Blue Moon Valley — Attraction in Lijiang City

Blue Moon Valley actually is an extremely blue river meandering through a lush valley of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. Seen from a distance, it resembles a blue crescent moon inlaid at the foot of the mountain. That's how the place got its beautiful name! However, blue is not the only colour of the river. If it rains, the white mud and limestone rubble at the riverbed will be swirled up, making the water as white as milk. Therefore, local Naxi people name it White Water River (Baishui River). The White Water River is fed by melting snow and ice running down from Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. The water is freezing; even in summer, and people still cannot bear the piercing cold when they dabble in the river. But it is a favorite iced drink in summer. Legend has it that, when two Naxi youngsters fall in love, the boy will be tested by standing barefoot in the cold river in winter to show his committed love for the girl. Folks believe that this tested love will last forever in the presence of the holy snow mountain. So, the river is considered the Love River in local people's mind. There are four lakes divided by small waterfalls or giant rocks along the river, namely Jade-Like Wine Lake, Mirror Pond, Blue Moon Lake, and Wave-Listening Lake. The lakes form a natural mirror reflecting the grand snow mountain, surrounding cliffs, and lush plants. There are small shoals dotted among the water, breaking the smooth surface of the lakes. We can take good pictures anywhere along the river. But the best point is the White Water Terrace on the upstream. It is made up of fan-shaped stairs with the river running down from each step, looking like shining shells under...

This is one of the main attractions of Lijiang, and let me tell you it's worth it! Never have I ever seen such a wonderful landscape. Take your passport with you! As soon as you arrive, a bus will take you to the Blue Lagoon, some buses take you to the lagoons and back to the base. There are places at the base to have coffee, grab snacks, or have lunch.

The entrance ticket to the mountain and Blue Lagoon is ¥100. There are ticket counters but if you talk with your hotel they would probably arrange it for you (transport, oxygen, the ticket to the place, and ticket to the cable car that takes you up the mountain, it’s around ¥318). If you prefer to go on your own from the ancient city you can take the bus 101 (¥15, you can pay by QR or cash keep), keep In mind they don’t have change, so you should give them the right amount) but I would definitely recommend booking the...

Blue Moon Valley (蓝月谷) is a breathtaking turquoise lake basin nestled at the foot of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain in Yunnan. Its name comes from the mesmerizing blue water, which resembles a crescent moon under sunlight, created by mineral-rich glacial meltwater.

Highlights & Activities: Photography Paradise: Capture stunning reflections of snow-capped peaks in the crystal-clear blue lakes. Four Colorful Pools: Wander past lakes with hues shifting from azure to emerald due to mineral deposits. Waterfall Views: See the White Water Terrace, a natural limestone cascade. Naxi Culture: Spot traditional prayer flags and ethnic motifs around the valley. Easy Exploration: Walk along wooden boardwalks or take an eco-friendly shuttle.

A must-visit for its surreal,...