1. How many restaurants are there in Lijiang Ancient Town and what types of food do they offer?
2. What are some must-try local dishes in Lijiang Ancient Town?
3. Are there any vegetarian or vegan restaurants in Lijiang Ancient Town?
4. What are the most popular restaurants among tourists in Lijiang Ancient Town?
5. Are there any specialty food markets or street food vendors in Lijiang Ancient Town?
6. Can you recommend any rooftop restaurants with a view of Lijiang Old Town?
7. Are there any Michelin-starred restaurants in Lijiang Ancient Town?
8. Do any of the restaurants in Lijiang Ancient Town offer cultural performances or live music during meals?
9. Are reservations necessary for popular restaurants in Lijiang Ancient Town?
10. Do restaurants in Lijiang Ancient Town offer options for people with dietary restrictions? (e.g. gluten-free, halal)
11. How do prices of restaurants in Lijiang Ancient Town compare to other cities in China?
12. Is it customary to tip at restaurants in Lijiang Ancient Town? If so, what is the typical amount?
13. Can you recommend a good restaurant for families with children in Lijiang Ancient Town?
14. Is it safe to drink tap water at restaurants in Lijiang Ancient Town?
15. Can you suggest a romantic restaurant for a couple’s dinner in Lijiang
2. Are there any vegetarian or vegan options available at local restaurants in Lijiang Ancient Town?
Yes, there are a few vegetarian and vegan options available at local restaurants in Lijiang Ancient Town. Some popular dishes include stir-fried vegetables, tofu dishes, and vegetable dumplings. Some restaurants that specifically cater to vegetarian and vegan diets include Vegan Panda, Sprout Vegetarian Restaurant, and Ju Si Yuan Vegetarian Restaurant. Additionally, many restaurants in Lijiang Ancient Town offer the option to customize dishes and omit meat and animal products for customers with dietary restrictions.
3. What are the most popular dishes in Lijiang Ancient Town and where can you find them?
Some of the most popular dishes in Lijiang Ancient Town include:– Lijiang Baba (a type of flatbread typically stuffed with meat, vegetables, and spices)
– Yak meat hotpot
– Baked baba pastry with sweet filling
– Cold Noodle Salad (usually made with local herbs and served with a savory peanut sauce)
These dishes can be found in many restaurants and street food stalls throughout the town. Some recommended places to try them include:
1. Lao Fangzi Restaurant: Known for their delicious yak meat hotpot and traditional Naxi cuisine.
2. Banyan Tree Lijiang: A luxury resort that serves a variety of local dishes, including Lijiang Baba.
3. Lijiang Food Night Market: Located near the North Gate of Old Town, this market is a great spot to try different local specialties like baked baba pastry and Cold Noodle Salad.
4. Mama’s Naxi Kitchen: A popular restaurant that offers both traditional Naxi dishes and Western options, including delicious baked baba pastry.
5. 88 Snack Bar: A small but highly recommended eatery serving various snacks and noodle dishes, including Cold Noodle Salad.
4. Are there any recommended local specialties or must-try foods for visitors to try while in Lijiang Ancient Town?
Some recommended local specialties and must-try foods in Lijiang Ancient Town include:– Yunnan Blend Hot Pot: This is a local version of hot pot, made with various fragrant herbs and spices unique to Yunnan.
– Naxi Barbecue: This type of barbecue is famous for its use of high-quality meats such as yak or lamb, along with a variety of fresh vegetables and herbs.
– Lijiang Baba (Lijiang Pie): A crispy pastry filled with sweet or savory ingredients such as honey, sugar, or yak meat.
– Naxi Milk Tea: Made with yak milk and sweetened with honey, this tea is a traditional drink in the region and can be found in many teahouses throughout the ancient town.
– Rice Noodle Soup (Mi Xian): A popular dish made with rice noodles, broth, vegetables, meats, and/or tofu. It can be served either hot or cold.
– Yak Meat Hot Pot: Similar to the Yunnan Blend Hot Pot but using Yak meat as the main protein.
– Rose Flavor Rice Cake (Gurong Gao): A steamed cake made of glutinous rice flour infused with rose petals – a delicacy often eaten during special occasions or festivals.
5. Are there any cultural customs or etiquette that visitors should be aware of when visiting Lijiang Ancient Town?
There are a few cultural customs and etiquette tips to keep in mind while visiting Lijiang Ancient Town:
1. Respect local customs and traditions: The people in Lijiang have their own unique way of life and it’s important to respect their customs and beliefs. For example, it’s considered disrespectful to step on door thresholds as they are seen as sacred.
2. Dress respectfully: While Lijiang Ancient Town is a popular tourist destination, it’s also home to many locals who value modesty. When visiting temples or other religious sites, it’s important to dress respectfully and cover your shoulders and knees.
3. Ask before taking photos: The locals in Lijiang are generally friendly and welcoming, but it’s considered polite to ask for permission before taking photos of them or their homes.
4. Be mindful of noise levels: Lijiang Ancient Town is a residential area and many people still live in traditional homes. It’s important to be respectful of their peace and quiet by keeping noise levels down, especially at night.
5. Appreciate the beauty of the town: Lijiang Ancient Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its well-preserved architecture and natural scenery. Be mindful of your actions and avoid littering or damaging any structures or natural surroundings.
5. Is street food safe to eat in Lijiang Ancient Town, or should I stick to established restaurants?
It is generally safe to eat street food in Lijiang Ancient Town, but it is always advisable to use caution and trust your own judgement. Make sure the food is freshly prepared and cooked in front of you, and avoid eating meat that has been left out for a long time. It is also recommended to stick to established restaurants for a wider selection and possibly higher hygiene standards.
6. Can you recommend some affordable dining options for travelers on a budget in Lijiang Ancient Town?
1. N’s Kitchen: This cozy restaurant serves up delicious and affordable Yunnanese dishes including their popular tomato and egg stir-fry.
2. Lotus Sutra Vegetarian Restaurant: If you’re looking for some meat-free options, this restaurant offers a variety of tasty vegetarian dishes at reasonable prices.
3. Sakura Cafe: This charming cafe offers a mix of Western and Chinese dishes at budget-friendly prices.
4. Xian Ren Zhang: Known for its homemade noodles, this place also serves up other Yunnanese specialties like fried potato balls and vegetable dumplings.
5. Om Bakery Cafe: A must-visit for breakfast or brunch, this cafe offers freshly baked pastries and coffee at affordable prices.
6. Ding Xin Coffee House: For a cheap and quick bite, head to this café which serves simple yet satisfying sandwiches, salads and drinks.
7. Lijiang People’s Heart Cafe: This popular spot has a diverse menu with everything from pizzas to sushi all at budget-friendly prices.
8. The Sun Bar & Restaurant: With its stunning rooftop views of the ancient town, this restaurant offers reasonably priced Chinese and international dishes.
9. Grandma’s Kitchen: Serving up traditional Naxi cuisine, this family-run restaurant provides authentic local dishes at affordable prices.
10. Gaoyuanju Restaurant: Famous for its yak meat dishes, you can enjoy a hearty meal here without breaking the bank.
7. What is the average cost of a meal at a restaurant in Lijiang Ancient Town?
The average cost of a meal at a restaurant in Lijiang Ancient Town is around 50-100 yuan (7-14 USD) per person. Prices may vary depending on the type of cuisine and location of the restaurant.
8. Are there any traditional Chinese tea houses or cafes in Lijiang Ancient Town that are worth visiting?
1. Zen Tea House: This traditional tea house is located in Shuhe Ancient Town, a short distance from Lijiang Ancient Town. It offers a peaceful atmosphere for guests to relax and enjoy various teas, including the famous Pu’er tea.
2. Man Ying Teahouse: Situated in the heart of Lijiang Ancient Town, this tea house is an old-style building with unique Naxi architecture. It serves traditional teas and snacks from the local Naxi and Tibetan cultures.
3. Yang Guanyin Tea House: This elegant tea house is located on Wuyi Street in Lijiang Ancient Town. It is known for its rooftop terrace, offering great views of the ancient town while sipping on various teas.
4. Baisha Shuanggui Tea House: Located in Baisha Old Town near Lijiang, this tea house has a tranquil courtyard setting where visitors can enjoy tea ceremonies performed by locals in traditional costumes.
5. Xueshan Yafeng Tea Garden: This beautiful traditional teahouse is situated on the foot of Snow Mountain and features stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Guests can try different types of teas grown in its own mountain garden.
6. Fuxinglou Teahouse: This ancient teahouse was originally built in 1739 during the Qing Dynasty and has been well-maintained over the centuries. Visitors can appreciate its intricate wood carvings while sampling a variety of teas.
7. Mufu Gongfang Teahouse: Set inside a Ming Dynasty-style mansion, this teahouse combines ancient charm with modern amenities for a comfortable experience. Guests can enjoy authentic Yunnan-style Pu’er tea as well as other Chinese teas.
8. Fengqing Sirena Tea House: Located at the entrance to Shuhe Ancient Town, this teahouse is run by a Pu’er tea farmer who organizes hands-on tea making workshops for visitors. It also offers a wide selection of tea to taste and purchase.
9. What are the opening hours for restaurants and cafes in Lijiang Ancient Town? Do they typically close early or stay open late?
The opening hours for restaurants and cafes in Lijiang Ancient Town vary, but generally they open around 10:00 am and close around 10:00 pm. Some may open earlier or stay open later, particularly during peak tourist season. However, it is not common for restaurants and cafes to stay open past midnight in the ancient town.
10. Are there any famous local markets or food stalls around Lijiang Ancient Town where I can sample different dishes and snacks?
There are many famous local markets and food stalls located around Lijiang Ancient Town where you can sample a variety of delicious dishes and snacks. Some popular options include:
1. Shuhe Ancient Town Market: This market is known for its traditional Yunnan-style street food, featuring dishes such as meat skewers, fried dumplings, and various noodle dishes.
2. Sifang Street Market: Located in the heart of Lijiang Ancient Town, this market offers a wide variety of local snacks including Naxi-style baked buns, stir-fried mushrooms, and sweetened rice wine.
3. Xinhua Snack Street: This bustling street is lined with food stalls selling specialties like Lijiang Baba (a type of flatbread), fried potatoes with chili sauce, and grilled pork skewers.
4. Black Dragon Pool Park Market: This market offers a unique experience as it is situated next to the picturesque Black Dragon Pool Park. Here you can find local favorites like Lijiang Baba, spicy tofu pudding, and yak meat dishes.
5. Deyi Alley Food Street: This street is known for its tasty Naxi cuisine, including sausages made from yak meat, fried wild mushrooms, and steamed glutinous rice cakes.
Overall, these markets and food stalls offer an authentic taste of local Yunnan cuisine and are definitely worth exploring during your visit to Lijiang Ancient Town.
11. Can you suggest some good places to try Yunnan cuisine in or near Lijiang Ancient Town?
1. Lijiang Impression Restaurant: Located inside of the Lijiang Ancient Town, this restaurant offers authentic Yunnan dishes with a modern twist.2. Mu’s Inn: This cozy inn also serves delicious Yunnan cuisine in a traditional courtyard setting.
3. Crescent Moon Café: Enjoy Yunnan dishes and fresh local ingredients while taking in the beautiful views of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain from the terrace.
4. Wenjia Restaurant: This family-owned restaurant is known for their home-style Yunnan dishes and warm hospitality.
5. Naxi Family Restaurant: Located just outside of Lijiang Ancient Town, this hidden gem serves traditional Naxi dishes that are not to be missed.
6. Market Square Bar & Café: Try the famous yak meat hotpot at this popular spot located in the heart of the ancient town.
7. Shaxi Ecology Restaurant: A short drive from Lijiang, this eco-friendly restaurant serves up delicious organic Yunnan fare using fresh ingredients from their own farm.
8. The Hidden House: This rustic restaurant tucked away in a quiet alley specializes in farm-to-table Yunnan cuisine and offers cooking classes as well.
9. Xingmeng Village Cultural Restaurant: Just a 15-minute walk from the ancient town, this cultural restaurant offers an immersive dining experience with traditional music and dance performances along with their tasty Yunnan dishes.
10. Garden Of Dreams Nepal Restaurant & Café: For some fusion flavors, head to this cozy establishment where Nepalese and Tibetan cuisines meet Yunnan specialties.
11. Zen Garden Riverside Hotel Restaurant: Enjoy lakefront dining at this hidden gem with scenic views and delicious Yunnan cuisine made with organic ingredients sourced from nearby farms.
12. How far is it from Lijiang Ancient Town to the nearest farm-to-table restaurant, and how can I get there?
The nearest farm-to-table restaurant from Lijiang Ancient Town is about 4.5km (2.8 miles) away. It is called Green Field Organic Farmhouse Restaurant and is located in Shuhe Ancient Town.
To get there, you can take a taxi from Lijiang Ancient Town, which would take around 10-15 minutes depending on traffic. You can also take bus line S8 or S9 from Lijiang Ancient Town to Shuhe Village Station and then walk about 800 meters to reach the restaurant.
13. Where can I find the best spots for trying traditional Bai Minority cuisine around Lijiang Ancient Town?
1. Four Seasons Restaurant: This restaurant is located in the heart of Lijiang Ancient Town and has a reputation for serving authentic Bai Minority dishes, including their signature dish, “lime-flavored fish.”
2. Naxi Futu Restaurant: This restaurant is known for its traditional Bai Minority cuisine and features a beautiful courtyard setting. Try their famous “grilled potato” dish.
3. Bashi Restaurant: Located near the Square Street in Lijiang Ancient Town, this restaurant serves up a mix of Chinese and Bai Minority dishes, with an emphasis on fresh ingredients.
4. Sifang Street Dining Area: This is the main food hub in Lijiang Ancient Town, where you can find a variety of food stalls selling traditional Bai Minority snacks such as Baba (flatbread), bubing (sticky rice cake) and baoyan (crispy pancake).
5. Shui Xing Mu Cooked Food Centre: This local market has an array of food stalls that offer classic ribbons noodles, Yunnan-style hotpot, and other traditional Bai Minority dishes.
6. Zhou’s Beancurd Shop: A small hidden gem in Lijiang Ancient Town specializing in tofu dishes, including babao tofu (eight treasures tofu) which is made with eight different types of beans.
7. Wang Tou Barbecue Restaurant: For some delicious grilled meats cooked over an open fire using traditional cooking methods, head to this restaurant located near Black Dragon Pool Park.
8. Wen De Ge Garden Manor: Situated outside the ancient town, this restaurant offers stunning views while enjoying authentic Bai Minority cuisine such as salted vegetable soup and fried mushrooms with chili pepper.
9. Tiger Leaping Gorge Organic Restaurant: Located along the hiking trail to Tiger Leaping Gorge, this organic farm-to-table restaurant features fresh vegetables grown on-site and serves up tasty local dishes.
10. The Village Cafe & Bar: This cozy cafe in Lijiang Old Town offers a mix of Chinese and Western dishes, including traditional Bai Minority dishes such as Tuotuo Chicken (chicken cooked with carrots and potatoes).
14. Are there any popular Western style dining options available in addition to traditional Chinese food at restaurants in Lijing Ancient town?
Yes, there are several popular Western dining options available at restaurants in Lijiang Ancient Town. Some of these include western-style cafes that serve coffee, sandwiches, and pastries, as well as restaurants that serve dishes such as pizza, burgers, and pasta. Additionally, many restaurants in Lijiang offer a fusion of both Chinese and western cuisine on their menus.
15. Can you recommend some authentic Southwestern Chinese food options near Lijing ancient town that may be harder to find but worth trying?
Some authentic Southwestern Chinese food options near Lijiang ancient town that may be harder to find but worth trying include:1. Guoqiao mixian (Crossing-the-Bridge Rice Noodles): A famous Yunnan dish consisting of rice noodles served with a variety of fresh vegetables, meats, and broth.
2. Xuanwei ham: A type of cured ham from Yunnan known for its unique smoky flavor.
3. Fried goat cheese: A popular dish in the Bai minority cuisine, made by frying slices of goat milk cheese until crispy and served with honey.
4. Butter tea: A traditional Tibetan drink made with tea leaves, yak butter, and salt.
5. Kunming-style pot-roasted duck: A specialty dish from Yunnan that involves roasting duck over low heat in a clay pot until tender and flavorful.
6. Spicy hotpot: A Sichuan style hotpot with a rich and spicy broth, perfect for cold weather.
7. Guobaorou (Fried Pork with sticky rice cakes): A hearty dish made with crispy pork belly and chewy sticky rice cakes stir-fried in a savory sauce.
8. Beggar’s chicken: A classic Chinese claypot dish made by stuffing a whole chicken with herbs and spices before sealing it in lotus leaves and cooking it slowly in clay until tender.
9. Yak meat dishes: Try specialties like Yak momo (dumplings), Yak meat skewers, or Yak burgers for a taste of local flavors rarely found outside of the Southwest region.
10.Heshun’s Moon Cake (Four Happiness Rounds): These moon cakes originated from the Heshun Ancient Village in Yunnan province and are famous for their thin pastry crust filled with sweet or savory fillings such as red bean paste, sesame paste, or minced meat.
16. Is it possible to take cooking classes or attend food workshops while staying in Lijing ancient town? If so, what types of dishes can be learned?
