Staying in Lijiang: Half Landscape, Half Tenderness – This Time, Choosing a Hidden Mountain Retreat

We always look forward to a spur-of-the-moment trip, but never have we appreciated the joy of being able to travel at will more than during this extraordinary time. In recent years, I've made it a point to visit Yunnan at least once a year; just when I thought this year's trip wouldn't happen, an opportunity unexpectedly arose before the Dragon Boat Festival. With crossing provincial borders now feeling as thrilling as going abroad once did, a short summer break in Yunnan seems especially alluring.

"Having been confined in a cage for so long, I've returned to nature." Life this year desperately needed such a spontaneous getaway.

Lijiang, as always, remains the hardest place to part with on any trip to western Yunnan.

I've penned many travelogues about Lijiang in various lengths—covering must-see spots, culinary delights, and family-friendly activities. Lijiang shares a trait with all of China's big cities: it's like a never-ending book, constantly updating its chapters, so we can never reach the ending and draw a conclusion. This time, I want to approach it from a hotel-resort perspective, revealing a brand-new, unseen Lijiang.

On my previous visits, I'd always stayed around the ancient town, where the humanistic charm of local guesthouses shines brightly.

Every guesthouse has a courtyard filled with flowers and greenery, surrounded by a riot of colors, forming a shaded path. There's a softness reminiscent of Jiangnan water towns, yet with a unique architectural style from northwest Yunnan.

Almost every household keeps a furry friend, often seen squatting outside the gate, watching passersby—a simple, leisurely pace of life.

But this time, we chose not to stay in a guesthouse courtyard within the old town; instead, we went to a less-touristed spot: the Dongba Valley Health Resort.

The term "hillside hotel" was something I first encountered in Yunnan. Nestled in the embrace of the forest, it lets you commune with nature. The hillside hotel at Dongba Valley Health Resort has redefined our idea of a traditional hotel.

We drove to Dongba Valley, and at the entrance, a scenic area shuttle took us to the hotel. Along the way, the roadside views were a feast for the eyes. Sunlight filtered through the green trees, and a few horses ambling down the path instantly calmed my heart.

The landscape-view rooms have practically become an "attraction" of their own at Dongba Valley. While others are scrambling to find a sky-high restaurant or angle to get a photo with the snow mountain, you can easily strike any pose right from your own room's balcony without worrying about onlookers, and snap photos to your heart's content 24/7.

The room design is thoughtful, with every unit featuring a private balcony. At midday, sunlight streams through the window, cozy and elegant. Stepping onto the balcony, you're greeted by endless greenery and the pristine snow-capped mountain.

The rooms are close to a horse trail, where the occasional tinkling of camel bells and clip-clop of hooves give you a sense of time rewinding.

The hotel has 20 rooms in various styles: compact yet comfortable tent rooms, a clubhouse where you open the door to blue waters, and lakeside wooden suites with stunning views of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain—catering to guests of all tastes. Even from the corridor, you can glimpse the distinct styles, such as the exquisite tent rooms dripping with elegance.

The rooms are standalone, spaced several meters apart to ensure full privacy and a private courtyard feel, also guaranteeing a high-quality sleep.

The décor inside won my heart. The rooms exude a woody fragrance, with retro Chinese-style furnishings, and little knick-knacks and tea sets by the bedside. You can brew a cup of tea, sit by the window, and watch the snow mountain scenery as the sun slowly sets—time seems both fast and slow, sunrise and sunset fleeting. Here, you can stop worrying about the passage of time and simply enjoy the breeze and the moon.

If you have free time, the resort has plenty to explore. Though it's just a hotel stay, it feels like a full day at a scenic spot.

You can sample local ethnic minority cuisine, and the Craftsman Street is lined with handicrafts—bracelets, shawls, Dongba fans—perfect for a leisurely stroll.

A thoughtful guide to staying at Dongba Valley Hillside Hotel

[Hotel Location]

Address: Dongba Valley, Baisha Town, Yulong County, Lijiang City

Bus 104 from Hongtaiyang Square, alight at Dongba Valley and walk 157 meters. Or take the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain shuttle; self-driving, navigate to "Dongba Valley."

About 60 minutes by taxi from the airport.

[Nearby Attractions]

Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, Baisha Ancient Town, Snow Mountain Rose Estate

[Average Spend]

Basic room: less than 700 yuan per night. Considering the location, environment, facilities, and service, it's very cost-effective. For two or more sharing, it's just over 200 yuan per person—where else in Lijiang can you find such an experience?

Personally, I recommend upgrading to a lake-view suite for a small additional fee. The spaciousness and superb views elevate the experience by more than just one level!

Buffet hotpot dinner: 50 yuan per person.

[Other Services]

Free parking, paid airport/train station transfers, car rental, and taxi service.

Children's slippers and toothbrush sets are provided in each room.