Lijiang has a huge range of places to stay, from tiny courtyard guesthouses to large international hotels. Lijiang Wangfu Hotel sits in the middle: a comfortable, mid-priced option for visitors who want reliable rooms and practical services without paying for a global brand. Staying in a hotel rather than a courtyard inn can be a relief after long drives or hikes, with consistent heating, hot water, lifts and a staffed front desk. The city is ringed by mountains and the air is thin, so good sleep matters. From Lijiang you can plan visits to the Old Town of Dayan, Shuhe, Baisha, Jade Dragon Snow Mountain and Tiger Leaping Gorge, and a hotel desk can usually help with tickets, cars and directions. Because details of location, room types and facilities vary and change, confirm them on the hotel page before booking. Many guests choose a hotel like this for a night or two between Dali and Shangri-La, using it as a calm base for day trips into the mountains.
Location and getting around
Confirm the hotel's position relative to the Old Town and the main roads. Taxis are cheap, and the old town can be reached in a short ride from most areas. If you plan an early start for Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, ask the hotel about pick-up times and breakfast boxes.
Rooms and style
Expect practical rooms with a comfortable bed, a desk, a private bathroom and heating and cooling. Request a quiet room if you are a light sleeper, and check the heating in winter. Some rooms may offer mountain or city views.
Food and drink
Breakfast may be included and usually offers Chinese dishes with some Western items. For dinner, the old town has an enormous choice of restaurants, from Naxi home cooking to cafes and bars, and the hotel staff can recommend places and call a taxi after dinner.
Who it suits
Independent travellers, couples and small groups who want a comfortable base at a fair price. It is also a good choice for those who prefer to spend money on tours and meals rather than on a luxury room.
Good to know
Lijiang is busy during national holidays and summer school breaks, so book early. The altitude is around 2,400 metres, and the sun is strong, so bring sunscreen and a hat. Confirm facilities and services before travelling, and carry your passport for check-in. Ask about luggage storage if you will travel to Shangri-La or Tiger Leaping Gorge and return.
Planning your stay
Because Lijiang is a small city, a sensible plan is to spend the first day on the old town, the second at Jade Dragon Snow Mountain and the third on a trip to Tiger Leaping Gorge or Shangri-La. Ask the front desk to help book cars and confirm opening times, and keep a card with the hotel address in Chinese for taxis in the evening.
Why stay here
- ✓Restaurant or breakfast room (confirm hours)
- ✓Free Wi-Fi
- ✓Heating and air conditioning
- ✓Front desk and luggage storage
- ✓Tour and taxi assistance
- ✓24-hour reception (confirm availability)
- ✓Private bathroom
- ✓Early breakfast boxes on request (confirm availability)
Good questions
Is this hotel close to the Old Town?+
Check the map on the hotel page. Taxis make the old town a short ride from most of Lijiang.
Can I get an early breakfast for mountain trips?+
Many hotels can arrange breakfast boxes. Ask when you book.
Is it a good value base?+
It suits travellers who want comfort at a fair price and plan to be out sightseeing most of the day.
