Black Dragon Pool Lijiang
Tranquil pond with historic temples & a marble bridge, offering iconic reflections of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Free entry & best light
Black Dragon Pool Lijiang
Best Time
Free entry & best light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Tranquil pond with historic temples & a marble bridge, offering iconic reflections of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain.
"Witness the majestic Jade Dragon Snow Mountain mirrored perfectly in the clear waters of the pool."
🚶♀️ Walk from Old Town
It's just a 15-20 minute walk north from Lijiang Old Town. Easy and scenic!
🎟️ Free Before 7:30 AM
Save money and beat the crowds by arriving before 7:30 AM for free admission.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Jade Dragon Snow Mountain Reflection
The Pond
Witness the majestic Jade Dragon Snow Mountain mirrored perfectly in the clear waters of the pool. A truly iconic Lijiang vista.
White Marble Bridge
Over the Pond
This elegant bridge offers a classic vantage point for capturing the mountain reflection and the serene park surroundings.
Dongba Culture and Research Institute
Within the Park
Explore interactive exhibits on the Naxi people's unique pictographic language, culture, and traditions. A fascinating cultural deep dive.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds for Iconic Views
Combine with Old Town Exploration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Walk from Old Town
It's just a 15-20 minute walk north from Lijiang Old Town. Easy and scenic!
🎟️ Free Before 7:30 AM
Save money and beat the crowds by arriving before 7:30 AM for free admission.
📸 Perfect Photo Spot
The pond offers stunning reflections of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, especially on clear days.
🏛️ Cultural Immersion
Don't miss the Dongba museum for an interactive look at Naxi culture and language.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Walk from Old Town
It's just a 15-20 minute walk north from Lijiang Old Town. Easy and scenic!
🎟️ Free Before 7:30 AM
Save money and beat the crowds by arriving before 7:30 AM for free admission.
📸 Perfect Photo Spot
The pond offers stunning reflections of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, especially on clear days.
🏛️ Cultural Immersion
Don't miss the Dongba museum for an interactive look at Naxi culture and language.
🚶♂️ Stroll and Breathe
Enjoy a leisurely walk through the park for fresh air and beautiful scenery.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Black Dragon Pool for its stunning natural beauty, particularly the iconic reflection of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. The interactive Dongba museum offers a fascinating cultural experience, and its proximity to Lijiang Old Town makes it highly accessible. Some find the park can get crowded during peak hours, but early morning visits are highly recommended for a more tranquil experience.
"The Dongva Culture and Research Institute and Museum was honestly the best part about the place. The museum was VERY interactive with touch screens to try caligraphy and learn about Dongba pictograph language system, audio where you can hear Naxi shamans chanting, videos that show the Naxi people's cultural habits through different life stages, info about their ethnic attire etc."
Dhasha
"Leisure park
Nice photo spot for yulong snow mountain
Admissions free before 0730
In the city
Nearby many eatery for breakfast, lunch and dinner"
NOVA ADVENTURE
"The Heilongtan part is located about 5km from ancient city of Lijiang. It is great park with very good scenery and ambient environment. Good to visit whenever comes to Lijiang."
James Ong
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Black Dragon Pool is conveniently located about 1 km north of Lijiang Old Town. You can easily walk there in about 15-20 minutes.
Alternatively, you can take Bus 6 or 8 and get off at the Heilongtan stop. Taxis are also readily available.No, Black Dragon Pool (Heilongtan) is situated just north of the ancient city of Lijiang, making it very accessible. It's considered a great park with good scenery and ambiance within the city.
Walking from Lijiang Old Town is highly recommended for its ease and scenic route.
Public buses are also a budget-friendly option.Yes, taxis are a convenient option to reach Black Dragon Pool. They are readily available in Lijiang and can take you directly to the park entrance.
Yes, taxis are usually available near the park entrance. If you took a bus, you can catch the same bus routes back towards the Old Town.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While specific admission fees can vary, many visitors note that you can enter for free before 7:30 AM.
It's always a good idea to check for the most current pricing upon arrival.Some sources mention free admission before 7:30 AM, which is a great way to save money and enjoy a less crowded experience.
Good news for explorers: entrance tickets are valid for up to 7 days, allowing you to revisit the park if you wish.
The park is generally accessible, with a notable benefit of free entry before 7:30 AM.
