Location & How to Get There

Tea Horse Ancient City sits in a stunning spot in Lijiang, Yunnan Province, near the foot of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. The address is 150 meters south of Yuxing West Road in Yulong Naxi Autonomous County. If you’re flying into Lijiang Sanyi Airport, it’s about a 40-minute taxi ride. You can also take a bus from downtown Lijiang—just ask the driver to drop you near Tea Horse Ancient City, and you’ll see the traditional Naxi-style buildings right away.

Natural Scenery: Mountains, Rivers, and Fresh Air

The area around Tea Horse Ancient City is pure nature. To the north, Jade Dragon Snow Mountain towers with its snowy peaks, especially breathtaking in the morning light. A small river runs through the city, and willow trees line the banks. In spring and summer, flowers bloom everywhere, and the air smells clean and mountain-fresh. Even on busy days, there’s a calm vibe here that makes you want to slow down and enjoy the view.

Cultural Highlights: History and Local Life

Tea Horse Ancient City isn’t just about pretty landscapes—it’s packed with culture too. This place was once a key stop on the Tea Horse Road, an ancient trade route where merchants swapped tea and horses. You’ll see cobblestone streets, wooden houses with carved doors, and shops selling handmade Naxi crafts. Don’t miss the Dongcheng Free Market nearby, where locals sell food, textiles, and herbs. It’s a real peek into daily Naxi life!

Must-See Spots in the City

Inside Tea Horse Ancient City, wander through the Old Tea Houses where traders used to rest. Some are now cafes or tea shops where you can try Yunnan puer tea. The Naxi Culture Museum explains how this tiny ethnic group kept their traditions alive for centuries. For photos, head to the city’s gates—red lanterns and stone arches make perfect backdrops. At night, the whole area lights up, and it feels like stepping back in time.

Practical Tips: Food, Shops, and Stays

You won’t go hungry here. Tea Horse Ancient City has tons of eateries serving Naxi specialties like lvdou chao meat (green bean stir-fry) and yaxiang babao (duck soup). For something sweet, try naxi Baba (corn pancakes). If you’re shopping, the streets are filled with stalls selling silver jewelry, painted pottery, and patterned scarves. Want to stay overnight? There are cozy guesthouses in traditional styles, many with courtyards and flower gardens.

What to Do: From Walking to Workshops

Spend at least half a day in Tea Horse Ancient City. Start with a walk along the main street, stopping at tea shops and craft booths. Join a dongba music workshop—Naxi priests use these ancient instruments to pray. If you’re feeling active, rent a bike and explore nearby villages. In the evening, catch a performance of the White Sand Rebellion dance, which tells a local legend. It’s dramatic and visually striking!

Why Visit? A Blend of Peace and Adventure

Tea Horse Ancient City offers the best of both worlds: quiet enough to relax, but lively enough to keep you curious. Whether you’re into hiking, history, or trying new foods, there’s something here for everyone. Bring your camera, comfy shoes, and a sense of wonder—this place feels like a secret corner of China that’s waiting to be discovered.