Sister Lake in Yulong County, Lijiang
Overview
Sister Lake (姊妹湖) is located next to Yufeng Temple (玉峰寺) at the foot of Yulong Snow Mountain (玉龙雪山). Established in 1998, it was transformed into Sister Lake Resort, focusing on dining, leisure, and entertainment. The lake’s tranquil and picturesque surroundings have made it a favored retreat for nature lovers, particularly on weekends and holidays.
Scenic Beauty
Nestled beside the renowned Yufeng Temple, famous for its thousands of tea trees, Sister Lake has long captivated visitors. Its serene environment and stunning scenery attract people looking to escape city life. This has led to the popular saying in Lijiang, “Where to go for holiday leisure? Sister Lake outside Yufeng Temple.”
Development and Attractions
With the booming tourism industry in Lijiang and a growing emphasis on environmental conservation, Sister Lake Resort has embraced the theme of “Harmony between Man and Nature.” It preserves the Dongba ancient texts, a UNESCO World Heritage memory, and has become a preferred tourist destination. The resort is approximately 12 kilometers from the ancient town of Lijiang, covering 41.3 acres of lush landscapes with rich natural resources.
Facilities and Features
Sister Lake Resort offers a variety of services, including tourism, dining, leisure, entertainment, accommodation, and shopping. It has successfully established its brand of barbecue, gaining wide acclaim from visitors.
Mythology and Activities
At an elevation of 2,620 meters, the resort is conveniently located near Yufeng Temple and boasts about 2,000 square meters of built-up area. Local myths, such as the Naxi people’s creation stories, add a layer of mystery to the area. Each season brings unique experiences, from springtime rhododendrons to autumn’s pine seed collecting.
Day Trip Itinerary: Sister Lake and Lijiang Old Town
Experience a delightful day exploring two must-see attractions: Sister Lake Scenic Area and Lijiang Old Town.
Morning: Sister Lake Scenic Area ?
- Travel Time: About 30 minutes from Lijiang Old Town (古城区).
- Recommendation: Spend approximately 4 hours enjoying the natural beauty.
- Highlights: Often referred to as Lijiang’s “Little Jiuzhaigou,” the lake features crystal-clear waters surrounded by forests and waterfalls, perfect for photography and relaxation.
Afternoon: Lijiang Old Town ?
- Travel Time: Approximately 30 minutes from Sister Lake back to the Old Town.
- Recommendation: Spend around 4 hours wandering the historic streets and admiring unique architecture.
- Admission: Free entry, great for photography and cultural experiences.
Dining and Accommodation
- Lunch Recommendation: Lihua Restaurant (丽鹤饭店) offers a variety of dishes, especially recommended are the water flowers and aged tofu, with friendly service.
- Accommodation Recommendation: IU Hotel (IU酒店), close to the Old Town, known for its attentive service and clean rooms.
Local Souvenirs
Don’t miss taking home local specialties like maca from Yulong Snow Mountain (玉龙雪山玛卡), wild black tiger mushrooms (野生黑虎掌菌), and Lijiang copper locks (丽江铜锁).
How to Get There
From Lijiang Old Town, take a taxi or ride-sharing service to Sister Lake, which is about a 30-minute drive. The journey offers scenic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Travel Tips
- Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn for the best weather and scenery.
- What to Bring: Comfortable shoes for walking, a camera for stunning photos, and local currency for dining and shopping.
- Weather Considerations: The area can be cooler at higher elevations, so bring a light jacket.
