Lijiang Ancient Town Access by Bus Routes
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- Source：The Silk Road Echo
So you're planning a trip to one of China’s most enchanting destinations — Lijiang Ancient Town. Awesome choice! Nestled in Yunnan Province, this UNESCO World Heritage site blends cobbled streets, Naxi culture, and jaw-dropping mountain views. But here’s the real question: how do you actually get there without breaking the bank or wasting half your vacation time? Let me break it down for you — straight from years of traveling across Yunnan and helping thousands of backpackers and families navigate their way.
The good news? Reaching Lijiang Ancient Town via public bus is not only affordable (we’re talking under $2 USD for some routes), but also super reliable. Whether you're arriving from Kunming, Dali, or even Shangri-La, there's a well-connected network ready to roll.
Top Bus Routes to Lijiang Ancient Town
Here’s a quick snapshot of the most popular intercity bus options — complete with travel time, frequency, and average cost:
| Departure City | Travel Time | Bus Frequency | Avg. Ticket Price (CNY) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kunming | 6–7 hours | Every 30–60 mins (6:00–18:00) | 120–150 |
| Dali | 3–4 hours | Every 45 mins (7:00–16:00) | 80–100 |
| Shangri-La | 4.5–5.5 hours | Every 2 hours (7:30–14:30) | 90–110 |
| Chengdu | 12+ hours | 2 daily (overnight) | 280–320 |
Pro tip: Buses from Dali to Lijiang are among the smoothest rides — scenic highlands, modern coaches, and frequent departures make this a favorite among travelers.
Where Do Buses Arrive in Lijiang?
All long-distance buses pull into the Lijiang High-Speed Bus Station, located about 8 km south of the ancient town. From there, you’ve got three solid options:
- City Bus No. 10: Runs every 15 mins, costs just 1 CNY, drops you near Sifang Street.
- Taxi: Around 30–50 CNY; takes 20 mins.
- Ride-hailing (Didi): Often cheaper than street taxis — use the app to avoid overcharging.
Insider Tips You Won’t Want to Miss
- Book early during holidays (like National Week in October) — buses sell out fast.
- Overnight buses save time and accommodation costs, but skip them if you hate motion sickness.
- Bring snacks and water — rest stops are limited on longer routes.
- Verify your ticket includes luggage transport — most do, but double-check!
In short, hopping on a bus to Lijiang isn’t just practical — it’s part of the adventure. With clear schedules, low prices, and access to some of China’s most stunning landscapes, it’s no wonder savvy travelers keep choosing this route. Now go pack your bag and enjoy that mountain air!