A family sojourn in Lijiang with Melissa Koh

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Lijiang and its surroundings offer an extraordinary blend of culture, nature, and adventure that will capture the hearts of every family member. This unforgettable journey through Yunnan, enriched with engaging activities, historical insights, and breathtaking landscapes, will surely leave your family with cherished memories and a longing to return. So pack your bags and get ready to explore the magic of Lijiang together!

As seen on @melissackoh

- Starting / Ending point: Lijiang

- Suggested flights from Singapore: China Eastern (transiting through Kunming) or China Southern (transiting through Guangzhou)

- Hotels: Kuanshang Lijiang, Sunyata Shaxi, LUX* Lashi Lake, Hylla Vintage or Club Med Lijiang (Standard Room >35m2, 1.8m King Bed)

- Includes: All land arrangements, accommodation (with breakfast), private guide-driver, tours, entry fees; Does not include international airfare to Lijiang or meals

- Experiences included: Tie-dye Activity, Family photoshoot at Shaxi, Horse-riding, VIP Impressions Lijiang tickets, Private dining in Baisha, Yuhu Dongba language activity

Cost per family (2A2C):

9D8N with Hylla Vintage

- SGD3150/adult

- SGD1150/child (<6); SGD1985/child (6-12)

9D8N with Club Med Lijiang

- SGD2550/adult

- SGD1150/child (<6); SGD1650/child (6-12)

We recognise every family is different, so please treat this as an indicative price and let us know your unique requirements so we can better customise your journey!

Contact us or send us an email at info@shanchinatours.com to book!

Day 1: Arrive in Lijiang – Welcome to a Cultural Haven

Welcome to Yunnan, China’s most ethnically diverse province! Your adventure begins as you arrive in the charming town of Lijiang, with its breathtaking scenery and vibrant culture. Check in to your hotel in Dayan Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site brimming with history and character. Enjoy your first taste of Yunnan’s exquisite wild mushrooms, a local delicacy. As you settle into your lovely boutique hotel, take a moment to soak in the sights and sounds of this lively town, where time seems to have stood still.

Day 2: Explore Dayan Old Town – A Walk Through History

Start your day with a stroll from Black Dragon Pool, the sparkling water source of Lijiang. The pathway leads you through cobbled streets that intertwine like a labyrinth, revealing stunning views of traditional Naxi architecture and vibrant flowers. Encourage your children to spot different historical structures, turning the walk into an engaging game of discovery. Climb to higher viewpoints for panoramic views of the town’s iconic rooftops, making for fantastic family photos. As the afternoon rolls in, return to your hotel for a delightful afternoon tea, featuring local snacks and refreshing drinks. Once the sun sets, the town transforms into a magical realm of twinkling lights.

Day 3: Trace the Tea Horse Road – Journey into the Past

Today, you’ll embark on a journey to trace the ancient caravan route known as the Tea Horse Road, which once connected Yunnan to Tibet. After a two-hour scenic drive, you’ll arrive in the idyllic village of Shaxi. Begin your exploration at the beautiful Xianfeng bookstore, where kids can browse for captivating reads and local artwork. Take a break at a charming café nestled in the mountains, where you can enjoy refreshments and local treats. The tranquil ambiance is perfect for family bonding, allowing you to share the stories behind your day’s experiences.

Day 4: Discover Shaxi Old Town – Crafting Memories

Begin your day at the picturesque Yujin Bridge in Shaxi, a beautiful spot where you can often find farm animals. This setting is perfect for family photos, capturing your adventure in the heart of Yunnan. Engage your kids in a traditional craft by trying your hand at tie-dyeing—an enjoyable and messy activity that everyone will love! Continue your exploration by wandering through the quaint streets of Shaxi. With its coffee shops and artisan boutiques, this town, made popular by the TV show "去有风的地方," invites you to cafe-hop while savoring artisanal snacks. Celebrate the day by dressing in traditional Naxi attire for family photos, creating lasting memories that encapsulate this magical journey.

Visiting Shaxi on your own? Book a family photoshoot here

Day 5: Leisurely Day by Lashi Lake – A Day of Relaxation

After a few days of exploration, it’s time for a more leisurely pace. Travel back to Lijiang for an outdoor BBQ lunch in a tent, where your kids can play in an open area while you savour delicious grilled food. Post-lunch, check in to your lake-side retreat and unpack in idyllic comfort. Spend the afternoon exploring the beautiful surroundings of Lashi Lake, taking a leisurely stroll along the water or simply relaxing as the sunset casts a golden hue over the landscape.

Day 6: Lashi Lake and Shuhe Old Town – Nature and Serenity

Begin your day with a ride on horseback around Lashi Lake, where the Tea Horse Road originated. This experience allows the family to connect with nature while relishing the stunning scenery. Upon returning to the hotel to freshen up, head out to visit Shuhe Old Town. This serene village, with its peaceful atmosphere and picturesque streets, offers a refreshing contrast to the lively Dayan Old Town. Stroll through the charming lanes, engage with local artisans, and let your kids explore their surroundings freely in this lovely setting.

Day 7: Experience Jade Dragon Snow Mountain and Baisha Old Town – Nature’s Majesty Meets Cultural Richness

Prepare for an extraordinary day as you explore Jade Dragon Snow Mountain National Park. Standing tall at 5,596m, this sacred mountain features mesmerizing Blue Moon Valley, our main stop for the day, with its stunning cascading lake and furry white yaks that your kids will adore! In the afternoon, don’t miss the spectacular “Impressions Lijiang” performance directed by renowned filmmaker Zhang Yimou. This captivating show, rich with local culture and tradition, is bound to thrill the entire family. Conclude your day with a visit to the quaint Baisha Old Town and a farm-to-table dinner at a private kitchen nearby.

Day 8: Yuhu Village – A Glimpse into Dongba Culture

Travel to Yuhu Village, where you can delve into the ancient Dongba pictorial language. This unique writing system, a reflection of the local culture, provides a fascinating insight for the kids to learn about the Naxi heritage. Walk the rooftop of a trendy cafe in the village before returning to your luxurious hotel to explore the hotel grounds.

Day 9: A Relaxing Finale

Wrap up your trip with a relaxing day at your mountain retreat, soaking in awe-inspiring views of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. This tranquil setting is perfect for leisurely activities and unwinding after an action-packed itinerary or simply enjoying quality family time together.

Check out our classic Yunnan for Kids! itinerary here

Cost per family (2 adults, 2 children <6y):

9D8N with Hylla Vintage

- SGD3240/adult; SGD1200/child

9D8N with Club Med Lijiang

- SGD2650/adult; SGD1200/child

We recognise every family is different, so please treat this as an indicative price and let us know your unique requirements so we can better customise your journey!

Contact us or send us an email at info@shanchinatours.com to book!

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