For specific official hours, it's best to inquire locally.Generally, advance booking is not required for Black Dragon Pool, especially if you plan to visit during the free early morning hours.
📸 📸 Photography
The most iconic photo spot is capturing the reflection of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain in the pond, especially from near the white marble bridge.
Golden hour also offers magical lighting.Early mornings offer clear reflections and fewer crowds, while golden hour (late afternoon) provides beautiful, warm light for photography.
Absolutely! Black Dragon Pool is renowned for offering one of the best views and photo opportunities of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain reflected in its waters.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscape and mountain reflection. A polarizing filter can help enhance the colors of the water and sky.
Generally, photography is allowed throughout the park. However, always be mindful of other visitors and respect any posted signage.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy the scenic pond with its Jade Dragon Snow Mountain reflections, stroll through the park, visit the Dongba Culture and Research Institute for cultural insights, and admire the Qing dynasty architecture.
Yes, it's highly recommended! The museum is very interactive, featuring touch screens for calligraphy, audio of Naxi chants, and videos about their cultural habits.
While it's primarily a park for strolling, some visitors mention hiking up Elephant Mountain for a stunning city view.
Absolutely. It's described as a leisure park and a good place to take a stroll in the morning for fresh air and good scenery.
The Jade Spring Park, which includes Black Dragon Pool, is a Qing Garden built in 1737. It's considered a beautiful and symbolic place in Lijiang.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the park is conveniently located near many eateries, making it easy to find options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner nearby.
Given its proximity to Lijiang Old Town, you'll have access to a variety of local restaurants offering Lijiang's unique culinary delights.
While there are eateries nearby, the park itself is more focused on natural scenery and cultural exhibits. It's best to explore the surrounding areas for dining options.
Lijiang is known for its Naxi cuisine, which often features local ingredients like yak meat, mushrooms, and grains. Try dishes like Baba (flatbread) and Lijiang-style fried rice.
Yes, as there are many eateries nearby, it's a good idea to have breakfast before or after your visit to fuel your exploration.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting in the early morning to avoid the largest crowds and enjoy the calm atmosphere. The relatively short walking distance from Lijiang Old Town also makes it manageable for families. Pack some snacks and water, and make it a relaxed outing to appreciate the views and learn a bit about local culture.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Don't forget to capture the white marble bridge as a foreground element, adding depth and context to your mountain shots. The Dongba museum also presents unique photographic subjects, from intricate calligraphy to cultural artifacts. Remember to bring a wide-angle lens and consider a polarizing filter to enhance the vibrant colors of the scenery.
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
While there are eateries nearby, you can save money by packing your own snacks or seeking out local, less touristy food stalls. The park itself offers plenty of visual appeal and cultural insights without requiring expensive activities.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Magic of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain Views
For the best photographic opportunities, aim for early mornings when the air is still and the light is soft, or during the golden hour in the late afternoon when the mountain is bathed in warm, ethereal light. The clarity of the water and the stillness of the atmosphere are crucial for achieving that perfect reflection, making it a photographer's paradise.
While the reflection is the star, the surrounding park also offers lovely scenery. Take your time to wander along the pathways, enjoy the lush greenery, and appreciate the tranquil ambiance that makes this spot so special.
Exploring Naxi Culture at the Dongba Museum
The museum provides invaluable insights into the Naxi ethnic group's distinct cultural practices, their traditional attire, and their rich history. It's a fantastic opportunity to learn about a culture that has thrived in this region for centuries. The interactive elements make the learning process enjoyable and memorable for all ages.
This cultural exploration adds a significant layer to the Black Dragon Pool experience, transforming it from just a scenic spot into a place of historical and anthropological interest. It’s a must-visit for anyone curious about the diverse ethnic tapestry of Yunnan province.
Practicalities: Getting There and Admission
When it comes to admission, there's a smart way to save money and enjoy a more peaceful visit: enter before 7:30 AM for free admission. This tip is frequently shared by savvy travelers looking to avoid crowds and experience the park at its most serene. Furthermore, your entrance ticket is valid for up to 7 days, allowing for multiple visits if you wish.
This ease of access and flexible admission policy makes Black Dragon Pool a highly convenient addition to any Lijiang itinerary, whether you're looking for a quick photo stop or a leisurely cultural exploration.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit