Black Dragon Pool, Lijiang - Image 1
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Black Dragon Pool Lijiang

4.4
·765 reviews·Li Jiang Shi, China

Tranquil pond with historic temples & a marble bridge, offering iconic reflections of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early Morning (before 7:30 AM)

Free entry & best light

CrowdLow
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Black Dragon Pool, Lijiang - Image 1

Black Dragon Pool Lijiang

Best Time

Early Morning (before 7:30 AM)

Free entry & best light

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Tranquil pond with historic temples & a marble bridge, offering iconic reflections of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain.

4.4
(765 reviews)

"Witness the majestic Jade Dragon Snow Mountain mirrored perfectly in the clear waters of the pool."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚶‍♀️ 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.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Jade Dragon Snow Mountain Reflection

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.

Instagram
White Marble Bridge

White Marble Bridge

Over the Pond

This elegant bridge offers a classic vantage point for capturing the mountain reflection and the serene park surroundings.

Instagram
Dongba Culture and Research Institute

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.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Beat the Crowds for Iconic Views

Arrive early to capture the stunning reflection of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain without the midday crowds. Many visitors find the morning offers the best light and tranquility for photos. TikTok

Combine with Old Town Exploration

Black Dragon Pool is a short walk from Lijiang Old Town, making it easy to combine your visit. Consider visiting before 7:30 AM for free admission and fewer people. Instagram

Best Times

When
Early Morning (before 7:30 AM)
Why
Free entry & best light
Crowd
Low
When
Golden Hour
Why
Magical light for photos
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Lijiang’s Baisha Ancient Town: Cobblestone lanes, old Naxi houses, and mountain views that glow—Yunnan magic in every step! 🏔️🏯 #wolink #lijiang #yunnan #丽江 #白沙古镇 #ChinaNature #fypppppppppppppp #ExploreChina #Chinatravel y #travel #sunsetlover #fyp #tiktoktravel #VisitChina #ChinaTourism #TravelGoals #WanderlustAwaits #ExploreAsia #travelbucketlist #fypppppppppppppp
@lamartin183
42K likes • 563.4K views

🚶‍♀️ Walk from Old Town

It's just a 15-20 minute walk north from Lijiang Old Town. Easy and scenic! Instagram

🎟️ Free Before 7:30 AM

Save money and beat the crowds by arriving before 7:30 AM for free admission. Reddit

Edit: No need to comment itinerary here on TikTok, you can find it directly in the link in my bio 🔗 Have you heard of this place in China!? 🇨🇳  Lijiang in the Yunnan Province of China will have you thinking you’ve entered a fairytale, with beautiful ancient towns lined up with streets and alleys full of unique cafes, restaurants, shops and more. There is so much culture and beauty to be seen here!...
@ke.yingan
17.1K likes • 146.9K views
How to Get to Black Dragon Pool in Lijiang! 👇🏻 Planning a trip to Black Dragon Pool (黑龙潭)? This hidden gem in Lijiang is a must-visit for breathtaking views of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain reflected in crystal-clear waters! 🌿🏔️ Here’s how you can get there easily: 🚶‍♀️ Walking: Just 15-20 mins from Lijiang Old Town. 🚌 By Bus: Take Bus 6 or 8 and get off at Heilongtan Station. 🚖 By Taxi: Costs aroun...
xhadasa
58 likes • 6.2K views

📸 Perfect Photo Spot

The pond offers stunning reflections of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, especially on clear days. Instagram

🏛️ Cultural Immersion

Don't miss the Dongba museum for an interactive look at Naxi culture and language. Reddit

Black Dragon Pool terletak 1 km di utara Kota Tua Lijiang. Jika Anda merencanakan perjalanan ke Kota Tua Lijiang, Black Dragon Pool adalah tempat yang tidak boleh Anda lewatkan karena merupakan tempat terbaik untuk melihat dan mengambil foto Gunung Salju Naga Giok (Jade Snow Mountain). Kolam Naga Hitam juga merupakan sumber air Kota Tua Lijiang, mata airnya jernih bagaikan batu giok. Saat cuaca c...
grandchina.travel
0 likes • 1.3K views

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! Instagram

🎟️ Free Before 7:30 AM

Save money and beat the crowds by arriving before 7:30 AM for free admission. Reddit

📸 Perfect Photo Spot

The pond offers stunning reflections of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, especially on clear days. Instagram

