Hello, I’m Michael Zhang, a travel researcher with extensive experience exploring destinations across China and around the world. Rather than rushing through checklist-style sightseeing, I focus on a place’s natural geography, historical background, and travel routes that actually work for everyday travelers. Yulong Snow Mountain is far more than Lijiang’s most famous landmark. It is both a sacred mountain revered by the Naxi people and an ideal first high-altitude snow mountain for visitors new to this kind of landscape. In this guide, I draw on firsthand experience and practical details to walk you through what to see, how to explore, and what to watch out for, so you can enjoy Yulong Snow Mountain with confidence and clarity.

Summary

Introduction to Yulong Snow Mountain

Yulong Snow Mountain is located about 15 kilometers north of Lijiang and stretches roughly 75 kilometers in length. It stands west of the Jinsha River, with Zhongdian Snow Mountain to the west and Mianmian Mountain to the east. Extending southward from Sanjiangkou to latitude 27° north, the mountain range fans out toward Lijiang Old Town. Thirteen peaks rise in a north–south alignment, with the main peak, Shanzidou, reaching an elevation of 5,590.2 meters. The snowline typically sits between 4,800 and 5,000 meters. Today, Yulong Snow Mountain is officially rated as a 5A National Scenic Area, the highest designation for tourist attractions in China.

In the Naxi language, Yulong Snow Mountain is known as “Oulu,” meaning “Heavenly Mountain.” Its thirteen snow-covered peaks resemble a giant dragon in flight, which explains the name “Yulong,” or “Jade Dragon.” Due to its limestone and basalt geology, the mountain displays striking contrasts of black rock and white snow, earning it the nickname “Black-and-White Snow Mountain.” For the Naxi people, this mountain holds deep spiritual meaning and is believed to be the physical manifestation of Sanduo, their legendary protective deity.

  • Address: Yulong Snow Mountain National Scenic Area, Yulong Naxi Autonomous County, Lijiang (Apple Maps / Amap)
  • Opening Hours: 07:00–18:00, last entry at 16:00
  • Recommended Visit Duration: One full day
  • Best Season to Visit: December to February; other seasons are suitable, but snow cover is only guaranteed in winter
  • Ticket Prices: Entrance fee 100 CNY, Glacier Park cable car 140 CNY, Spruce Meadow cable car 60 CNY
  • Ticket Purchase:Trip.com Discounts
  • Compare ticket prices and find the best deals:Click Here
Yulong Snow Mountain scenic view in Lijiang

Why You Should Visit Yulong Snow Mountain

The Southernmost Modern Glacier in the Northern Hemisphere

As the lowest-latitude modern maritime glacier in the Northern Hemisphere, Yulong Snow Mountain stands out on a global scale. Its thirteen snow-capped peaks remain covered year-round, creating rare and valuable glacier landscapes that hold significant geographic importance.

A Beginner-Friendly “First Snow Mountain” Experience

Compared with other high-altitude mountains, Yulong Snow Mountain is remarkably accessible. The main cable car takes visitors directly to a viewing platform at 4,506 meters. From there, a climb of about 1,680 steps leads to the iconic stone marker at 4,680 meters. You don’t need professional mountaineering gear to experience the dramatic views and thin mountain air, which makes this an ideal introduction to snow mountain travel.

Worth Visiting in Every Season

  • Spring: Melting snow contrasts with alpine flowers and rhododendrons, and crowds remain relatively light.
  • Summer: Cooler temperatures dominate, while Blue Moon Valley reaches its most vibrant blue due to higher water flow.
  • Autumn: Clear skies and excellent visibility highlight the sharp contrast between snow peaks, forests, and meadows.
  • Winter: Snowfall reaches its peak, mountain contours become especially defined, and conditions are ideal for witnessing the famous “Golden Mountain at Sunrise.”

Top Things to Do in Yulong Snow Mountain

Main Attractions

Glacier Park

Glacier Park sits near Shanzidou, the main peak of Yulong Snow Mountain, and marks the highest point accessible by cable car. For most visitors, this area becomes the highlight and natural endpoint of the journey. The main cable car takes you directly to the upper station at 4,506 meters. Once you step out, modern glaciers and year-round snowfields appear almost immediately, close enough to observe their texture and scale. As you move slowly along the wooden boardwalk, the landscape opens up. Ice formations, exposed rock faces, and distant snow peaks combine to create a striking high-altitude panorama.

