Jade Dragon Snow Mountain (玉龙雪山, Yulong Xueshan) is the iconic snow-capped mountain range just north of Lijiang Old Town in Yunnan, China. Sacred to the Naxi people (associated with the protective deity Sanduo), it features 13 peaks, with the highest, Shanzidou, reaching 5,596 m. Visitors can access viewpoints up to about 4,680 m via cable car. It is a major 5A scenic area known for glaciers, alpine meadows, turquoise lakes, and dramatic views.
Key Attractions Areas
Glacier Park (冰川公园)**: The highlight. Large cable car to 4,506 m station; short boardwalk hike to 4,680 m viewpoint for close glacier and peak views. Highest altitude and most dramatic experience.
Blue Moon Valley (蓝月谷)**: Series of striking turquoise/glacial-melt lakes at lower elevation (~3,000 m). Excellent for photos and easier walking.
Spruce Meadow (云杉坪)**: Alpine meadow and spruce forest at ~3,240 m via smaller cable car. Gentler option with good mountain views.
Yak Meadow (牦牛坪)**: Higher meadows (~3,500–3,700 m) with open views and occasional yaks; less crowded.
Ganhaizi (甘海子)**: Meadow/lake area near the entrance, popular for panoramic views and “Golden Mountain at Sunrise” (日照金山) when light hits the peaks.
Optional nearby: Impression Lijiang outdoor cultural performance.
Tickets & Costs (Approximate 2026 Prices – Check Official Sources)
Prices can fluctuate; real-name advance booking is generally required (especially for the Glacier cable car).
| Item | Approx. Price (CNY) | Notes |
|—————————–|———————|——-|
| Scenic area entrance | 100 | Required |
| Eco-shuttle bus | 20 | Usually required inside the park |
| Glacier Park large cable car| 120–140 | Most popular; limited daily quota |
| Spruce Meadow cable car | 40–60 | Easier option |
| Yak Meadow cable car | ~45–65 | Quieter alternative |
| Oxygen canister / jacket rental | 20–80 each | Highly recommended at high altitude |
Total for a typical Glacier Park + Blue Moon Valley day: roughly 300–450 CNY per person depending on options and rentals. Book via the official “丽江旅游集团” or “玉龙雪山服务” WeChat mini-programs (real-name, often 1–7 days in advance). Glacier tickets sell out quickly in peak season.
Getting There
Distance: ~15–25 km / 40–60 minutes north of Lijiang Old Town.
Public bus: Line 101 or dedicated Snow Mountain bus from near the Old Town (around 15 CNY).
Taxi / private transfer / ride-hailing: Convenient, ~60–100+ CNY one way.
Organized day tours: Common and handle tickets/logistics.
Scenic area eco-buses connect the main sites once inside.
Best Time to Visit
Best overall for snow & clear views**: November–April (especially winter for thick snow and “Golden Mountain” sunrises). Cold at the top.
Spring/Autumn**: Good visibility, fewer extreme temperatures; flowers in late spring.
Summer (May–Oct)**: Greener meadows but more clouds, rain, and haze that can obscure peaks. Avoid peak holiday crowds if possible.
Arrive early (aim for opening) for better weather windows, fewer crowds, and cable-car slots.
Practical Tips
Altitude sickness**: Glacier Park is high (4,500+ m). Ascend slowly, stay hydrated, avoid alcohol/strenuous activity the day before. Consider oxygen, rest at the top, and consult a doctor if you have health concerns. Many people feel mild effects.
Clothing**: Layer heavily—warm jacket, hat, gloves essential even in summer at the summit (temperatures can be near freezing). Rentals available.
Itinerary suggestion (1 full day)**: Early departure → Glacier Park cable car first → Blue Moon Valley → optional Spruce/Yak Meadow → return. Full day recommended.
Opening hours**: Scenic area roughly 07:00/07:30–16:00/16:30 (cable cars similar; last ascent earlier). Confirm current times.
Other**: Weather changes fast. Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, water, and snacks. The main peaks are sacred and not open for casual climbing.
Jade Dragon Snow Mountain pairs perfectly with Lijiang’s Naxi cultural sites (Old Town, Black Dragon Pool, Dongba experiences). For the latest tickets, weather, and restrictions, check the official Lijiang tourism platforms or your hotel closer to travel dates, as policies and availability can change.