Lijiang, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Introduction
Lijiang, one of northern Yunnan’s most scenic towns and a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site, is the home of the Naxi ethnic group famous for their animistic religion, their ancient music and their unique Dongba script, the only remaining pictographic writing system in the world. While its recorded history dates from the Warring States Period (475 – 221 BC), Lijiang’s most significant era was when it was ruled by the Naxi tribal chiefs during the Ming reign (1368-1644).
Lijiang, Home to the Minority Naxis and Their Vibrant Culture
An old town with cobblestoned streets and dotted with traditional wood and stone houses, Lijiang is situated in a valley below the gigantic Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. It is an idyllic spot to experience the charm of an ancient, traditional Chinese mountain town with a distinct minority culture of the Naxis. The town is also known for its structured collection of bridges, channels and watercourses. The old town of Lijiang is steeped in history, dating back more than 800 years, when it was a prime center of trade along the Old Tea Horse Road.