By continuing upward for about 1,680 steps, you can reach the iconic stone marker at 4,680 meters. For many travelers, this moment represents their “first snow mountain” achievement. However, conditions change quickly at this altitude. Strong winds and rapid temperature shifts are common, so it’s best to slow your pace and focus on adapting to the environment rather than pushing for extra height.

Glacier Park at Yulong Snow Mountain with snow-covered peaks

Spruce Meadow

Spruce Meadow is the most gentle and relaxed alpine meadow within Yulong Snow Mountain, sitting at an elevation of around 3,240 meters and accessible by a smaller cable car. The terrain here remains relatively flat, with tall spruce forests surrounding the open grassland. Snow peaks rise and fade in the distance, creating a soft contrast to the dramatic scenery of Glacier Park. In Naxi culture, this area is known as a “lover’s meadow,” and the atmosphere feels calm and romantic. It’s an ideal place for a slow walk, casual photography, or a short break during your day in the mountains.

Spruce Meadow scenic area at Yulong Snow Mountain

Yak Meadow

Yak Meadow stands at a similar elevation to Spruce Meadow, yet its visual character feels completely different. The views stretch wider, the grassland rolls more noticeably, and on clear days the snow mountains appear more complete and unobstructed. Under good weather conditions, the scene often looks like snow peaks rising directly from open pasture. Compared with Spruce Meadow, Yak Meadow attracts fewer visitors and feels more untouched. For travelers who enjoy landscape photography and open alpine spaces, this area offers a quieter and more natural experience.

Yak Meadow grassland at Yulong Snow Mountain

Blue Moon Valley

Blue Moon Valley lies at a lower elevation within the scenic area and forms a highland valley shaped by snowmelt flowing through a series of small lakes. On sunny days, the water shifts between shades of blue and turquoise, making it one of the most visually distinctive spots in Yulong Snow Mountain. Compared with the dramatic snow peaks above, this area encourages a slower pace and works well as a visual break in your itinerary. Keep in mind that reaching Blue Moon Valley requires an additional electric shuttle ride. With limited time on a one-day visit, it remains an optional stop rather than a must-see.

Blue Moon Valley with turquoise lake at Yulong Snow Mountain

Impression Lijiang Show

Impression Lijiang is a large-scale outdoor performance staged against the natural backdrop of Yulong Snow Mountain and forms part of director Zhang Yimou’s well-known “Impression” series. Local ethnic performers bring the show to life through music, dance, and large group scenes that reflect the daily relationship between highland communities and their environment. The venue sits in the Ganhaizi area at an elevation of about 3,100 meters, so the high-altitude setting remains noticeable throughout the performance. The pacing feels energetic, and the cultural imagery is easy to follow, even for visitors unfamiliar with Naxi traditions. If your schedule allows, the afternoon show usually fits more comfortably into a snow mountain itinerary and connects more smoothly with daytime sightseeing.

  • Show Time: 1–2 performances daily, usually from 11:00–12:00 and 13:30–14:30; during the low season, only afternoon shows may run
  • Location: Ganhaizi Blue Moon Valley Theater, Yulong Snow Mountain Scenic Area (elevation 3,100 meters)
  • Duration: About 60 minutes
Impression Lijiang outdoor cultural performance

Yulong Snow Mountain Ticket Guide

When visiting Yulong Snow Mountain, there are two essential tickets you need to plan for. The first is the entrance ticket to the scenic area, which you can purchase on-site. The second covers access to the mountain itself and includes the Glacier Park cable car (often called the main cable car) and the Spruce Meadow cable car (the smaller cable car). Cable car tickets require selecting a specific time slot in advance. For Glacier Park, morning slots are strongly recommended, as afternoon services may close due to changing weather conditions. In addition, you must arrive within your assigned time window. If you show up too early or too late, staff may deny boarding.

