尼雅古城和精绝古城（Discover the Ancient Splendor of Lijiang’s Old Towns）

Discover the Ancient Splendor of Lijiang’s Old Towns

In the heart of China’s Yunnan province, two neighboring towns have managed to preserve their ancient charm in strikingly different ways. The first is the tranquil and well-preserved town of Lijiang, whose old town is known as the “Venice of the East.” The second is the rugged and remote town of Shangri-La, whose old town is known as the “Lost Horizon.”

Lijiang: A Step Into Naxi Culture

With its cobblestone streets, gurgling canals, traditional wooden houses, and majestic backdrop of the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, Lijiang’s old town feels like a journey back in time. This UNESCO World Heritage site is the perfect place to explore the rich Naxi culture, which has its own pictographic script, Dongba religion, and distinct music, dance, and architecture. Some of the must-see attractions in Lijiang include:

• The Mu Palace: The former home of the local Mu family, this palace complex is a blend of Ming and Qing architectural styles, and contains a treasure trove of cultural artifacts. The surrounding Black Dragon Pool Park is also a scenic spot for strolling and taking photos.
• The Square Street: This bustling pedestrian street is the heart of Lijiang’s commercial and social life, and is lined with shops, restaurants, bars, and cultural venues. It’s also a great place to watch the local people go about their daily business, from carrying baskets of vegetables to playing traditional music.
• The Wangu Tower: This five-story wooden tower, located on a hill overlooking the old town, offers panoramic views of Lijiang’s rooftops, courtyards, and mountains. It’s especially beautiful at night, when the colorful lanterns illuminate the sky.

Shangri-La: A Gateway to Tibetan Culture

Shangri-La, formerly known as Zhongdian, is located at the northeastern edge of the Tibetan plateau, and is famous for its pristine natural beauty, including the Pudacuo National Park, the Meili Snow Mountain, and the Songzanlin Monastery, which is the largest Tibetan Buddhist monastery in Yunnan. The old town itself is a cluster of cobbled alleys, whitewashed houses, and prayer flags, perched on a hill overlooking the modern city. Some of the highlights of Shangri-La include:

• The Songzanlin Monastery: This sprawling complex of temples, halls, courtyards, and living quarters is a wonderland of Tibetan art, sculpture, murals, and rituals. You can witness the monks debating, chanting, and turning prayer wheels, or join a pilgrimage to the nearby sacred lakes and mountains.
• The Dukezong Old Town: This maze of narrow streets, arches, courtyards, and watchtowers is a textbook example of the Tibetan vernacular architecture, and is best visited in the early morning or late afternoon, when the sun casts a golden glow on the buildings. You can also climb up to the Guishan Hill to get a bird’s-eye view of the town and the surrounding landscapes.
• The Napa Lake: This vast grassland and wetland area is home to various bird species, including the black-necked crane, as well as yaks, horses, and Tibetan nomads. You can take a horse ride or a boat tour to explore the scenery and the local lifestyle, or visit the nearby Tibetan villages and monasteries.

Conclusion: Two Gems in One Trip

Whether you prefer the gentle pace of Lijiang or the rugged beauty of Shangri-La, a visit to these two ancient towns is a journey of discovery, enlightenment, and wonder. You can immerse yourself in the diverse cultures, enjoy the breathtaking landscapes, indulge in the delicious cuisine, and make memories that will last a lifetime. Just remember to plan ahead, pack light, and bring an open mind and heart. Happy travels!