Shuhe Ancient Town
Shuhe Ancient Town, a UNESCO-listed Naxi village north of Lijiang, is Yunnan’s quieter alternative to bustling Dayan Old Town. Founded during the Song Dynasty (13th century), it thrived as a Tea Horse Road hub, preserving cobblestone streets, canals, and Ming-Qing architecture. Famed for its laid-back vibe and "living museum" status, it offers a glimpse into traditional Naxi life.
Historical Overview
Established in 1253 under the Yuan Dynasty, Shuhe served as a military garrison and trade post. Unlike reconstructed Dayan, 80% of its structures remain original. In 1997, UNESCO included it in the Lijiang Old Town World Heritage Site. Key events include the 2003 preservation campaign that saved its wooden homes from modernization.
Structural Layout
The town follows a grid layout with:Sifang Street: Central plaza with a Qing-era water well and craft stalls.
Canals: 3 bridges (notably Qinglong Bridge) cross the "Venice of the East" waterways.
Naxi Houses: Traditional courtyard homes with carved wooden beams and slate roofs.
Key Zones: Qinglong Village (residential area), Square Street Museum, and Longdeng Temple.
Major Attractions
Qinglong Bridge: 14th-century stone arch bridge spanning the Yuxi River.
Sifang Street Market: Daily crafts, snacks, and Naxi instruments (8 AM–6 PM).
Square Street Museum: Exhibit on Naxi Dongba culture and Tea Horse Road history.
Longdeng Temple: 15th-century Buddhist-Taoist shrine with murals.
Tea Horse Road Museum: Interactive displays on ancient trade routes.
Baisha Old Town: Nearby village with 14th-century murals (10-min drive).
Laojunshan Hiking Trail: 9km loop to Jade Dragon Snow Mountain views.
Suggested Itineraries
- Classic Route (3–4 hours):
Qinglong Bridge → Sifang Street → Square Street Museum → Longdeng Temple.
Highlights: Iconic bridges, Naxi crafts, and temple art.
- Cultural Route (5–6 hours):
Tea Horse Road Museum → Baisha Murals → Laojunshan Trail.
Highlights: History, hiking, and rural Naxi culture.
- Immersive Route (Full Day):
Combine both routes, adding a Naxi cooking class (¥150/person).
Ticket Purchase
Shuhe Ancient Town: Free entry (individual attractions charge fees).
Square Street Museum: ¥30 (adults), ¥15 (students/seniors).
Baisha Murals: ¥20 (combined ticket with Daju Village).
Laojunshan Trail: ¥50 (includes shuttle bus).
Transportation
From Lijiang:
Bus: Route #6 from Lijiang Bus Station to Shuhe (¥2, 30 mins; every 20 mins).
Taxi: ¥25–30 (15 mins) to Sifang Street.
Bike Rental: ¥20–30/day for the 6km Lijiang-Shuhe cycle path.
Local:
Minibus: Sifang Street to Qinglong Village (¥5, 10 mins).
On Foot: Explore narrow lanes and canals (1–2 hours).
Best Time & Tips
Avoid Crowds: Visit Nov–Mar (off-season) or weekdays.
Best Seasons: Spring (Mar–May) for blossoms; autumn (Sep–Oct) for festivals.
Wear: Comfy shoes (cobblestones!), light jacket (evenings cool).
Respect: Naxi traditions; don’t touch Dongba murals.
Eco-Tip: Use reusable bags (plastic banned).
Try: Naxi BBQ (spicy grilled fish) and Jidou Noodles (chickpea pasta).
FAQ
Where in Shuhe Ancient Town can you enjoy a full view of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain?
The hill behind Shuhe Temple offers unobstructed views. Climb the 10-minute stone path at sunrise, and you’ll see the snow-capped peaks rising behind the town’s gray-tiled roofs—a breathtaking combination of nature and history.
What’s special about exploring Shuhe Ancient Town at night?
Unlike busier towns, Shuhe’s nights are calm—streets are lit with soft lanterns, and you can hear Naxi folk songs from open windows. The riverside square sometimes hosts bonfire gatherings where locals and visitors dance to traditional music.
What celebrations happen during the "Sanduo Festival" in Shuhe Ancient Town, and can visitors join?
The festival honors Sanduo (the Naxi mountain god) with horse races, archery contests, and offerings at local temples. Visitors can watch the ceremonies, taste "festival cakes" (sweet rice with honey), and join the communal dances.
What unique accommodation options are there in Shuhe Ancient Town?
Stay in a traditional Naxi courtyard inn—many have flower gardens, wooden balconies, and rooms with fireplaces (perfect for winter). Some inns also offer cooking classes where you can learn to make Naxi dishes.
What’s the fastest way to get from Shuhe Ancient Town to Lijiang Sanyi Airport?
A taxi takes 40 minutes (100–120 RMB) and is the most efficient. Alternatively, book a private transfer in advance for a fixed price—ideal for early morning flights.
