Overview
Jade Dragon Snow Mountain (Yulong Xueshan) is a 35-km-long mountain range in Yunnan, China, peaking at 5,596 meters (Shanzidou). Designated a AAAAA-rated scenic area, it’s famed for:
- Glaciers: The "Natural Glacier Museum" with year-round snow.
- Biodiversity: Hosts 25% of China’s plant species and rare animals like snow leopards.
- Cultural Significance: Sacred to the Naxi people as the embodiment of their protector god, Sanduo.
Geography & Geology
- Location: Between 100°04’–100°16’E and 27°03’–27°40’N, 15 km north of Lijiang Old Town.
- Formation: Created 600,000 years ago from tectonic uplift; once an ancient ocean floor.
- Peaks: 13 summits, with Shanzidou as the highest (5,596 m). The lowest glacier in the Northern Hemisphere.
Key Attractions
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Glacier Park (4,506–4,680 m)
- Reach via the Great Cable Car (CNY 140). Walk to 4,680 m for panoramic views.
- Tip: Acclimatize slowly; oxygen bottles (CNY 20–60) are recommended.
-
Blue Moon Valley
- Turquoise lakes fed by glacial meltwater, ideal for photography.
- Best Time: Morning light (before 11 AM) enhances the blue hue.
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Spruce Meadow (3,240 m)
- A forested plateau with legends of Naxi lovers. Accessible via cable car (CNY 60).
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Yak Meadow (3,650 m)
- Rolling grasslands with grazing yaks and Tibetan prayer flags.
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Impression Lijiang Show
- Directed by Zhang Yimou, this outdoor performance showcases Naxi culture against the mountain backdrop (CNY 280).
Flora & Fauna
- Plants: Over 400 tree species, including rare rhododendrons.
- Animals: Protected species like Yunnan snub-nosed monkeys and black-necked cranes.
Visitor Tips
- Best Time: November–April for snow; May–October for hiking.
- Tickets:
- Entrance fee: CNY 100 (mandatory).
- Book cable cars 1–3 days in advance via Lijiang Tourism Group.
- Transport:
- From Lijiang: Bus 101 (CNY 15) or private car (CNY 30–50/person).
- Packing: Sunscreen, layered clothing, and altitude sickness medication.
Conservation
- Protected Status: Part of Yulong Snow Mountain Nature Reserve since 1984.
- Ecotourism: Electric buses and restricted zones minimize environmental impact.
Jade Dragon Snow Mountain is a natural and cultural marvel, offering everything from adrenaline-pumping climbs to serene valley walks—all under the watchful gaze of its sacred peaks.
