As of July 15th this year, China's National Immigration Administration expanded the 144-hour visa-free transit policy in Yunnan Province, previously limited to Kunming, to include nine additional cities: Kunming, Lijiang, Yuxi, Pu’er, Chuxiong, Dali, Xishuangbanna, Honghe, and Wenshan. Three new entry points have also been added, including Zhengzhou Xinzheng International Airport, Lijiang Sanyi International Airport, and the Mohan Railway Port.

Lijiang and Dali have long been popular tourist destinations in Yunnan, and with the extension of the 144-hour visa-free policy, international visitors now have more time to explore these regions in-depth.

Recently, Yunnan launched ten heritage-themed travel routes, one of which is the "Encounter Lijiang: Ancient City Heritage Exploration" route. This route links together a variety of cultural heritage resources, stretching from Shuhe Ancient Town to the Guanyin Gorge Scenic Area. It covers 17 scenic spots, heritage sites, and traditional craft workshops. This itinerary emphasizes the themes of heritage preservation, immersive experiences, and cultural integration, combining intangible cultural heritage (ICH) with scenic tourism, ethnic customs, historical culture, and traditional cuisine to offer tourists a deeply engaging and immersive heritage experience.

Visitors can enjoy the charm of Naxi traditional leather-making in Shuhe Ancient Town, witness ethnic music and dance performances in Lijiang Ancient Town, craft their own enamel silverware at the YunTiangong Enamel Silver Workshop, and travel back in time while immersed in the sounds of Naxi ancient music.

Overview of the Travel Route:

This tour will take you deep into the ancient city of Lijiang to explore the rich Naxi culture and historical heritage. From Shuhe Ancient Town to Lijiang Old Town, each stop is imbued with its own unique story and culture. Not only does this route guide visitors through Lijiang’s historical landmarks, but it also offers the opportunity to experience local intangible cultural heritage, allowing travelers to immerse themselves in the deep cultural traditions of the region.

On this journey, visitors can discover the heritage allure from Shuhe Ancient Town to the Guanyin Gorge Scenic Area, traversing through time and space while intimately connecting with history.

Key Attractions of this route:

Shuhe Ancient Town-Black Dragon Pool Park-Dongba Culture Museum-Lijiang Ancient Town-YunTiangong Enamel Silverware Workshop-Naxi People’s Home-Tiandi Courtyard-Naxi Pictograph Experience Pavilion-Naxi Ancient Music Hall-Lijiang Ancient Town Mu’s Mansion-Handmade Lijiang Folk Art Museum-Fang Guoyu's Former Residence-Lijiang Ancient Town Caravan Museum-Naxi Leather Craft Heritage Workshop-Li Wei Dongba Paper Heritage Workshop-Guanyin Gorge Scenic Area

This route will enrich your Lijiang visit by weaving together cultural exploration with scenic beauty, ensuring an unforgettable travel experience deeply rooted in the traditions and history of this ancient city.