Spruce Meadow Yunshanping
Yunshanping offers a fairytale escape with stunning mountain views and ancient Lijiang charm. Prepare for high altitudes!
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Clear skies, pleasant temps
Spruce Meadow Yunshanping
Best Time
Clear skies, pleasant temps
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Yunshanping offers a fairytale escape with stunning mountain views and ancient Lijiang charm. Prepare for high altitudes!
"Yunshanping in Lijiang, China, is a breathtaking destination that truly feels like stepping into a fairytale."
Oxygen is Your Friend
Bring oxygen tanks and altitude sickness meds for Yunshanping! Thin air is no joke. :pill:
Cable Car Strategy
If you have a cable car ticket, head right for station 1, then walk back for station 2. :ticket:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Yunshanping Cable Car
Yunshanping
A comfortable cable car ride offering access to a plateau with scenic forest walkways.
Jade Dragon Snow Mountain Views
Near Yunshanping
Experience breathtaking mountain vistas, often described as 'smoky' and majestic.
Ancient Town Charm
Lijiang Ancient Town
Wander through cobblestone lanes, Naxi houses, and unique cafes for a truly magical experience.
Impression Lijiang Show
Lijiang
An unforgettable outdoor theater performance showcasing local culture and traditions.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Altitude Awareness is Key
Embrace the Fairytale Vibe
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Oxygen is Your Friend
Bring oxygen tanks and altitude sickness meds for Yunshanping! Thin air is no joke. :pill:
Cable Car Strategy
If you have a cable car ticket, head right for station 1, then walk back for station 2. :ticket:
Fairytale Photo Ops
Prepare for stunning photos! Lijiang's ancient towns are incredibly picturesque. :camera:
Explore Ancient Towns
Wander through Baisha Ancient Town for cobblestone lanes and Naxi charm. :house:
Tips
from all over the internet
Oxygen is Your Friend
Bring oxygen tanks and altitude sickness meds for Yunshanping! Thin air is no joke. :pill:
Cable Car Strategy
If you have a cable car ticket, head right for station 1, then walk back for station 2. :ticket:
Fairytale Photo Ops
Prepare for stunning photos! Lijiang's ancient towns are incredibly picturesque. :camera:
Explore Ancient Towns
Wander through Baisha Ancient Town for cobblestone lanes and Naxi charm. :house:
Book in Advance
Limited discounts available for tours. DM for inquiries! :envelope:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the fairytale-like beauty of Yunshanping and Lijiang's ancient towns, with the cable car offering stunning mountain views. However, the high altitude is a significant concern, with many recommending oxygen tanks and medication to combat exhaustion. Some find the cable car queues can be long, and weather can impact the experience.
"Pls prepare a sufficient oxygen tank if going up to Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. If not, you will be very exhausted because the air is thin...."
Mok Kong Meng
"Cableway to a plateau with a nice walkway in the forest. Nice experience"
Andreas Wethli
"Tram to go up to Yunshanping."
Michael Hui
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Yunshanping is accessible via a cable car from the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain area. Many visitors arrive in Lijiang first, then arrange transport to the mountain. Consider booking tours that include transportation to streamline your journey.
Lijiang's ancient towns are best explored on foot. For longer distances, taxis or ride-sharing apps are available. Some accommodations are strategically located within walking distance of attractions.
Transportation to the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain area, where Yunshanping is located, is generally available. Many tour packages include this. If traveling independently, inquire locally about shuttle buses or private car options.
Taxis can take you to the base of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, but the final ascent to Yunshanping is typically via cable car. It's advisable to confirm with your driver or tour operator.
Lijiang is a popular destination in Yunnan province. Travel times will vary depending on your starting point within China. Many visitors combine Lijiang with other Yunnan cities like Dali.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Cable car ticket prices can vary. It's recommended to check current pricing upon arrival or through official booking channels. Some packages may include cable car access.
While not always mandatory, purchasing tickets in advance, especially for the cable car, can save time and potentially secure better rates. Popular times can see long queues.
Limited discounts may be available, particularly if booking through tour operators or during off-peak seasons. It's worth inquiring about current promotions.
The entrance fee typically covers access to the Yunshanping area. The cable car ride to the plateau is usually a separate ticket, though some packages might bundle them.
Operating hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official schedule closer to your visit date, especially if planning an early morning or late afternoon trip.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Yunshanping is situated at a high altitude, part of the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain range. Visitors are strongly advised to be prepared for thin air.