Yes, it is possible to take cooking classes or attend food workshops while staying in Lijiang ancient town. These classes and workshops can be found at local cooking schools or through organized tours.
The types of dishes that can be learned may vary, but common dishes in this area include Yunnan cuisine such as stir-fried yak meat, spicy tofu salad, and various types of rice noodles. Some classes may also offer instruction on traditional meals like steam pot chicken or Lijiang-style hotpot.
17. Are there any rooftop or outdoor dining options with a scenic view in Lijiang Ancient Town?
Yes, there are several rooftop and outdoor dining options with scenic views in Lijiang Ancient Town. Some popular choices include:1. Zen Garden Restaurant: This restaurant offers outdoor seating on a terrace with a beautiful view of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain.
2. Chama Tame: Located on the rooftop of a boutique hotel, this restaurant has an intimate setting with stunning views of Lijiang Old Town.
3. Baijia Courtyard Cafe: Situated on the rooftop of a traditional courtyard house, this cafe offers great views of the rooftops of Lijiang Ancient Town.
4. The Garden Inn Terrace Restaurant: This restaurant features a large outdoor terrace with panoramic views of Old Town and the surrounding mountains.
5. Los Angeles Pizza & Bar: With an outdoor terrace overlooking the ancient town, this restaurant is a great spot to enjoy pizza and drinks while taking in the scenery.
6. By The Tree Rooftop Bar: Set on the top floor of Network Ochi House, this bar offers wonderful rooftop views and serves up tasty cocktails.
7. International Youth Hostel Roof Top Cafe: As its name suggests, this hostel’s rooftop cafe offers scenic views of Lijiang along with affordable food and drinks.
8. J.J.’s Mexican Kitchen & Lounge Bar: This vibrant restaurant has an outdoor terrace that overlooks the bustling streets of Lijiang Ancient Town.
9. Supply Skyline Cafe & Restaurant: Perched atop an old tower, this café boasts unobstructed views of Old Town and serves delicious local cuisine.
10. Mujiang Garden Restaurant: This elegant garden restaurant has outdoor seating surrounded by lush greenery and offers lovely mountain views in the distance.
18. What are some good places to try traditional hot pot, and is it popular in Lijiang Ancient Town?
Some good places to try traditional hot pot in Lijiang Ancient Town are:
1. Jin Xia Yuan Restaurant: This restaurant is known for its authentic Yunnan-style hot pot, using locally sourced ingredients like mushrooms and beef from nearby farms.
2. Hongchun Naxi Hot Pot: This traditional hot pot restaurant has a cozy atmosphere and offers a variety of meat, vegetable, and seafood options for your hot pot experience.
3. Yun Kang Hot Pot: Known for its spicy broth and fresh ingredients, this is a popular spot among locals and visitors alike.
4. Hu Ma Lang Hot Pot: This restaurant offers an all-you-can-eat option with a wide selection of meats, vegetables, and seafood to choose from.
Hot pot is indeed popular in Lijiang Ancient Town and can be found in many restaurants throughout the town. It’s especially popular during colder months as it is a warming and communal dining experience.
19. Can I find any unique or exotic food items at the local markets or grocery stores in Lijiang Ancient Town?
Yes, there are several local markets and grocery stores in Lijiang Ancient Town where you can find unique and exotic food items. These include:
1. Dongba Food Market – This market offers a variety of local specialties such as Yak meat, Naxi-style bacon, preserved vegetables, and handmade tofu.
2. Shuhe Old Town Market – Here you can find unique snacks like fried potatoes with honey sauce, butter tea, and grilled fish.
3. Baisha Village Market – This market is known for its wide selection of wild mushrooms, including matsutake mushrooms, truffles, and morels.
4. Guhe Street Market – You can find various Yunnan specialties here including dried fruits, local herbs and spices, and fermented tofu.
5. Lijiang International Supermarket – This supermarket offers a range of imported goods from different countries such as cheese, wine, chocolates, and other exotic food items.
Overall, the local markets and grocery stores in Lijiang Ancient Town offer a great opportunity to try out new and unique food items that are not easily found elsewhere.
20. Is tipping expected at restaurants in Lijiang Ancient Town and if so, what is the customary amount?
Tipping is not customary in Lijiang Ancient Town, but it is becoming more common in tourist areas. If you are satisfied with the service, a small tip of 5-10% of the total bill is appreciated.