🏛️ Cultural Immersion

Don't miss the Dongba museum for an interactive look at Naxi culture and language. Reddit

🚶‍♂️ Stroll and Breathe

Enjoy a leisurely walk through the park for fresh air and beautiful scenery. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.4
(765 reviews)

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

Stunning mountain reflections
Interactive Dongba museum
Proximity to Old Town

What People Dislike

Can be crowded

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.Instagram Alternatively, you can take Bus 6 or 8 and get off at the Heilongtan stop.Instagram 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. Reddit

Walking from Lijiang Old Town is highly recommended for its ease and scenic route.Instagram Public buses are also a budget-friendly option. Instagram

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. Reddit 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. Reddit

Good news for explorers: entrance tickets are valid for up to 7 days, allowing you to revisit the park if you wish. Reddit

The park is generally accessible, with a notable benefit of free entry before 7:30 AM. Reddit 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. Reddit

📸 📸 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. Instagram+1 Golden hour also offers magical lighting. TikTok

Early mornings offer clear reflections and fewer crowds, while golden hour (late afternoon) provides beautiful, warm light for photography. TikTok

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. InstagramReddit

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. TikTok

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. Reddit+1

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. Reddit

While it's primarily a park for strolling, some visitors mention hiking up Elephant Mountain for a stunning city view. Reddit

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. Reddit+1

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. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, the park is conveniently located near many eateries, making it easy to find options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner nearby. Reddit

Given its proximity to Lijiang Old Town, you'll have access to a variety of local restaurants offering Lijiang's unique culinary delights. TikTok

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. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Black Dragon Pool offers a blend of natural beauty and cultural discovery that can be engaging for families. The interactive Dongba museum is a highlight, providing hands-on activities like calligraphy that kids might enjoy. Reddit The park itself is a leisurely place for a stroll, allowing children to burn off energy in a safe and scenic environment. Reddit

Consider visiting in the early morning to avoid the largest crowds and enjoy the calm atmosphere. Reddit 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

For photographers, Black Dragon Pool is a dream destination. The iconic reflection of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain is the primary draw, offering unparalleled opportunities for stunning landscape shots. Instagram+1 Aim for early mornings or golden hour for the best light and calmest waters, which are crucial for achieving perfect reflections. TikTok

Don't forget to capture the white marble bridge as a foreground element, adding depth and context to your mountain shots. Instagram The Dongba museum also presents unique photographic subjects, from intricate calligraphy to cultural artifacts. Reddit Remember to bring a wide-angle lens and consider a polarizing filter to enhance the vibrant colors of the scenery.

🚶‍♀️ Budget Travelers

Black Dragon Pool is very budget-friendly, especially if you take advantage of the free admission before 7:30 AM. Reddit This is a fantastic way to experience the park's beauty without spending a dime on entry. The walk from Lijiang Old Town is also free and a pleasant way to reach the park. Instagram

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. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Magic of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain Views

The most captivating aspect of Black Dragon Pool is undoubtedly the breathtaking reflection of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain in its crystal-clear waters. This iconic view is a major draw for visitors, offering a postcard-perfect panorama. The white marble bridge provides a classic vantage point, allowing you to frame the majestic mountain against the serene pond. On clear days, the reflection is so pristine it's hard to distinguish between the real mountain and its watery counterpart. Instagram+1

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. TikTok The clarity of the water and the stillness of the atmosphere are crucial for achieving that perfect reflection, making it a photographer's paradise. Reddit

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. Reddit

Exploring Naxi Culture at the Dongba Museum

Beyond its natural beauty, Black Dragon Pool is home to the Dongba Culture and Research Institute and Museum, offering a deep dive into the unique heritage of the Naxi people. This museum is far from a typical static display; it's highly interactive and engaging. Visitors can try their hand at Dongba pictograph calligraphy, listen to recordings of Naxi shamans chanting, and watch videos that illustrate the Naxi people's customs and traditions across different life stages. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. TikTok

Practicalities: Getting There and Admission

Black Dragon Pool is incredibly accessible, located just a short distance north of the famous Lijiang Old Town. Many visitors opt for a pleasant 15-20 minute walk directly from the Old Town, which is a great way to soak in the local atmosphere. Instagram For those who prefer public transport, Bus 6 or 8 are convenient options, with a stop at Heilongtan. Instagram

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. Reddit 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. Reddit

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. TikTok