Hello, I’m Michael Zhang, a Chinese traveler with years of international travel experience. Instead of chasing photo checklists, I focus on a city’s historical layers, cultural structure, and its role in geographic and civilizational exchange. Dukezong Ancient Town in Shangri-La is, in my view, one of the most underestimated highland towns in China. It is not just a scenic stop, but a key place for understanding the history and spiritual traditions of the Yunnan–Tibet region. In this guide, I draw on firsthand visits to systematically cover its historical background, how to explore it, key sights, accommodations, and walking routes, so you can truly understand this “Moonlight City.”

Summary

Introduction to Dukezong Ancient Town

Dukezong Ancient Town has long been an important historical settlement and military post in Shangri-La. It also served as a major stop along the Yunnan–Tibet section of the Ancient Tea Horse Road. Today, it is designated as a national AAAA-level tourist attraction in China. Centered around Guishan Hill, the town expands in a radial layout and covers an area of 1.5 square kilometers. The name “Dukezong” comes from Tibetan and is also known as “Zongrao Danggabo” or “Dawei Zong,” meaning “Moonlight City.” Across the Naiyi River lies “Niwang Zong,” known as the “Sunlight City” where the sun rises first. Together, they form the symbolic pairing of sun and moon, often described as the “Sun and Moon of the Heart.”

The town’s overall layout takes Sifang Street as its main axis, dividing the area into four sections—east, south, west, and north—each leading toward different destinations. The terrain resembles a blooming eight-petal lotus. Within this structure, three main streets (North Gate Street, Jinlong Street, and Cangfang Street) intersect with 33 narrow alleys. Dukezong Ancient Town has a history of more than 1,300 years, making it one of the oldest continuously inhabited towns in the region.

  • Address: Dukezong Ancient Town, Jiantang Town, Shangri-La City, Diqing Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan, China (Apple Maps/Amap)
  • Visitor capacity: 369,018
  • Opening hours: Open all day
  • Recommended visiting time: Half a day
  • Best season to visit: May to October. Other months are colder, and the landscape feels quieter and more subdued.
  • Admission fee: Free
Dukezong Ancient Town traditional Tibetan architecture

Dukezong Ancient Town Map

Dukezong Ancient Town tourist map

Why You Should Visit Dukezong Ancient Town

Core Historical and Cultural Value

  • A thousand-year hub on the Ancient Tea Horse Road: As a key stop along the Yunnan–Tibet Tea Horse Road, Dukezong Ancient Town has a history of over 1,300 years. It witnessed the constant movement of trading caravans and periods of commercial prosperity, serving as a living “time capsule” of cultural exchange between Tibetan and Han civilizations.
  • The unique identity of the “Moonlight City”: In Tibetan, “Dukezong” means “Moonlight City.” It echoes Niwang Zong, the “Sunlight City,” creating a rare cultural image of sun and moon shining together. Its lotus-shaped layout, centered on Guishan Hill, reflects ancient wisdom and spiritual belief systems.
  • A witness to multicultural integration: The town once hosted activities by Tibetans, Naxi, Mongols, and Han communities. From Tang-era fortifications to Qing Dynasty earthen walls and its present role as a travel destination, every stone reflects layers of historical change.

Rich Travel Experiences

  • Immersive Tibetan cultural encounters: The town features Tibetan-style guesthouses, local restaurants, thangka studios, handicraft shops, and small cafés. Visitors can try yak hotpot, shop for Tibetan jewelry, and experience how tradition and modern life blend naturally.
  • A highly photogenic destination: Horseshoe marks on stone roads, moonlight reflecting on whitewashed walls, and fine architectural details make Dukezong Ancient Town a favorite among photographers. In recent years, it has also become a popular filming and social media location.

Top Things to Do in Dukezong Ancient Town

Main Attractions

Guishan Park (Auspicious Prayer Wheel)

Guishan Park sits at the highest point of Dukezong Ancient Town. It is one of the best places to overlook the entire town and also the most direct way to understand its overall layout. As you climb the stone steps, the town’s radial streets, Tibetan-style houses, and distant mountains gradually unfold. At sunset, the changing light creates striking contrasts. After nightfall, when the town lights up, this viewpoint offers the most classic night scenery in Dukezong Ancient Town.

The most prominent landmark inside the park is one of the largest prayer wheels in the world, known as the Auspicious Prayer Wheel. For local Tibetan residents, spinning prayer wheels is an essential daily religious practice. People turn the wheel clockwise, and each full rotation is believed to equal the recitation of 1.24 million prayers, bringing blessings, protection, and spiritual merit. Even if you are not a believer, watching this moment of focus and ritual carries strong cultural meaning. If time allows, walking clockwise for three full rotations offers a meaningful way to experience how locals engage with their faith.

  • Admission: Free, on-site QR code registration required
Auspicious Prayer Tower at Guishan Park

Moonlight Square

Moonlight Square is the true “living center” of Dukezong Ancient Town. During the day, it serves as a gathering and resting area for visitors. At night, however, it becomes a stage for local life. Starting in the early evening, Tibetan residents gather here to dance traditional Guozhuang dances. There is no age limit or barrier to participation. The rhythm is lively, the atmosphere is warm, and it is easy to feel drawn into the energy of the moment.

