Jade Dragon Snow Mountain

玉龙雪山

A stunning snow-capped mountain range visible from Lijiang, sacred to the Naxi people, offering scenic cable car rides and alpine meadows. The dramatic peaks and glaciers are among Yunnan's most iconic natural features.

Things to do

• Glacier Park Cable Car — Ride the cable car up to 4,680 meters to view the Baishui Glacier and surrounding alpine terrain with panoramic views of the Lijiang Valley.
• Spruce Meadow Trek — Hike through the lush alpine meadows at mid-elevation to spot wildflowers, grazing yaks, and traditional Naxi herding practices.
• Yunshan Ping Meadow — Visit this scenic mountain plateau accessible by cable car, featuring grasslands, prayer flags, and excellent photography opportunities of the main peaks.
• Wuhuahai Lake Viewpoint — Trek to this pristine alpine lake nestled below the peaks to experience the mountain's sacred landscape and reflective waters.
• Naxi Culture Experience — Visit nearby Naxi villages at the mountain's base to learn about the indigenous Naxi people's traditional architecture, astronomy knowledge, and agricultural practices.
• Mountain Photography Expedition — Join guided photo tours at sunrise or sunset to capture the dramatic play of light on the thirteen peaks and glaciers.

Food to try

• Naxi Grilled Fish — Fresh local trout grilled with Sichuan peppercorns, mushrooms, and wild herbs, a signature dish of the Lijiang-Jade Dragon region.
• Yak Butter Tea — Traditional Tibetan-influenced beverage made with yak butter and salt, served warm at high-altitude lodges and teahouses on the mountain.
• Naxi Glutinous Rice Cake — Sweet sticky rice cake filled with brown sugar and local walnuts, commonly sold by vendors at cable car stations and trailheads.
• Wild Mushroom Hotpot — Yuanyang-style hotpot featuring seasonal wild mushrooms foraged from the mountain's forests, combined with local vegetables and broth.
• Yak Yogurt — Creamy traditional yogurt made from yak milk, rich and tangy, served at mountain lodges and village restaurants in the Lijiang area.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect Sacred Mountain Status — The mountain is sacred to the Naxi people as the god Satsria Metpo; dress modestly, avoid littering, and do not remove stones or plants from the peak.
• Altitude Acclimatization Essential — The peak reaches 5,596 meters; allow 1-2 days in Lijiang (2,400m) before ascending to prevent altitude sickness, and bring appropriate medication.
• Seasonal Weather Preparation — Afternoon thunderstorms are common in summer, and snow can close peaks in winter; check weather conditions and dress in layers year-round.
• Support Local Naxi Guides — Hire local Naxi guides who can share cultural knowledge and ensure respectful interaction with indigenous communities at the mountain's base.