Been There – Lijiang
Starbucks Been There – Lijiang is the final China mug I was missing from the site. If you’re looking for the full list, it’s now complete.
Lijiang, located in Yunnan province in southwestern China, has a history stretching back more than 800 years. Originally a crucial stop along the ancient Tea Horse Road, it became the center of the Naxi ethnic group and their unique Dongba culture. The city’s old town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, preserves centuries-old architecture, waterways, and cobbled streets that survived both war and earthquakes.
The Old Town is the heart of Lijiang and a living museum of Naxi heritage. Wooden homes, stone bridges, and canals crisscross the town in a layout unchanged since the Ming dynasty. Day or night, it’s packed with local music, craft shops, and teahouses.
Black Dragon Pool (Heilongtan Park) – This scenic park sits at the foot of Elephant Hill and reflects Jade Dragon Snow Mountain in its waters. It’s a perfect spot for photography and peaceful walks. The park also houses the Dongba Culture Museum.
Jade Dragon Snow Mountain – towering above Lijiang, this snow-covered peak is sacred to the Naxi people. Visitors can take cable cars up to high-altitude viewpoints or watch open-air performances at its base. It’s also a major hiking and skiing destination.
Once the political and cultural center before the rise of the Old Town, Baisha is famous for its ancient murals. These paintings blend Tibetan, Naxi, and Han artistic traditions. The village has a quieter, more authentic atmosphere than downtown Lijiang.
The Naxi people use the Dongba script, one of the last remaining pictographic writing systems in use. Dongba priests still perform rituals and preserve this unique cultural heritage. Symbols of the script can be found carved or painted across the city.
Mu Family Mansion – this large residence belonged to the Mu clan, who ruled Lijiang during the Ming and Qing dynasties. The complex showcases traditional Chinese architecture with a Naxi twist. It sits on a hillside with great views over the city.
One of the world’s deepest river canyons, Tiger Leaping Gorge is a dramatic natural wonder just a few hours from Lijiang. It’s a favorite among hikers looking for steep trails and rugged scenery. Local legend says a tiger once jumped across the narrowest part of the gorge to escape hunters.
Local Food to Try:
Don’t leave Lijiang without trying “crossing-the-bridge noodles,” a rich soup with rice noodles, meat, and vegetables. Yak meat hotpot is popular in colder months and pairs well with barley wine. For snacks, try baba (Naxi-style flatbread) or rose cakes filled with local flower jam.
