Impression Lijiang Show

Impression Lijiang is a spectacular outdoor presentation of singing and dancing performances that showcase the traditions and lifestyle of the local ethnic people of Lijiang.

The extravaganza is directed by the famous Chinese film director Zhang Yimou, who co-directed the opening ceremony of the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games. The show is presented mornings and evenings at the outdoor theater at Ganhaizi on Jade Dragon Snow Mountain 3,100 meters (10,100 feet) above sea level, 30 km (20 miles) north of Lijiang. It is also presented at the scenic Dayan Ancient Town.

The fantastic singing, dancing and drama combine with the effect of the stunning landscape as a backdrop to create a breathtaking experience.

The show gathers about 500 of the local ethnic Naxi, Bai, and Yi people and other ethnic groups from nearby towns and villages to participate in the performances. They dress in their ethnic costumes and accessories to perform the singing and dancing, as well as horseback riding and drumming and other activities.

The one-hour presentation is divided into two parts: "Impression of the Snow Mountain", which is presented as a dialogue between man and mountain, showing the close relationship of human beings with nature. The second part, "Impression of the Ancient City", shows that there is always a divine kingdom in the heart where there is a connection between living people and their ancestors from ancient times.

The show opens with the story of the Ancient Tea Horse Road, and then goes on to tell of the customs of the people who have inhabited the land of Lijiang for centuries.

The show is conducted in Mandarin and has no foreign language voice-over, but that's not necessary to convey the beauty of the art, the singing, the dancing, the acting, the costumes and the emotion. So the language is never a barrier.