Start hiking from Yulong Village along the Yulong Village – Yulong Reservoir trail, enjoying the pastoral and forest scenery along the way. It will take about two hours to reach Yulong Reservoir.
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Midday: Take a short break near Yulong Reservoir to rest and refuel with a simple trail meal.
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Afternoon: Set off from Yulong Reservoir and follow the trail to climb the first peak of Yulong Snow Mountain for a while (decide the distance according to your physical condition and pay attention to safety). Afterwards, return to Yulong Reservoir and choose to take transportation or continue hiking back to Yulong Village to end the trip.