  • Location: In the center of the ancient town, with nightly Guozhuang dancing by local residents (19:00–21:00), creating an excellent atmosphere
  • Nearby attractions: Diqing Red Army Long March Museum and the Tibetan Culture Museum on both sides of the square, both free to visit
Tibetan Guozhuang dance at Moonlight Square

Giant Prayer Flags

The Giant Prayer Flags are located on higher ground within the ancient town and represent one of the most symbolic religious landscapes in Dukezong Ancient Town. As the five-colored flags flutter in the wind, they stand out vividly against the highland sky and the surrounding townscape. This strong visual contrast makes the site especially popular for photography, and many visitors come here specifically to capture this scene.

  • Fee: 10 CNY per person for entry to take photos, tickets available on-site
Giant Tibetan prayer flags in Dukezong Ancient Town

Central Pagoda of the Harmony Stupa

The Central Pagoda of the Harmony Stupa is within walking distance of the Giant Prayer Flags, making it easy to include both sites on the same walking route. It is one of the more distinctive religious structures in Dukezong Ancient Town and holds special significance for local residents.

According to locals, many newly married couples come here to pray before or after their weddings, hoping for harmony and a smooth family life. Inside the pagoda, a thangka made from human skin, associated with a high-ranking monk, is enshrined. In Tibetan Buddhism, this carries deep symbolic meaning and reflects the spiritual weight of the site.

Central Harmony Pagoda in Dukezong Ancient Town

Intangible Cultural Heritage Thangka Experience

If you want a truly hands-on cultural experience in Dukezong Ancient Town, the Intangible Cultural Heritage Thangka Experience is well worth your time. The center operates on a semi-public welfare basis and does not require advance reservations. After registering on-site, visitors enter in small groups led by a guide.

The experience begins with explanations of Tibetan medicine, incense, and the history of thangka painting. Only after this introduction does the actual painting start. The entire process takes more than two hours. There are both free and paid options. The free option involves coloring a simple design on paper, which can be laminated and taken home immediately. The paid option allows you to choose a thangka pendant to paint. Although this also focuses on coloring, the final detailing is completed later by a professional thangka artist. The cost is 280 CNY for a single-sided piece. It cannot be taken home the same day and is usually shipped to you about two weeks later.

  • Address: Intangible Cultural Heritage Experience Center, No. 14 Donglang, Shangri-La City, Diqing Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture (Apple Maps/Amap)
Traditional Thangka painting experience

Tibetan Costume and Makeup Experience

Within Dukezong Ancient Town, Tibetan costume and makeup experiences have developed into a well-organized service and are a popular way for visitors to document their trip. The process usually includes changing into traditional clothing, makeup styling, and wearing braided wigs. Afterward, you are free to take photos throughout the ancient town at your own pace.

  • Estimated cost: 68 CNY to 188 CNY per person, usually including clothing, makeup, and braided wigs
Traditional Tibetan costume and makeup

Dukezong Ancient Town Admission Guide

There is no entrance ticket required to enter Dukezong Ancient Town. In addition, most attractions inside the town are free to access, allowing visitors to enjoy the scenery and atmosphere without worrying about admission fees.

Dukezong Ancient Town is not very large, but it contains many worthwhile sights. This recommended route covers the main highlights and can be completed in about half a day to one full day: starting from the East Gate of Dukezong Ancient Town (Moonlight Square) → Guishan Park (Great Buddha Temple and prayer wheel) → Jinlong Street → Sifang Street → Cangfang Street → Pijiang Slope → Small White Pagoda → North Gate of the ancient town.

Dukezong Ancient Town is an excellent place to try traditional Tibetan food. There are many restaurant options, and local snacks are also available in nearby supermarkets. Some must-try items include:

  • Butter tea: Butter tea is an essential part of daily life for Tibetan people. Made from butter, tea leaves, and salt, it has a rich, creamy flavor and a distinctive taste. It provides energy and helps the body cope with the cold highland climate.
  • Highland barley cakes: Highland barley is one of the region’s main crops. Cakes made from barley flour are a local specialty in Dukezong Ancient Town. They are crisp, aromatic, and widely enjoyed as a staple food.
  • Yak meat: Yaks are unique to high-altitude regions, and their meat is tender and nutritious. Local yak dishes include braised yak meat and dried yak jerky, both of which are considered essential tastes for visitors.
Traditional Tibetan food

When visiting Shangri-La, most travelers choose to stay one or two nights near Dukezong Ancient Town. This usually covers time spent exploring the ancient town itself as well as nearby attractions such as Songzanlin Monastery and Napa Hai Grassland. You can stay in downtown Shangri-La or in and around Dukezong Ancient Town. I generally recommend accommodations near the East Gate or North Gate of the ancient town. Since the streets inside are paved with stone, staying too deep inside the old town can be inconvenient when carrying luggage.