Enjoy a scenic cable car ride, walk along forest paths on the plateau, and take in the stunning mountain views. The area offers a peaceful, natural escape.
While the natural beauty is appealing, the high altitude might be challenging for very young children or those with respiratory issues. The cable car ride itself can be an enjoyable experience.
Dress in layers as temperatures can change. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for exploring the plateau. A light jacket or windbreaker is recommended. :athletic_shoe:
Absolutely! Yunshanping and the surrounding Lijiang area are incredibly photogenic, offering breathtaking landscapes and charming ancient town scenes.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Limited dining options are available at the Yunshanping plateau itself. More extensive choices can be found in Lijiang Ancient Town, including halal street options.
Lijiang offers a variety of local Yunnan cuisine, with influences from the Naxi people. You can find everything from traditional dishes to trendy cafes and restaurants.
While traditional Yunnan cuisine can be meat-heavy, many restaurants in Lijiang's tourist areas are accommodating and offer vegetarian dishes. It's always good to ask. :leafy_green:
Yes, Lijiang has a 'Shuncheng Halal Street' which offers a good selection of halal food options for Muslim travelers.
Look out for local specialties like yak jerky, baba bread, and various mushroom dishes, which are common in the Yunnan region. :bread:
📸 📸 Photography
Lijiang Ancient Town, with its cobblestone streets, traditional Naxi architecture, and flower-filled alleys, is a photographer's dream. The 'Impression Lijiang' show also offers dramatic visuals.
Late afternoon often provides a beautiful golden hour glow over the mountains. However, early mornings can offer clearer skies and fewer crowds for serene shots.
Drone usage is typically restricted in natural scenic areas and national parks in China. It's best to check local regulations before flying a drone. :noentrysign:
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm equivalent) is great for landscapes and town shots. A wide-angle lens can capture the expansive mountain views. Don't forget extra batteries! :camerawithflash:
Explore the less-crowded alleys, capture the reflections in the water channels, and look for local life and details. Early mornings or late evenings can offer more intimate scenes.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
In Lijiang Ancient Town, families can enjoy exploring the charming streets, browsing shops for souvenirs, and trying local snacks. The relatively flat terrain of the ancient town makes it easier to navigate with strollers or for younger children to walk. Consider visiting during less crowded times to allow children more space to explore without feeling overwhelmed.
✈️ Day-Trippers from Lijiang
For a more comprehensive day trip, consider combining Yunshanping with a visit to Lijiang Ancient Town. You can spend the morning exploring the ancient town's picturesque streets and then head to Yunshanping in the afternoon. Ensure you have a clear itinerary and transportation arranged to maximize your time.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
In Lijiang Ancient Town, focus on the architectural details, the reflections in the canals, and the vibrant street life. Golden hour in the late afternoon can cast a magical glow over the cobblestone streets. For unique shots, explore the less-trafficked alleys and look for candid moments of local life. A versatile lens and a good eye for detail will serve you well.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Altitude: Yunshanping's Challenge
When using the cable car system, there's a specific recommended route. If you have a cable car ticket, head to the right side and use station 1. After checking in, you'll walk back to the cable car and use station 2. Following these directions can help streamline your boarding process and avoid confusion. The cable car offers a comfortable journey to a plateau with pleasant forest walkways, making the ascent manageable if you're prepared.
Prioritize your well-being by listening to your body and taking breaks as needed. The stunning views from Yunshanping are worth the preparation.
The Enchanting Lijiang Ancient Town
Photographers will find endless inspiration here. The interplay of light and shadow on the old buildings, the reflections in the water, and the vibrant colors of the flowers create a picturesque scene at every turn. For a truly immersive experience, consider staying in a traditional guesthouse within the ancient town. This allows you to explore the streets in the early morning or late evening when they are less crowded and possess a magical ambiance.
Beyond the main attractions, exploring the smaller alleys and discovering hidden courtyards can lead to delightful surprises. The atmosphere is generally relaxed, encouraging visitors to slow down and soak in the unique cultural heritage of the Naxi people.
Experiencing 'Impression Lijiang'
Many visitors find the show to be incredibly moving and a highlight of their trip. The sheer scale of the production, with hundreds of performers, and the stunning natural amphitheater create an unforgettable spectacle. The performance aims to capture the essence of life in Yunnan, emphasizing themes of nature, community, and resilience.
Booking tickets in advance is generally recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons, to ensure availability and potentially secure better seating. The show is an investment in an experience that resonates long after the final curtain call.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit