A Romantic Tale of You and Me

(Yunnan: Dali, Lijiang, Shangri-La – Sichuan: Yading, Daocheng)

This summer, take your loved one by the hand

and embark on a romantic journey that's just for the two of you – the route of Wind, Flowers, Snow, and Moonlight.

Starting from Dali in Yunnan,

passing through Lijiang and Shangri-La,

reaching Yading in Sichuan,

and finally ending this romantic trip in Daocheng~

Travel tips are ready, check them out~

1. When traveling in Yunnan and Sichuan, sun protection is a must! The UV rays are strong even in winter in these areas.

2. Bring some basic medicine for colds, motion sickness, stomach issues, and altitude sickness.

3. Temperature differences between morning and evening can be large, so even in summer pack a couple of long-sleeved tops, long pants, and comfortable sneakers.

4. Consider bringing your driver's license if you plan to rent a car.

5. Book tickets through official websites before departure.

6. Carry energy-boosting snacks like chocolate and bottled water; some scenic spots are physically demanding.

Yunnan Chapter (Dali – Lijiang – Shangri-La)

Yunnan, the province with the most ethnic groups in China, is home to 25 minorities including the Yi, Hani, Bai, Dai, Zhuang, Miao, Hui, and Lisu peoples. It is a land of diverse cultures and rich tourism resources. Yunnan has countless travel routes; if time is limited, plan your must-see spots in advance.

Dali Ancient Town lies in western Yunnan, also known as Yeyu City or Purple City. Its history traces back to the Tang Dynasty's Tianbao era, and it was once the capital of the mysterious Nanzhao Kingdom. Built in the 15th year of the Ming Hongwu reign (1382), it served as the political, economic, and cultural center of Yunnan for over 500 years during the Tang and Song dynasties. Although commercialized today, you can still find many local snacks and handicrafts, as well as a Christian church and Catholic church blending Chinese and Western styles – perfect for photo ops~

Dali is picturesque all year round, and among its many scenic wonders, the four sights of Wind, Flowers, Snow, and Moon are the most celebrated: “Xiaguan wind, Shangguan flowers, Cangshan snow, Erhai moon.” This enchanting beauty is irresistible, from the Cangshan Mountains to Erhai Lake.

(Tips) Insider advice:

1. Wuhua Tower (Five Glory Tower) is the landmark of Dali Ancient Town; climb up for a panoramic view.

2. The ancient town is quite large. Walking is the best choice if you have the energy – you'll discover different scenery away from the crowds. You can also rent a bike or take the sightseeing electric cart.

3. To save time and energy on Cangshan Mountain, take a cable car. There are three cableway lines; choose according to your preference.

4. Near Erhai Lake, don't miss Shuanglang Kuixing Pavilion and Nanzhao Customs Island, along with many traditional Bai-style residences. Many visitors pay 10 yuan to enter Yuji Island and see Yang Liping's private villa.

GreenTree Alliance Dali Ancient Town Hotel

The hotel is at No. 16, Fuzhu Xiaoqu, Sanyue Street, Dali Ancient Town, Dali. Its architecture reflects local style, and it offers ethnic breakfasts and a courtyard movie area~

Gema Dali Xiaguan Erhai Park Olympic Center Hotel

Located at No. 267 Weishan Road, Economic Development Zone, Dali, this hotel features bright spaces and dining with open views. The public areas are delicately decorated, understated yet elegant. Rooms are clean and fresh, with a bright blue palette echoing the sunshine.

A hotel at No. 66 Luyu Road, Dali Ancient Town, comes highly recommended! Inside there's a charming little courtyard, perfect for relaxing with a drink after a day of exploring and soaking in Dali's unique romance.

Lijiang is another multi-ethnic region, home to the World Cultural Heritage Lijiang Ancient Town, the World Natural Heritage Three Parallel Rivers, and the World Memory Heritage Dongba manuscripts of the Naxi people. Rich in tourism resources, its most famous sight is Jade Dragon Snow Mountain (Yulong Xueshan). Since you've already visited ancient towns in Yunnan, this time we recommend focusing on Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, though it's still best to stay overnight in Lijiang. If you have spare time and energy, wander through Lijiang Ancient Town.