Yulong Snow Mountain Ticket Prices

  • Entrance Ticket
    • Adult: 100 CNY
    • Child: 50 CNY, ages 7–18
    • Senior: 50 CNY, ages 60–69
  • Glacier Park Cable Car Ticket
    • Includes: Cable car ride plus round-trip shuttle bus between the visitor center and the cable car station
    • Adult: 140 CNY
    • Child: 80 CNY, height between 1.2–1.4 meters; available for on-site purchase only. After adults reserve tickets in advance, children can be measured and pay on-site
    • Free: Children under 1.2 meters
  • Spruce Meadow Cable Car Ticket
    • Includes: Cable car ride plus round-trip shuttle bus between the visitor center and the cable car station
    • Adult: 65 CNY
    • Child: 44.5 CNY, height between 1.2–1.4 meters; available for on-site purchase only. After adults reserve tickets in advance, children can be measured and pay on-site
    • Free: Children under 1.2 meters

Where to Buy Tickets

  • Online: Tickets are available through the official WeChat account “Lijiang Tourism Group” or via third-party booking platforms. If Glacier Park cable car tickets sell out, joining a tour group through a local agency can be a practical alternative. Even many Chinese travelers rely on agencies during peak periods due to limited availability.
  • On-site: Tickets are sold at the service center ticket counters. However, cable car tickets are rarely available on the spot due to high demand. You should always book cable car tickets online in advance. On-site purchases usually apply only to the scenic area entrance ticket.

After entering the Yulong Snow Mountain scenic area, your first step is purchasing the entrance ticket. Once inside, take the park shuttle bus from the visitor center to the Glacier Park cable car station. The cable car ride brings you directly to the summit area of Yulong Snow Mountain, where glaciers and snowfields appear immediately, with very little climbing required. A short wooden boardwalk runs across the summit area, and travelers seeking more challenge can continue upward on foot. If you still have energy, return to the visitor center and take another shuttle bus to the Spruce Meadow cable car station, then visit Spruce Meadow and Yak Meadow. Blue Moon Valley remains an optional stop and requires taking an electric shuttle from the visitor center. However, on a typical one-day itinerary, time usually doesn’t allow for Blue Moon Valley. Most visitors focus on Yulong Snow Mountain and Spruce Meadow instead. If your schedule works out, ending the day with the afternoon performance of Impression Lijiang is ideal, as the morning show often feels rushed.

Will You Experience Altitude Sickness at Yulong Snow Mountain?

It’s best to spend some time acclimating in Lijiang city before visiting. Lijiang sits at an elevation of just over 2,000 meters, while the summit area of Yulong Snow Mountain exceeds 4,000 meters. Yak Meadow and Spruce Meadow are both around 3,000 meters. Here are several practical tips to reduce the risk of altitude sickness:

  • Staying warm is critical, especially for your head. Always wear a hat, as heat loss can trigger dizziness quickly.
  • Sit facing forward on the cable car. This helps you anticipate movement and reduces anxiety. Both ascending and descending can involve brief sensations of weightlessness.
  • Avoid greasy food the day before your visit. Heavy meals often worsen altitude reactions. I personally chose a light mushroom hot pot the night before.
  • Eat a hot breakfast on the day of your visit. Warm food helps stabilize your body. Bringing candy or chocolate can also help maintain blood sugar levels.
  • Carry multiple oxygen canisters. If discomfort appears, use oxygen immediately rather than waiting.

Near the visitor center, you’ll find plenty of restaurants and drink shops, including McDonald’s, CHAGEE, Luckin Coffee, Starbucks, and various snack stalls. Prices remain reasonable for a major tourist site, so there’s no need to bring excessive food with you up the mountain.

Restaurants near Yulong Snow Mountain Visitor Center

Yulong Snow Mountain is about a one-hour drive from Lijiang Old Town. You can either stay outside the old town for easier transportation access or choose accommodation in Baisha Old Town, which sits slightly closer to the mountain. Staying outside Lijiang Old Town is generally more convenient, as you’ll need to leave early in the morning. Traffic often slows when vehicles stop to pay the entrance fee on the way to the mountain. For more accommodation options, see <Lijiang Hotel Recommendations>.

Sunpack· Sunshine Jinshan | Yilong Anyun · Holiday View Hotel

Sunpack· Sunshine Jinshan | Yilong Anyun · Holiday View Hotel
  • Location: Near the South Gate of Lijiang Old Town
  • Price per night: 228 CNY
  • Check Rates:Trip.com Specials
  • Rating: Trip 9.6
  • Special Amenities: Gym, laundry room, family rooms, views of Rizhao Jinshan

The hotel is located outside the South Gate of the Old Town. Walking to the gate takes about 7–10 minutes. The location is easy to find, taxis can stop directly at the entrance, and entering the Old Town feels less tiring. Daily amenities nearby are well developed, with Zhongyi Market next door for fruit and snacks, plus plenty of dining options. The shared space on the fifth floor offers a strong view, and on clear days, Yulong Snow Mountain comes into sight. Early mornings sometimes bring Rizhao Jinshan.

