Lijiang in Yunnan Province was almost unknown to tourists before the 1990s but is now one of the country's most popular travel destinations.
And for good reason. The city combines both natural beauty with mountains as a backdrop and a big dose of ethnic culture.
Lijiang's old areas possess an unmistakable charm that persists despite modern commercialization. Wondering around away from the main touristy parts of these areas reveals a way of life that seemingly hasn't changed for centuries.
Jade Dragon Snow Mountain
Jade Dragon Snow Mountain is 5,596 meters above sea level. And although it doesn't measure up to Mount Everest's 8,848 meters, it does boast something the world's tallest mountain can't claim — no human has ever reached the summit.
Attempts have been made, of course, but no one has conquered the majestic mountain. Some mountaineers, like at Everest, have lost their lives in the attempt to reach the peak.
Local Naxi people believe a god lives at the summit and that's why humans have never been able to reach the top.
Tourists can get as high as 4,680 meters to gaze in awe at the mountain's beauty.
Three cable cars shuttle people up and down the mountain, providing a wonderful opportunity to snap some photos and feel insignificant next to this natural wonder.
The Big Cable Car climbs to an altitude of 4,580 meters above sea level and tourists can hike the final 100 meters to a lookout point. Both the Yak Meadow Cable and Spruce Meadow Cable cars go half way up the mountain.
Some of the mountain's beauty comes from its changing "personality." Different weather conditions give Jade Dragon a variety of looks. Clouds give it a frock, the sun a golden cape and fog creates a dreamy aura around the peaks.
Another nice feature is the mountain that gives a taste of all seasons year round. In the summer, the snow-capped peaks remain as it retains well below zero Celsius at that altitude. In the winter, about half of the mountain still showcases a selection of green trees.
Tourists also often enjoy a stop at the mountain's Blue Moon Valley. Due to different minerals, the valley's lakes appear either blue, green or white. The area has been nicknamed "Jiuzhaigou Jr" since the lakes resemble the famous scenery in the area of the same name in Sichuan Province.
Impression Lijiang
About halfway up Jade Dragon Snow Mountain is the world's highest theater.
The show "Impression Lijiang" has become one of the area's key tourism products as it is directed by famed Chinese film director Zhang Yimou. Folk artists take to the outdoor stage daily to perform the songs and dances common among the province's ethnic minorities.
Their performances provide some insight into local people's lives, their history, famous love tragedies and the connection between humanity and gods.
Zhang is clearly impressed with the folk songs and dances of local people and makes it the focus of the show. To ensure authenticity, the actors and actresses are farmers from the area.
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