A winter tour in Lijiang features warm sunshine, starlit sky

A view of the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain in northwest Yunnan's Lijiang city

As winter takes a deep hold, northwest Yunnan's Lijiang city still basks in gentle sunshine appealing to visitors.

At dawn, the sun gilds the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain as promised; by afternoon, warm rays filter through golden ginkgo leaves, spilling onto the streets of cobble stones.

A view of the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain in northwest Yunnan's Lijiang city

In Lijiang old town, a new narrative centered on a "warm winter, stargazing, and extended stays" is coming into being among global tourists. Lijiang is growing from a traditional sightseeing destination into a world-class haven for "long-term travel."

Leveraging the "winter travel" season as an opportunity, Lijiang has stepped up the integration of culture and tourism. By blending diverse offerings such as astronomical stargazing activities, ecological study tours and sporting events, the city is creating a richer, more immersive experience for visitors.

A view of the Lijiang old town

A view of the Lijiang old town

Reporting by Wu Peizhao (Yunnan Daily); Trans-editing by Wang Shixue