LIANC HOTEL

LIANC HOTEL
  • Location: Right next to the East Gate of Dukezong Ancient Town
  • Price per night: 308 CNY
  • Check Rates:Trip.com Specials
  • Rating: Trip 9.7
  • Special Amenities: Oxygen supply equipment, gym, laundry room, family rooms

The hotel sits right beside the East Gate of Dukezong Ancient Town. It takes only a few steps to reach the entrance, yet it stays outside the old town, so nights are relatively quiet. Nearby are the local court, tax bureau, and prefectural government offices, which adds a strong sense of security. Shuttle pickup points for attractions such as Pudacuo National Park and Feilai Temple are also close by, making transportation smooth and efficient. This setup works especially well for first-time visitors to Shangri-La or travelers who prefer simple logistics.

Rooms are spacious and well insulated, with floor heating, humidifiers, and oxygen supply equipment. These features noticeably reduce the risk of altitude discomfort, especially in winter. Cleanliness is well maintained, and sleep quality is consistently good. Breakfast is a highlight, offering a wide selection with solid flavors and generous portions. Service is responsive, and staff handle room temperature or equipment issues quickly. Station pickup and drop-off services are also available.

Zunshang Zangyun Manor Boutique Hotel

Zunshang Zangyun Manor Boutique Hotel
  • Location: Near Moonlight Square in Dukezong Ancient Town
  • Price per night: 327 CNY
  • Check Rates:Trip.com Specials
  • Rating: Trip 9.6
  • Special Amenities: Oxygen supply equipment, laundry room, family rooms

The hotel is located near Moonlight Square within Dukezong Ancient Town. You can enter the old town within minutes, and it takes about five minutes on foot to reach both Moonlight Square and Guishan Park. This location works well for photography, casual strolling, and evening walks. Taxis are easy to find at the entrance, and routes to attractions such as Songzanlin Monastery are straightforward, without unnecessary detours.

The property follows a Tibetan manor-style design and offers a sense of space that is rare inside the ancient town. An elevator makes it convenient for travelers with luggage or elderly guests. Rooms are spacious and clean, with heating, smart toilets, and bathtubs in the bathrooms. The service feels warm and personal, with quick responses to requests. Staff assist with luggage, itinerary questions, and oxygen equipment. Breakfast is generous and home-style, filling and comforting in the highland climate.

Hotel Indigo DIQING MOONLIGHT CITY by IHG

Hotel Indigo DIQING MOONLIGHT CITY by IHG
  • Location: About a 10-minute walk to Dukezong Ancient Town
  • Price per night: 1,347 CNY
  • Check Rates:Trip.com Specials, Agoda Deals
  • Rating: Trip 9.5 / Agoda 9.4
  • Special Amenities: Oxygen supply equipment, family rooms

The hotel sits on elevated ground at the edge of Dukezong Ancient Town and is one of the few places offering panoramic views over the entire old town. It takes about ten minutes to walk into the ancient town. Views are open and impressive both during the day and at night, especially when Guishan Park lights up. The location strikes a good balance between convenience and quiet, allowing easy access without the noise from inside the old town.

The hotel follows a design-forward resort style with a manor-like layout. Rooms offer excellent views and photograph well. Oxygen systems are well designed, with both diffused oxygen and nasal options available. Combined with floor heating, nighttime comfort improves significantly. Service is attentive and efficient. Even though the property covers a large area, shuttle service is readily available on request.

How to Get from Shangri-La City to Dukezong Ancient Town

Public transportation in Shangri-La is well developed. Whether you arrive by train or plane, reaching Dukezong Ancient Town is straightforward.

From Shangri-La Railway Station

After exiting Shangri-La Railway Station, you can take a public bus to Dukezong Ancient Town. Bus No. 1 reaches the area in about ten minutes and costs 2 CNY. Taxis are also readily available. Since the distance is short, taxi fares usually range from 15 to 20 CNY.

From Shangri-La Airport

Diqing Shangri-La Airport is about 5 kilometers from Dukezong Ancient Town. A taxi ride takes less than ten minutes and costs around 20 CNY. You can also take the airport shuttle bus. The airport is small, and the shuttle boarding point is clearly visible near the exit. The fare is 10 CNY per person.

How to plan your Lijiang trip

Most travelers spend 2–3 days covering Lijiang and nearby highlights, while a 5–6 day itinerary is ideal if you want to combine Dali or Shangri-La and explore snow mountains, gorges and Tibetan culture at a relaxed pace. Here are our most popular private tour options:

FAQ

Is Dukezong Ancient Town suitable for strollers and wheelchairs?

It is not very convenient. Reaching Guishan Park requires climbing uphill, which makes carrying strollers or wheelchairs difficult. In addition, most streets inside the ancient town are paved with stone slabs, which are uncomfortable to roll over and not ideal for seated use.

Where can I store luggage?

The tourist service center offers luggage storage for 15 CNY per day. Items must be collected before 5:00 PM, as staff finish work after that time. In addition, many small shops near the entrances of the ancient town also provide luggage storage. You can ask locally, as prices are usually similar.