The mysterious Jade Dragon Snow Mountain is Lijiang's “highbrow beauty.” As the setting for many adventure novels, it radiates mystery and charm. The magnificent snow mountain scenery draws countless explorers and travelers.

(Tips) Insider advice:

1. Buy the ticket that includes the large cable car. Only the large cable car takes you to the snow. You can purchase same-day tickets on the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain official WeChat account – remember to bring your ID.

2. Oxygen canisters can be bought online or at local supermarkets.

3. Bring a down jacket, or rent one at the foot of the mountain if you prefer to pack light.

4. Check with official customer service in advance – student IDs and other credentials may get you discounts.

5. Carry energy-boosting snacks like chocolate and plenty of water.

GreenTree Inn Lijiang Ancient Town

The hotel is at 56 Mishi Alley, Xinyi Street, Dayan Subdistrict, Gucheng District, Lijiang. Designed as an inn, every corner exudes Lijiang's romance. Nearby you'll find many unique little bars. Enjoy a drink while listening to wandering poets and singers~

Shangri-La means “the sun and moon in one's heart” in Tibetan. Once known as Zhongdian County, it is the capital of Diqing Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture in Yunnan and borders Yunnan, Sichuan, and Tibet. It is also where the World Natural Heritage “Three Parallel Rivers” scenic area lies.

(Tips) Insider advice:

1. Sun protection is still essential in Shangri-La due to the high altitude and strong UV.

2. Bring necessary medicine, watch out for altitude sickness, rest well, and avoid strenuous activities.

3. Suggested visit: around one day.

GreenTree Eastern Shangri-La Dukezong Ancient Town Hotel

In the popular tourist destination of Shangri-La, accommodation is usually expensive, but it's a surprise to find such a large, comfortable room at a great price! The design is fresh and elegant, and coupled with Shangri-La's afternoon sunshine, it's even cozier. At just over 200 yuan a night, the hotel is comfortable and impeccably clean.

Sichuan Chapter (Shangri-La – Daocheng Yading)

Because Shangri-La and Daocheng Yading are very close, you can cross the provincial border directly from Shangri-La to Daocheng Yading in Sichuan. The distance is about 400 kilometers, taking around eight to nine hours by car, but the scenery along the way is absolutely worth it. A road trip not to be missed~

Daocheng Yading means “the land facing the sun” in Tibetan. Inside the scenic area, three snow mountains stand: Xiannairi, Yangmaiyong, and Xianuoduoji, collectively called “Nianqing Gongga Risong Gongbu.” They are sacred mountains and protective deities in local Tibetan hearts; in Tibetan Buddhism they are also known as the “Three Protector Snow Mountains.” Snow peaks, colorful forests, valleys, and vibrant lakes make this a paradise on earth. You'll find “Haizi” – alpine lakes formed by snowmelt – including Milk Lake, Five-Color Lake, and Pearl Lake. Here, vows of eternal love feel all the more unwavering.

(Tips) Insider advice:

1. Full-price tickets cost 146 yuan in peak season and 120 yuan in the off-season. Some groups qualify for discounts or free entry.

2. If you fly directly to Daocheng Yading Airport, there's no direct bus to the scenic area. You'll need to take an airport shuttle to Daocheng town (buses run continuously after each flight lands, with a 1-hour interval, 30 yuan per person).

3. Tickets for the scenic area are available at on-site ticket windows, self-service machines, the official website, and the WeChat official account. Don't forget your ID.

Daocheng Yading Gongjin Lianri Yage Boutique Hotel

Nestled at the entrance of Yading Scenic Area – “the last pure land on the blue planet” – here you'll encounter temples and stupas, experience one of the world's highest airports, and gaze upon sacred mountains, flowing rivers, blue skies, lakes, and meadows. While embracing nature, enjoy modern comfort and service. Rooms are well-equipped and cozy, with log- and cave-inspired designs full of artistic and cultural flair, as if stepping through time into a dreamlike wonderland!

GreenTree Inn Ganzhou Daocheng Yading Scenic Area Smart Hotel

Also near the scenic area, the hotel offers spacious rooms. I want to invite you to Yading to see the starry skies of our memories~ After a day exploring, return to the hotel and enjoy the starry night in the small courtyard. Beneath this quiet, star-filled sky, our romantic journey of wind, flowers, snow, and moonlight comes to a perfect close.