The property feels relatively new. Rooms are clean, odor-free, and bedding comfort meets expectations. In-room projection systems provide a solid viewing experience, although lighting leans softer. Elevators are available, which helps when traveling with luggage. The gym and laundry room are both practical for longer stays.

DuoFu Resort (Lijiang Ancient City South Gate)

DuoFu Resort (Lijiang Ancient City South Gate)
  • Location: Near the South Gate of Lijiang Old Town
  • Price per night: 382 CNY
  • Check Rates:Trip.com Specials、Agoda Deals
  • Rating: Trip 9.4 / Agoda 9.3
  • Special Amenities: Gym

The hotel sits right along the main road by the South Gate of Lijiang Old Town. Its location stands out, with the gate entrance just about ten meters away, making walking in and out effortless. Restaurants and snack options are abundant nearby, and daily needs are easy to cover. Although the lobby is compact, the interior courtyard, small bridges, flowing water, and Naxi-style architecture create a strong sense of atmosphere that photographs very well.

Rooms stay clean and tidy, and the overall experience feels stable and reliable. The hotel has only two floors and no elevator, but staff proactively help with luggage, which minimizes inconvenience. Breakfast is buffet-style. The selection isn’t excessive, but it comfortably meets basic needs.

Hotel Indigo Lijiang Ancient Town by IHG

Hotel Indigo Lijiang Ancient Town by IHG
  • Location: Near the South Gate of Lijiang Old Town
  • Price per night: 1,264 CNY
  • Check Rates:Trip.com Specials、Agoda Deals
  • Rating: Trip 9.7 / Agoda 9.6
  • Special Amenities: Laundry room, villa-style rooms

The hotel sits directly at the South Gate of Lijiang Old Town, and ride-hailing cars can reach the entrance without issue. Entering and exiting the Old Town feels effortless, and walking to Zhongyi Market, Mu Mansion, and Sifang Street stays within a reasonable distance. The layout follows a garden-style villa design, with separate buildings spread across the property. Privacy stays high, and walking through the grounds feels calm, which contrasts clearly with the busy Old Town nearby. Design details blend Tea Horse Road history with Naxi cultural elements, from saddle-shaped front desk seating to courtyard pathways.

Guest rooms generally feel spacious, and many include private courtyards. The environment stays quiet, with a relaxed atmosphere that suits families or travelers looking to unwind. Cleanliness is well maintained, facilities are complete, and finishing details feel refined. Butler-style service supports the stay from pre-arrival communication to luggage assistance and in-stay requests, with timely responses throughout.

How to Get from Lijiang Old Town to Yulong Snow Mountain

Taking Bus No. 101 is the officially recommended public transportation option. This route uses a dedicated lane to Yulong Snow Mountain, keeps costs low, and runs frequently.

Bus

Bus No. 101 departs from Zhongyi Market Bus Station and serves as the official direct route to Yulong Snow Mountain. The fare is 15 CNY, and the ride takes about 50 minutes.

  • To Yulong Snow Mountain: The first bus departs at 7:00 a.m. Earlier services may operate during peak season, with buses running every 15–20 minutes.
  • Return from Yulong Snow Mountain: Board at the Ganhaizi Parking Lot, near Parking Area No. 3. The last bus typically departs between 5:00 and 6:00 p.m., so arrive early to avoid missing it.

Taxi / Ride-Hailing / Shared Ride

If Bus No. 101 isn’t convenient, taxis or shared rides are good alternatives. A direct taxi usually costs around 50 CNY and takes about 50 minutes. Shared rides typically cost about 20 CNY per person. During peak season, taxis may actually take longer than the bus, since Bus No. 101 benefits from a dedicated lane.

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 Yulong Snow Mountain suitable for strollers or wheelchairs?

No. High altitude poses challenges, and many areas include stairs that require lifting strollers or wheelchairs frequently.

Where can you store luggage?

Luggage storage is available at the visitor center. Lockers are offered in three sizes: small lockers cost 4 CNY per hour, medium lockers cost 5 CNY per hour, and large lockers cost 6 CNY per hour. Large lockers can accommodate suitcases up to 29 inches.

Essential Lijiang Travel Resources